IDO MOVEMENT FOR CULTURE

Background. Warriors from the earliest times have tried to distinguish themselves – with their outfits or also with stubble and hairdo – from foreign tribes and groups, as well as within their own group according to the adopted hierarchy. And still today, representatives of some martial arts varieties are distinguished by their specific hair grooming or facial hair.
Problem. What is the source of or reason for selecting a particular hairstyle, shaving the face, or maintaining facial hair among male martial artists today?
Method. The author’s long-term (over 40 years) observation is the basic method here. In addition, the author adopted the method of analysing the literature on the subject and a wide discourse on the issue (including mass culture, for example, filmography, and Japanese anime).
Results. Referring to historical canons, three main reasons for choosing a hairstyle and shaving or facial hair were established. These are: national traditions, mass culture patterns, and practical considerations.
Conclusions. The presence or absence of hair on the head, and facial hair, but also the hairdo, are part of the identification of many people. They used to be associated with national identity or social status, but today now often linked to fashion or some conscious choice. For newcomers, they are sometimes a way of group identification. Practical considerations mean that no facial hair and short hair are preferred.