Navigating the ‘Field of Tension’: A Comparative Critical Autoethnography on Becoming a Martial Arts Scholar-Practitioner

This article, written by two martial arts scholar-practitioners, explores their evolving relationships with martial arts communities and academia. It critically engages with Islas and Jennings’ (2023) Typology of Martial Arts Scholar-Practitioners and compares their experiences as Budding Scholar-Practitioners (BSPs) in martial arts studies. Using a theoretical framework that integrates the typology with insider/outsider perspectives (Kelly, 2014; Smith, 2021), the study employs comparative critical autoethnography (Alexander, 2016; Castro, 2021) to analyze personal reflections. Three key themes that reveal the complexities of the BSP positionality emerged: changes in routine, relationships with academic communities, and relationships with martial arts communities. Findings highlight the challenges BSPs face in balancing dual roles, adapting to shifting routines, and managing community expectations. The study offers insights for current and aspiring BSPs, mentors, and supervisors, advocating for collaborative reflection across career stages and martial arts styles to expand the typology and enhance inclusivity in martial arts studies.