7 Things to Look For When Selecting a Martial Arts School
- Convenient Location: The gym has to be within a 5 mile radius so it is convenient enough for you to make it to class at least 2 times per week. If the school is further away than that, it will be difficult to make it consistently when you factor in traffic and other life distractions.
- Convenient Schedule: The schedule should offer times that are convenient for your schedule. The goal is to train 2 timers per week, so the schedule should have some early and late options to give you some options depending on how your day plays out.
- No Contracts: If a martial arts school is making you sign a 6-month or a year contract that should raise a red flag. If they make you sign a contract, that means they do not have confidence in their instructors and their curriculum. They feel they have to lock you in to make sure you stay. Beware!
- Positive and Respectful Culture: The atmosphere of the dojo should be very welcoming, positive, and respectful. The instructors and other students should be friendly and welcoming. Martial Arts begins and ends with respect. That should be obvious when you enter the school and are training in class.
- Clean and Organized Facility: The dojo should be neat and clean. When you walk in, the gym should smell good, and all the equipment, shoes, and personal belongings of the other students should be put away in their proper place. The mats should be clean and dry when you begin your class. The bathrooms should be pristine and the garbage cans should not be overflowing.
- Great Reputation: The school should have a positive reputation in the community. Check the Google reviews and other reviews online. If their rating is a 4.5 or lower, look for another school. The student service should be top notch and the staff should be friendly and willing to help you solve whatever challenges you may have.
- Emphasis on Character Education: Martial Arts training is known for helping their students develop a positive attitude, discipline, and confidence. Make sure the instructors are talking with the students about those life skills and reinforcing them on and off the mats. Martial Arts is a vehicle to develop life skills that will help you in other areas of life.