For These Martial Artists, Winning Starts With Mastering Yourself

A traditional Chinese martial arts competition in New York highlighted the importance of “wude,” or martial virtue, which emphasizes character development over fighting skills. Competitors like Jin Huan believe cultivating one’s character is essential for progress in martial arts and for becoming a better person. This principle means learning self-conduct before learning to fight, focusing on discipline, humility, restraint, and respect.

• Martial artists at a competition in New York emphasized “wude” (martial virtue) as a core lesson.
• Wude involves cultivating character and self-conduct before focusing on fighting skills.
• Practicing martial arts, according to competitors, includes striving to become a better person.
• Key aspects of wude include discipline, humility, restraint, and respect.