In his teachings, renowned Hong Kong actor and martial artist Jackie Chan frequently stresses the value of respect. Chan Kong-sang was born on April 7, 1954, and trained in kung fu at the Peking Opera School in Hong Kong under Yuen Woo-ping's tutelage. In addition to teaching him physical skills, this intense training instilled in him the moral and cultural principles that are central to martial arts.

Learning a martial art like kung fu, in Chan's opinion, is more than just picking up moves and techniques. It entails comprehending and upholding the long-standing customs and values of the field. For example, bowing to instructors and seniors in martial arts training is not merely a custom; it is a recognition of their knowledge and expertise.

Think of martial arts as a huge ocean with distinct lessons from philosophy, culture, and history carried by each wave. Respecting the waves for what they teach and realizing that every lesson has a purpose in the journey are essential for successfully navigating this ocean. The depth and scope of knowledge that martial arts provide are lost when disrespect is shown.

Chan's emphasis on respect is a reflection of his conviction that martial arts are about more than just physical skill; they are also about moral behavior and personal development. Respect in this setting allows students to connect with their training more deeply and learn life lessons that go beyond fighting skills.