QUICK NOTES….The popularity of martial arts movies helped spur the revolution of martial arts schools in America. Prior to the 1970’s martial arts were widely unknown within the general public. Movies like Enter the Dragon, Billy Jack, and Fists of Fury helped popularize martial arts within the American main stream population. Marital art movies on the big screen were also augmented by television shows like, Kung Fu and the Green Hornet … all of which translated to a brand new and burgeoning martial arts industry.
Often campy and unrealistic, these movies had an undercurrent of non-traditional heroism that touched the psyche of a population hungry for something new and different. Each subsequent generation produced a new round of martial arts movie icons. These films made a household name of Chuck Norris, Jackie Chan, Taylor Lautner, and so many more. Their dynamic screen presence helped fill martial arts studios across the country. Many of the new students entered wanting to emulate their screen heroes.
Today, there are a number of new shows out there exciting the interest of a new generation including Cobra Kai (a continuation of the old Karate Kid movies). A lack of exposure to true martial arts leaves potential clients confused about rank progress and the values inherent in traditional schools. In real life these stereotypes can be hard to break. Most martial artists value calm thoughtful responses to difficult circumstances and avoid conflict whenever possible. They realize that growth is a process and it takes years to develop the skills to earn a black belt. The next Karate Kid may be enjoyable to watch on the big and little screen, but the best Karate Kid is the one who is learning lessons from a caring instructors about character, growth, and (yes) self-defense. Is the next Karate Kid your child?
Want to learn more? Contact Omaha Blue Waves Martial Arts at (402) 215-6003.
