What is the "Martial" in "Martial Arts"?

If you don’t know, the full name of the martial art style we practice at our studio is Tang Soo Do Moo Duk Kwan. The word “Moo” (written as 武 in Chinese) refers to “martial” or “military.” While you could label what we do as a sport or as exercise, it is so much more than that. It is disciplined and militaristic in nature, meant to teach combat, as well as discipline and respect. This is why we put so much emphasis on our loud voices, driven focus, coordinated movements, and proficiency with techniques.

But let's go back to that symbol: 武. We translate it as military. We often think of the military as soldiers meant to fight wars with guns and bombs. But that symbol is traditionally explained as being made up of two smaller symbols: 戈, which means “spear” or “weapon,” and 止, which means “stop.” Together, they are often interpreted as “stopping weapons” or, more simply, stopping war, conflict, and fighting.

That is the purpose of martial arts—not only to become strong warriors and disciplined soldiers, but also to be able to stop conflict. To diffuse situations and come up with peaceful solutions. While we may learn how to fight, we don't seek to use those skills unless we absolutely have to. The discipline we learn isn't just about being tough; it's about being strong enough to know when and how to use our skills. That is what the “martial” in “martial arts” means.

Want to learn how to deal with conflict in a strong and disciplined way? At Trinity Martial Arts, located in Hopewell Junction, we teach traditional martial arts and practical self-defense skills to students in East Fishkill and the surrounding Hudson Valley. Reach out today to schedule your free trial class and begin your martial arts journey.