How do I choose a Dojo?

[rsnumber2]

I am looking to get into Martial Arts and three schools in my area fit my schedule, however, I am not sure where to start.

The first is Master Hans, which teaches Youn Wha Ryu. They seem to concentrate on the sport aspect. Their link is here:

http://www.masterhansok.com/

The second is Team Anderson's Taekwondo. Their instructor has been competing for 25+ years. They seem to concentrate on sport as well.Their link is here:

http://www.teamatkd.com/

Then there is an actual self defense class that begins/conetrates on Kenpo. Their link is here:

https://www.prosdi.com

My question is two-fold. Has anybody had expirience/knowledge with any of these schools? And what are some things I should consider in making my decision to go the path of sport or self defense? Thanks to all in advance.

[Rateh]

I have no experience with either of these schools.

However, as to your second question. The decision should be based on your own opinion. Everyone is full of their own opinions on whether sport or self defense is better. But their opinions don't matter in the long run. What do YOU want out of martial arts training? THAT is what matters.

[Jiffy]

The style and style of teaching is completely subject to opinion. What you should be looking for universally is things like qualifications, recognition etc. Make sure they have sufficient grade in their art and that the grading they give you will be recognised sufficiently by a respected organisation. Make sure they are qualified to teach in their area and they have insurance to cover you in the even of any problems. Things like First Aid qualifications are also a bonus. Check their pricing structure, make sure you are happy with it etc.

[bushido_man96]

The websites can only give you a general feeling for what the schools offer. You should go check out each school and see what the classes are like; for example, what level of fitness they offer. Also, try to figure out what the instructors' philosophies are. Check out their teaching methods, testing cycles, and things like that.

It won't be a good school if there aren't good instructors. One more thing, just because a school may focus on competition, doesn't make it a bad school. Schools like this will usually provide a high level of fitness, and fitness is always beneficial.

The kenpo site looks very self-defense oriented, and may be a lot of fun.

Good luck on your journey!

[scottnshelly]

I haven't been to Stillwater in a while. The last time I was there Brian Hurst was the best Instructor in the town. I'd recommend giving him a try.

Superior Karate

Taekwondo & Fitness Kickboxing

1911 N. Boomer Rd.

Stillwater OK

(405) 624-1133

Bryan Hurst

bhurst@superiorkarate.com

[rsnumber2]

Thanks for all the input. I'm going to try to shop around in the coming weeks. My biggest concern is that I had heard a few negative things about the Master Hans system. Kind of McDojo comments, and was fishing for any opionion on their teachings. But I guess I won't know unless I go look for myself! Just didn't know what to keep my eyes open for. Thanks, all.

[BoonePickens]

I've done plenty of studying of the Stillwater schools and there's a few things I can tell you:

1)Superior Karate is no longer in business.

2) Anderson is a great guy. They compete and do VERY well in tournaments

3) OKTKD is a member of the WTF. Just look up WTF, they're pretty much the epitome of that system

4) Prosdi...although the instructor is a little gruff, I'm sure the classes are fine.

5) Master Han's: I keep hearing these Mcdojo comments from the local MA practitioners, and I've decided there's really no base to them. I've never once heard of someone what actually went there to visit, watch class, or take class, that said that.

^^^Also, what qualifies as a Mcdojo? That word is thrown around SO much....

Your best bet is to take a class at EVERY one of the schools you mentioned, and see how the place feels. I understand that you're maybe inexperienced with what to look for, but you'll just..."feel" that you're at the right place. Also, if you want a checklist, check for:

Individual kids/adult classes (you don't want to work out with kids)

Istructor credentials (have they been trained/how long have they been training)

Mood of the school (are they nice people? You may be impressed by someone who is overly confident, but are you willing to take classes for years from a jerk?)

There are other things to think about, but take as many free classes from the school as you can. Hopefully you'll get a feel for what they do.

[BoonePickens]

also, masterhans is not sport karate. They don't compete regularly in tournaments.

[rsnumber2]

WOW! Thanks for all the tips! Although I haven't been able to get out to each one yet, I think I know which ones to concentrate on. Again, Thanks!