Understanding Your Martial Arts Motivation
Over the years, I’ve found it fascinating to observe the different motivations that bring people to martial arts. My early Wing Tsun teacher first introduced me to this idea when I was 17, and over the years, I’ve spent a great deal of time reflecting on it.
There are many specific reasons people take up martial arts—self-defence, fitness, personal discipline—but if you step back and look at the broader picture, most motivations fall into three overarching drivers. Understanding these can not only help you choose the right martial arts school but also ensure you get the most from your training.
1. Mastery & Growth
Some people are driven by the pursuit of excellence. It’s not just about learning a skill but about deepening their understanding, refining their techniques, and continuously improving. These individuals thrive on progression, structure, and pushing their limits.
For some, this means achieving technical mastery, while for others, it’s about testing themselves in competition and proving their skill against others. Competitive fighters, for example, aren’t just learning for personal development—they want to win, dominate, and test themselves.
This motivation, in many ways, is what defines martial arts as an art—a lifelong journey of refinement. Of course, all three motivations overlap, and we all have elements of each, but for those who prioritise mastery, the question isn’t just how to do something, but how well it can be done.
2. Connection & Community
For many, martial arts are not just about skill development but about belonging. The school—the kwoon, dojo, or gym—is not just a place of learning but often a second home. Often, people are drawn to martial arts not because they want to become world-class, but because they want to be part of something—a shared journey, a structured environment, a tribe.
That said, the culture of martial arts schools varies significantly. Some are open and welcoming, others exclusive and insular. The key is finding a school where the sense of community aligns with your own needs and values. If connection is a primary driver for you, the environment will matter just as much as the technique.
3. Enjoyment & Play
At its heart, martial arts should be enjoyable. While some people approach training with intense discipline, others find their deepest connection through play, movement, and the contentment that comes from an immersion in the experience.
Enjoyment isn’t just about social interaction; it’s about forming a deeper connection with the art itself. Some people lose themselves in the rhythm of training, the feel of the techniques, or the excitement of sparring. This is an incredibly powerful motivator—when something is truly enjoyable, you’re far more likely to stick with it over time.
What About External Motivations?
While the three main drivers are internal, many people begin martial arts due to external factors:
Parental influence – Children are often signed up by parents who want them to gain discipline, confidence, or fitness.
Media inspiration – Films, UFC, or cultural icons like Bruce Lee spark curiosity.
Career requirements – Military personnel, police officers, and bodyguards often train in martial arts to enhance their skills.
External motivations are a great starting point, but longevity in martial arts typically comes when someone connects with a deeper, intrinsic motivation.
Why Do People Quit?
I’ve written a separate post about this in more depth, but in short, not everyone who starts martial arts sticks with it. Some lose interest, some feel frustrated, and others realise it wasn’t what they expected. Often, part of the reason this happens because they haven’t identified what truly drives them.
For example:
Someone seeking structured mastery may struggle in a school that prioritises fun and social bonding.
Someone wanting community and connection might find a rigid, competition-driven gym too intense.
Someone expecting quick results may quit when they realise developing long-lasting skills generally takes some time.
Understanding your motivation early helps you find the right environment and stay committed long enough to experience the real benefits of training.
Motivation Isn’t Fixed—It Evolves
Some people start with a clear reason, but for many, motivation develops over time. You might join for fitness and later fall in love with the technical mastery. You might start for self-defence and discover the power of community.
The school that suits you at the beginning may not be the one that helps you grow long-term—and that’s okay. As you evolve, so will your needs.
My Own Perspective
I’ve always been driven by mastery—you can see that in my writings and approach. But over time, I also recognised the importance of community and enjoyment in teaching. A great martial arts teacher is not just a source of technical knowledge but a guide who creates an environment where students thrive.
For me, what has kept me engaged for over 25 years is the incredible bonds you develop in a school. I’m very fortunate to have students who have trained with me for over 15 years, alongside those who have only just begun their journey.
There’s also an undeniable element of entertainment in teaching. Some of the best martial arts instructors I’ve known—Grandmaster Leung Ting, Grandmaster Máday Norbert—have a great sense of humour. Their ability to balance depth and enjoyment creates an atmosphere where students want to keep learning.
What’s Your Motivation?
If you’re considering martial arts—or if you already train—ask yourself: What is truly driving you?
Are you seeking mastery and skill refinement?
Do you crave connection and a strong community?
Is it about fun, play, and personal enjoyment?
If you understand what motivates you, you’ll be able to choose the right school, the right teacher, and the right experience.
If you’re ready to explore this more deeply—whether in person at our specialist Wing Tsun school in Bromley, South East London, or through my online course—I invite you to take the next step in your martial arts journey with intention.
Sifu