Deciding to get into martial arts isn’t like joining other sports. When engaging in physical combat, there are multiple aspects to consider that go beyond simply picking up a sport such as baseball.

Martial arts require a deeper level of commitment, discipline, and personal development, and there’s always a risk of harm. Knowing how to choose a martial art is a multi-step process. To help you navigate your decision, consider these eight essential steps.

1. Figure Out Your Goals and Interests

Martial arts is a blanket term to define entire systems of combat arms defense. There are hundreds of options to choose from. When considering the question, “Which martial art is right for me,” it’s critical to start by identifying goals and interests. Consider the following: 

• Self-Defense: Specific disciplines of martial arts focus on practical techniques to defend yourself against an attacker in real-life situations such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or Krav Maga.
• Physical Health: Martial arts disciplines that require greater flexibility, dynamic movements, and cardiovascular training align better for improved physical health. Check out Capoeira, Taekwondo, or Karate. 
• Stress Relief: Tai Chi is a combat sport focusing on mindfulness and meditation. It can help individuals reduce stress and achieve inner peace. 
• Weaponry and Culture: For those interested in the artistry and historical significance of weaponry in martial arts, Kali, Eskrima, and Laido combine history, culture, and defense with a weapon. 

Remember that these goals and interests are not mutually exclusive, as many disciplines incorporate elements from each of these categories. Still, putting your goals and interests at the forefront will help narrow your journey of finding what is the best martial art for you. 

2. Research the Different Kinds of Martial Arts

Once armed with your goals and interests, it’s time to start researching different kinds of martial arts. Each martial art has its own unique heritage, philosophies, and techniques. Start your research based on the goals and interests identified in step one. 

Utilize online resources, read books, watch videos, or join group discussions to gain insight into different disciplines that align with your goals. During the research, pay attention to training methods, philosophies, and a style’s overall approach. 

Embrace the research as an opportunity to discover different cultural heritages or belief systems that are incorporated throughout different styles. Keep an open mind, as you might find yourself drawn to a martial art you had never considered before. 

The knowledge gained throughout research will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your own beliefs and goals, setting you on a rewarding path of personal growth during mastery. 

3. Visit Local Martial Arts Schools or Gyms

The next step of the decision-making process is to visit local martial arts schools or gyms. Visiting these places will provide you with firsthand experience and insights that go beyond what research can achieve. Call local schools and schedule a time for an in-person visit.

While you’re there, you can observe the training environment. Mastering martial arts requires a team effort, much like other sports. Observe how students interact with each other and gauge whether the atmosphere and teaching methods align with your personality and learning style. 

When visiting the martial arts school or gym, there are several key factors to look out for and questions to ask that can help you know how to choose a martial art. Take the opportunity to observe and ask the following:

• Look for a positive and supportive class atmosphere. 
• Check whether the school emphasizes safety during training. 
• Ask about class structure and curriculum. Are skill levels divided?
• Gain a clear understanding of the school’s values and philosophy.
• Ensure the class schedule aligns with your availability. 
• Seek the instructor’s qualifications, experience, and training background.

Learning a combat sport takes years of dedicated effort. Choosing the right gym is an integral part of the process. If possible, schedule multiple in-person visits to help you find the best martial arts school that aligns with your abilities and interests. 

4. Consider Your Physical Abilities and Preferences

Training in a martial arts discipline carries an inherent risk of injury. When choosing a martial art that also includes weaponry, the need to consider your physical abilities and preferences becomes critical. 

Weapons defense requires specific handling and calculated hand-eye coordination. Different weapons, such as swords, staffs, or sticks, demand quick reactions executed precisely. They also need a considerable amount of upper body strength and endurance. 

Weapon-based martial arts often have a beautiful artistic aspect to them. They can be pretty captivating to learn. However, they are a subset of martial arts that can make someone freeze in the moment. Therefore, being aware of any physical limitations is essential when deciding which martial art is right for you.

5. Check the Availability and Accessibility of the Martial Arts Class

According to the International Health Racquet (iHRSA), accessibility is the number one factor in long-term gym commitment. Many aspiring martial artists start their journey with enthusiasm and dedication but then fall short over long commutes or inconvenient class schedules. 

After a tiring day at work or dealing with other responsibilities, the thought of traveling to reach a gym can be discouraging, leading to missed classes and waning motivation. Similarly, if class schedules don’t align well with your daily routine, it can be difficult to maintain commitment. 

To ensure a successful martial arts regiment, finding a gym or school that offers convenience in terms of location, class schedules, and overall atmosphere is important. An easily accessible gym that fosters a sense of belonging and community dramatically increases the chances of long-term success. 

6. Ask for Guidance

One way to help you answer the question, “Which martial art is right for me,” is to ask others who have gone before you. Every martial artist started with the very same process you’re taking on now. Pick their brains and seek guidance from the following sources:

• Friends and Family: Ask friends and family participating in combat sports about their experiences. Find out what they enjoy the most about their style, and gain any advice they’d give a newcomer. 
• Martial Arts Instructors: Instructors are generally experts. Ask them about the nuances of different styles to help you understand what is the best martial art for you. 
• Online Forums: Many online platforms offer an opportunity to engage with virtual communities. Join one and use it to ask questions, gain insights, and learn from the experiences of others. 
• Local Martial Arts Schools: During your visit, take the opportunity to talk to current students and coaches. Engaging with students will help you understand their experiences and satisfaction with the gym. 

Don’t limit yourself to one source of information. Seeking guidance from multiple sources offers a more diverse perspective. Ultimately, deciding how to choose a martial art comes down to your unique preferences, interests, and goals. Still, it never hurts to gain insights from knowledgeable sources. 

7. Consider First Having a Trial Class

There’s no substitute for experience. Having a trial class before committing to a gym is a highly recommended step in the process. It allows you to “try it before you buy it.” You can check out the facility, get a feel for the atmosphere, and gauge your compatibility. 

A trial class allows you to sample the curriculum and training methods used by the martial arts school. It also allows you to interact with current students. Pay attention to whether you’re welcomed with open arms and observe the level of camaraderie between members. 

Participating in a trial class helps ease any nerves or uncertainties you might have. It’s an opportunity to build confidence and familiarity with the gym’s environment before making any commitments, so observe, ask questions, and always trust your instincts. 

8. Assess Whether You’d Like to do it on a Long-Term Basis

Mastering martial arts is a long-play game. It requires time and dedication to make progress. Think of it as a continuous process of learning. It’s essential to really consider whether you see yourself committing to it for the long haul. 

The journey of combat sports will have its challenges. Progress may not always be linear, and you might encounter setbacks along the way. Still, embracing the challenges with resilience and determination is part of the personal development process. 

It’s about pushing yourself and realizing what you’re truly capable of. So, ask yourself: Am I going to stick to it? Ultimately, martial arts becomes more than just a hobby or fitness routine. It becomes a passion – an integral part of who you are.

If you’re willing to invest in yourself, martial arts will reward you with invaluable experiences and personal growth far beyond the mat. 

What is Martial Arts?

Martial arts is a broad term that includes various systems of combat and self-defense practices. Throughout history, martial arts have played a significant role in cultural traditions, religious practices, and philosophical teachings. 

Many of the styles have rich backgrounds, carrying the wisdom of warriors from generations back. Today, martial arts continue to be a popular form of physical exercise, competition, self-defense, and a means of self-improvement. 

What Martial Arts Should I Learn?

When deciding which martial art to learn, start by exploring what truly interests you. There are countless systems from different cultures, each offering a unique set of techniques and philosophies. 

When you pick a style that excites you, you’re more likely to stay committed and motivated. Whether it’s the versatility of Kung Fu, the power of Muay Thai, or the discipline of Karate, finding joy in your practices makes the process more rewarding. 

What is the Best Martial Art?

Different martial arts have different strengths and focus, making them suitable for varying goals and interests. The evolution of martial arts has been driven by the quest to determine the best. Many modern styles of combat have been adapted from several ancient types. 

Consider your overall goals when answering this question. For example, Krav Maga or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu may be the best martial arts for self-defense. However, Karate or Muay Thai might be better choices if you want to improve your physical fitness. 

What is the Best Martial Art for Children to Learn?

Some martial arts are more suitable for younger children due to their focus on basic movements, discipline, and character development. Just like adults, the best martial art for children to learn will depend on their age, personality, physical abilities, and interests.

Popular choices for martial arts options for children include Karate, Taekwondo, and Judo. When it comes down to it, the best martial art for a child is one they enjoy. Find a reputable school that emphasizes a child-friendly experience with patient instructors. 

What are the Best Martial Arts of Self-Defense?

The best martial arts for self-defense focus on practical techniques, real-life scenarios, and effective strategies for keeping yourself safe in dangerous situations. Krav Maga and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu are two of the best martial arts for self-defense.

Krav Maga was developed for the Israeli Defense Forces. It emphasizes instinctive movements and threat-neutralization techniques. In comparison, BJJ is a grappling style martial art allowing practitioners to control and subdue opponents. 

Is Martial Arts the Best Form of Self-Defense? 

Martial arts can be an effective form of self-defense, but whether it’s the best depends on an individual’s skill, physical fitness, mental discipline, and the threat at hand. These factors contribute to an individual’s overall ability to protect themselves against a threat. 

Situational awareness, de-escalation skills, and understanding personal safety strategies are equally important to choosing the best martial art. Krav Maga stands out again as one of the most prominent styles incorporating situational training into the curriculum. 

Is it Easier to Learn Martial Arts with Weapons?

Learning martial arts with weapons has its advantages and challenges. While using a weapon extends your striking reach, it also requires enhanced focus and precision. Incorporating weapons into training requires more strict adherence to safety protocols. 

The learning curve for weapon forms can be steeper compared to unarmed techniques. Both unarmed and weapon defense offer valuable learning experiences, and the key to either approach lies in consistent practice, proper instruction, and dedication to honing your skills.