Let’s face it – there are a lot of martial arts schools out there. Knowing which one is right for you or your child can be confusing. So how do you tell which schools are great, and which ones aren’t worth your time?
Here are 7 things that determine a great martial arts school
1. The school has a program that aligns with your goal
If you (or your child) is thinking about taking up a martial art, you probably already have a pretty good idea of why you want to start training. It could be fitness, sport-related, or simply building self-confidence.
Many martial arts schools specialise in different areas of training – whether it’s self-defence for women, building strength, or training for competition. If your training goals are that you want to be representing Australia in Taekwondo at the Olympics one day, you wouldn’t want to choose a school that doesn’t incorporate competition training into their classes. Similarly, if you’re looking to learn to protect yourself, you may want to think about a school that has classes specifically for self-defence.
Make sure the schools you’re researching have training programs and facilities that meet your specific goals and needs. That way, you’re already setting yourself up for success! At UMA, we have a broad program of classes for adults and kids, with flexible times to suit everyone.
2. The school shares your values
Martial arts training is an excellent way to nurture students physically and mentally. It’s also a great way to help shape young people into confident, considerate, and capable members of the community.
Some martial arts schools have a series of values that students commit to as part of their training. A great martial arts school, like UMA, has principles that align with local community values, and encourage responsible, kind and mature behaviour. You can read more about our vision, mission statement and values on the UMA Principles page.
3. Exceptional instructors and role models
Great schools have an excellent training culture that can only come out of great teachers.
At UMA, students work with masters of the true art form of Taekwondo. With Master Sung Tae Kim and his select team, students of all backgrounds and abilities achieve their physical and fitness goals.
Master Kim is considered to be one of the best in his field, with an extensive background in military self-defence and martial arts training. All instructors at UMA have been selected by Master Kim for their expertise, character, and dedication to helping students get the most out of their training.
4. Great schools offer free trial classes
If you’re unsure whether the school you’ve chosen is the right fit for you or your child, you should be able to try a free class. The majority of martial arts schools offer either one or two free classes or a low-cost introductory program.
UMA offers free trial classes so that you (or your child) can get the UMA experience before deciding if it’s the right school for your needs. We offer convenient online bookings through our website.
5. The school trains specific age groups
Great schools train and cater to specific age groups. UMA instructors work hard to ensure students at every stage of development are learning the right skills in a way that’s fun and can be built upon as they continue their training.
With a great instructor to student ratio, each UMA class has been designed to give all students the support they need, so they’re never lost in the crowd.
6. Excellent Facilities
Many martial arts schools operate out of rented spaces, like school halls or basketball courts.
At UMA, we have a training facility that is specifically designed for the purposes of martial arts training. We have safe padded floors and proper martial arts equipment so that students are not only protected, but they have access to everything they need, and can maximise the effectiveness of their training.
7. World-wide recognition and certification
Did you know that many martial arts disciplines have international organisations that oversee instruction and education?
We believe that great schools are aligned with best-practice international standards. That’s why UMA instructors are Kukkiwon qualified and able to give students certification of their grading that is recognised world-wide.
There’s one final thing when it comes to selecting a great martial arts school – and that is knowing you can ask the school any questions you may have. If you’d like to know more about UMA or have questions about our instructors or training programs, get in touch with our team. We’re happy to support you and your family on their martial arts journey.