Respecting Roots

Examining the timeless wisdom and practicality of traditional Budo amidst contemporary combat sports

Written by Sensei Jon Davis

5 April 2024

Practicing a traditional Budo art, such as Karate-Dō, Iaido, Judo, or Kendo in a time dominated by mixed martial arts (MMA) and cage fighting still holds significant value. Let’s take a deep dive into why someone might chose to study a traditional Budo art instead of a more modern, self-defense oriented fighting art.

It’s important to know that many of the traditional Budo art forms used to end with a different suffix - “jitsu”. So, Iaido was once Iaijitsu - Kendo was once Kenjitsu and so on. This original name indicates that an art was studied for one to use in actual combat situations on the battlefield.

In 1868, Japan underwent the Meiji restoration, which outlawed the carrying of swords and brought Japan into a more modern (and peaceful) age. Regular combat on the battlefield was no longer a common reality, so a different need for studying these arts came about - as a “way” of living one’s life. “Dō” means, “way”, and as such, any classical art which ends with this suffix signals that that art is composed of self-defense or fighting technique but it is practiced as a way of refining one’s character, as well as a framework for how to live one’s life.

Why study and practice a traditional budo art today?

Cultural Heritage Preservation:

Traditional Budo arts are deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of their origin countries, often with centuries-old histories. By practicing these arts, individuals contribute to preserving and honoring a rich cultural legacy that extends beyond mere combat techniques. These arts encompass philosophies, rituals, and codes of conduct that hold immense value in understanding and appreciating the cultural heritage they represent.

Holistic Development:

Unlike many modern combat sports, traditional Budo arts emphasize holistic development encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual aspects. They focus not only on combat techniques but also on cultivating discipline, respect, humility, and self-awareness. Practitioners of Budo arts often find themselves not just improving their physical prowess but also enhancing their mental fortitude, emotional resilience, and overall well-being.

Character Building:

Traditional Budo arts prioritize character building over mere victory in combat. Training in these arts instills virtues such as perseverance, patience, and humility. Practitioners learn to respect their opponents, to control their emotions, and to handle conflicts with composure. These qualities extend far beyond the dojo and positively influence the student’s behavior and decision-making in their daily lives.

Focus on Technique and Form:

While MMA and cage fighting emphasize practicality and effectiveness in combat, traditional Budo arts place significant emphasis on technique, form, and precision. Students spend years perfecting their movements, honing their timing, and refining their understanding of body mechanics. This focus on technique not only enhances effectiveness in combat but also reduces the risk of injury by promoting proper body alignment and efficiency of movement.

Philosophical Depth:

Traditional Budo arts are often deeply rooted in philosophical traditions such as Zen Buddhism. Confucianism, or Taoism. Through the practice of these arts, students delve into profound philosophical concepts such as harmony, balance, and the nature of conflict. This philosophical depth adds layers of meaning to the physical practice, enriching one’s understanding of themselves and their place in the world.

Adaptability and Integration:

Many traditional Budo arts have evolved over time, integrating principles and techniques from other martial arts and combat sports, including MMA. While maintaining their core principles and values, these arts have adapted to modern challenges, ensuring their relevance in modern society. Practicing a budo art does not restrict one from learning from other martial arts systems - instead, it offers a solid foundation upon which to build a well-rounded skill set.

One may choose to study a traditional Budo art in our modern society because it offers numerous benefits beyond mere fighting proficiency. It fosters, cultural appreciation, holistic development, character building, and philosophical exploration. These arts provide a unique avenue for personal growth and self-discovery, making them invaluable in today’s fast-paced and often chaotic world.