Beyond Physical Defense: Cultivating Psychological Safety and Inclusivity in Your Dojo

When we hear the word “dojo,” most of us immediately think of a place where martial arts are practiced—where practitioners develop skills to protect themselves from physical harm. With consistent training over time, barring serious injury, students typically gain proficiency, confidence, and a sense of security in their abilities.

But a dojo is more than just a physical training ground. It is a community, a learning environment, and ideally, a safe space—not only from physical attacks but also from verbal, psychological, and social harm. Unfortunately, many academies still struggle with issues that undermine this safety, including body shaming, racism, and other forms of exclusion or abuse. Let’s explore these challenges and how the martial arts community can evolve to foster healthier, more inclusive environments.

1. Body Shaming: A Hidden Barrier to Growth

The Problem

Body shaming in martial arts academies often masquerades as “tough love,” humor, or advice. Comments about weight, fitness, or physical appearance—whether overt or subtle—can be deeply damaging. Research in sports psychology shows that such negative feedback can **erode self-esteem, increase anxiety, and reduce motivation**, ultimately hampering performance and retention in the sport (Smith & Smoll, 2020).

Why It Persists

Some believe that body shaming motivates people to improve their fitness, but this is a **myth**. Positive reinforcement and supportive coaching have been proven to be far more effective in encouraging healthy lifestyle changes and skill development (Deci & Ryan, 2017).

What Can Be Done

• Promote body positivity: Celebrate diverse body types and focus on functional strength and skill rather than appearance.

• Educate instructors and students: Workshops on respectful communication and the impact of language can shift academy culture.

• Establish clear policies: Zero tolerance for body shaming should be part of your academy’s code of conduct.

2. Racism and Skin Colour Bias: Breaking Down Harmful Stereotypes

The Problem

Jokes or comments targeting skin colour, ethnicity, or cultural background are not only offensive—they perpetuate systemic biases and exclusion. Recent social psychology research highlights how micro-aggressions, even when “lighthearted,” contribute to stress, alienation, and a hostile environment for marginalised members (Sue et al., 2019).

The Impact

In martial arts, where respect and camaraderie are core values, such behavior contradicts the very spirit of the practice. It can discourage talented practitioners from continuing or fully participating, weakening the community as a whole.

What Can Be Done

• Foster cultural competence: Encourage learning about different cultures represented in your academy.

• Speak up: Empower students and instructors to call out racist behavior immediately.

• Leadership role: Academy leaders must model inclusivity and swiftly address violations.

3. Motivated Blindness: Why We Sometimes Stay Silent

Understanding Motivated Blindness

As Max H. Bazerman describes in The Power of Noticing, motivated blindness is the tendency to overlook unethical behaviour when it conflicts with our interests—such as loyalty to a team or fear of retaliation. In a dojo, junior students may hesitate to report abuse or discrimination by seniors or instructors, fearing backlash or ostracism.

Overcoming Motivated Blindness

• Create safe reporting channels: Anonymous feedback systems can help students voice concerns without fear.

• Encourage open dialogue: Regular discussions about academy culture can normalize speaking up.

• Hold leadership accountable: Management must take complaints seriously and act transparently.

4. The Evolving Role of the Dojo: A Holistic Approach to Martial Arts

Psychological Safety as a Priority

Modern martial arts academies are increasingly recognising that mental and emotional well-being is as important as physical skill. Psychological safety—the belief that one can express themselves without fear of negative consequences—is linked to better learning outcomes, team cohesion, and personal growth (Edmondson, 2019).

Inclusivity and Diversity as Strengths

Diverse academies that embrace different body types, ethnicities, genders, and backgrounds create richer learning environments. Studies show that diversity enhances creativity, problem-solving, and resilience—qualities essential in martial arts (Page, 2017).

Practical Steps for Academies

• Implement inclusive training programs that adapt techniques for different body types and abilities.

• Celebrate cultural diversity through events, seminars, and guest instructors.

• Provide mental health resources or partnerships with counselors familiar with athlete psychology.

5. Your Role as a Practitioner: Building a Better Dojo Culture

• Be mindful of your words: Avoid jokes or comments that can hurt others.

• Support your peers: Encourage and uplift fellow practitioners regardless of appearance or background.

• Speak up respectfully:** When you witness harmful behavior, address it calmly or report it through proper channels.

• Choose your environment: If your academy does not align with these values and fails to improve, consider finding a community that does.

One Last Word

The dojo should be a sanctuary—a place where we not only hone our physical skills but also grow as compassionate, respectful human beings. By confronting issues like body shaming, racism, and motivated blindness, and by embracing inclusivity and psychological safety, we can ensure that martial arts remain a transformative and empowering journey for everyone.

If you’re ready to dive into the world of authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training, consider visiting The Jiu-Jitsu Foundry at 72-C, Jalan SS21/62, Damansara Utama, Petaling Jaya, WhatsApp 011-11510501. Embrace the challenge, improve your skills, and discover how Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can transform your martial arts journey!

Be good!

References

- Bazerman, M. H. (2014). The Power of Noticing: What the Best Leaders See. Simon & Schuster.

- Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2017). Self-Determination Theory: Basic Psychological Needs in Motivation, Development, and Wellness. Guilford Press.

- Edmondson, A. C. (2019). The Fearless Organization: Creating Psychological Safety in the Workplace for Learning, Innovation, and Growth. Wiley.

- Page, S. E. (2017). The Diversity Bonus: How Great Teams Pay Off in the Knowledge Economy. Princeton University Press.

- Smith, R. E., & Smoll, F. L. (2020). Sport Psychology for Youth Coaches. Human Kinetics.

- Sue, D. W., et al. (2019). Microaggressions in Everyday Life: Race, Gender, and Sexual Orientation. Wiley.