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What to know before enrolling in a martial arts school.
There are a variety of martial arts schools throughout the United States
and it is wise to check out as many in your area as possible before making a commitment. While this website is
devoted to the Oriental martial art of Uechi-ryu Karate-do, you should realize that legitimate, well-respected martial arts
have been created in all corners of the world. No martial art is inherently better or worse than another.
Most all aim to teach the student the art of self-defense in a manner which aids the student in becoming a better person,
both physically and mentally. Here are some of the things you should consider before making a decision.
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Some martial arts primarily employ blocking, punching, and kicking techniques for self-defense.
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You may already have an idea of what type of art you want to study. There
are those which emphasize blocking, punching, and kicking (such as Karate, Kung-fu, or Tae Kwon Do) and those which utilize
throws, joint locks, and grappling (such as Aikido, Judo, or Jujutsu). Most
forms of Oriental martial arts can be further categorized according to origin (Chinese, Okinawan, Japanese, or Korean).
While most martial arts can usually be practiced by anyone in reasonably
good health, you may find some arts are more suited to your physique or physical condition or you may simply find some
approaches more appealing to your tastes than others.
As you weigh your options, be sure that the school you are considering teaches
a recognized style. Most established arts can trace their origins back to the Far East and came into being close
to 100 years ago (usually in the late 1800's or the early 1900's). In many cases, the so-called "new" styles which
were created during this period were simply reworkings of existing systems which were modified and which came to be known
by new names. In cases where truly new arts came into being, they were usually created by men who had spent decades,
or even lifetimes, of intensive study before they formed their own styles. The degree of commitment required to reach
such a level of skill is seldom possible today.
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Other martial arts favor utilizing throws, joint locks, and controlling techniques for self-defense.
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Besides looking into the various arts which might be available to you, you should get to know your potential instructor.
Even within a given style of martial art, different instructors have their own individual approaches to the study and teaching
of their art. Things to consider include:
- How long has the instructor been studying and what rank does he or she hold? Is that rank commensurate with the
instructor's age and length of study? Legitimate high rank can only be attained after decades of dedicated study and
the highest levels are usually reserved for those who have devoted an entire lifetime to the martial arts.
- Is that rank issued by a recognized martial arts organization? Just as there are "diploma mills" which issue questionable
college degrees, there are disreputable martial arts organizations which give out rank with little concern for the candidate's
qualifications.
- Does the instructor maintain a relationship with a more senior teacher, who in turn guides the instructor's continued
training?
- How long has the instructor been teaching and is he or she authorized to do so by an established martial arts organization?
Just because an organization has the words "International," "Japanese," etc. in its name does not mean that it is legitimate.
There is a difference between a group of truly high-ranking martial artists with years of experience banding together
to promote their art and a group of relatively inexperienced practitioners getting together simply to promote themselves.
- Does the instructor emphasize self-defense? Self-discipline? Physical Fitness? Sport? A combination
of the above? How does this mesh with your goals?
- How does the instructor conduct classes and how does he or she interact with the students?
- Does the instructor encourage students to do their best, yet allow them to progress at their own pace and develop self-reliance?
- What sort of rapport do you feel with your potential instructor?
There are also practical considerations in selecting a martial arts school.
- Is the school conveniently located?
- Does the class schedule fit into your personal schedule?
- What fees (monthly dues, equipment, testing fees) are involved?
- Are you required to sign a contract? If so, what are the terms?
Finally, remember that martial arts training, like anything worthwhile, requires dedication, self-discipline, hard
work, and a sincere long-term commitment on your part. Don't forget that your involvement in the martial arts will affect
your family and close friends as well, so be sure to discuss your plans with them before making a final commitment to entering
a school.
For additional suggestions about choosing a martial arts school we recommend the following independent information
from the staff of Century Martial Arts Supply Company.
Click below to go to next page.
UECHI KARATE SCHOOL
801 ELY STREET; ALLEGAN, MI 49010-1541
(269) 673-2868
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