The Really Simple Way to get started in Martial Arts.

I put together the really simple way to get started in Martial Arts for you if you have been putting it off for a while, find it a bit daunting or would just like a little insight before taking the plunge.

Most clubs are run by regular people you’ll meet on the street, you wouldn’t have a clue they did Martial arts unless they told you or, you bump into them on the way to or from the dojo (Martial Arts School).

 

Students practicing a kata.

New Students welcome.

If there is one thing a Martial arts school loves it is new student’s.  Why? Because the nature of the sport is to teach students what they need to learn in a step by step fashion and as students move up the belts, the school continually brings in new student’s to have a well rounded class.

You see, the student’s who are going up the belts, benefit as much as new students do in that when they impart their skills and knowledge, they are also learning the other aspects of their training which is necessary for them to progress...

Hence, you don’t become a good Martial Arts teacher/sensei because you are a black belt, but rather become a good teacher because of the practice you had on the way up.

Research before you go.

A little research before you go to the School goes a long way. I recommend a call and talk to the Sensei of the school. This will give you the best feel for the school. Even if a secretary handles new enquiries.

It doesn’t have to be anymore than a question or two. Like, “I was considering joining your school, what sets you apart from the rest?” Or, “I’m new to Martial Arts, what advice would you give me, just starting out?” 

The responses to your questions will speak volumes about the man and the ethos of the school.

If the call goes well, but you feel nervous, share it with him or her and ask if there is a provision for new people who just want to take it easy to start with. He may recommend a...

Visit or taster session.

Pay a visit to see how a session is structured, you may be asked to visit when there are no classes so he can spend time with you... But I recommend you visit when a class is in session... This way you get a much better idea of what goes on, and may even raise a list of questions you’d like to get answered before you take the plunge.

Alternatively it may spell a “No! Don’t think I want to take this any further.”  At this stage, try a different school before you call it a day.

There can be huge differences between how Martial Arts schools are run, even when practicing the same discipline. 

Get your questions answered after the session. You may have to wait while the current students or parents of younger ones interact with the sensei. 

He’ll ask you what you thought and if you want to give it a try. Be honest, if there is something niggling... Ask for a resolution. You may have overlooked something.

If you tried a taster session on your first visit. Then you’d be even more certain as to whether you want to pursue it further or not... You’ve now gone from standing on the outskirts wondering to being present in the dojo.

Focus

Remember.

Most Schools welcome new students, research the school not just online, but make contact with the Sensei and get questions answered. Finally, visit during a session. If still happy, take part. 

Failing that, try another school, going through the same sequence before you throw in the towel.

If don’t like the schools you researched, but still want to take part in Martial Arts, then carry on looking till you find that school/Sensei combination that is right for You... 

Good Luck

Please leave a comment below if you found this useful or indeed have any questions.

Thanks for taking the time.