I began my personal study of the martial arts because I wanted to defend myself. I was also under the impression that defending myself demanded that someone else had to get beat up. However, I knew deep down in the pit of my stomach that I did not want to damage anyone that badly. Seriously, I was between a rock and a hard place. I felt trapped between my inherently peaceful way of life and my no-nonsense fighting style. I needed to find a way out of the never ending cycles of violence that fighting can set in motion. I needed to retrain my mind so that I would be able to recognize less harmful opportunities to end a fight. I did not want for my reactions to violence to be greater violence.

How could I defend my self with out seriously harming my attacker? How could I possibly maintain my peace in times of war when just being you is a reason to fight. And, of course, I was impressed with the effect of good ole' fashioned blow for blow action. Being in the dojo was like being in a really great movie. However, I was unhappy and discontented on the inside. On the one hand I was a skilled fighting artist confident and secure while, on the other, I was vexed over the damage that my art had the capacity to cause. I needed to find a fighting style that was just like my very own personality. I needed to be myself at all times so I started searching. That said, I began my study of Jiu Jitsu. Jiu Jitsu literally means "peaceful art". The philosophy of the Jiu Jitsu is to neutralize an opponent without harm. The art form involves chokes, throws, strikes and submissions. It's also notable to mention that most Jiu Jitsu philosophers assume that a fight will end up on the mat ninety percent of the time.

I learned much. However, the most valuable lesson that I learned was that it is possible for people to defend themselves without resorting to all out warfare tactics. There are many alternatives to violence and the execution of them during trying times is a skill that will be developed by few. As time went by, I found myself in Aikido classes, reading books and watching instruction DVDs on arts such as Tai Chi. I learned to control my breathing and to be more patient. My entire understanding of the way things operate in the world slowly began to change. I also learned that there are many strategic advantages to the peaceful fighter. I felt creative again. I had found the thing that I originally wanted from the martial arts. I found a way to defend myself without perpetuating violence.

Looking back at my introduction into martial arts I'd have to say that honesty with regard to my very own personality was essential to choosing my personal fighting style. I knew that if I was not content with what I was doing, I would not be dedicated to it for very long. Meanwhile, the field of martial arts is extremely broad. There are fighting styles that are very fierce and aggressive as well as fighting styles that go to extraordinary lengths not to harm the opponent. And while the philosophies of many martial arts may be similar, they can vary greatly in practical application.

Consequently, I would have to advise people that are considering learning a martial art to first take a good look into their own personality then, be honest with their finding, and lastly adapt a fighting style. Your fighting style should be an outward expression of your personal philosophies. Knowing how you personally feel about conflict is of the utmost importance. Regular practice will ensure that when you are tested, you will be able to maintain your position fluidly.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Martial Arts