There are many key factors and choices to make when deciding what martial arts school to attend. There are many different arts to choose from, such as Judo, Aikido or Taekwondo. Then within each art there are traditional and modern schools. Finally, out of those schools there are harder or softer disciplines.
There are many established arts that have been around for decades and even centuries. Some of the more popular ones are Kung Fu, Taekwondo and Karate. Kung Fu is an art that patterns its fighting styles after the way animals fight and defend themselves. Taekwondo is art that stresses self-defense. The moves are 80% kicks, and great coordination and strength are developed through the practice of this art. Karate is an art with the same principles as Taekwondo but not as many kicks and footwork.
After researching which art best fits your needs, it is time to decide if you desire a traditional or modern school. Traditional schools focus more on the basics of the art, stressing discipline with rigid movements and a formal atmosphere. Modern schools are less focused on the basics and employ more exciting movements. These schools appear to have less discipline yet more energy.
The final factor is if the school is a hard or soft school. This is something that is mainly determined by the art that is taught. Hard schools have more physical contact and increased strength conditioning. Soft schools stress less contact. Softer schools are the better choice for children and those not seeking the contact. Adults and athletes may enjoy a more physical art and school. Kenpo and Judo are examples of hard arts, and Tai Chi is a soft one. The other arts vary depending on the master’s focus.
When choosing your school take time and do the research. Don’t settle for the first school. Go to all the ones you find, and see for yourself which are best for you. Focus on the attention given to the students from the instructors, how safety is stressed and the school’s reputation. Most schools offer trial lessons or trial periods. If they do, take full advantage. No matter which art you choose, remember not all improvements come overnight.
