The martial arts require students to develop three aspects: their bodies, mind and spirit. Because the martial arts give specific attention to all three elements, they differ from most other sports and physical activities, which usually focus on purely physical training.

Serious martial arts students believe
that the martial arts
are not about fighting, but about living.

The principles students learn in the martial arts help provide guidance on how to act outside the training hall. The goal of martial arts schools is to produce students who practice the martial arts to better themselves, not to dominate others. Studies have shown that many of those who practice the martial arts differ from the general public in that they have a lower level of anxiety, an increased sense of responsibility, and a higher level of self-esteem.