ON BECOMING A MARTIAL ARTS TEACHER

 by Phillip Starr

In many martial arts schools, the acquisition of the rank of shodan (first grade black belt) automatically launches the practitioner into the position of an instructor or assistant instructor. If he/she eventually desires to start his/her own school, he/she may do so. But the truth is that although someone may be able to perform well, he/she is not necessarily able to transmit knowledge to and guide others. Being a (martial arts) teacher carries with it enormous responsibility.

The teacher must know whereof he speaks; he must know the material he teaches very thoroughly, not just the “how” but also the “why.” At the same time, he must never feel that he knows or has mastered it all; he must strive to continue to polish what skills he has and continue to learn. He should strive endlessly to improve himself. It's a never-ending process. A passion.

He should teach because he wants to teach and he must never forget what it's like to be a beginner. Gentle but firm and patient, he must relate to each student on his/her level. He must push but not too hard, he must encourage, correct, and guide. And he must strive to teach his students how to learn, hoping that they may someday exceed his level. After all, if the students never go beyond the teachers, what happens to the art?