In short: you recognise a suitable martial arts school not by the nicest appearance but by seven things. Does the style fit your goal, is there a trial class, how are beginner groups organised, how is sparring handled, who trains you, what ties you to a contract, and do the times and the journey work for you? With these questions, finding a martial arts school that suits you becomes easier, and in Aachen you can check ours for yourself right away.
Finding a martial arts school: these seven questions help
Ask the questions before you sign up, by phone or in person. A good school answers them without detours.
1. Does the style fit your goal?
Do you want to get fit, be able to defend yourself, or compete? To get fit, classes without body contact are enough. For self-defence you need partner drills standing, at close range and on the ground. If you are unsure, start with the article which martial art suits you.
2. Is there a trial class?
Reputable schools let you train before you sign. Ask whether the trial class is free, whether it runs without a contract and whether more than one session is possible. With us you can train twice, free and without obligation.
3. How are beginner groups organised?
Ask whether beginners start in their own group or train with advanced students straight away. What matters is that every session starts with the basics and someone corrects your execution. With us you need no previous experience and no special fitness.
4. How is sparring handled?
Sparring is part of many classes, but it should never start without preparation. Ask from when and how controlled the sparring is. In our classes, sparring only comes in once you are ready technically and mentally.
5. Who trains you?
Look at the trainers. How long has the school existed, how long have the trainers been teaching? With us, Dai Sifu Reza Shouraki runs the school as owner and head trainer, and it has existed in Aachen since 1995. On the page About the school we introduce ourselves.
6. What does it cost, and how long does it tie you?
Ask for the monthly fee, term, cancellation, insurance and any grading fees, ideally in writing. Fees differ by group, for example for children, adults and the gym. Also ask about equipment you need in addition.
7. Do the times and the journey work?
The best school is no use if you cannot reach it regularly. Check the timetable and the journey after work or university. You will find our schedule in the timetable, and the school is at Jülicher Straße 216 in Aachen.
How to spot a bad sign
Anyone finding a martial arts school should also know the warning signs. Be careful if a school offers no trial class, pushes you towards a contract or dodges questions about sparring and injuries. Another warning sign is when beginners are expected to train at full intensity straight away. You recognise good training by clear structure and rules, and by trainers who respond to your pace.
How to check our school
If you want to find a martial arts school that suits you, the trial class is the quickest test. A session starts with at least 15 to 20 minutes of warm-up, followed by technique and partner drills, then, depending on the class, conditioning or controlled sparring, and finally stretching. At the end there is time for your questions. What to expect in your first session is explained in the article your first martial arts class.
You choose a class and book a slot in the booking calendar. Alternatively you can reach us by contact form, phone or WhatsApp.
Frequently asked questions about choosing a martial arts school
How many trial classes should I do?
To find the right martial arts school, do at least two trial classes, ideally at different schools. The first time everything is new; at the second session you see whether the group and trainer suit you. With us, two sessions are free.
Do I have to be fit before I sign up?
No. Fitness builds up in training. You set your own pace at the beginning, and the classes start with the basics.
Do I need my own equipment?
For the first session, sports clothing, a drink and indoor sports shoes or socks are enough. Gloves and protection are optional, and the equipment you need can be provided for your first session.
What should I look for with children?
Separate age groups, parents who are allowed to watch, and protective equipment. With us, children from age 3 train in separate groups.
How do I recognise a reputable school?
It states its terms openly, lets you train on a trial basis and does not pressure you. In a conversation on site you get all your questions answered.
