Choosing a martial arts school can be a challenging process due to the variety of styles and programs available. It’s important to ask the right questions before making a final decision about where you or your child will train. As a long-time consumer advocate in the martial arts community, my goal is to help you understand what to look for in a school. Here are some helpful tips to guide your selection process.
Focus on Program Emphasis, Not Style
When selecting a martial arts school, the specific style of martial arts should not be your primary consideration. Instead, pay attention to what the martial arts program emphasizes. For children and families, the instruction should center on personal development rather than solely on fighting techniques. Martial arts programs can foster self-esteem, self-confidence, focus, concentration, self-discipline, physical fitness, and self-defense skills. These benefits are more important than the particular techniques used for blocks, kicks, or punches.
For adults, look for classes that blend martial arts with physical fitness training. In addition to learning self-protection techniques, the program should include components that reduce stress, increase energy, improve flexibility, strength, and endurance. The right program will help you develop skills that boost your confidence and capability in challenging situations.
Teaching Approach Matters
Consider how martial arts programs are taught. The development of self-esteem is a central aspect of martial arts, so look for instructors who value both effort and achievement. Self-esteem grows from genuine successes in activities that matter to students. Martial arts can help build self-esteem, but only if instructors acknowledge, recognize, and reward both the effort and accomplishments of their students.
Two Key Criteria for Selection
In summary, the two most important criteria for choosing a martial arts school are:
- The emphasis on personal development.
- An approach to teaching that focuses on building self-esteem.
Discuss these criteria with the instructor and observe a class to see what is emphasized and how it is taught.
Four Additional Considerations
- Curriculum: Is there a structured curriculum?
- Are there opportunities for leadership and competition?
- Values: Does the school have a student creed, and does it align with your personal values?
- What is the school’s reputation in the community?
For example, Taekwondo students follow the tenets of courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit. They respect seniors, instructors, parents, and fellow students, pledge not to misuse their skills, support freedom and justice, and aim to build a peaceful world.
Class Considerations
- Observe the interaction between students and instructors during class.
- The atmosphere should be formal and professional, but also enjoyable.
- Assess whether students appear happy and motivated.
Martial Arts Instructors
- Review the instructors’ training and qualifications.
- Instructors should be positive role models and able to establish rapport with students, especially children.
Final Tip
The martial arts school should be welcoming and comfortable for both students and parents. Consider the following:
- Is the facility clean?
- Does the school have a large, matted training area?
- Is there a viewing area for parents? Are parents encouraged to relax in the viewing area and watch their children train?
These guidelines can help you make an informed decision when choosing a martial arts school.
Author: Senior Master Roger Cavanaugh, 8th Degree Black Belt, has studied martial arts since 1977, and has taught martial arts in Waldorf, MD, since 1987.
