KEYS TO LEARNING
All are equally important. None of which can be omitted.
1) Private, one on one instruction
Martial arts can only be learned from person to person. Subtle nuances can be lost in the translation. You have to feel an armbar from a competent practitioner to truly understand and respect the technique. Everyone learns differently and at different rates, a specific curriculum ought to be designed for the individual student.
2) Group class participation
Everyone moves differently. Everyone has different talents and shortcomings. No two people have the exact same physical makeup. To truly study martial arts, one must prepare for any possible scenario. Thus, one must prepare for any type of opponent. Train with as many different people as possible. Everyone will offer you a different problem. The more solutions you are able to provide, the better prepared you shall be.
3) A training partner
Understand that group class and private sessions are not times to practice. Classes are occasions for learning, where information is imparted. Practice occurs during time spent away form class, on your own or with a training partner. Learning martial arts is a social activity; to be competent at fighting skills you need the help of others.
4) Solo practice
Solo practice is simply a term used to describe either the exercising of drills used to condition the body through repetitive movements (for example: practicing free throws) or the use of your imagination to visualize an actual combative scenario (for example shadow boxing)
5) Teach it
When you teach something, you basically learn it twice. By teaching someone what you have learned, whether a drill or a new technique, you instantly have a training partner.
