Outside of that, it's important that a student provides the instructor with feedback if they're unclear on something. And if we're talking about "perfect" students, being in good shape is a great bonus, as martial arts is a physical practice, and it's easier if one is able to perform the movements without undue physical strain.
I don't know if I have a idea for a perfect student. But I have a general idea for what I like in students. I don't think perfect exist in us humans.
I like for student to come to class on time which to me means early. Come prepared to work out. I want the student to be a good listener and ask a few questions if unsure. I want the student to have an open mind for learning and a willingness to explore. They should be someone that is not a quitter. They must be willing to give their best effort.
A natural athlete, who wants to learn.
One who shows up, shuts up, and trains.
Consistently.
1. Eager to learn.
2. Practices regularly at home, not just at class.
3. Always hungry for more information.
4. Patient with himself/herself.
5. Honest about his/her own weaknesses.
6. Humble enough to admit needing help.
7. Actually studies, and not just going "through the motions".
8. Adherent to the style, not modifying to "fit in" anything else.
9. Knows when to have fun and when to be serious.
10. Kind, friendly, helpful and striving to be an outstanding person.
I'm sure I could expand on this at any time, but right now this seems close to a perfect student in my mind. I know I've broken several of these myself in my time studying, but probably because I've broken them I see it more clearly.
im not sure about the ideal student. but i prefer one that comes to class regularly and early. he trains at there home as well. one that is open minded and willing to do what it takes to improve. a student that pushes them selves to their limits and strives to reach their goals
This one prefers working with individuals who seek a true knowledge of the arts, not merely one who seeks only techniques to be used so that a once bullied person can become a bully him or her self.
They will be as interested in the spiritual aspects, the moral principles and the art as self exrepession as they are in mere fighting techniques.
For them, the art becomes a way of life positively effecting every aspect of their lives and it will lead them to live in harmony with all things within the universe.
Although the physical component is important, this one also has some older students who can not physically compete with the younger ones, nor should they try to do so. Classes and teachings are then designed and geared towards the level of ability of each student (ie., some train slower, do more kata so as to work on learning to move in ways that are beneficial to their health and are less likely to take part in the more strenuous style of training that some of the younger students are able to do and which some of them seem to seek and enjoy...wakarimasu, tomodachi?)
This one has helped students learn to cook, to write poetry and short stories, has them work in the garden, discusses philosophy with them, encourages the learning of musical instruments, encourages them to volunteer to work in social service situations, etc., as well as teaching them weapon forms, kata and phyiscal techniques.
This one no longer awards "belts or rank", which has helped to weed out those who only seek recognition instead of knowledge and self growth.
This one also understands that due to the necessities of life, family obligations and other personal commitments that students might not be at this one's house daily for practice, yet the students are always welcomed.
This is more of a traditional manner of teaching and it seems to attract more traditional students.
It might also be mentioned that this one does not teach "sport karate".
Be well, tomodachi. Arigato for a good post and question.
As a long time martial arts instructor, I think I can say that I've seen just about every kind of student. I have a clear idea of what I think is, a perfect student. What is your idea of what a perfect student is like?
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