Why

The many reasons why somebody might want to start martial art. Here are some of the basic ones

  1. Fitness
  2. Self-Defence
  3. Self-confidence
  4. To Compete
  5. Make new Friends
  6. To be like a role model

I'm sure that last one 'to be like a role model' sounds a bit funny but believe me so many people if you ask them "why did you start martial arts?" they will reply to you "to be like Bruce Lee".

 

The Arts

You should use the Internet to research which martial art best suits your long term and short term goals information is out there, although it's not that easy to find, as a lot of people have different opinions. Opinions vary on the Internet, but it will give you at least a good idea of what you looking for. Friends can be another good source of information. If you have any martial arts friends, they could be the reason you want to join the club.

 

Distance

So you have found the martial art you would like to do, you now need to find a club within an acceptable distance for traveling. However, with the growing popularity of Martial Arts and the number of schools increasing around the world, sometimes it's just not possible to find a class that you would like to attend in your area .

But there are always other options for example online courses. These are growing in popularity due to convenience, for example you may be away on holiday and are unable to attend a class.

 

Research the club and instructor

So you've decided on your art and you found a school within acceptable travel range what do you do now?

Sadly anybody can start a martial arts club, as there is no real regulatory body that oversees clubs.  So the guy teaching you could know nothing. Check the club website, check the instructor and then verify the information he is giving you via other online sources.

Many schools tend to be sports or competition based, in which case this makes it easier because you can see if they are winning medals or trophies. If they regularly compete, they could in fact be worth a try.

Student testimonials are also worth looking for as most clubs will have these on their website, Facebook or other social media outlets .

Try it out

Providing there's availability at the school, most martial arts schools offer the first session for free. So go along to the session, speak to the instructor and speak to the students.

Whilst training there, assess the instructors skill level and his mentality.

  • Is he somebody you would look up to as an instructor?
  • Does he inspire you to want to learn more?
  • Did you get on with everybody there?
  • Could you see yourself going there weekly?
  • Is the martial arts academy well equipped and safe?
  • Did you fit in and with the other students?

 

Price

I've left this subject until last for good reason.

Too many people put price first, but I'm a firm believer in that you get what you pay for. Going to a good martial arts school with a great instructor will have a profound effect on the rest of your life.

So to sum it up, if you want to start learning a martial art you need to make sure you've got the time to do it. You must know the why, and the art. Is it within traveling distance? You need to research the club and the instructor, try it out and then make your decision.

If you have any questions, please leave a comment below.