All students, at some point, get so tired of doing the same move over and over again. I understand their frustration (I get bored too). I also think that anyone who wants to truly excel will get through the frustration and reach the realization that learning martial arts is not about learning a new form, a new kick or a new drill. It is about how we understand ourselves through the training process.
The movements of martial arts are simply movements, they are not exceptional in and of themselves. They don’t come alive unless we use them in creative and dynamic ways. A sword is simply a piece of sharp, forged metal and has very few interesting qualities until it is wielded by someone who can manipulate it. Then we start to notice the craftsmanship and artistic aspects of its design. In other words, the movements never change, no matter how many we can learn, they only become more meaningful because of the way we learn to utilize them.
Basic movements and body positions are the foundation of every sport and yet they can seem amazing when someone uses them in an exceptional way. For example – as a child I was always in awe of Hall of Fame basketball star Michael Jordan. His leaping ability and athleticism were incredible. Yet if we examine his basic skill sets they match almost every other professional basketball player: jumping, sprinting, shooting, dribbling, passing, defensive footwork, dunking, etc. It was the particular timing and style that Jordan used which made him a cut above.
Almost all martial arts share a common set of basic skills, but it is the dedicated, patient and aware students that make the movements meaningful through their own interpretations.
