When deciding which martial arts style would work best for you, it’s essential to understand a few things. If you are starting at a beginner’s level, most places, whether they are teaching karate, taekwondo, Jiu-Jitsu, or Kung fu, will teach students a similar foundation. This will all be covered regardless of style at the beginner’s level, from punching and kicking to upper blocks.
The most important thing to look for when trying to find the right martial arts style matters less on the type you end up choosing and more on the facility where you take classes and your instructors. You may find that you’re interested in kung fu, but there isn’t a reputable studio in your area. You could always take beginners level sessions at a karate studio that has excellent equipment and skillful instructors.
It all comes down to finding the right school and the right instructor for you. When you’re looking at different studios in your area for you or your child to take classes, there are a few things that you’ll want to be observant of.
Does the studio look like a safe learning environment where people are less likely to get hurt, and instructors are patient with students? It’s also important to take note of how clean the studio looks. Do they keep up with cleaning the mats? Are the mirrors in the studio broken or clean? How is the atmosphere? These are a few questions to consider while looking at different places.
Studios with clean mats, windows so natural light can come in, and the mirrors look good are essential aspects of a suitable environment at a martial arts studio. If this is a class where you will be signing up your child, it may be vital for you to know whether the studio allows parents to sit in during lessons and an inviting, family-friendly atmosphere.
You also want to take a look at the instructors who will be teaching at the studio. When you come in, is there a wall of trophies for one specific master? Be aware that may be a sign of a big ego which may not be the best learning environment for you or your child. It’s also essential to ask studios about their curriculum or if they even have one.
Similar to any educational setting, no one wants to send their child to a teacher who doesn’t have a plan. The studio you end up choosing must have a clear idea of what will be taught each week for the sessions you pay for to know they have a goal in mind for each student’s progress.
With all of these things in mind, it’s important to remember that while various martial arts styles do offer a range of skills that are specific to that practice, that shouldn’t impact what someone learns in the beginning. When someone is just starting, the most important thing is to find a studio with all the right resources and an instructor who is skilled at teaching students.