By John Nottingham
Martial Arts styles such as - taekwondo, karate, jujitsu,
judo, kung fu, tai chi chuan, kendo, kenpo and aikido are among the most
popular. While some styles of martial
arts trace roots to ancient times, most have been enhanced and modernized to
fit today's individual and family needs.
Rather than focus on choosing a style of martial arts, most experts
recommend placing greater emphasis on the instructor, school and services
provided.
What Do You Want To Get
Out of Your Martial Arts Experience?
[ ] Self Defense
[ ] Fitness
[ ] Competition
[ ] Become a Black Belt
[ ] Character development
[ ] Creative expression
[ ] Family activity
[ ] Social interaction
Get Informed
Online reviews can help speed up your research and narrow
down the schools you wish to visit and then try. Both positive and negative ratings online
offer valuable information to consumers to lead to a more informed
decision. You can also check out social
media such as Facebook, Pinterest and other online sources to get a feel for
the martial arts school. Look for trends,
positive and negative, as an indication of the martial arts school and
instructors service.
Family Focus
Each school will tend to have a focus or specialty. While some may emphasize tournaments, others
self defense, some schools emphasize the personal -development aspects of
martial arts, rather than just the physical aspects.
Most martial arts systems instruct students in the basics
of punching, kicking, and stances while others may emphasize throwing or
grappling. Many modern schools integrate
several martial arts styles to offer more to their students.
Full service professional schools often offer additional
programs such as Bullying Prevention, Anti-abduction, self defense seminars,
demonstration or competition teams and separate advanced training programs such
as weaponry, leadership or instructor tracks.
If you are seeking a school for young children or family
participation, it is recommended to find a school specifically designed to meet
the needs of a family and not only teaches the practical aspects of self
defense but develops a foundation for fitness, good habits and personal
development. These life-skills schools
can have a profound impact on self-esteem, focus, concentration, and self
confidence.
It is also wise to observe how the martial arts lessons
are delivered. The philosophy of martial
arts is usually about development of inner strength, character and disciplined
habits that lead to a happier, more successful life. Most importantly is selecting a team of
instructors who lead by example and encourage others through positive
motivation.
School Culture
Some martial arts schools offer a more militarized
structure, others more school-like, and yet others more relaxed. One is not necessarily better than another,
as it depends on the goals and personality of the student.
Quality schools tend to retain students for longer
periods of time and will have a culture of senior ranks who display great
attitudes and a high level of focus and physical skill. They may cost a bit more but tend to be more
stable and offer more services and opportunities to students.
Inspect the cleanliness of the school, the care, quality
of safety equipment and the convenience of location. Mats and parent/guest observation areas are
usually good indications. A better
school may be worth the drive, however the distance, parking and convenience should
be a consideration.
Here Are Other Things You
May Consider When Seeking A Martial Arts Training School:
ü Instructors : This
is by far the most important consideration for choosing a martial arts
school. Being a Black Belt is not nearly
enough because being a good instructor requires experience, teacher training,
communication and leadership skills. The
instructors must lead by example as positive role models for children and
adults alike.
ü Curriculum : ask
the school to see a structured curriculum, manuals, support materials and
opportunities for advancement to master, leadership and competition.
ü Values : most
traditionally oriented schools have a memorized student oath, tenets or
creed. It is recommended to see if those
values are in line with yours before you choose that school.
ü Observe Class : Look
at the professionalism of the instructors, their leadership and communication
skills, disciplinary philosophy, and example.
Good instructors are passionate about what they do and connect with students.
ü Participate in Class
: It is best to try martial arts classes for a time before committing yourself
to a course of instruction.
ü Basic Safety
Considerations : Inquire about First Aid certification, background checks, sparring/safety
policies, fundamental exercise physiology, and authentic rank certification
from a recognized and respected governing body.
ü Speak to other
students and parents : This is best done away from the school if possible
to get a feel for what the school is like from the perspective of someone like
you.
ü BBB: The Better
Business Bureau offers some insight and online reviews with a simple search.
ü Intuition and Gut
Feeling: Above all, trust your gut instincts after spending some time with
the school, students and instructors.
Intuition is valuable information that has your best interests for
safety at heart.
Choosing the right martial arts school for you or your
children is an important process that is well worth a little time and
research. Go to several martial arts
schools at minimum before making a commitment to enroll on a program. This is especially true if you want the
character, values and life-skills development benefits of martial arts.
If you do not choose USA Martial Arts & Kickboxing as
your home for Martial Arts, kickboxing, Krav Maga self defense training, we
will be happy to fully refund your money and help you find a suitable facility
for your needs.
