What Is A Martial Arts Lifestyle?

What is a martial arts lifestyle, and are you living it?

A couple years ago one of my students was having a hard time with the physical conditioning, part of his training. I knew that he and his wife were heavy drinkers, so I recommend that he not drink until after the testing. Period after a short period of time, he told me he was having a hard time because that was their routine every weekend. I suggested to him that refrain from drinking every weekend, and he ask his wife to do the same, I thought that may make it easier. He told me that would never happen, and he could never do that, because that is their lifestyle, and she wouldn't be willing to sacrifice it. I didn't think he was serious, but I found out that he was that really got me thinking about how many people, my students mainly, consider their lifestyle to be one of consuming large quantities of alcohol.

It also got me thinking what do I consider a martial artists lifestyle, and can it be compatible with large amounts of alcohol, consumption and partying. It also got me thinking what else would be included into it I would consider a martial arts lifestyle. So I thought about it, I decided quickly that heavy drinking, especially when it impairs training, could not be a part of a martial artists lifestyle. And it's not limited to excessive drinking, in fact, drinking in moderation is not frowned upon, and it's the excess of things like drinking and even eating cause your body to be unhealthy. Whether it is the way, you are overheating, or over, drinking, neither in and of themselves is what's bad, but if they are not helping you be ready for the fight, they should not be in your life much less be part of your lifestyle.

The martial arts lifestyle should be full of things that are not only fun and fulfilling, but they should also be things that are getting you ready for the fight. Even though people who dislike them self so much, they always want to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol , they think living the martial arts lifestyle will take away all of their fun. While taking away your health, happiness, personality, memory, ability to see your own feet, are all side effects of heavy, drinking and over eating, I don't think you are going to find happiness there. Living a martial arts lifestyle means you always want to be ready for the fight, and to do that you must have a clean, healthy diet, and partake in alcohol very moderately.

Consistent and regular training are also a very important part of a martial artist lifestyle. He train for many reasons, including but not limited to perfecting your martial arts, techniques, building up speed, endurance, strength, power, and cardio. Those things also help you become more confident, which is a great deterrent from a criminal picking you as a victim. The training also affects other parts of your life. You become more physically and mentally productive, you have more stamina, energy, and strength.

Living your martial arts, lifestyle, crosses over and makes you a better husband, father, employee, and and even employer. There's never a downside to all of the qualities and strengths that live in a martial arts lifestyle gives you it's always a win-win.

So, if you want to come to our side, those of us who have made the decision, made the sacrifices, been consistent with our healthy lifestyles, including training regularly, there are very few rules, and many benefits. Here are a few tenants that are part of a martial arts lifestyle and look them over and go see if you want to join our Ohana.
1. I train my martial arts, including strength and fitness at least three times a week.
2. I do not drink alcohol to access or use drugs.
3. I stay vigilant and alert, and I am prepared and willing to help people in need.
4. I eat a healthy, clean diet. One that is conducive to helping me, become stronger, healthier, and fitter.
5. I never abuse my martial arts, I only fight for right.
6. I am willing and able to be a protector of my family and community.

Well, if you have a look this over, and you want to live the martial arts lifestyle, welcome to our Ohana. And congratulations because now you can proudly say "I live the martial arts lifestyle".

If you have any questions, or comments about this post, please feel free to contact me on Instagram at @pit_master.