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Choosing the Right School |
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Page 1 of 4 A Little Investigation Beforehand Can Save You a Lot of Time, Trouble and Money Later
Joining a martial arts school is a lot like purchasing a used car: You don't always know what you are getting until it's too late. In the marketplace of martial arts, all schools are not created equal. Martial arts teachers generally do not have to answer to a government agency, and there is no consumer group to act as a watchdog to ensure the quality of instruction. Anyone, in fact, can acquire a business license, purchase a black belt, rent studio space and, to the unwitting public, appear to be the second coming of Bruce Lee.
How, then, can the discerning buyer make a knowledgeable choice when it comes to martial arts instruction? By shopping around. Like any other product, there are certain criteria that make some martial arts studios more appealing and legitimate than others.
Unfortunately, most first timers and some veterans have a difficult time seeing past the price tag or the convenience of location when choosing a martial arts school. Those should not, however, be the only determining factors when deciding on a school. It is vitally important to visit as many schools as possible before committing to one. See what each school has to offer, and then make your decision.
Often an assistant instructor or adult black belt teaches classes, and not by a school's master. Be sure you know before enrolling how available the master instructor will be to help you with your learning.
The first thing to do is make a list of the martial arts schools within your acceptable travel distance and your preferred style (if you have one). Then make an appointment to watch both beginning and advanced classes. If the school offers a free introductory class, take it.
The following are factors that should all be weighed before you sign on the dotted line.
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