Martial Arts Instructor Career

Martial arts is a form of self defense, but it is also often practiced to develop coordination, confidence and to cultivate the mental and spiritual aspects of the performer. Have you been practicing karate, Kung Fu, judo, or Tae Kwon Do for a long time and it is your dream to teach the discipline to others? You can become a martial arts instructor. You don’t have to have a high educational attainment to teach the discipline. Years of practice is the usual qualification. A black belt might be required to teach in established schools.

But while skills and solid foundation on the arts are the basic requirements for a teaching career, they are not the only requirements to become a good teacher. One must also have good communication skills and confidence to be able to deliver the lesson and execute kicking and blocking techniques to a class. To augment your qualifications, you can enrol and get certification in physical education teaching. You can also get certifications from recognised martial arts associations like the American Taekwondo Association.

To gain experience in teaching, you can apply as martial arts instructor in self-defense schools, health clubs, gyms, recreation centers, and community centers. Usually, you’d be employed as a part-time teacher and get paid by the hour. This is the best way to continue to develop your craft for a pay. Another advantage of starting as a teacher in an established institution is you can use your experience to support an independent practice later. And you don’t get to rent or lease a space to perform classes. Later, if you have established your name as “master” not only in the field of martial arts, but also in teaching, you can open your own studio.

If you want to start a private practice and you want to get your services known, you can offer free or “discounted” introductory lessons. Or give free demonstrations in schools where most of your students may come from. When marketing your services, remember that usually they’d be attracted more by your ability to relate to them rather than by your awards and trophies. What you know would not matter if you cannot impart your skills and knowledge. Also, a large part of becoming a successful martial arts instructor is to enjoy what you are doing and help your student feel the same. This, while emphasizing that to be skilled in the arts, patience, perseverance and years of practice are needed.