How to Choose a Martial Arts School 

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Martial Arts can be a very healthy and exciting addition to your life but be sure to choose wisely. When selecting a martial arts school for yourself it is very important to find a place that you will meet your needs. Many academies offer many different styles. Some may focus primarily on self defense and competition while others focus more on personal develpoment and character building. Be sure to know what you hope to gain from your experience and don't be afraid to try out several schools before choosing one.

1. Decide what you hope to gain from taking Martial Arts. Many people make the mistake of choosing an academy too soon before they have really established their goals. This is a shame because it usually leads to that student quitting out of disappointment and never getting the opportunity to experience all the great benefits of Martial Arts training. Write down your goals beforehand and be specific even if you're not sure which style you wish to practice. You should ask yourself how important are
   - self defence
   - improving your fitness
   - competition (as in martial sports).
2. Every school has a different mix of these three things and it is important to find a school with a balance that you're happy with.
3. Shop around. Don't join the first school you go to unless you are positive that no other could meet your needs any better. Nearly all Martial Arts schools offer a free trial period or at least a free class. Narrow the search down to the schools that you enjoyed the most and from which you benefited. If you're not having fun than chances are that you will not last at that particular academy.
4. Find a qualified instructor. Research his/her credentials and make sure that you feel comfortable with this person. Remember also, "world champion" does not always equal "great teacher". The teacher that takes his time with you and helps you to understand the lesson will be much more helpful than the undefeated grand champion of the world who just boasts about how great he is. Even if you have to drive a little further or pay a little more for training it will be well worth it to know that you are getting great instruction.
5. Sit down with the Instructor and discuss your goals with him/her. Also, don't forget to ask plenty of questions. While discipline is a large part of martial arts you must remember that the instructor is working for you and you deserve the best instruction available. Good luck and good training.

• When choosing a martial arts school for your child, go alone the first time and watch the class without your child in tow. It is relatively easy for most schools to get your child to REALLY want to do class there, and then you are stuck being the bad guy if the school is not what you want for your child.
• Choose a school that is accessible to you. If your school is too far away or takes too long to get to going to class becomes much harder.

• Watch out for Martial Arts schools that charge too much for belt advancement, or schools that promise guaranteed Black Belts in a short amount of time. These are usually too good to be true and therefore scams.