FINDING THE PERFECT FIT: NAVIGATING YOUR GOALS TO CHOOSE THE IDEAL MARTIAL ARTS SCHOOL

Embarking on a martial arts journey can be an overwhelming experience, given the multitude of schools available to choose from. In order to simplify the selection process, we will begin by providing a comprehensive overview of various martial arts schools. Subsequently, we will carefully evaluate how each school aligns with your unique goals, ultimately assisting you in making an informed decision that suits your needs.

FITNESS AND FUN FOCUS:

One category of martial arts schools is centred around fitness and enjoyment. These classes primarily aim to enhance physical fitness levels and provide an enjoyable workout experience. During a typical session, you can expect energetic music accompanying activities like striking punching bags or focus mitts for about an hour. While these classes may not emphasize becoming a professional fighter or acquiring intricate martial arts techniques, they are highly effective in helping you break a sweat and serve as a fantastic outlet for releasing built-up stress through striking exercises.

These gyms are particularly suitable for individuals who have no desire to engage in combat or endure physical contact, but instead seek a fun-filled workout while reaping the benefits of martial arts-inspired exercises. Furthermore, these classes usually operate on a pay-as-you-go basis, making them easily accessible to a broad range of people.

If you are interested in this type of gym, you can begin your search at local fitness centres or gyms offering kickercise and boxercise classes, as these names are commonly associated with this particular style of training.

EMBRACING TRADITION:

For those seeking a blend of physical fitness and a deeper understanding of the cultural and spiritual aspects of martial arts, traditional schools are an ideal choice. These schools cater to individuals who have always envisioned themselves training in a setting reminiscent of a Jackie Chan movie, immersing themselves in a historically rich environment while acquiring impressive techniques.

In traditional schools, students will primarily learn classic forms and patterns. While there may be some partner exercises, the majority of training takes place in structured formations or through individual practice. Additionally, practitioners of these styles often delve into the world of weaponry, mastering a variety of fascinating techniques and captivating patterns.

It is important to note that traditional schools do not primarily focus on combat or self-defence skills. Instead, they provide a captivating avenue for individuals to enhance their fitness, coordination, and overall understanding of the historical and cultural significance tied to their chosen martial art. However, it is worth mentioning that there are a few "traditional" schools that emphasize combat training, though they are relatively rare. The best approach is to visit and experience the school first-hand to determine if it aligns with your specific goals and aspirations.

EMBRACING THE COMBAT FOCUS:

For individuals with a strong desire to acquire fighting skills, compete, or learn self-defense techniques, seeking out a combat-focused martial arts school is the perfect fit.

In these schools, the vast majority of training revolves around partner work. This involves drilling techniques, striking pads, engaging in wrestling or grappling sessions, and putting your skills to the test through sparring. From the beginning to the end of each class, you can expect to have close and personal interaction with training partners.

Combat-focused schools excel in teaching you how to handle various real-life situations, equipping you with the necessary skills and techniques. It is worth noting that there are numerous subsets of schools associated with combat-focused training, each specializing in a particular skill related to combat (with the exception of Mixed Martial Arts, which blends various aspects to create a more comprehensive martial art). You can identify these schools by searching for terms such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Muay Thai, Kickboxing, MMA, and so on.

FINDING YOUR PERFECT FIT:

If you're still uncertain about which type of martial arts school is the best match for you, the most effective approach is to experience various schools firsthand. Try out as many different types of schools as possible to get a sense of their training styles, atmospheres, and teaching methods. While this article aims to provide guidance, ultimately, your personal experience will be the deciding factor.

It's important to remember that regardless of the school you choose, the culture and the people you train with, along with your goals, will greatly impact your training journey. The camaraderie, support, and shared dedication within the training environment will contribute to the enjoyment of your experience and help you progress towards your goals.

So, take the opportunity to explore different martial arts schools, engage with instructors and fellow students, and observe the overall ambiance of each place. By doing so, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your aspirations, preferences, and ultimately leads to a fulfilling and successful martial arts journey.

If you remain unsure after reading this article, I encourage you to try both styles and determine which one resonates with you. If you happen to be in London, specifically Brixton, you are welcome to join us at the Sanda Kickboxing Academy for a free trial. Our academy boasts some of the best Sanda coaches in the United Kingdom. Click here to book your free trial. We look forward to seeing you there!