Before the rise of Macedon, Greek warfare consisted of shield wall formations of hoplites pushing against each other. Battles were decisive, short (under an hour), and full of customs and stipulations. Battles were won by strength, determination, and willingness to engage the enemy. Given this context, it's clear why Sparta had a reputation.
In the martial arts, reliance on teaching technique is not good, especially in the beginning. I assisted with a junior high school judo club, the first few weeks of the school year were spent learning how to struggle and figure out things on your own (in addition to ukemi and basic exercises). Students were paired, one on his back and the other in a mount position. The students on the bottom would attempt to escape from the mount. We'd do this in 2 minute rounds, with students changing positions and changes partners frequently. If you have no technique, it is very difficult to do at first, but over time you learn to struggle and figure out a way. It strengths both the body and the heart. After a few days of this, many students start to figure out ways to escape...they can share their experiences with the other students. After a week or two of this, we would teach them standard escapes and counters.
Learning how to struggle and focus your will is the foundation of good martial arts, which is why I usually direct people to study a "modern" martial art first before they learn a traditional one.
"I'm a highly ranked officer of his tong. HE is the Dragon Head. our BOSS. our LEADER. the Mountain Lord." - hskwarrior