Lessons: Martial Arts, Part 2

Because of recent popularity in films and cartoons, I thought addressing martial arts lessons would be a good idea. They can be incredibly expensive so getting the most from your money from the get go is key. You can find out more about different kinds of martial arts and how they relate to your family in Lessons: Martial Arts, Part 1.

Dojos are the gyms in which martial arts are taught. Each focuses on a different art. Often the YMCA or the yellow pages will offer you a good listing of instructors in your area. You can also visit online sites like Black Belt for Kids for dojo searches. http://w3.blackbeltmag.com/dojo/search.a...

After you've compiled a list of dojos that you are interested in, get prepared to do more research. Call each and talk to the instructor. What are his or her credentials? If you are given the name of a national organization, make sure you call and make sure the recommendation is valid. Find out what the philosophy of the dojo is. Martial arts can provide your child with a lot of bonuses, but not without the appropriate teacher. Take your child to the dojo and review a class. The instructors should have no problem letting you do this. After all, as a paying customer you will want access to your children's lessons.

It's important to look at how the other children are behaving during lessons. Do they respect the teacher and each other? Are the focused and under control? How does the instructor deal with discipline problems? Some instructors are very hard on their pupils and some are very lenient. Whatever their attitude towards martial arts, this will be passed on to who they teach.

In comparing prices it's important to consider the teacher's experience, what is offered during a lesson, the comparative prices of the region you are in, and finally, what you can afford. Some dojos are affordable, some charge hundreds of dollars per month. Other expenses include uniforms, protection, and competitions. You'll want to ask about all the charges involved, and about the length of contracts. Some teachers will want you to sign a year contract on the first day, while others give you a lesson or two before asking you to decide.

Last week's article revolved around the kinds of martial arts available, and what is popular for children's study. This week centered on choosing the right dojo, and instructor. Next week's article will be on deciding if martial arts is a good choice for your child.

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