How to Choose the Right Martial Arts School for You: 6 Key Questions to Ask

If you’re on the quest to find the perfect martial arts school, you’re in the right place. I’m Bruce Belfield from Fort Lauderdale Jiu Jitsu, and I’m here to guide you through the process of selecting the ideal martial arts school that aligns with your goals and priorities. Choosing the right martial arts school is a personal decision, so read below for a summary of the six main questions to help you make an informed choice or watch the video below for a more detailed explanation.

1. What Are Your Top Priorities?

The first step in your journey to finding the right martial arts school is to identify your top priorities. People come to martial arts for various reasons, such as self-defense, making friends, sport competition, personal development, or physical fitness and stress relief. Take some time to reflect on what truly drives you to pursue martial arts. Your priorities will serve as your compass on this journey.

2. Picking the Right Martial Art

Not all martial arts are the same, and each offers a unique set of skills and focuses. To find the perfect fit, you must choose the martial art that aligns with your objectives. Jiu Jitsu, for instance, provides a comprehensive approach to self-defense, but there are other options such as striking arts, sport grappling, and self-defense-focused disciplines like Aikido or Krav Maga. Your goals will dictate the martial art that suits you best.

3. Evaluating Individual Schools

Once you’ve pinpointed your priorities and chosen a martial art, it’s time to evaluate the schools in your area. This step involves thorough research. Check out their websites, social media profiles, and consider giving them a call or visiting in person. Here are some key aspects to assess:

– School Type: Martial arts schools vary in their focus. Some are primarily martial arts academies, while others may resemble more of a daycare, catering to different needs.

– Focus on Sport vs. Self-Defense: Some schools prioritize sports competitions, while others emphasize self-defense techniques. Determine which aligns with your goals.

– Personal Development: If personal development is essential to you, look for schools that formalize character development, philosophy, discipline, and focus as part of their curriculum.

– Safety: Consider how safety-conscious the school is, especially if you have concerns about the intensity of training and the potential for accidents.

4. Instructor Credentials

The credentials of the instructors at a martial arts school are paramount. Your goals should match the instructor’s expertise and experience. Here’s what to look for:

– Sport Competition: If you’re interested in sports competition, seek instructors with experience and achievements in that domain.

– Self-Defense: For self-defense, ensure the instructor has real-world experience and an understanding of self-defense laws.

– Teaching Consistency: Check who teaches the classes regularly, as the primary instructor’s qualifications matter, not just the owner’s credentials.

– Personal Development: If personal development is crucial, consider the age and life experience of the instructors, as they play a pivotal role in coaching life lessons.

5. Location and Convenience

The location of the martial arts school can significantly impact your training routine. Assess how important convenience is to you in terms of your schedule versus your desire for the best school. Weigh the pros and cons of a convenient location against the benefits of traveling a bit farther for superior training.

6. Budget Considerations

Lastly, your budget plays a significant role in your choice. Everyone’s financial situation is different, so consider your budget carefully. Martial arts schools can range from affordable community options to high-end academies. Make sure the school you choose fits within your budget while still providing the level of training you seek.

In conclusion, choosing the right martial arts school is a significant decision, and it should align with your goals, priorities, and resources. By addressing these six key questions, you’ll be well-prepared to make an informed choice and embark on a rewarding martial arts journey tailored to your needs. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but armed with these insights, you can confidently select the perfect martial arts school for you.

Fort Lauderdale Jiu-Jitsu, LLC was founded in 2007 by Bruce Belfield, a 5^th Degree Black Belt and Chief Master Instructor.  Fort Lauderdale Jiu-Jitsu offers classes for pre-school children ages 4-6 and elementary age kids 7 and up designed to develop the critical skills children need – specialized for their age group – for success in school and in life as well as keeping them safe and free from being the target of bullies.

Fort Lauderdale Jiu-Jitsu’s Adult Jiu-Jitsu System is a complete adult fitness and self-defense program for adults who want to get (and stay) in shape while developing confidence, discipline, and focus through learning the most effective self-defense system on the planet.

Instructors can answer questions or be contacted 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 954-802-9831.  You can also visit our website at www.ftljj.com.

About Bruce Belfield.  Bruce Belfield is a 5^th Degree Black Belt in Jiu-Jitsu and Judo and Chief Master Instructor.  He also holds a 2^nd Degree Black Belt in Karate.  He holds a bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering from West Virginia University and has been training martial arts since the age of 7.

Prior to creating Fort Lauderdale Jiu-Jitsu, Bruce Belfield served as a Police Detective and SWAT Team Instructor in the Fort Lauderdale Police Department.  Certified as a Police Defensive Tactics Instructor, Firearms Instructor, Chemical Weapons Instructor, and Field Training Officer, Bruce Belfield has taught numerous Police Officers, SWAT Personnel, Federal Law Enforcement, and Military Special Forces Personnel throughout the country. 

Chief Master Belfield teaches seminars in school safety and bullying, martial arts training, police defensive tactics, and business around the country. 

Fort Lauderdale Jiu-Jitsu is located at 701 East Sunrise Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304.  You can contact us there at 954-802-9831.  We serve the communities of Fort Lauderdale, Oakland Park, Wilton Manors, Lauderdale By The Sea, Dania, Plantation, Davie, and Lauderhill Florida.