If you have read about the martial principles of power then you are aware that in martial applications one should try to achieve "economical motion." Minimalism in martial systems is a good thing.
Minimalism in martial arts is a bad thing. How can I say it is good then turn right around and say it is bad? Easy, take a different perspective. In the bad side I am referring to those whose goals are more simplistic, i.e. I just want to get a black belt type goal.
They become so focused on that goal they tend to minimize their practice down to what they "have to achieve/do" in order to qualify and pass the test to gain a black belt. Getting caught up in this view diminishes the black belt and promotes a more school syllabus type environment where one expects to attend a class, just like a math class requirement, receive set criteria, i.e. like chapters in the math book each week, and finally a test at the end of the class to get a passing grade which ends up with some diploma or a certificate of completion, etc.
If we focus on learning fundamentals, learning martial principles and then training to achieve all those goals within them, i.e. fundamentals-n-principles etc., then we achieve black belt with out minimalistic of value in what black belt means or should mean. Minimize your motion, make it as economical as possible to apply the principle along with all principles, a far better goal don't you think?
See the Forrest in lieu of just the leaf. How many have you heard state, "I have to learn five techniques, three kata, and one weapon kata to earn this level/grade/rank." Forget the amount of what is perceived as the goal but the quality of the practice and training as the goal. Simplistic answer to a complex question?
Yes? No? Maybe? Comment?
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