We talk a lot about 'discipline' & 'respect' in class - for each other, for our seniors & for the Instructors. Respect for your Instructor, whilst this needs to be earned, is of paramount importance and the following of instructions is instilled in students from day one. However, this culture of blind respect can sometimes stifle learning? Can unwavering reverence prevent students from fully understanding what they’re taught?
When I started training in the early 2000's, I was guilty of it myself. Back then, I followed my then Sensei’s instructions without question. I respected him greatly and respect is vital in any martial arts club. As I have grown more experienced, and in hindsight, I have realised that my unquestioning loyalty, though well-intentioned, had kept me from asking the critical questions that could have deepened my understanding of what I was learning.
My current Instructor is more relaxed, more open to questions and encourages critical thinking. This marked a huge shift in my approach to learning and also my approach to teaching.
This experience also brought to light a key cultural difference for me. The old school Instructors tend to emphasize hierarchy and discipline, perhaps reflecting broader societal norms where questioning seniority is uncommon. The modern approach seems to be more laid-back. Instructors, once they know you, are open to dialogue, encouraging students to ask questions and explore the art. For me, this sparked a desire for a deeper understanding of what was being taught.
In many clubs, students instinctively agree without engaging critically - they follow the lessons but rarely ask “why”. This spoon-feeding creates students who can mimic techniques but don’t fully grasp their purpose or application.
Sometimes people ask questions that could easily be answered by paying closer attention to what is being taught. Whilst I don’t mind answering these questions, sometimes it’s important to make the effort yourself as well. Stepping into broader educational policy, maybe this reflects the broader problem of passive learning!
Students must do more than just go through the motions. True proficiency requires questioning, exploration, and understanding. Asking questions doesn’t undermine tradition - it deepens knowledge.
For years, I hesitated to ask questions, worried it might seem disrespectful or make me appear ignorant. Now my Instructors have helped me see the value in seeking clarity. As I asked more, I began to learn more before and I gained a completely different approach to training and application.
I understand the fear many students may have about questioning or contradicting their Instructor. In traditional settings, especially those influenced by an old school culture, challenging authority can be seen as disrespectful - but deeper understanding requires exploration.
A good Instructor should welcome critical thinking because one-size-doesn’t-fit-all. Every student’s journey is unique, and asking questions is essential for deeper learning.
Respect in the martial arts doesn’t mean blind obedience. It’s about balancing respect with responsibility for your own learning. An excellent Instructor should guide students toward understanding, not expect unquestioning compliance.
In my opinion, asking questions isn’t a sign of disrespect - it’s a sign of engagement and a desire to learn.
If you’re a student, be curious, ask questions, explore. Ask if something doesn’t make sense.
Instructors, too, should foster an environment where questions are welcomed. It’s not a challenge to your authority but a sign that your students are fully engaging with what you’re teaching.
So, don’t be afraid to break the silence - ask questions, seek understanding, put down the spoon and strive to learn more.
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