How to Become a Martial Arts Instructor

Martial arts covers a variety of disciplines from Judo to Tae Kwon Do. As there are many forms of martial arts, instructors often are trained in more than one area so that they can teach a range of disciplines.

Instructions

1. Pick the disciplines of martial arts you are interested in teaching. This should be the area in which you have trained the longest or are the most accomplished. A black belt is often required to be an instructor.

2. Find a martial arts academy, local gym or other martial arts arena and apply as an instructor. Or rent or lease your own space to start your own classes. If you're applying for a position, you probably will be asked to demonstrate some of the basic, intermediate and advanced moves in the discipline you would like to teach.

3. Market yourself. In many areas of martial arts instruction, such as gyms or noncompetitive martial arts classes, the students and parents will not be swayed by trophies or accolades. They will care more about how you treat their children and whether they feel you can give them their money's worth.

4. Advertise and start holding classes. Use all the conventional methods of advertising, such as the yellow pages, flyers and advertising at local activity centers. Purchase a mailing list and send out flyers to attract students and generate interest. You can also offer to perform demonstrations at schools in your area. Offer trial certificates to give the kids one free class.

Tips & Warnings

• Though certification is not require to become an instructor, it is a good idea if you are planning on running your own studio. Certification can be attained through the ATA (American Taekwondo Association) or the AFAA (Aerobics and Fitness Association of America).

Resources

• American Taekwondo Association
• Aerobics and Fitness Association of America