The Importance of Respect
Martial Arts and Everyday Life
“Respect for ourselves guides our morals; respect for others guides our manners.” – Laurence Sterne
Step into any traditional martial arts dojo, and one thing becomes clear right away—respect isn’t just a rule. It’s the foundation. It’s not something we tack onto the end of a lesson or recite mindlessly at the start of class. Respect is baked into every bow, every belt, and every interaction. Why? Because it’s one of the first—and most lasting—lessons martial arts teaches.
And while kicks, punches, and forms are important, they pale in comparison to the deeper life lessons students take with them when they leave the mat. Chief among them? Good character, built one respectful action at a time.
Martial arts helps students of all ages develop discipline, self-control, and humility—but it all begins with respect. Respect for others. Respect for yourself. Respect for the process.
Respect Builds Better Humans
It’s not just about saying “yes, sir” or “yes, ma’am.” Respect in martial arts is about how you listen. How you show up on time. How you take correction without ego. It teaches students to approach challenges with an open mind and to treat their peers—no matter their skill level—with courtesy and care.
Over time, those habits translate into something deeper: good character. It becomes second nature for students to hold the door open, to shake hands with confidence, to take ownership of their mistakes. These aren’t flashy skills. But they’re powerful. They shape who you are when no one’s watching.
In a world where instant gratification is the norm and attention spans are shrinking, teaching respect is more critical than ever. Martial arts slows things down. It centers students. It reminds them that honor and integrity are more important than speed or popularity.
Training the Mind, Not Just the Body
One of the most misunderstood aspects of martial arts is the belief that it’s all about physical training. But in reality, the mind gets just as much attention as the body—if not more.
Students learn to stay quiet when others are speaking. They learn to wait their turn. They learn to control their tempers when they lose and to be gracious when they win. These are the real wins of martial arts: the invisible victories that build good character from the inside out.
It’s not just a curriculum—it’s a lifestyle. And the best part? These lessons carry far beyond the walls of the dojo. We see kids behaving more respectfully at school. Adults managing stress more calmly at work. Families communicating more effectively at home.
Respect isn’t a martial arts thing. It’s a life thing. But martial arts gives students the space to practice it in a focused, structured, and supportive way.
How Parents See the Difference
Ask any parent whose child has been training for more than a few months, and they’ll tell you—something changes. Their child starts using manners more consistently. They begin showing more responsibility around the house. They show up with confidence, speak with clarity, and carry themselves with pride.
That’s not by accident. Martial arts teaches that with every privilege comes responsibility. Students quickly learn that if they want to move up in rank, they must not only work hard but act in a way that reflects good character—inside the dojo and out.
And the results? They’re often surprising. The shy student who wouldn’t make eye contact now leads warm-ups. The energetic child who struggled with focus is now helping new students stay on task. The teen who used to roll their eyes now bows with purpose. Respect doesn’t just change behavior. It changes identity.
The Ripple Effect of Good Character
When respect becomes a habit, it spreads. Students begin treating their friends with more kindness. They challenge themselves to be leaders, not just participants. And they start to value integrity over convenience.
This ripple effect is what makes martial arts such a powerful force for community change. When we raise students who lead with respect and act with honor, we build stronger schools, tighter families, and more compassionate communities.
That’s the real goal of martial arts—not just black belts, but black belt behavior. Not just strong kicks, but strong values. And it all begins with one simple lesson that’s reinforced every single class: respect matters.
Final Thoughts
Respect is more than just politeness. It’s a cornerstone of good character, and one of the greatest gifts martial arts can give. Whether you’re a student, a parent, or just someone looking to grow, these lessons are available to anyone willing to show up, bow in, and do the work.
Because at the end of the day, martial arts isn’t just about who you can defeat. It’s about who you choose to become.
Check out these posts for more information about our School and Programs
Parent’s Guide to Martial Arts
Crabapplemartialarts.com and Crabapple Martial Arts Academy has been selected the nation’s #1 martial arts schools for SIX YEARS IN A ROW by the American Budokai International!
Founded in 2013 by Mr. C. Matthew White is a 5th-degree Black Belt in Karate and 6th-degree Black Belt in Jiu Jitsu, and Master Instructor. Crabapple Martial Arts Academy has Karate lessons for pre-school children to elementary kids ages 4 and up. These classes are designed to develop the critical building blocks kids need – specialized for each age group – for school excellence and later success in life.
Crabapple Martial Arts Adult Karate training is a complete adult fitness and conditioning program. This is for adults who want to lose weight, get (and stay) in shape, or learn self-defense in a supportive environment.
Instructors can answer questions or be contacted 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at of****@******************ts.com or call directly at 770-645-0930. You can also visit our website at CrabappleMartialArts.com.
About C. Matthew White, Shihan: Matt is a fifth-degree black belt in a traditional Japanese and Okinawan Martial Arts – Shuri Ryu Karatedo. He is also a sixth-degree black belt in Japanese Jiu Jitsu – Shintoyoshin Kai Jiu Jitsu. He is a master instructor with the title of Shihan, which means teacher of teachers in Japanese. Matt has a bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Physiology. He has been training and teaching martial arts for over 27 years. He has owned Crabapple Martial Arts Academy since 2013. Shihan White is a motivational speaker and educator, who teaches seminars in bullying, business, and martial arts training.
Crabapple Martial Arts Academy Headquarters is in Alpharetta, Georgia at 12315 Crabapple Road., Suite 124, Alpharetta GA 30004. You can locate the Chief Instructor, Sensei Robert Reed there or directly at (770) 645-0930.