Friendships are an important part of our lives, not only because friends help us handle tension, resolve problems, cope with traumas and reduce our stress but they also play an important role in our decision-making and our mental health. In the world of Martial Arts, making friends and fostering relationships create a huge impact on building an inspiring culture and nurturing environment.
It gives you confidence
Confidence is a must when you’re a martial artist, whether you’re competing in front of a large crowd or sparring match or when you’re about to introduce yourself to your new sparring partner. When we work with our partners in a martial arts class it might be a little frightening but since we have a common goal in the class, we create a positive experience which eventually leads to friendship. We start building trust in this person while sharing these moments, then we begin to become comfortable with opening up and becoming vulnerable. This supposed weakness begins to build our confidence.
It offers you the opportunity to Interact
It’s exciting for most people to meet new friends at school, work, or even in the park. For martial artists, meeting their new instructor, sparring partner, or meeting new people with the same goal and passion is very motivating.
These relationships we create lead to a relationship that is mutually beneficial us to since we gain knowledge from each other, learn from each other’s experiences, and enhance our communication skills. Being able to interact gives us the chance to talk about our common interests like fitness, weight loss, training, and many more.
Creates lifetime friendships
Many martial artists have been friends for most of their lives. Martial artists have many things in common - their values, beliefs, goals, and dreams - and these bring them closer to each other. Some have been together since training up until they are instructors, coaches, or even have their training programs.
Martial artists support each other, raise each other and empower one another to achieve their common goal which is to teach what they’ve learned to others, not only defense but also discipline, focus, and respect.
Allows you to learn from each other
It’s encouraging to have a buddy that can relate to you and your experiences because you’ll have someone to push you to your limits, encourage you to do better, and have someone to talk to when bad days come.
Check out Whistlekick episode 535 to learn more about friendships in martial arts and how they can transform you both as a martial artist and as a person.
Support group to encourage you
Martial arts friendships aren't always limited to two students. In a martial arts class, students support each other, work toward belt ranks together, and develop their physical and mental strength together. Martial arts students and their coaches often develop a bond that resembles a family.
This support group will be the foundation of your journey as a martial artist and these people will give you the courage to keep on going despite the hardships. They'll be there to help you when you decide to cultivate good habits like eating healthy or beginning a workout routine, in addition to keeping yourself motivated. In reality, they'll be willing to join you and help you achieve your goals so that you can be the best version of yourself!
Have someone to succeed with
As the famous saying goes “Teamwork makes dream work.” You'll find that martial artists have a high level of optimism. This is due to their martial arts experience, which has helped them to remain positive even in the face of adversity. As a result, you can always rely on them to see the bright side of every situation and lift your spirits when you're down.
Succeeding together is doubly rewarding because you have loyal friends and people to rely on in and outside the dojo. The shared passion and experiences make these friendships even stronger to welcome the constant challenges together!
Keep your Buddies Around
Martial arts bring people together and form friendships that are based on mutual understanding and appreciation. You surround yourself with people who will encourage working together to achieve a common goal.
Do you currently have martial artist friends? Show them your appreciation by gifting them these awesome items on their special day or even if there’s no special occasion. Learn more about real-life stories of Friendship in Martial Arts by checking out our podcast.