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Physical Education

Martial Arts Principles

Overview

Students learn the foundational principles of martial arts — respect, focus, and controlled movement — through stances, blocks, and partner exercises.

Learning Objective
Students develop balance, focus, and body control through basic martial arts principles and stances.

Resources needed

  • Open space

Lesson stages

0 / 8 done
  1. 1 Introduce the bow: a respectful greeting used in martial arts before and after practice.
  2. 2 Teach the ready stance: feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, hands raised.
  3. 3 Hold the stance for 30 seconds — focus on stillness and breathing.
  4. 4 Teach a basic block: raise one forearm across the body to deflect a slow push.
  5. 5 Pairs practise: one pushes slowly to the shoulder, other blocks — alternate.
  6. 6 Teach a forward stance: one foot forward, back foot at 45 degrees, weight centred.
  7. 7 Move between ready stance and forward stance on command.
  8. 8 End with a bow — reinforce the concept of respect.

Tap a step to mark it as done.

Variations

  • Add a simple strike: slow, controlled palm strike to the air — no contact.
  • Blind balance: hold the ready stance with eyes closed for 20 seconds.
  • Partner pushes lightly from different directions — maintain stance.
More information

Teach: stance, balance, block, ready, respect, bow, control. The bow at the start and end creates a clear structure that students respond to well.

All activities are non-contact. Students who find balance difficult can touch a wall or partner's shoulder for support.

Can students hold the ready stance still for 30 seconds? Is the block performed with controlled timing rather than a flinch?

No equipment needed. Works on any flat surface. Bare feet improve balance and ground feel if the surface is clean.

Students think martial arts is about fighting. Open with the principle that martial arts is primarily about self-control — the ability to not fight is the highest skill.

Martial arts principles — discipline, focus, and respect — are widely valued in education. The non-contact format makes it appropriate for all school contexts.

Activity details
Secondary Medium 25 minutes no prep Whole Class, Pairs Indoor & Outdoor
Topics
Martial Arts Balance Focus