# Learning Styles in the Martial Arts

- Link: https://brianejohns.com/2012/01/19/blog-learning-styles-in-the-martial-arts/
- Published: 2012-01-19T20:32:00-05:00
- Author: Brian Johns

I believe that people have different learning styles.

### Some learn with their ears (audio learners). Some students are “visual learners.”  Then there are those who learn through a combination of audio and visual cues.

If you are not able to view this video, click [here](https://youtu.be/_IopcOwfsoU).

One interesting thing that I’ve learned about visual learners is that some need 
the instructor to demonstrate techniques while in a specific spatial orientation
to them. Specifically, some visual learners have an easier time processing information
if the instructor and the student are facing the same direction. For example, if
a student is learning the 12 angles of attack, they either stand beside me or behind
me so that they can replicate my movements.  Not all visual learners need this specific
spatial orientation to learn.

### Having been born severely deaf, my learning style is decidedly visual.

I rely on the visual much more heavily than the hearing world.  Unless the instructor
has an outstanding voice, I rely on demonstrations of the technique being taught
and try it out on my training partner. Most of the time, I either know the concept
behind the technique or try to figure it out on my own. If I cannot figure out the
concept on my own, I will hash it out with my training partner or ask the instructor
in private.

An example of this is when I learned about pressure points. There is often a great
deal of theory and explanations behind pressure point techniques. This is not exactly
a good fit for my learning style.

### I often miss what the instructor is saying due to poor voice quality or the constant movement of his head, which makes lip reading difficult.

However, I often recognize the movement being taught and its application due to 
my years of training.

Given my heavy reliance on visual learning, I often devour martial arts books that
discuss history, theory, and applications. This helps to replace whatever verbal
instruction I might miss at a camp or a seminar. I’m not a fan of the “how-to” martial
arts books, as they do not aid my martial arts education.

Second, I watch [tons of videos](https://brianejohns.com//2015/04/20/blog-how-to-supercharge-your-private-lessons/).
I analyze the technique being taught using the slow-motion function of a DVD player.
Video has been a tremendous help in my learning process as a martial artist. I cannot
emphasize how important video is to me. I wish that martial arts DVDs and YouTube
videos were captioned. That would open up a lot of avenues for me. Somehow, I’ve
managed it!

How do you learn? What kind of learning style do you employ? What can instructors
do to improve your experience?

## Let’s hear from you!

## Additional Reading

 * [Self-Defense Tips for Deaf Individuals](https://brianejohns.com/2023/06/21/self-defense-tips-for-deaf-individuals/)
 * [A Moment in Time- Avoiding Violence](https://brianejohns.com/2014/12/04/blog-a-moment-in-time-avoiding-violence/)
 * [Home](https://brianejohns.com/about/)
 * [4 Reasons for Teaching Beginners](https://brianejohns.com/2016/03/31/blog-4-reasons-for-teaching-beginners/)
 * [Friday Recommendation #19](https://brianejohns.com/2023/09/08/friday-recommendation-19/)

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