How Important is Form in Martial Arts

The Importance of Posture

In Martial arts, proper form, proper use of techniques and applying grace are important factors for several reasons. Using good technique/good form encourages better posture, circulation, sense of balance (i.e. homeostasis), and can generally improve your overall health. Take a look at the YouTube video below for a better understanding of the effects of prolonged poor posture:

What MMA has to say

Many mma fighters will say technique and proper form are not useful, because it doesn’t mean that you will knock out your opponent. There is a level of validity in this regard. Almost anyone can knock another person out so long as they hit them in the sweet spot. That, however, is where the argument ends. Unless you intend to spend the rest of your days infirmed; fighting arthritis in your joints, scoliosis along your spine and poor circulation, you should be investing your time in learning to be graceful.

Math & Science

Another important aspect of good form is  the geometry and physics applied. If you practice Martial Arts with the intention of using proper techniques, you will inevitably develop a basic understanding of angles, leverage and the shapes needed to apply proper form. Having your leg or arm make a triangular or oval shape will improve this understanding of shapes, angles and ultimately leverage.

In Conclusion

The end result from the prolonged application of good form is clearly a positive when weighed against the alternative, so get out there and make your right angles and front kicks work together. And not just work togethet, but also gel and be pleasing to both yourself and anyone else who might be present to observe such a well balanced and graceful martial arts practitioner.