If you’re interested in training in the grappling arts, it’s important to have the peace of mind that you’re picking a good academy.

If you’re interested in training in the grappling arts, it’s important to have the peace of mind that you’re picking a good academy. Training in any martial art can sometimes be a lofty expense, so you have to do your homework. Still, how can you know for sure that you’re making the right choice?

Well—right off the bat—there’s the problem that what’s good for you isn’t necessarily what’s good for me. But with a little foresight and some research, we can make the right decision.

First off it’s important to know your reason for wanting to train.

Is it just to get in shape?

Self-defense?

Confidence?

Meet friends?

Fight professionally?

Different academies sometimes provide training more or less in line with each such goal. You wouldn’t want to join a ‘fight club’ if all you’re looking for is a calm class to get in shape.

Another thing to consider also is the type of training available at the academy you’re looking into. Some academies just grapple, others just practicing striking, and others may teach both. And this applies to children as well as adults. Look into the different styles, what they are, what’s different, and what people have to say about them. Don’t put your kid in Karate just because it’s what your neighbor’s kid does. There’s a whole world of martial arts out there.

After you’ve worked out your reason, there are just a few other things to keep in mind to help you easily find the right academy.

1. Referrals

Always a good place to start.

But remember, what’s a good fit for others won’t always be a good fit for you. And that’s why it’s important to take into account your reason for training and adding that to your search as well.

2. Governing Body Affiliation

(This is the most technical we’ll get on you)

In the martial arts (and sports as well) there are things called ‘governing bodies’ which are integral to organizing themselves as one, cohesive system. Not only do governing bodies provide things like curriculums or belt rankings for academies to follow, but they can also legitimize these academies as well. It’s important to note though, this will never guarantee the academy you choose is still a well-run academy. And likewise, many academies may not be associated with their main respective governing body; but this in no way means that an academy is not a good one.

3. Online Reviews

Now that we have some academies in mind through referrals and research, now we can see what strangers have to say about them. But beware, some old members may have qualms that are unwarranted. But the tone of the reviews in the majority usually portrays the academy most accurately.

4. Cleanliness

Nobody wants to catch something nasty. Make sure you see that the academy is being cleaned regularly (every day) to avoid getting any skin infections. Training does not, by any means have to be dirty. But a dirty training area is going to mean a dirty you.

5. Atmosphere

What’s it like when you walk in? Are people friendly? No strangers introduce themselves, or do the higher ranks just sort of averting their eyes? I can’t stress enough the importance of the atmosphere where you train. And if you want a really quick way to tell—look at the head instructor. The way he or she carries themself and treats their students is usually the way most will treat each other as they trickle down the ranks through the academy.

6. Introductory Class

Try one. Seriously. You can’t know what you like until you try it. So after all of your research, make a choice and go for it.

Another thing to consider also is the type of training available at the academy you’re looking into. Some academies only have one style, some have others as well. And when it comes to children’s classes, some academies mix theirs into more of an MMA style curriculum while others stay pure to a particular style. Look into the different styles, what they are, what’s different, and what people have to say about them. Don’t put your kid in Karate just because it’s what your neighbor’s kid does. There’s a whole world of martial arts out there.

This is nothing more than a simple guideline to start by, but armed with this knowledge we can make a more informed decision before we commit to any kind of training.

In the end, though, the decision lies in how at home you feel at your academy and with your teammates. And that’s something you’ll never find out unless you ultimately just try your first class.