The Martial Artist’s Summer Bucket List
Complete Skills. Embrace Challenges. Grow Inside and Out.
“Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment.” — Jim Rohn
Summer isn’t just for sunshine and snow cones. For martial artists, it’s one of the best seasons to level up — physically, mentally, and emotionally. The longer days, relaxed school schedules, and energy of summer break make it the perfect time to push boundaries, sharpen technique, and connect deeper with your martial arts journey.
But let’s be honest. Without a plan, it’s easy for summer to slip by in a blur of distractions and missed opportunities. That’s where a bucket list comes in. A summer bucket list for martial artists isn’t just a checklist — it’s a personal challenge. A way to stay fired up, focused, and fulfilled before the leaves start turning.
This list isn’t just about kicking higher or sweating more. It’s about small wins, acts of character, and stretching your comfort zone. Whether you’re a white belt building your foundation or a black belt working on mastery, these goals can help you stay sharp and inspired.
Why a Summer Bucket List Matters for Martial Artists
Martial arts is a long journey, and sometimes we forget that growth can — and should — be fun. A good bucket list adds just enough structure to make progress without feeling like a chore. You get to chase small victories while staying in alignment with your long-term training goals.
It also creates a rhythm to your summer training. One day you’re working on a new kata. The next you’re helping a younger student tie their belt. And that act of kindness? Just as valuable as your 500th round kick. This list isn’t just about better technique. It’s about becoming a better martial artist — and a better human.
What to Include on Your Summer Bucket List
The best lists have a mix of physical, mental, and character-building challenges. You might include skill goals like mastering a specific combination or improving your stamina by running two miles without stopping. You could challenge yourself to break a personal record on push-ups or plank time. Even practicing that one combo you always avoid? It counts.
Add mindset goals, too. Journaling your weekly training. Meditating five minutes a day. Writing down three wins each week — both on and off the mat.
And don’t forget the acts of service. Help a beginner with their form. Thank your instructor with a handwritten note. Or teach a sibling a simple self-defense move. These may not be flashy, but they build humility, empathy, and connection — which, frankly, are just as important as any spinning hook kick.
Stay Accountable and Share the Journey
Here’s a tip that takes your summer bucket list to the next level: share it.
Tell your teammates, your instructors, or your parents what you’re working on. Better yet, grab a training buddy and tackle it together. Accountability fuels progress. Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about checking things off with a friend cheering you on.
Want to take it even further? Make it visual. Draw your list. Create a poster. Turn each completed challenge into a photo and make a summer slideshow. Not only does it keep you focused — it makes the journey memorable.
What Happens When Fall Arrives?
By the time fall rolls around, you’ll have done more than just “keep training.” You’ll have grown. You’ll stand taller. Move smoother. Think more clearly. You’ll have stepped into a new level of personal discipline — all while having fun doing it.
That’s the real power of a well-built bucket list. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about staying consistent. Progressing with purpose. And discovering what you’re capable of when you commit to growth with intention and heart.
So let’s get to it. Make your list. Check it twice. And go make this your most powerful summer yet!
Here’s some ideas to get you started!!!
🥋 Skill-Based Challenges
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Learn a new kata or form from start to finish.
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Master all required curriculum techniques for your next belt.
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Break a personal record in push-ups, sit-ups, or plank hold.
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Train barefoot outdoors at least 3 times.
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Practice your favorite kick 1,000 times over the summer.
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Film yourself doing a kata or combo and review it for improvement.
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Attend every class for one month straight without missing.
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Learn how to tie your own belt perfectly—every time.
🧠 Mindset & Mental Goals
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Read one martial arts book or biography (e.g., The Way of the Warrior).
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Write a short essay or journal entry about what being a martial artist means to you.
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Set a SMART goal for your training and track your progress.
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Memorize and LIVE the Student Creed.
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Meditate or do breathing exercises 3 times a week.
💪 Health & Fitness
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Drink half your body weight in ounces of water every day for 10 days.
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Try one new healthy recipe/food each week.
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Do 20 minutes of stretching or yoga three times a week.
- Do your Karate Homework in the sun.
❤️ Acts of Kindness & Leadership
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Help a younger student during class.
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Teach a family member or friend one technique or kata.
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Do a random act of kindness in your community (bonus points if it’s anonymous).
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Write a thank-you note to your instructor or mentor.
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Volunteer at a dojo event or assist during a camp/class.
☀️ Just for Fun
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Take a martial arts-themed photo at the beach or on vacation.
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Create your own mini obstacle course or ninja challenge at home.
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Design your own superhero persona based on your martial arts powers!
- Practice your kata or stances in a new location.
Check out these Summer Blog Posts:
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.