| There are a massive number of different martial | | | | 4.Watch a lesson. Although you may be eager to |
| arts around theses days making your choice of | | | | start and just want to jump in one of the most |
| Martial Arts Club difficult. Here are a few tips for | | | | important things to do is to sit and watch a |
| finding the right style for you: | | | | lesson. Does the teacher make sure everyone is |
| 1.Decide what you want from training. Have a | | | | warmed up adequately before continuing with |
| good think about this one. Are you looking for an | | | | technical exercises? Are they correcting bad |
| art that has a strong sport aspect? Perhaps you | | | | technique and explaining how it can be used? Are |
| are looking for some self defence moves to | | | | the students quiet and disciplined. With the |
| increase your confidence or maybe you want to | | | | exception of really young children, a sure sign of a |
| explore your body and mind a little more. | | | | bad teacher is not being able to hold a classes |
| 2.Do your research. There are two main | | | | attention and allowing chatter. |
| differences in styles of martial art; the soft and | | | | 5.Have a chat with the instructor after the lesson. |
| the hard. A soft style requires little to no strength | | | | After you have sat and watched a lesson and |
| as it focuses on manipulating an opponents force | | | | you feel as if you want to join the club, approach |
| against them. A hard style focuses on strikes and | | | | the instructor, introduce yourself and ask them a |
| more aggressive grappling. Have a look at the | | | | few questions. How much is membership and |
| martial arts club you are thinking of joining and | | | | equipment? How long have they been teaching |
| watch YouTube videos that exhibit the style, visit | | | | and performing their form? Would they object to |
| forums to talk about the art and learn some of | | | | you training in other forms in addition their martial |
| the history and principles behind the form. | | | | arts club? |
| 3.Remember there is no 'ultimate' art form. | | | | Martial arts have been a great addition to my life |
| Although the club itself may advertise that it has | | | | as I am sure it will be for you. They promote |
| the best techniques please realise this is just to | | | | health and fitness along with self discipline, respect |
| get you through the door. Part of studying is | | | | for others and confidence. I hope the tips above |
| learning what techniques work for you and what | | | | help you make the decision on what martial arts |
| doesn't. This leads to a deeper knowledge of your | | | | club to join easier and that you enjoy your new |
| own body and capabilities. | | | | found hobby as much as I have! |