Asian Martial Arts and Approaches of Instruction in Physical Education

The Asian martial arts consist of a wide variety of disciplines that can be distinguished by specific characteristics. Apart from several classification systems that exist within the martial arts, three different approaches to martial arts practice have been described (ie traditional, efficiency, sporting). In recent years, there has also been an interest in introducing these sports during physical education classes at school. Data indicated that in several European countries martial arts are actually introduced during physical education. In most countries instruction is limited to a few specific martial arts styles. Also, an efficiency approach is often used in which the emphasis is put on self-defence. The present paper argues in favour of the sporting approach of martial arts instruction at school as it provides a broader perspective of martial arts practice. One might argue that a traditional approach can offer an even broader perspective as it can provide a good setting for multicultural experiences and learning. Indeed, the introduction of a traditional approach of martial arts instruction at school can be situated in what De Sensi (1995) has described as "...the ongoing major educational reform initiative aimed toward multiculturalism..." in which specific additions to the physical education curriculum have been suggested such as international games, dance and sport activities. However, as studies have showed that Western youngsters encounter difficulties to fully understand the underlying principles of a traditional approach due to distinct cultural differences, it will be necessary first to develop pedagogically sound teaching strategies through which the Asian martial arts can be introduced during physical education classes without disregarding their unique characteristics.