Martial Arts are steeped in tradition, respect and discipline but, did you know that many styles also have fascinating superstitions and unique rituals? From lucky charms to pre-fight rituals, these beliefs have been passed down through generations, shaping the way Martial Artists train, compete and even enter the dojo! Whether you’re superstitious or simply intrigued, let’s explore some of the most interesting Martial Arts traditions. Do you believe in them?
1. Bowing for Good Luck and Respect 🙇♂️
Bowing is one of the most well known traditions in Martial Arts, seen in disciplines like Karate, Judo, Taekwondo and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. But did you know that some Martial Artists believe not bowing properly before stepping onto the mat brings bad luck?
For many, bowing is not just a sign of respect, it’s a way to clear the mind, focus energy, and invite positive fortune into their training or fight. Some even have personal bowing rituals, such as pausing for a deep breath before bowing or stepping in with a specific foot first!
2. Never Wash Your Belt! (Or Else…😱)
One of the most well-known superstitions in Martial Arts is the ‘never wash your belt’ rule. The belief is that a Martial Artist’s hard-earned knowledge and experience are absorbed into the belt over time. Washing it, according to legends, washes away your skills and luck!
Of course, from a hygiene perspective, this superstition might not be the best idea. Some modern Martial Artists choose to ignore this rule, especially those training in high contact arts like Jiu Jitsu, where cleanliness is key. But for traditionalists, the belief still holds strong.
3. Stepping into the Ring with the Right Foot First 👣
Many fighters, from Muay Thai practitioners to professional MMA athletes, have a small but significant superstition. Always stepping into the ring or onto the mat with their right foot first.
This tradition is rooted in warrior customs, where stepping forward with the right foot was seen as a sign of strength, confidence and positive energy. Some fighters even believe stepping in with the left foot could bring misfortune or a lack of focus during a match. A small detail but, one that many competitors swear by!
4. Lucky Charms and Pre-Fight Rituals 🍀
Just like athletes in other sports, many Martial Artists have personal lucky charms or pre-fight rituals. Some might wear a special item of clothing, tie their belt a certain way or repeat a mantra before stepping into battle.
A few famous examples include:
- Muay Thai fighters wearing traditional armbands (Pra Jiad) often blessed by monks for protection and strength.
- Boxers and Kickboxers tapping their gloves together a certain number of times before a fight.
- Judo competitors rubbing the mat before a match for good luck and grounding.
These little rituals help fighters feel centered, confident and prepared for battle. What’s your lucky ritual?
5. Breaking a Board on the First Try Equals Good Fortune 🥋
In many traditional striking arts, such as Taekwondo and Karate, breaking a board (or several!) is a test of skill and precision. But did you know there’s a superstition attached to it?
Many believe that if you break a board on the first attempt, it symbolises a strong spirit, clear focus and a year of good fortune ahead. However, failing to break it on the first strike is sometimes seen as a sign to work harder and stay humble in training.
It’s a fun way to add a little extra meaning to this already powerful Martial Arts practice!
6. The “Ghosts” of the Dojo 👻
In some Martial Arts schools, especially in Japan and China, there are old stories about spirits lingering in the dojo. Some practitioners believe that past masters and warriors watch over the training hall, guiding students in their journey.
It’s said that if you hear unexplained noises in a quiet dojo or feel a sudden shift in the air while training alone, you might not be alone after all! Whether or not you believe in supernatural guardians, the idea of training under the watchful spirits of past masters is a powerful and humbling thought.
7. Never Step on the Dojo Logo! 🚫
In many Martial Arts academies, the club’s logo is placed on the mat or the floor. A major sign of respect and tradition is to never step on it.
Martial Artists believe that stepping on the logo is disrespectful to the dojo and its lineage, and some even say it brings bad luck. This tradition teaches students to always be mindful of their actions and surroundings, a valuable lesson both in and out of the dojo.
Do You Believe?
Whether you see these superstitions as essential traditions or just fun quirks of Martial Arts culture, one thing is certain, they add to the rich history and mystique of Martial Arts!
Do you follow any of these beliefs? Or do you have your own Martial Arts rituals? We’d love to hear yours in the comments!
