Introduction
Finding your voice in martial arts means developing a genuine, authentic presence. However, many martial artists fall into distinct character types that reveal they haven’t yet achieved this. Let's explore some of these typical characters.
The Tough Guy
The Tough Guy is easy to spot. I once saw him as a corner judge in a point match, refusing to move. When a fighter complained, he threatened to “pound him.”
Martial arts hasn’t improved his character; it’s merely given him additional tools to intimidate. This character is someone my grandmother would call a very small man.
Travis Bickle
Travis Bickle, from Taxi Driver, embodies someone who adopts a new identity without real change. In high school, I wore karate pants and a karate T-shirt, much like Travis’s “You talkin' to me?” persona.
Some martial artists adopt this façade, playing at being martial artists rather than truly training.
These individuals often dabble in martial arts without committing to a single instructor or system.
They may even earn a black belt but remain perpetual learners rather than dedicated practitioners.
Mr. Negative
Mr. Negative is the eternal critic. He blames external factors for his school’s struggles—be it the economy, competitors, or even the belt factory down the street.
His favorite phrase starts with, “The problem with ______ is…” Insert any name, style, or idea, and you have Mr. Negative.
His negativity is relentless and unproductive.
Crusty the Clown
Crusty the Clown mirrors those instructors who try too hard to be a mix of Mr. Rogers and a motivational speaker.
While they may seem fun and engaging, they often mask a lack of genuine care behind their flashy persona.
Like Crusty, who appears joyful on screen but is miserable off-camera, these instructors may seem pleasant but are unreliable when it comes to real issues.
The Enlightened One
This character talks incessantly in metaphors about nature and world peace. Every conversation turns into a sermon.
The Enlightened One often sounds more like a philosopher than a martial artist, turning every statement into a grand speech rather than engaging in practical discussions.
Master Po
Master Po, or individuals who demand to be called Grand Master, may seem authentic at first. However, when they insist on titles and respect from their personal relationships, it’s a sign of insecurity. A true martial artist doesn’t need to demand respect; their actions should naturally earn it.
The Retro-Warrior
The Retro-Warrior lives in the past, often reminiscing about the glory days of martial arts. Conversations with them always circle back to their past achievements.
They might have great stories, but their focus on past victories suggests they’ve stopped evolving. Their school might be struggling, but they cling to their long-gone glory days.
The Asian Wannabe
This character is perhaps the most peculiar. An individual so enamored with the Asian roots of martial arts begins to adopt an Asian accent or speak in pigeon talk.
This behavior reflects a deep-seated insecurity and a lack of authenticity. Embracing martial arts should enrich one's life, not lead to such bizarre mimicry.
The Martial Arts Millionaire
Conversations with the Martial Arts Millionaire revolve around money. They interrogate about student numbers and gross income before bragging about their financial success. This fixation on wealth can be tedious and reveals a lack of genuine interest in the art itself.
Conclusion
These characters each represent different ways martial artists fail to find their own voice. Whether through bravado, past glories, or financial boasting, they demonstrate what happens when authenticity is missing.
True martial artists develop a genuine presence that reflects their dedication and personal growth, not just their character.