What do you think of when I say Bruce Lee? Or Jackie Chan? Perhaps you’re a Chuck Norris fanatic. They’ve been idolised, glorified and maybe even feared. Why is this, and is it fair?
As humans, we find it easy to see the fruits of someone’s labour and disregard the reaping of it. Whether it be an award, a milestone or even a social media post, it’s hard to identify with someone that seems perfect. Upon witnessing Bruce Lee’s infamous “one-inch-punch”, it is may be hard to believe that he isn’t superhuman. The precision and power seem impossible, yet there it is: right in front of your very eyes. Ask an ordinary person and they may pass it off as talent or witchcraft. Ask a martial artist, and you’ll get a different answer entirely.
Sensei Mehmet Ali Mehmet, a second-degree black belt with over 16 years of teaching experience in Goju-Ryu Karate says, “I teach because of the positive attitude, focus and metal conditioning it gives to people. That’s what’s important. Karate itself is not important.”
It may seem paradoxical at first, but Bruce Lee himself once said: “martial arts is nothing at all special”. At a surface level, anyone can perform the moves, but dedication and passion are what most lack.
Karate comes from two words: “kara” meaning empty, and “te” meaning hand. “Taijutsu” translates into English as “unarmed combat” or “skill of the body” and refers to any technique that is performed empty-handed. Over time, it has developed into a mixed martial arts system.
Notably, this style has a very strong mental aspect to it. The ritualistic practice of “kata”, for example, is quite meditative. It refers to a series of complex choregraphed movements designed to improve form and technique. Indeed, thinking about the steps, timing and stance can be a very therapeutic way to forget about one’s problems.
Martial arts have been proven to decrease aggression and improve compassion. Similarly, when the brain is scanned during deep meditation, the “empathy” area of the brain (anterior insular cortex) lights up significantly.
When asked about the promotion of martial arts in schools, Sensei Mehmet said: “I think karate alongside the discipline, self-awareness and group awareness that it gives children is very significant. This mental focus is, I think, lost in schools. We’ve been practising mindfulness hundreds of years ago in karate; it’s always been there. MMA and UFC fighters are coming back to the more traditional styles of karate, as they see the value and knowledge there is to be had.”
On a more personal note, joining karate has definitely increased my confidence and fitness. Helping the younger children and punching out my exam woes makes the perpetually bruised limbs worth it. I’m so grateful for everything I’ve learnt, and I can’t wait to continue.
As for Lee's incredible punch, it is a beautiful fusion of physics and hard work. He generates the force from his twisting hip, extending knees, and thrusting shoulder, elbow, and wrist—with great accuracy. Though extremely impressive, it’s unfortunately not magic.
By Gaazal Dhungana
