A very common naiveness: this system is better than that.
None system is better than the other; it is necessary for each indivudual person to become cultivated in his own method of training.
I like your Sun Tzu's quote. I think this is a good application:
- Boxing's training focuses on the practicality for its intended match. However, protection gears and rules are applied to avoid serious injuries. Hence, its own reinforcement has also become its weaknesses.
- Oriental martial arts (using a generalize terminology), although based on centuries of real combat experiences, has become too formalized in its training. Although the formalized moves train certain desired reflex behaviors, their guileless advocates might never understand the real meaning of the movement and it ends up as a dance. Hence, its own reinforcement has also become its weaknesses.
Of course we have our own believes, that's why we are training in different systems. Unless you are burdened to be the world best and are ready to face any challenges, it is pointless to say which system is the best. Even you can be the best, it is only temporary until someone better (from a different system) beats you.
So, just cheer up and enjoy your training.
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