How to Choose a Martial Art School

For those who are new to the world of martial arts, it can be difficult to decide which school is the right choice for you or your child. With foreign names in Japanese, Chinese, Korean, or other languages, it can be hard enough to pronounce the art’s name let alone know if it is the right fit for your family. Most martial art schools emphasize discipline and respect, so let’s look at other factors to decide on when choosing a martial art program.
Is it competitive? Is being part of tou
aments and competitions something that you or your child is strongly interested in? For some individuals, especially young children a focus on personal development or self-defense might be preferable.
What is that atmosphere like? Visit the school and watch or participate in a class. Most schools offer at least one free trial class. Are the students and instructors there welcoming and helpful? Is the atmosphere strict or casual? It will depend on what you are looking to get out of the class that will determine what the best fit is for you. Remember that there is a difference between discipline and abuse. The instructor should use positive reinforcement when working with children.
What are the physical demands? Will you be required to do head-level kicks or the splits in order to achieve higher ranks? Will a physical limitation or disability prevent you from achieving beyond a certain level? Do you need to be physically fit or flexible to begin training? Be open about your limitations when speaking with the instructor.
What is the progression like? As an adult beginner, is a black belt anywhere in sight? Some martial arts require a lifetime of training to achieve black belt status. Don’t be shy to ask how long it takes to reach black belt rank. How much time is spent at each belt rank? Some schools that have fewer belt ranks, use tags or stripes to keep students motivated between color belt ranks. Most children need this kind of reinforcement to keep them motivated and interested.
What special programs does the school offer? Some schools offer special programs such as camps, instructor training, and demonstration teams. Think about what your interest in these are and if you feel it is something you’d like to potentially get involved in.
What are your goals? Make a list of why you want to join martial arts or have your child in martial arts. Self-defense? Fitness? Social Activity? Stress Relief? There are lots of reasons why people choose martial arts as an activity. Be sure to find a school that meets your desired outcomes.
Don’t assume that all schools of the same style are equal. There is a lot of variation between instructors, schools, and organizations of a certain type of martial art. So don’t automatically go with a name you recognize. Ask the instructor what makes them different from other Karate, Tae Kwon Do, or Kung Fu schools.
Remember, that the last factor you want to look at is price. Generally speaking, you get what you pay for--at the very least in terms of facilities and number of classes. Comparing schools based on price alone is putting a price tag on your overall health, happiness, and safety. If you find a school that is a good fit for you or your child that is out of your price range, ask about tuition assistance, scholarships, family pricing, referral programs, and if they are part of the health living tax incentive program. Some schools allow bartering of services in exchange for lessons, so think about what you might be able to offer the school. Follow these guidelines and you will be sure to find the martial art school that is a perfect fit for your family.