Being Water: how key ideas from the practice of Bruce Lee align with contemporary theorizing in movement skill acquisition

The purpose of this insight article is to explore the relevance and value of some of Bruce Lee’s ideas that influenced his coaching philosophy, (re)viewed through the lens of contemporary discussions in movement skill acquisition. To achieve this aim, we highlight empirical and anecdotal examples of many of the important concepts that support Bruce Lee’s interpretation of martial arts, Jeet Kune Do (JKD). We contend that Lee’s approach to coaching and skill refinement was deeply aligned with ideas that underpin an ecological dynamics framework. Central to the philosophy of Bruce Lee and JKD is the need for coaches, practitioners, and athletes to embrace and express more water-like adaptability throughout their practice. Examining the various, nuanced insights of Bruce Lee, we can observe many practical lessons which have stood the test of time, remaining highly applicable to athletes of today seeking to move skillfully in sports.