How do you define a MAist?

[disgruntled]

i MAist the other day, who i think also joined this forum, was saying that it is neat that now he consider himself a MAist. and kinda touched on what a neat transition that is. one day you are just practicing MAs and with time you are a MAist.

that conversation really interested me. i agree that it is a really special thing to consider your self a MAist. and i know a lot of people that practice MAs, but are not MAists. so what makes that difference?

i cannot quite put my finger on it. i know it is more than just a facination with asian culture. MAists live and breathe MAs.

i do not know what causes that transition, but i am glad i am a part of it.

[eYoon]

Originally Posted by disgruntled

i MAist the other day, who i think also joined this forum, was saying that it is neat that now he consider himself a MAist. and kinda touched on what a neat transition that is. one day you are just practicing MAs and with time you are a MAist.

that conversation really interested me. i agree that it is a really special thing to consider your self a MAist. and i know a lot of people that practice MAs, but are not MAists. so what makes that difference?

i cannot quite put my finger on it. i know it is more than just a facination with asian culture. MAists live and breathe MAs.

i do not know what causes that transition, but i am glad i am a part of it.

when it becomes a way of life... when it truly and honestly forms a part of who you are and is not practiced just to supplement other things like... for example.... kickboxing done just for fitness, or BJJ done just to compete in UFC..... then you are a martial artist.

[sirdarksol]

When the act becomes an expression of one's self (rather than just for fitness, or just for self defense, as stated above).

[Koutaishi]

"MAists live and breathe MAs." I think this says it well. It isn't just a hobby or sport or exercise. It is your life, or, at the very least, a very important aspect of it.