Why Respect is the First Lesson in Martial Arts
When parents enroll their children in martial arts, many expect their kids to learn kicks, punches, and self-defense. While those skills certainly come, the very first lesson students encounter isn’t about striking at all—it’s about respect. From the first bow on the mat to the way students address instructors and peers, martial arts emphasizes manners, gratitude, and humility as the foundation for every other lesson.