Martial arts can be a great addition to your life but be sure to choose a martial arts school that is right for you.You need to research what you want to get out of martial arts training before you start training.You will be able to meet all of your martial arts goals if you find the right school.
Step 1: You should decide what you want to do with martial arts.
It is important to think about why you are interested in martial arts and what you want to get out of it.It is important to consider your experience and fitness level when choosing a school.If you are a 40 year old with a full time job, you won't want to go to a school that is only open during working hours.The reasons people take up martial arts include self-defense, improving fitness level, creative expression, training for instructor certification and many others.You want a martial arts school that can help you achieve your goals.
Step 2: Do you want to study martial arts?
If you are interested in a particular style of martial arts, be sure to look for schools that specialize in that style.Pick a school based on their teaching instruction rather than a certain style if you don't have a preference.People with health risks may find martial arts difficult.If you have a heart condition and can't over exert, you may want to skip high cardio and intense styles like Taekwondo.
Step 3: Inquire for recommendations.
Ask your friends, family and social networks if they've been to martial arts schools.You can ask questions of someone you trust and hear a firsthand account.A good martial arts school can be found if you get a personal recommendation.
Step 4: You can research schools online.
There are martial arts schools in your area.You can learn more about the schools by visiting their websites.You can get firsthand accounts from reviews and testimonials.Many schools only publish positive testimonials on their website so take those accounts with a grain of salt.Users have left reviews for the school on third-party platforms.It's a great way to read personal accounts.
Step 5: A short list of schools to visit.
A list of three to five schools that you are interested in visiting is compiled using the recommendations from your friends and family as well as your online research.
Step 6: You can set up a visit by calling the school you want to visit.
Set up a time to come by the schools you want to visit.A free or reduced cost trial class is offered by most schools.If one is available, sign up for a trial class.To meet with the martial arts instructor, you should set up a time before or after your trial class.
Step 7: You can check out the location early.
Arrive 15 minutes early for each trial class.You may need to change or sign paperwork for practical reasons.You can evaluate the school area if you arrive early.If the school facilities are clean, the staff is professional, and the location is accessible, then you have found a good school.You want to make sure that you can easily get to this place.You can take a sneak peak at a class in progress if you arrive early.
Step 8: If the school works for you, you should make a decision.
You can check out the hours the school is open, the class size, and the availability of classes.If you don't attend regularly, the school needs to work with your schedule.
Step 9: There is a trial class.
The instructor and his or her teaching style should be assessed when participating in a trial class.Do you feel comfortable in the class?Are you able to learn from the instructor?Will this class help you reach your goals?It is a good idea to watch the students in your trial class.Ask them about their experience with the school and instructor.
Step 10: You should meet the instructor.
Pick a time to meet with the instructor.If the instructor thinks they can help you achieve your goals, use this time to discuss them.It's a good time to ask questions about the school, the training style and the instructor.How long have you been teaching?If a student isn't understanding something, what do you do?What does a typical class look like?You should meet the instructor who will be leading the class.It is important to get a feel for the teaching style of the person who would be your instructor at the school, not another instructor or school's owner.
Step 11: Don't trust your gut.
Once you have completed all of your school visits and trial classes, it is time to decide which school is best for you.Think about your goals, the teaching style and the classes.It is important to pick a school that you are comfortable with.
Step 12: Discuss finances with someone.
If you are ready to sign up with a school, you should sit down with them and discuss payment options.You may be asked to sign a contract for a specified amount of time if you are not a member of the school.The financial burden of signing up should be something you are comfortable with.A longer trial period is offered by many schools.Signing up for a shorter amount of time to try out the school if you aren't ready to commit to an annual membership or contract is a good idea.Ask about ending the contract early.If something happens that causes you to need to put your martial arts training on hold, ask how that would work.
Step 13: You need to prepare for your class.
It is time to get ready for your first class once you have signed up.If you need to come prepared with equipment or supplies, ask the school.You need a bottle of water, towel and change of clothes.It is a good idea to wear loose fitting clothing if your school does not require a uniform.If you need to bring special footwear, ask your school.
Step 14: After your first class, check out the experience.
After your first class or two, take some time to reflect and decide if the class is what you expected or if you are enjoying yourself.If the class isn't what you're looking for, you should meet with your instructor to find a solution.