Three patterns of group relations in martial arts schools
Journal Title: Studies in Sport Humanities - Year 2016, Vol 19, Issue 19
Abstract
Problem. An interesting manifestation of intercultural dialogue is the presence of Asian martial arts schools and clubs in European cities and from a global perspective, these martial arts organisations. The aim of this study is to describe the social structure and the characteristics of positions in this structure, in schools and martial arts organizations; how this structure manifests itself and any trends that are happening. This way of thinking is applied to a single dojo, to groups of practitioners, and to positions in organizations active in the international forum. Methodology. Analysis of a broad discourse was used, including both literature and popularising texts, as well as a long-term participant observation method. The author has, for more than 30 years, been working in national and international martial arts and combat sports organizations (Krippendorf, 2004; Spencer, 2012). This study uses a theoretical perspective which the author co-created, based on the sociology and anthropology of martial arts. The accepted terminology developed from this concept is used. Results. Three models of the structure and functioning of martial arts groups were detailed: a kung-fu family, a ryuha in Japan, and the Japanese school. This applies correspondingly to: relationships at a school in the Chinese tradition, the menkyo system of classic Japanese schools and a new Budo using the kyu-da system. Other martial arts are following these particular models. Specifi cs of relationshipsin martial arts circles on an international scale were also outlined. Conclusions. Traditionally-oriented schools maintain relationships similar to those described in the three models. In martial arts transforming into combat sports the position and role of the master turns into that of a coach. The position of the master in the international martial arts environment co-creates recognition for his outstanding achievements and versatility, and the degrees and titles he holds.
Authors and Affiliations
Wojciech J. Cynarski
The American YMCA and its physical education program – first steps to world expansion
This paper looks at the fi rst steps taken by the American YMCA to expand its physical education program across various countries in South and Central America, Asia and Europe. The YMCA was established in 1844 in London....
Contemporary Perspective of Pedagogical Rhetoric in Higher Education Teaching –the Example of a Seminar
One of the goals of the information society is cooperation with the use of technical resources and information. Knowledge is not associated with any element of the structure, but results from the process of cooperation.T...
Axiological aspects of movement activity
The physical culture (named commonly sport) constitutes a domain of many heterogeneous values. The health values play one of the most important role among them. They are especially exposed to all their spheres like physi...
Do students really need Olympic education at school?
The study examines the effectiveness of the impact of the Olympic education programme on declared prosocial behaviours of junior secondary school students as well as on the level of their knowledge about the Olympism. An...
Polish version of research based Model of Sport Talent Development Environment and adaptation of Talent Development Environment Questionnaire”
There is an increasing interest in optimizing sport talent development. One of the crucial factors that influence all talented athletes throughout their careers is the quality and the appropriateness of the coaching envi...