Your Uniform is a Reflection of Your Approach
There are two concepts at the heart of Kung Fu; discipline and respect. With these two things, every student has the ability to achieve whatever they choose to push towards.
As such, this is our focus. Each and every instructor knows discipline and respect are paramount, and each and every expectation or “rule” in place, each decision made, even each piece of decor chosen, is meant to reiterate and provide opportunities for our students to develop their own discipline and respect.
Our uniform is one of the first methods we utilize. Why do we wear uniforms? As a constant reminder to be open, to level the field between instructor and student, to develop the frame of mind needed to absorb the lessons to their maximum potential.
These are uniforms, and therefore must conform. This does not mean half way. If you own a uniform, you are expected to wear it in its totality. Not with shorts, not with your favourite t-shirt. They should be clean and maintained. If you have a belt, it is a part of your uniform and should not be worn without the rest of the uniform. How can you expect to develop in your training when you are not applying the very base of what your training is about? Discipline and respect? They need to be worn consistently and in totality. And not just when the weather cooperates. Or when mom gets it washed. Part of developing discipline and respect is developing responsibility, forethought, accountability.
We want the very best for our students, and we strive to ensure that they have the tools necessary reach their goals both in the Kung Fu and outside of the martial arts.
Parents of students, we ask for your support in our endeavours by helping your child develop these skills and holding the standard so they may learn the value of it.
Students, both of black and coloured ranks, my wish for you is that you embrace the tools placed in front of you.
As always, our doors are open to you all. I never want a student following a direction without understanding it. I never want an instructor enforcing a policy without having their full weight behind it.