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10 Martial Arts Gym Owner Tips to Attract Students and Build a Thriving Business

Running a successful martial arts business is a difficult task.


You must attract new students, retaining existing ones, as well as continue building your gym while remaining profitable. With so much competition, you must stand out and be memorable. To assist you in reaching your goals, we've assembled a list of ten tips to help you attract students and build a thriving martial arts gym.


1. Clearly Define Your Gym's Purpose


To attract and retain students, the first step is to clearly define the mission of your martial arts gym. Explain your gym's mission in the first thirty seconds of meeting a potential student. Are you more concerned with self-defense, competition, or fitness? Once you've determined the purpose of your gym, make sure to convey it with passion and enthusiasm.


2. Paint a Picture of Your Ideal Student


To attract the right students, you must first understand who they are. Define your ideal student's age, gender, level of fitness, or even what motivates them to want to learn martial arts. You can tailor your marketing messages and classes to attract specific types of students if you have an ethos in mind.


3. Explain the Value of Martial Arts Training


One of the most common questions potential students ask is "Why do martial arts cost so much?" Address this question head-on by explaining the value of martial arts training. Highlight the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of your classes, and how they can positively impact students' lives.


4. Identify Your Competitors


Just like in any business, it's essential to identify your competitors in the martial arts industry. Highlight what sets your gym apart from others in the area, and what unique benefits your gym offers to students.


5. Showcase Your Expertise


Students are interested in receiving instruction from experienced teachers who are both highly qualified and knowledgeable. Take the time to highlight your experience, certifications, and any notable accomplishments throughout your martial arts journey. This will reassure prospective students that they are learning from one of the best.


6. Exude Confidence and Enthusiasm


As the owner of a martial arts gym, you must be the leading sales representative. When presenting your gym to prospective students, exude confidence and enthusiasm. Demonstrate your passion for your work and your belief in the significance of martial arts training.


7. Make Use of Partnerships


Students want to see internationally recognized partnerships in the martial arts industry, and investors want to see big name players willing to promote one's products. Take the initiative to highlight any affiliations you have with well-known martial arts organizations or individuals. Simply continue organizing seminars and other ceremonies to entice martial arts personalities who are of interest to students to participate with your gym.


8. Be Straightforward About Your Pricing


When prospective students ask, "Why do martial arts cost so much?" be upfront and transparent about your pricing. Explain what students get in return for their investment, such as access to daily classes, all facilities, and any other benefits.


9. Determine How You Will Make investments


If you want to make money for your martial arts gym, be specific about how you intend to use the funds. Determine what equipment you will purchase, what marketing campaigns you will launch, and how you will continue to improve the gym's facilities. Maintain a budget and set aside money for investing after you've paid your bills.


10. Focus on Continuous Improvement


Finally, the key to growing a successful martial arts business is to prioritize continuous improvement. Take student feedback and use it to improve your classes, facilities, and overall club experience. Maintain your focus on your students and their needs as you grow and evolve.


Try This at Your Gym


To help you implement these tips and grow your martial arts gym, try the following:


  • Create a clear and concise elevator pitch for your gym and practice delivering it with confidence and enthusiasm.
  • Develop a detailed persona of your ideal student and use it to tailor your marketing messages and class offerings.
  • Offer a free trial class or consultation to potential students

Interested in trying a martial arts class? Find an affiliated academy anywhere in the country by clicking here.

Have your own martial arts program? Get to know more about what we have to offer at 
Ground Standard Agency for helping martial arts businesses grow.

Email us at info@groundstandard.com, or call and text us at (732) 907-8920 today to learn how to start growing your own academy, school, dojo, or gym with us as well.

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