Because no two dojo’s are the same, and no two instructors are the same, it pays the new martial art student to shop around. Although access to a certain style will be limited in less populated areas (towns versus cities, for instance), choosing the right dojo is critical if the student is going to both learn and enjoy a martial art. So what are the main considerations a new student should think about before deciding on a dojo?
The Right Sensei
For most students the instructor (sensei) is the most important aspect of their learning period. A good instructor will make each class both challenging and enjoyable. The new student should observe how the sensei interacts with his/her students. For instance: is the interaction light and friendly or just undisciplined? Is the level of force appropriate? After a demonstration, do students looked puzzled? Was the sensei friendly and available after class? These are just a few of the tell-tale signs of a good instructor.
The new student should visit a number of dojo’s to watch some classes in action, remembering that one class alone should not be used as an example of a dojo or the instructor (the new student may see only punches and kicks at the time of visiting a Ju-Jitsu dojo, but the dojo may only do this once every six months!). Watching a class to decide on a dojo is not about learning the techniques, but rather is the style of teaching and atmosphere something the new student could benefit from?
Waiting List
Most popular dojo’s will have a waiting list (depending to a certain extent on the location, if it’s the only dojo for 300 miles, there should be a waiting list!). Waiting lists indicate that the dojo and the instructors are popular; they will have earned their popularity by meeting the expectations of their students.
Grading
Another important aspect of choosing a dojo is how does the grading system work. For instance, at the two extremes, one dojo/instructor will ‘give’ belts when he feels the student has earned it, and another will grade every student at set periods having adhered to a set syllabus (students should steer-clear of the first type).
All of the major martial arts have set syllabi and, although there may be some variations, the core techniques will be the same from dojo to dojo. If a student has already practiced a different style before approaching a new dojo, it will be at the discretion of the senior instructor whether or not the student retains his previously obtained grade/belt. If the new dojo and the previous dojo are both members of an association or federation (World Ju-Jitsu Federation, for instance), a student who is in good standing would most likely be allowed to keep their grade or belt.
Appearance
The appearance of a dojo can play a part in the selection process, but the student most remember that an old building with little sign of a recent redecoration, does not imply neglect; it may be for historical reasons. By the same token, a brand new building with new mats may be because the instructor is just starting out and has little experience. Irrespective of the decor, a well organized dojo with clear signs and directions will indicate a well organized thoughtful sensei.
As previously mentioned, choosing a dojo also means choosing an instructor. Talking to existing students will elicit how they enjoy both the instruction, and the particular style. However, one of the most telling aspects of a martial arts dojo is the respect level. Respect is given and earned throughout martial arts, if a dojo shows respect to a new student, it is likely that it will be carried through to all who participate.
John Glimmerveen - John Glimmerveen is a freelance writer and author specializing in automotive, motorcycle, and motorsports subjects. In addition, John is ...
