Is This Academy For Me?

Gracie Jiu Jitsu of Kentucky

Prof. Scott Smith

February 26, 2019

Is This Academy For Me?

Do I really know what I’m looking for?

So it has taken you till your adulthood to get the courage to finally walk into a martial arts academy. You have wanted to do this every since you were a kid but did not have the funds to afford it. Now you walk in thinking they will have all the answers for you. Answers to questions like what style is best for me, I can afford to pay the tuition, does the gyms believe in competition or self defense. How hard do they train physically, and what does the instructor expect for his students on and off the mats. Yes, off the mats! They may require you to help out on certain events yearly. They may require you to compete in order to receive your next belt. 

All these types of questions need to be answered by you first before walking into the academy. What is the criteria you are looking for? it would be helpful to have a clear understanding as to what you are looking for. Here are a few questions that would be helpful understanding before you walk in… Do you want to compete? Is self defense more important? Do you have extra time to give the academy? How many classes are offered weekly and does this fit your schedule? Does the tuition fit your price range? Does the tuition value match what you are getting? Are the instructors qualified to teach adults and or kids? 

Now that you have the questions you need to answer let’s see if the atmosphere is right for you. Is it a fighters academy or a family based academy. You will know the difference immediately just by what you see and hear. Is it clean and professional or does it look like someones dirty garage? is it clean or are you scared to sit down anywhere? Does it smell good or does it smell like your teenagers feet? Having a place you feel comfortable and safe going to is so important. If you do not feel either you will be short lived in this art. 

Some people believe a martial arts academy should be small and a guy sitting up front of the class smoking a pipe with grey hair giving commands. That is not realistic in todays times. Most academies are in very upscale buildings with many bills hanging over their shoulders. We have come a long way from this type of academy but it does sound magical. I do hope this has been helpful in some way to help you become more comfortable in finding a good academy for you and your family. I hope to see you all one day on the mats!