Choosing A Martial Arts School

Choosing a school may seem to be a, “no-brainer”, but it can be a challenging experience. Here are some choices to take into consideration when making your selection. Some of these are; cost, type of school, distance from home, and contracts. There are also some hidden factors when selecting a school that's best fitted for your children or self. One of "hidden-factors" is the philosophy of the teacher , the art and how the students "respond" in class. This will show to you how students learn. Besides discipline, the students and staff must be courteous. Discipline is not the most important, instead being aware of anothers' feelings, and the willingness and ability to respond kindly certainly is lifes most important lesson. Another factor to consider is the age of student, the students observable abilities and behavior. Another important factor, is the students genuine feelings of “acceptance” of the school, other students, staff and instructor. As an adult, we have the power of choice if we don’t “like” the school, or staff. However, your child may not be able to express those “feelings” to you. You the adult may have that, “gut-feeling”, whereas your child won't. A "counter" indicator will be the time and level of skills acquired - compared to the other students. Some students may not feel comfortable in that school. They may feel “at-home” at another school, so leave yourself open to other options by not confining yourself to a particular school and or contract. A very important item is not to confuse school, instructor and type of martial arts style. There are many schools of the same style, but each instructor brings their own distinct personality into the classroom and transfers his style / personality onto the students mind.
In closing, the selection of school, the type of art/style that is taught, and the instructor(s) are important, however, whats more important is "how" the student "grows-with-awareness" of "others'- feelings and the "ability" to respond to those feelings, will truely be the most life-enduring compliment a parent, teacher can have.
You are truely a reflection of what you do.
Be the best you can.
I would encourage you to see yourself, the martial arts and God, not as something to take a part in, but by being part-of.




Master Gregory Nabel

e-mail: shimmeringlight@optonline.net

www.gnabelmartialarts.com