From the MAS to the VUB: Martial arts as an engine for social connection
ANTWERPEN/BRUSSELS - The martial arts world is in the spotlight this spring, both in museum galleries and on university campuses. While the 'Martial Arts' expo at the MAS in Antwerp highlights the rich history of martial arts, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) is translating tradition into current affairs. With a lecture on 22 April and an international symposium on 20 May, the VUB examines how boxing and oriental martial arts, among others, contribute to social cohesion and personal growth in our society.
Martial arts is much more than camp in the ring; it is a tool for social integration and resilience. Prof Dr Marc Theeboom (VUB), who contributed as an expert to the Martial Arts expo in the MAS, sees a clear movement: "Martial arts are increasingly being used in 'focus neighbourhoods' and with vulnerable groups to strengthen social skills and increase opportunities on the labour market. It is a powerful tool for community building."
Prof Theeboom not only lent objects from his own collection of Chinese martial arts, but also advised on the 'Antwerp touch' of the exhibition. Where the MAS tells the stories of the past - from the packed catch nights at the Sportpaleis to the rise of local clubs - the VUB looks to the future: martial arts as a scientifically based tool for a closer society.
22 April: Lecture on gender and identity in a 'man's world'
As a run-up to the major symposium, the VUB is organising the lecture 'Doing gender in martial arts'on Wednesday 22 April . The lecture addresses a sensitive and topical issue: how do we deal with masculinity and femininity in an environment historically dominated by men? Dr Alex Channon from the University of Brighton University explores how the increasing presence of women challenges traditional gender roles and where resistance to that change comes from. It also addresses complex issues such as the representation of female athletes in the media and the experiences of transgender individuals within martial arts culture. It is an in-depth look at how sport is a mirror for wider societal shifts around identity, sexuality and ethnicity.
20 May: International symposium on the power of martial arts
The final event will follow on 20 May 2026: a large-scale symposium in collaboration with UNICA (the network of universities from European capitals), among others. Here, scientists, policymakers and sports federations will come together to concretise the social impact. The programme on 20 May focuses on three pillars:
- Social impact: How local martial arts projects help young people in their identity development.
- Health and innovation: How scientific research can add value to both elite sport and care pathways.
- Policy: How cities and governments can embed martial arts in their societal agenda.
Practical Information:
- Lecture 'Doing gender in martial arts': 22 April 2026.
- Symposium 'Martial Arts for Health and Community Wellbeing': 20 May 2026.
- Location (lecture + symposium): Etterbeek Campus, Boulevard de la Plaine 2, 1050 Brussels
- Registration and programme: events.vub.be/beyond-the-fight
Contact:
Prof Dr Marc Theeboom:
0477/261884
Prof Dr Hebe Schaillée:
0475/488766
