Welcome to The Martial Arts Muse!

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Where inspiration strikes.

Are you a martial artist looking for inspiration?

Here you will find creative ideas and solutions to help you teach your classes or seminars, navigate your own learning and promote your martial art.

CHECK OUT THE MOST RECENT POSTS:

  • The Weird Guys (and Gals) of Martial Arts (Part 1): The Bad Weirdos - Martial arts often attracts individuals with unusual behaviors and motivations, leading to awkward training sessions. From those overly focused on mystical elements to those obsessed with unrealistic combat scenarios, this environment can become uncomfortable. Additionally, favoritism from instructors may alienate less skilled students, creating an unwelcoming atmosphere for growth and inclusion.
  • Slipping, Bobbing, Weaving & Other Small Victories - The transformative experience of transitioning from karate to kickboxing emphasizes the moment a skill becomes instinctual. Through consistent training, the I learned to move fluidly, shifting from rigid blocks to dynamic evasion. This journey highlights the importance of subtle progress in martial arts, celebrating the instinctual mastery achieved amidst chaos.
  • Am I Worthy? The Quiet Doubt Behind Every Belt Promotion - I’m sure most of you know the feeling, even if you’ve never named it: impostor syndrome. That restless knot in your gut that says, Any minute now, they’ll realize I have no idea what I’m doing. It’s that quiet dread that your success, your skills, your rank—whatever you’ve worked for—might be built on sand. Most people brush up […]
  • The Problem with Modern Karate Bunkai and Oyo - Bunkai and oyo, the essential study and applications of kata in karate, often lack practical effectiveness, confusing practitioners. Many sessions detach from real fighting dynamics, leading to ineffective techniques. To improve, karateka should focus on understanding fundamentals, training with resistance, respecting other arts, and valuing practical application over tradition, ensuring relevant and effective self-defence training.
  • Why Women Quit Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (and All Martial Arts, Really): The Real Deal (And How We Can Fix It) - Women are leaving Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and martial arts due to a combination of injuries, time constraints, unwelcoming gym culture, and feelings of isolation. Many report issues with microaggressions and mismatched training partners that hinder their experience. Solutions include creating inclusive environments and offering targeted support to retain female practitioners.