How should I approach this?

[karate_woman]

Hi, I'am new here.

I joined these forums because I have a passion for martial arts, a passion I have not been able progress in over the years. I had always wanted to take Martial arts classes, but because of family problems I never had the chance. Still I train by myself, as best I can without proper guidance. I'm 16 now, and I'm finally able to take classes, I was just wondering if I should approach this with a certain style of MA, is it going to be different now?

Welcome to the wonderful world of martial arts! I've been passionate about martial arts since I started 20 years ago. Whether I am actively training or not (sometimes I wasn't as "life" took over), I've considered myself a martial artist ever since I started - it is quite a way of life . Hopefully you find an art that resonates with you, and don't be shy about trying different arts through seminars, extra training, etc. - just keep an open mind, that there is not always a "right" and "wrong" way, sometimes there is just a "different" way. There is so much to learn in the martial arts, you can continue the journey for your entire life and still not know everything

I agree with the previous posts. In my opinion, you should consider a number of factors:

1. Your personal goals for the training (fitness, self-defense, competition, etc),

2. The location of the dojo's/training places in relation to your school, home, work, etc.

3. The hours you are available to train, vs the schedules of the places you investigate.

4. The price to train (including uniforms, grading fees, etc), if that is a factor for you.

In association with factor #1, as the others have stated, you should go to a number of schools and check the instructors out. You should be looking for the quality of instruction. I know that is hard to judge if you don't have any experience yourself.

A few hints:

*With an untrained eye, do the more advanced students actually appear to do the movements with more ease, fluidity, speed and power? Do they appear to use stable stances?

* Are the classes disciplined and organized, or are there a bunch of people milling about talking and not working?

*If sparring occurs in the class, is it done under controlled circumstances under the watchful eye of the instructor? Is safety equipment used?

*If you are aiming for a martial art that features belt promotions, you may wish to ask about the qualifications for each belt, average length of time to obtain them, price, and number of belts.

*Is their belt system recognized by a traditional organization, if that is important to you?

*How long has the instructor trained? Does their apparent rank match the length of time required in their martial arts ranking system to achieve that rank?

*Does he/she do most of the training, or do other people instruct as well?

*What are their qualifications?

*Who does the instructor train with (who teaches them?).

*If you wish to compete - Does the club compete, Are they successful? What type of competition? What level of contact are you aiming for in your competition (if any?)

*Do you wish to have a chance to compete in the Olympics? (Not all martial arts are Olympic sports).

*If you wish to defend yourself, how much emphasis is placed on practical moves, simulations, physical/mental preparation?

*Is the attitute and philosophy of the instructor compatible to yours?

*Do you wish to learn weapons? What kinds? Do they teach weaponry where you wish to train?

*Do you wish to learn philosophy, history, etc, or focus solely on fighting?

In association with #4 (price):

Do you have to sign a membership agreement? For how long? A lot of clubs in my area insist on a one year committment. Is it transferable to another area (is it a franchise)? Can it be put on hold if, for example, you injure yourself? Are there other membership benefits? Gym facilities? Personal Training, etc?

[Aodhan]

Karate_Woman:

Excellent response!! I've printed out a copy to keep for reference.

Aodhan

[Sam]

Wow im definitely keeping a copy of that too - im off to find a new club and MA school soon so thats definitely a little check list to complete - tHanks.