by
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamad Nizam Mohamed Shapie
Leader, Combat Sports & Martial Arts Research Network (AIRBORNE)
Faculty of Sports Science & Recreation, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM)
Name of Research:
Motives of Taking Part in Malay Silat, Karate-Do and Taekwondo
Citations:
Parnabas, V., Shapie, M. N. M., & Parnabas, J. (2015). IDO Movement for Culture. Journal of Martial Arts Anthropology, 15(3), 8–21. DOI: 10.14589/ido.15.3.3
Purpose of the Study:
To evaluate the motivational factors that influence athletes to participate in Malay Silat, Karate-Do, and Taekwondo, and to guide the development of sport programmes tailored to each martial art’s unique needs.
Key Findings:
- Malay Silat Athletes:
- Highest motive: Physically Active Lifestyle (Mean = 3.89)
- Followed by: Competitiveness, Enhance Self-Esteem
- Lowest motive: Good Citizen
- Taekwondo Athletes:
- Highest motive: Physically Active Lifestyle (Mean = 4.87)
- Followed by: Mastery or Cooperation
- Lowest motive: Good Citizen
- Karate-Do Athletes:
- Highest motive: Social Status or Getting Ahead (Mean = 4.41)
- Followed by: Physically Active Lifestyle, Mastery or Cooperation
- Lowest motive: Competitiveness
Practical Implications:
- For Competitions:
- Silat and Taekwondo programmes should emphasise fitness, health, and physical activity.
- Karate-Do programmes may benefit from focusing on social recognition and career advancement.
- For Organisations (if not used for competition):
- Use motivational profiles to design engagement strategies for youth and adults.
- Develop community outreach and cultural programmes that align with social motives.
- Inform policy and curriculum development for martial arts education and training centres.
Tips for Application:
Athletes:
- Choose martial arts that align with your personal goals—fitness, social growth, or self-esteem.
- Reflect on your motivation to stay committed and improve performance.
Parents:
- Support children’s participation based on their interests—whether for health, discipline, or social development.
- Encourage consistent training and exposure to different martial arts.
Coaches:
- Tailor training environments to match athletes’ motivational profiles.
- Use motivational assessments to guide athlete development.
- Promote values such as discipline, health, and social integration in training.
