Good morning.

Recently I asked some of my students what being a 'martial artist' actually means. Perhaps surprisingly, this was not such an easy question. It is a phrase that is often banded around - but it seems to me that it is rarely anaylsed or understood fully (which is a slight problem if someone aspires to be one!).

The key misunderstanding seems to be around the word 'artist'; for it is this part of the name that makes it so unique. An true artist is almost on a different spiritual plain than other people, and the word implies many things - such as creativity, elegance, some kind of special skills and, crucially, freedom of personal expression. In its purest, unadulterated form a true martial art is on the same level as other arts such as music, dancing, poetry and literature. A real martial artist is an expert in humanity, as well as physical skills.

The word 'martial' is also of importance - in this context it conveys the idea of self discipline, self control, mastery over one's ego and emotions and humility among others. Of course it also alludes to a high skill in self defence and heightened fitness and health. Additionally it brings in the military ideals of loyalty, honour and respect of traditions.

But it is the combination of the words which makes it so special; as seen above when put together they are almost oxymoronic or contradictory in nature. It is this that makes it different from other skills - you are amalgamating completely opposite characteristics to help develop into a balanced person. Something very hard to do, and often takes many years to find out how to do it - but  it is certainly possible.

However, I believe this combination also means something else more important than all the other skills - the ability to uphold principles. A 'martial artist' is nothing if he or she does not stand up for what they believe in the face of adversity (in Wing Tsun the principle Jiu Jing also promulgates this). It does not matter what you believe - an 'artist' is not constrained. This should be also be combined with having the courage to have impeccable manners at a time of confrontation - rising yourself up, not lowering to another person's level. One thing that is clear - a 'martial artist' is far more than simply being a fighter or practioner of fighting techniques.

Sifu