At Bressaw's Karate schools we incorporate many principles of BUDO. It is not a sport. The word “way” (the “dō” in “budō”) emphasizes the development of one’s spirit...its purpose is not to become physically stronger, but to discipline the self.” Respect for one’s training partner and following traditional behavior” means controlling one’s own behavior during budō training. Following traditional etiquette (reigi) also shows that students can control themselves.
Students learn responsibility by ensuring that the equipment and training space is properly cared for, and during class competitions, students will learn to fulfill different roles as judges, referees, et cetera. In so doing, students will “cultivate a sense of responsibility needed to live in society.” Students also develop a connectedness with others by offering advice and encouraging others during training. Thus, by embodying the concept of “mutual welfare and benefit,” students will improve their communication skills.
“Traditional thinking” is defined as “emphasizing desirable self-development as a human” by learning etiquette. This is often demonstrated in the bow (rei)at the beginning and end of practice sessions and whenever working with a partner, and through the techniques of etiquette such as sitting in a formal seated posture (seiza). Rei encourages respect for partners, teachers, and even the equipment and space used in budō training.
Emphasizing etiquette, such as bowing to one’s partner, helped calm nervous training partners, and prepared them for the lesson ahead.
Japanese martial arts training among youth in the United States and western Europe, scholars have shown, have positive effects on personality, such as improved levels of hope (defined as “the motivation to accomplish a harsh task”) earning better grades in school etc.