You’ve probably seen it printed on a sign at a martial arts school, painted boldly above the mat space, or shared in inspirational Instagram posts: “Leave your ego at the door.”
It’s a powerful statement. One that’s supposed to instill humility, remind us of our shared journey, and help us grow as martial artists—and as people.
But what does it really mean? And more importantly… do we actually live it?
The True Purpose of Ego-Free Training
When we say leave your ego at the door, we’re acknowledging a few core truths about martial arts:
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You’re never the smartest person in the room. Someone may have more experience, better timing, or a different angle that you’ve never considered.
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Your training partner is not your opponent. They’re not here to lose to you or validate your skills. They’re here to help you improve—and vice versa.
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Learning beats winning. If every round is a competition, you’ll miss out on growth. Some days you’re the hammer. Some days, the nail. That’s how we get better.
And when it’s practiced, truly practiced, this mindset creates an environment where students thrive. Where people of all backgrounds and abilities can walk in, feel welcome, and get better—together.
But Here’s the Problem…
For a community that proudly chants this mantra, the martial arts world can be surprisingly ego-driven. Not always on the mat—but across them.
Many schools will tell you to check your ego… right before telling you that their style is the only real martial art. That their instructor is the only legitimate one. That others are ineffective, fake, or not worth your time.
That mindset—let’s call it what it is: insecurity in disguise—doesn’t serve students. It doesn’t serve the art. And it doesn’t build the kind of culture that phrase was meant to encourage.
Because the truth is: You don’t “leave your ego at the door” if you carry it with you through someone else’s.
Humility Beyond the Mat
Real humility doesn’t stop at your own school’s threshold. It follows you into seminars, open mats, competitions, and conversations. It’s what allows us to recognize that:
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Different styles can teach us something valuable.
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Different instructors have walked different paths—and can still be great.
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Different doesn’t mean less—it just means different.
If we only value what’s familiar or what fits our brand, we limit not only ourselves, but the entire community. Martial arts has so much to offer—why would we narrow our view on purpose?
So Let’s Practice What We Preach
Whether you’re stepping onto your home mats or visiting a new school…
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Walk in with curiosity, not comparison.
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Train with the intent to learn, not to prove.
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Share what you know without belittling what others do.
The martial arts journey is long. It’s hard. And it’s far too rewarding to waste time gatekeeping.
So yes, leave your ego at the door—but don’t forget to leave it at every door you walk through. Whether you’re coming or going, be open, be respectful, and be ready to learn.
That’s how we grow. That’s how we connect. That’s how we honor the martial arts.
Triumph Martial Arts is a martial arts and self-defense school with locations in Pella, IA and Urbandale, IA. We specialize in Carlos Machado Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, KMF-AC Krav Maga, and ATA Martial Arts. We feature award-winning programs for kids and adults under the direction of internationally-certified instructors. Triumph is celebrating 22 years of excellence in 2025 and is an A+ accredited member of the Better Business Bureau.