Comments on: How to Choose a Good Martial Arts School

on 11/22/2005 Make sure to ask the head instructure of his training background and ask to see certificates.

on 2/21/2006 Instructors do not want to see people who are there only to gain such materialistic items of status as a black belt. However, take your martial arts seriously, learn to master every aspect and technique associated with it. A true warrior will get his belt when he surely deserves it, because nowadays to protect yourself a warrior is what you must be. True mastery of an art, that should be your ultimate goal.

on 2/6/2006 If you see 10 year old kids in the gym (or dojo) with a black belt, run and hide. Look at the history of the instructor; has that instructor actually even competed in fights? or competition? or are they just teaching the same theory they were taught without ever testing the validity of the theory?

Does the gym charge for belt tests? This could be a red flag, while it may be fees for the parent organization if one exists. Asking fees is sometimes a good indication that they may push kids into testing quickly to get the money.

Having a big organization behind the school doesn't necessarily mean much. Depending on your goals, if you instructor is a long time artist, knowledgeable and ethical, he will teach you the skills you need, some mugger, attacker or drunkard bar patron is not going to care if you are recognized internationally when you kick the crap out of him after he attacks you. The goal should be the skill, not the recognition.

on 11/22/2005 The ATA schools are OK if you are seeking rapid progress to a black belt, but you should get to know your Sensei. Are they of good moral character? Do they possess a teaching license? Do they make you feel comfortable for training? These are more important than a brand name school such as the ATA. There are hundreds of good schools, more bad schools, and a few exceptional schools. Settle only with the one that is right for you.

on 11/22/2005 Pick a style that fits your physical dexterity and desires.
Decide whether you want to start with learning self defense or a more traditional style (i.e. Kendo).