That is a question that can only be answered by each one of us after our own self evaluation. Some people study for self-defense, others for the health benefit, or interest in another culture, and some are merely caught up in the fad or popularity of Taiji. Some have little desire to advance far in the martial arts and are content with their own self-development, while others have expectations of becoming a great fighter or a known master.

Some of the benefits that may be gained are: enhanced health and fitness, including development of one's strength, flexibility, stamina and stress relief. Some styles are tied to Buddhism and some to Taoism. If one desires, they can be pursued for the purpose of increasing spirituality. As most people are either interested in self defense or health benefits; this is perhaps the least common reason for studying a martial art. Spirit and body cultivation is perhaps the greatest reward that the arts hold, for it is the inner development that transforms a person. At the very least, a student should attain a thorough knowledge of whatever style one chooses and recognize the origins and theories that drive the particular system.