Goals

Before starting out in the martial arts, it is a good idea to set these showcased images aside and reflect on what your goals are in martial arts training. These goals may be tailored to milestones within the martial arts themselves. For example, an all-too-common question is "how long does it take to get a black belt". Quite simply, there is no standard in this regard. Some martial arts organizations promote students to black belt after two or three years, while others require ten years (or more) of training. Of course, there are those who simply elect to rank themselves to black belt. Again...no hard and fast rules here. If the color of a belt you wear around your waist is indeed a cause for concern, then it is a good idea to discuss your goals with your instructor at the outset. This will clarify your expectations and those of your instructor right from the word "go" and will allow you to focus on why you should be there...to learn a martial art. Other students sign up for a martial arts class because they have a real-life reason to do so. Many students have saught instruction to even the playing against bullies or to prepare themselves for situations that they often confront. For example, police officers often train in the martial arts to prepare themselves for the realities of the street.

Which Style Should I Select?

Many budding martial artists select a style based on exposure given to that art, particularily in the movies or sporting events on TV. It is no coincidence that Karate exerienced a surge in popularity after the release of The Karate Kid in the mid-eighties. Similarily, Aikido gained much popularity upon the arrival of Steven Seagal's movies in the late eighties. Although these movies do showcase the art, many components of that art's training are lost on film and this often disappoints students wanting what was demonstrated in the movie but does not find on the dojo floor. The martial art (or organization) you choose should reflect a number of things, however, the most important to consider are:

• Real Life Requirements: The real world has a tendancy to dictate what we require and in the martial arts, this is no different. For example, imagine yourself as a "bouncer" at a crowded night-club. Now imagine the types of situations that you may encounter? First of all, you could be imagining a crowded room that does not allow for much room to move. Secondly, the role of a "bouncer" is to remove mis-behaving patrons in a controlled manner. Now, as that bouncer, would you find it useful to seek self-defense training from a school which teaches, exclusively, an art form known for its high kicks and lethal strikes? This may be useful at some point in time, however, skills in close-quarter confrontation (or how about training on weapons defenses?) may indeed round out the needs that match the hazards associated with this job.
• Fitness Requirements: If you sit at a desk all day and are looking for some strenuous activity, selecting martial arts that stress cardiovascular conditioning may be your primary motivator. No question that martial arts that keep you moving fast on your feet, such as Taekwondo and karate may meet your goals sooner than a more static martial art such as Jujutsu. However, bear in mind that each organization or club treats fitness in different ways. Again, there is no standard. It is advisable to watch a class and, better yet, talk to students already in the class.
• Personality: This one is a tough one to factor in to your training selections. Many students seek martial arts which allows themselves to conquer "shyness". In this case, a martial art such as Karate (with its loud kiai's) can fit the bill. Also, activities which allow you to hit something (we hope its a pad) really hard may be just what you are looking for in this case. On the flip side, if you are seeking a more calm experience which stresses control and harmony with your surroundings, then Aikido may fit the bill.

  Costs and Equipment

  Cost of instruction varies greatly from school to school. Although the old adage "you get what you pay for" may be true, the highest priced schools do not necessarily guarantee you the biggest bang for your buck. Many instructors command a high fee because of their reputation away from the school. This does not always translate to excellent teaching ability. Many reputable martial arts dojos are run by non-profit organizations and charge low fees to handle basic costs of running its operations. Again, regardless of price, watch a class or two and make your judgement after. Any school which does not allow you to watch a class before joining is not worth your hard-earned money or sweat. Some schools even allow you to take part in a class before you sign up. It is best not to rush out and buy equipment before you sign up for a martial arts program. Schools often have specific requirements for equipment and uniforms and these items may even be included in the re