International Martial Arts and Culture Journal

Teacher Training in Martial Arts and Combat Sports: Innovative Educational Models

Jonatas Duarte — 2024-08-28

Martial arts and combat sports have grown significantly in recent decades, both in terms of the number of practitioners and scientific production, establishing themselves as relevant practices for health, athletic performance, and human development. In this scenario, the relevance of teacher training stands out, traditionally linked to the achievement of a black belt or equivalent, but marked by a technical character. Although effective in transmitting motor skills, this model neglects pedagogical and theoretical dimensions that are fundamental for critical and contextualized teaching. There are studies that demonstrate scientifically tested methods for teaching martial arts and combat sports. However, many teachers are unaware of these scientific advances with practical potential. Thus, this study proposes recommendations for teacher training in martial arts and combat sports, such as bringing science closer through theoretical-practical courses, lectures, and refresher programs; valuing master-apprentice guidance; and specializing in specific audiences. Such measures can contribute to professional qualification and the consolidation of more effective, safer teaching practices that are aligned with scientific evidence.

Martial Arts as Heritage of Mankind

Wojciech J. Cynarski — 2025-08-18

Studi Purpose- Traditional martial arts, mostly originating from East Asia, are now practiced in many countries around the world, and therefore on a global scale.

Method. Research methodology in martial arts and according to the General Theory of Fighting Arts, in matters of cultural analysis it is most appropriate to adopt a qualitative methodology.

Result and Discussion. If a young, 30-year-old instructor boasts of having the rank of 10^th dan, it is extremely strange and against tradition. These highest, non-technical degrees are awarded for merits, i.e. teaching, work for popularization, publications, ethical attitude, etc. They can rarely be achieved before the age of 60. The cases of juvenile holders of the highest degrees result from the extreme commercialization of the martial arts market.

Conclusion. The novelty of research here is the idea of assessing the presence of various martial arts in the general cultural heritage of humanity according to the level of institutionalization and dissemination on a global scale. The matter probably requires further research.

A Study on the Development Status of the Wuchang Eighteen Martial Arts under the Procedural Grounded Theory

Wenyao Chen — 2025-08-28

In 2021, the Chinese government proposed the protection of intangible cultural heritage and formulated plans and outlines for this purpose. This paper, aiming to explore the current development status of Wuchang Eighteen Martial Arts under the Procedural Grounded Theory, is dedicated to better safeguarding and transmitting China's outstanding traditional culture. The study utilizes research methods such as literature review, oral history, and on-site investigations. The research findings are as follows: 1. Within the core domain of habits, the cultural development of Wuchang Eighteen Martial Arts exhibits continuity and inheritance. People have started to unearth more information, forming preliminary processes for excavation, preservation, and development. 2. In the core domain of fields, the development of Wuchang Eighteen Martial Arts is initially influenced by historical backgrounds, resulting in periods of stagnation. However, with current community and public support, these practices are now back on track. 3. In the core domain of cultural capital, the exclusivity of Wuchang Eighteen Martial Arts imparts distinctive advantages. Politically, its cultural soft power is considered a cultural resource and capability with multiple values. By exploring and utilizing these resources and capabilities, contributions can be made to societal sustainable development and cultural prosperity.

Therefore, based on the Procedural Grounded Theory, we undertake research, distilling the core concept of the "Vitality of Wuchang Eighteen Martial Arts" from the central domains of habits, fields, and cultural capital. This concept reveals the inherent principles it embodies when facing the complex and ever-changing social environment.