Why do so many people mistake strength for power?
Is it just a begginers misconception?
Is it just a begginers misconception?
Jay
Favorite Answer
I think it's a mistake based on popular culture, like an urban myth. They see it, they hear it, they repeat, before long they believe it.
People want to believe a punch is a push, not a snap. I don't think this is only a beginners misconception. I know people who've been in martial arts for a long time who still think that way.
costacoralito
This is a basic question that has been a part of the disciplines of many schools of martial art. The master, Tao Te Ching described the difference between these two below.
"Mastering others is strength; mastering yourself is true power"
-Tao Te Ching
This realization is not as simple as it seems, does not necessarily have to involve physical strength and takes a lot of practice to attain.
Jim R
I believe the hype presented today in modern media, and children talking, being impressed by bulging muscles has a lot to do with that. Power, as in personal power has little to do with size and/or strength. I am a good size, and I am pretty strong, yet I know several people with less strength and size with equal and more personal power than I possess. Power comes from knowledge, and confidence, and knowing how to use your strength. In reality it is a child's mistake, soon corrected by life experience.
@ Justin Bheiver you again? Forget how to spell John Doe?
Why are you here bothering good people? Go Away.
?
Because they haven`t seen real power. Getting your *** handed to you by someone 1/2 your size is a great eyeopener. Just keep working on your technique and sound principles. The first time you toss someone around and realize that you hardly touched him you`ll know you`re on the right track.My students think I`m strong as a bull, the truth is I hardly ever have to use much strength because I work them into a position where they can`t use theirs.
Anonymous
It's a natural response in us humans to believe that bigger things are dangerous. Thus, many believe bigger muscles are better.