Isshinryu Training and Motivation to Succeed
By John E. Hughes
People have built-in feelings and perceptions regarding Karate training,
exercise, and the ability to learn. Most Americans are brought up to want
to succeed quickly. Karate is an art that is taught using a number of methods.
Some dojos test the student at regular intervals, fees are paid and the
student is promoted. In others dojos, the student signs up for a
certain length of time and at the end of the contract, the student is granted
the promotion. Also, there are training methods where the student trains
and when the level of proficiency is attained, the student is promoted.
The traditional art does not guarantee promotions. It does promise
to help the individual improve physically, mentally, and emotionally; if
the student trains properly.
Training methods are learned at the hands of a qualified Sensei, who's
attitude, encouragement, and teaching methods help the student to identify
the skills, abilities, and values needed to learn. Motivation is the heart
of learning and is dependent upon the purpose for learning. The nature
and extent of the desire to learn will influence the degree of motivation.
The degree of student motivation will determine the extent of personal
involvement and help to create the persistence to overcome difficulties
and frustrations.
Motivation and learning are experienced intrinsically and extrinsically.
Extrinsic motivation comes from outside the individual. The incentive may
be to gain prestige, approval, or promotions. Intrinsic motivation is derived
inside the individual due to the enjoyment of the art for its own sake.
The individual derives enjoyment, relaxation, physical benefits, challenges,
and an expression of "Self" from the study of the art. Intrinsic
motivation does not depend upon what rank a person is but upon the values
and abilities that the individual achieves.
To learn, a person must be patient. To learn, a person must know that
there is something to be learned; knowledge to be gained. The person must
add enthusiasm and the will to learn. Karate is a progressive art. One
starts training with the basics and then proceeds through kata. The ultimate
goal is for the student to gain understanding of how one's body, mind,
and spirit may be strengthened. To this end, direction and guidance are
added by the Sensei, while motivation and dedication are added by the student.
With continuing effort and desire, the student will be guided to understand
what is required to become a "true" Karate student, who is a
credit to the art.
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