If you’re just starting out in martial arts, you may feel overwhelmed by the new techniques, movements, and skills you need to learn. However, understanding the four stages of learning can help you stay motivated and focused on your progress. Continue reading to explore these stages.
Stage 1: Unconscious Incompetence
At the beginning of your martial arts journey, you may not even be aware of what you don’t know. This stage is called unconscious incompetence. You may think you know how to fight, but you’re not yet familiar with the techniques, strategies, and principles of your martial art. In Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, for example, you may not realize that you need to learn how to control your opponent’s body, leverage your weight, and escape from submissions. In Muay Thai Kickboxing, you may not be aware of the proper stance, footwork, and striking techniques. In Filipino Martial Arts, you may not know how to use weapons, footwork, and empty-hand techniques together.
Stage 2: Conscious Incompetence
As you start to train and practice more, you’ll enter the stage of conscious incompetence. You’ll become aware of your lack of skill and knowledge, and you’ll feel frustrated, confused, and awkward. However, this is a crucial stage for your growth and development. You need to embrace your mistakes, learn from your failures, and ask questions to your instructors and peers. In Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, for example, you may struggle with the guard, the mount, and the back positions. In Muay Thai Kickboxing, you may have difficulty with the clinch, the knee strikes, and the elbow strikes. In Filipino Martial Arts, you may find it challenging to coordinate your movements with double stick sinawali, foot trapping, and sumbrada patterns.
Stage 3: Conscious Competence
With consistent practice, you’ll eventually reach the stage of conscious competence. You’ll be able to perform your martial arts techniques with focus, effort, and control. You’ll still need to think about what you’re doing, but you’ll be more confident and efficient. You’ll also start to appreciate the subtleties, nuances, and variations of your martial art. In Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, for example, you’ll be able to execute sweeps, submissions, and transitions with precision and timing. In Muay Thai Kickboxing, you’ll be able to use feints, counters, and combinations with speed and power. In Filipino Martial Arts, you’ll be able to adapt to different ranges and situations with versatility and creativity.
Stage 4: Unconscious Competence
The final stage of learning is unconscious competence. This is when your martial arts skills become automatic, intuitive, and natural. You won’t need to think about what you’re doing, but you’ll still be able to perform at a high level. You’ll also be able to teach and share your knowledge with others. However, you’ll need to keep practicing and refining your skills to maintain your proficiency. In Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, for example, you’ll be able to flow from one position to another, anticipate your opponent’s moves, and create new techniques on the spot. In Muay Thai Kickboxing, you’ll be able to read your opponent’s rhythm and timing, adjust your distance and angle, and deliver devastating strikes. In Filipino Martial Arts, you’ll be able to improvise your techniques, use the environment to your advantage, and blend different styles and systems.
Take Aways
Remember, becoming a martial artist is a journey, and each stage is essential to your development. Embrace each stage, and enjoy the process. With dedication and perseverance, you’ll eventually reach the fourth stage of unconscious competence.
Happy training!
For more on the beginner’s path, explore the Beginner’s Blog right here on our website or visit our YouTube channel!
