In the journey of life, we all wear different belts.

Some signify our accomplishments, like a martial artist’s progression from white to black. Others symbolize the various roles we play – the dedicated employee, the loving parent, the companion, or the friend. While the colors and meanings of these “belts” may differ, there’s one common thread that ties them all together: the delicate art of balance.

Just as martial artists strive to perfect the intricate techniques that make up their training, we, too, aim to streamline and balance the various aspects or “belts” of our lives. Whether you’re practicing martial arts with us from the comfort of your own home, juggling work, family, or personal pursuits, there’s a shared challenge we all face—how to stay engaged and passionate in our journey without succumbing to the relentless fatigue known as burnout.

We know that martial arts training is a pursuit that demands discipline, determination, and dedication. However, there is a balance between pushing our limits and protecting our well-being. So, what are the secrets to finding balance and preventing burnout?

If you’re a martial artist or simply seeking ways to avoid the emotional and physical exhaustion that can accompany life’s many demands, we have some tips and tricks to empower you to unlock a world of well-being and avoid burnout.

Recognizing Burnout

Martial arts training, even from the comfort of your own home, is a journey that demands both physical and mental transformation.

As you begin your training, it’s essential to recognize the potential areas that can lead to burnout. While the idea of becoming an accomplished martial artist or achieving personal fitness goals is exciting, the path is not without its challenges.

From repetitive drills to the pressure of continuous self-improvement, the demands of martial arts can take a toll on your motivation and energy. Understanding these challenges is the first step in avoiding burnout and ensuring a more fulfilling training experience.

Perhaps what is most important in comprehending potential loss of motivation is perspective – what can push someone towards feeling burned out can also be viewed in a different, more positive way.

Within martial arts training, drills and practice can become repetitive and you might feel like your progression isn’t what you expected. It’s important to recognize that practice is required to be repetitive: as you practice the same movements and techniques over time, you will improve. As you work on precision and become more detail oriented within your training, you will advance. Focus on the positive aspects as you work towards your next belt.

What is great about our platform is that because we use video modeling as our instruction medium, students can work on whatever areas need improvement whenever they want to avoid feeling like they’re running in place. The instructional videos are available 24/7 anywhere you have a Wi-Fi connection, as well as your personal record of challenges.

Research has proven that when learning a new skill like martial arts, utilizing physical movements in tandem with visual and audible instruction (video modeling) is one of the most effective ways to retain information and advance as this method appeals to all learning styles. In fact, we have found that students who participate in learning through video modeling and mimic what they see results in a more comprehensive learning experience as they can self-assess while they watch themselves performing the challenges.

“One study found that students learned skills faster from video models than from live models. Others have shown that video models can effectively teach communication, socialization, academic, and behavior skills. More research indicated that after skill acquisition with video models, generalization and maintenance of the skills learned was high. Videos of adult, peer, cartoon, and self-models have all been shown effective at teaching skills”.

                    Hansen, S. (2016)

Because of the advantages found within learning through video modeling, burnout is rare – as our students take advantage of our unique platform, there is always an opportunity to avoid feeling frustrated by mixing up what you practice. Our program’s flexibility allows students to modify their focus if they’re feeling burned out. Each student has several options available to them as they work towards earning their next belt – physical challenges, drills, new techniques, etc. and everything is broken down into an easy-to-understand personal dashboard.

It’s also important to note that resolving a lack of motivation can be broken down into two additional parts: the ability to switch up your routine and the opportunity to implement new challenges.

Is Routine the Culprit?

While routine can offer a predictable environment, sometimes it is necessary to switch things up to avoid feeling burned out.

“By breaking from a routine and changing up one’s schedule, people may experience less burnout and have a more positive experience in their day-to-day life. When people are burnt out, they often do not function as well, they are often exhausted and have reduced cognitive capacity”.

Clarity Clinic (2023).

The flexibility that we offer in martial arts training is unparalleled: students are not obliged to adhere to a dojo schedule or practice. While we recommend that you create some kind of routine to stay focused and on track, our flexibility allows you to choose the environment in which you train, how often you train, and what you choose to focus on within your overall journey.

Switching up your routine can be something as simple as practicing outside instead of in your living room. Perhaps you’re feeling stuck on a certain technique? Chat with our instructors who are available to you any time you need them and create an individual plan that works towards your personal goals and brings you out of the trenches of motivation loss.

Because we are fully online, our students can create a schedule that works around their responsibilities. This can often be enough to avoid burnout as you are not required to attend long and laborious classes that may interfere with your personal life.

If you’re still feeling that drudgery of burnout and lack of interest, work with your instructor to create a training routine that fits. Our curriculum was designed to work with all individuals, regardless of their challenges, and we can help you create the journey that works for YOU.

Through our one-of-a-kind online video modeling learning, all students can succeed at their own pace when it works for them. It’s important that you don’t give up – our instructors are equipped to work with you through every challenge and moment of frustration you may experience.

In the world of martial arts, as in life, the path to success is a journey uniquely your own. It’s a journey that demands discipline, self-discovery, and the unwavering commitment to better oneself. As we’ve explored the nuances of avoiding burnout in the context of martial arts training at home, it’s become clear that balance is the key.

Our video modeling learning experience provides students with a powerful tool, a guide to understanding the intricacies of martial arts, and a means to prevent stagnation. It allows you to create your own individual path, to learn at your own pace, and to tailor your training experience to your unique needs. Embracing this autonomy, you have the freedom to explore, adapt, and thrive in martial arts.

The importance of switching up our routine cannot be overstated. When we find ourselves feeling frustrated or stagnant, it’s a signal that change is needed. Variety and novelty breathe new life into our practice, invigorating our passion and enthusiasm. In a world where monotony often leads to burnout, the ability to introduce fresh perspectives, techniques, and challenges can make all the difference.

As you discover your own path in martial arts, harness the power of our video modeling experience and the flexibility of a dynamic routine. Let them be your allies on this incredible voyage of self-discovery and empowerment. With this approach, you can sustain your passion, overcome obstacles, and find lasting fulfillment both on and off the training mat.

References

Clarity Clinic. (2023). The Change Up: How Varying your Routine Can Improve Brain Function. Retrieved from https://www.claritychi.com/the-change-up-how-varying-your-routine-can-improve-brain-function/#:~:text=By%20breaking%20from%20a%20routine,and%20have%20reduced%20cognitive%20capacity.

Hansen, S. (2016). Research Says Video Modeling Works. Here’s How to Implement It. Retrieved from https://hussmanautism.org/implement-video-modeling/