Questions to Ask Yourself before Signing Up for a Martial Arts Class

There are many reasons people learn martial arts: for exercise, to be able to defend one’s self and loved ones, to compete, to build confidence, and to become a healthier, more successful and centered person, among other things. However, as with any other worthy endeavor, learning these disciplines requires commitment, especially as they can often grow to be a lifelong love. According to experts at Fairfax martial arts schools, finding the right discipline for your needs, abilities, and goals is crucial. Asking the right questions can help ensure success in finding the style that is a good fit for your abilities and goals. Listed below are a few questions Fairfax martial arts schools suggest potential students ask themselves when preparing to sign up.

What are your personal goals or motivations?

As mentioned above, people learn these ancient disciplines for different reasons. One’s personal reasons should be considered when choosing the best style. For example, if you’re after a great exercise regimen, Muay Thai and Jeet Kune Do provide a demanding workout that’s sure to get you sweating. If learning self-defense is your goal, then Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or Filipino martial arts are great - both of which help you defend against with would-be attackers, either barehanded or using weapons.

How much of a commitment are you willing to make to your training?

As experts at Fairfax martial arts schools will tell you, what you get out of your training depends on what you put in. To excel, you must be willing to put in the time, effort, and expense. You will need to carve out a portion of your schedule for training and classes—regular training is imperative for progress. Your classes and training time may cut into the time you could spend doing other “fun” things, just as with any other worthy venture. Explaining to your friends and family your commitment to your training, including your goals, is a good way to gain their support, helping to derail future difficulties regarding scheduling conflicts. Better yet, you may inspire them to train with you!

How realistic are your views regarding your training?

Every beginner starts off enthusiastic and eager. However, many are not able to stick to the training long enough for results. Often, potential students have a romanticized view of this kind of training due to how it is portrayed in media. Thus, they become frustrated or lose interest when having to deal with the nitty gritty truth. Real mastery of the art is less about the flash than it is about hard work. According to Fairfax martial arts schools, having realistic expectations is key to sticking it out. Don’t expect overnight results. However, with commitment, perseverance and time, you are sure to achieve your goals as a practitioner.

If you’re looking to learn Martial Arts, Pat Tray is chief instructor at the Trident Academy of Mixed Martial Arts, the premier training and instruction centre in the region. In Fairfax, martial arts including Jeet Kune Do, Filipino Martial Arts, Combat Submission Wrestling, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, can be studied at Trident with the best instructors from across the NOVA and DC area.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.