By Michael Ronquillo

Martial arts training focuses on the mental aspect as much as the physical one, if not more. It is by no means a mindless activity. Performance depends very much on a student’s state of mind and his ability to block out any unrelated thoughts or emotions.

Just like any other activity, one must concentrate and be focused. If you are in another state of mind, be it upset, sad, or worried, it will reflect in your training.

Let’s use an example of a man who just underwent a breakup with his significant other. He goes to his weekly training session and his peers notice a change in his performance during the sparring sessions. The man is engulfed with rage and significantly more aggressive than usually. This may result in serious injury to his training partners.

More importantly, the expected self-discipline nurtured by any martial arts school is jeopardized and any techniques employed aren’t performed up to par. Certainly, there will be times when one will be able to perform a technique flawlessly; other times, they will have trouble. What could be the cause of this discrepancy in performance?

Without any doubt it is the state of mind. When you are at the dojo, you should clear your mind at the door. You are there to train and must display the same discipline and respect as your peers do. It is never acceptable to just show up and walk through a session. Be alert and be aware of everything around you. Soak up the martial art! When in doubt, ask your sensei about the correct attitude while practicing martial arts.