I recently had lunch with a fourth dan in Uechi Ryu, and our conversation touched on the stark differences between Eastern and Western mindsets—particularly in how they influence martial arts instruction.
In the East, there’s a strong emphasis on conformity, whereas the West values rugged individualism and innovation.
This discussion led him to share a story about the greatest fighter in his system. As a young man, this Japanese student sought to learn karate from his uncle. Initially, the uncle refused to teach him, but the student persisted.
When the uncle finally relented, instead of teaching him karate, he made the student clean the school, wash toilets, and perform janitorial duties for about a year.
After this period, the uncle began taking him to other schools where he would spar and consistently lose—sometimes even against American GIs.
This pattern continued for years until the student won fights, eventually defeating all his opponents. My friend recounted this story with pride, noting the student’s dedication.
However, I couldn’t help but question the teaching method. I responded, “Of course, you don’t see that level of dedication anymore. That’s a foolish way to teach.”
My friend was shocked, as this story is often used to inspire students. Yet, it made me wonder: why teach this way?
Here’s the issue: this young man had immense talent and potential, yet his progress was stifled by an archaic and counterproductive method.
Forcing him to clean toilets for a year and then getting repeatedly beaten up could have easily driven him away.
Fortunately, he persisted, but how many others with similar potential might have quit because of such a misguided approach? While the instructor may have been a revered master, his curriculum was deeply flawed, even if it does make for a compelling story.
If there’s one aspect of your program you should scrutinize relentlessly, it’s your curriculum. Think of your curriculum as a restaurant’s recipe book.
Are your "recipes" leaving your students hungry for more, or are they barely tolerating your offerings before they eventually walk away?
Most of us either inherit the curriculum we learned or adopt the curriculum of an organization we join.
Due to our Eastern roots, there’s often an inherent bias toward conformity and existing methods.
This can lead to a one-size-fits-all approach to martial arts, which may not serve your students or your school’s growth.