Music, martial arts, and unexpected outcomes

Lately, I have found myself comparing the journey of training in the martial arts to becoming proficient in music. It has happened several times in conversation, to the point that I decided it was worth thinking about more. In our home, there are three extracurriculars that seem to dominate: music, Taekwondo, and 4-H. In this post, I will focus on Taekwondo and music.

Taekwondo (a literal combat sport) and music (which can be described as the use of sounds to express emotion), however unlikely, are similar in ways that might surprise you.

Music and martial arts are inextricably intertwined

While this idea came to me organically in conversation, I’m far from being the first one to consider it. Music is often used as a “mood regulator” to “psychologically prep a fighter.” In our dojang, it is used, I believe, to encourage us to train harder, focus, and be inspired. If I was to pay attention to my own body language, I believe I would say that I stand taller, walk more confidently, and believe in myself more deeply when motivational music is playing. Music speaks to us, and we respond.

Similarly, in most symphony or concert band performances that I have attended, there is almost always a “story” behind the music that inspired its creation. This is often love or loss, but sometimes it is battle and conflict. There are also many examples of more contemporary music that have been inspired by the desire to be an “overcomer” in some type of battle, whether it’s internal or external.

Learning the martial arts and learning music both require discipline

My children started music lessons before they began to pursue the martial arts. As parents, my husband and I would frequently take turns being the “bad cop” who forced, or coerced, or sometimes threatened them into practicing. It was hard, and so many times I asked myself if it was worth it.

That all changed in one week during a Suzuki piano camp. It was like a switch turned on, and my two oldest children found their own love and motivation for playing the piano. Very little encouragement has been needed since then to get them to practice. They play because they want to. Previously, I mentioned my pride in the hard work my oldest daughter put in to learn Pour le Piano by Debussy. So, was it worth it? Yes, so very worth it.

Learning not to accept just being a participant but striving to excel in the martial arts has been a similar journey for us. When my daughter was a candidate to test for her black belt, there were so many hard moments. These were times when the outcome was not assured. The physical requirements were difficult and non-negotiable. She had to work hard for months to be ready. I viewed it much the same as that turning point in her music career: she did it because she wanted it that much. It’s such a joy to witness. My son is next. He is still finding his path, being younger, but I am confident he will make it.

Music and martial arts require balance

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