How to Choose
Martial Arts Schools: How Do I Choose?
Learn the criteria for selecting a martial arts school
If your only exposure to martial arts is from the Karate Kid or the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, it’s time to get a more accurate look at this sport – this way of life – and what it can mean to you.
There are myriad forms of martial arts, taekwondo, judo, karate, kung fu and aikido, to name a few. Some have passed through the centuries, while others have been modified and are relatively new.
If you are choosing a martial arts school for you or your child, don’t base a decision on what martial art is taught there. Make sure the school itself meets your expectations.
Because what’s more important to you – that your child simply learns TaeKwonDo, or that he or she becomes more confident, respectful, enthusiastic and a great martial artist?
Selecting just the right school, you see, is the most important step.
When visiting prospective schools, you should observe a class, meet the instructor or director of the school, and pay attention to the condition of the facility, too. Here are some other considerations.
Curriculum and Values
Of course, you’ll want to get to know about the type of martial art that is taught at the school (karate, tae kwon do, etc.) As important, however, is knowing how these skills are taught.
Is there a structured curriculum?
What are the opportunities for leadership? For competition?
Many martial arts schools have a student creed that students must memorize. Does this agree with your personal values?
How are students rewarded for good behavior, and disciplined for inappropriate behavior?
What is the school’s reputation in your community? How long has it been in existence? Does it hold membership in a professional organization?
Martial Arts Staff
While watching a class, observe the interaction between students and instructors very carefully. The atmosphere should be formal and professional, but the students should be having fun as well. A good instructor can instruct 50 students with control and ease, but for an inexperienced instructor, 5 students might be too many.
What kind of training do the instructors have? Just because the instructor has a black belt does not mean he or she is a good instructor. They must be positive role models for the students.
Do the students in class seem happy and motivated?
When the instructor meets your child, does the instructor establish an immediate rapport?
How long has the head instructor worked at the school?
Facility and Safety Issues
The school should be welcoming and comfortable for both students and parents.
Is the facility clean?
Is there a large matted area where students can train?
Is there a viewing area for parents?
Why train at Peck’s TaeKwonDo?
Peck’s TaeKwonDo America has been in business for over 16 years. We have specialized programs for children and adults. We offer unlimited class attendance taught by nationally certified instructors. We believe students should be here because they want to be, so we do not lock you into a contract. At Peck’s TaeKwonDo America, we take pride in helping each student meet their individual goals to become the best martial artist they can be.
Contact us for a free trial class. We believe that the curriculum, instructors and facility at Peck’s TaeKwonDo America will exceed your expectations.
