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Most martial arts schools offer a free first class or a short trial. It is your best chance to judge a school before you commit money, and it is easy to come away remembering only that your child had fun. This checklist helps you notice the things that matter. Print it, or keep it open on your phone.
Watch during the class
- Does the instructor know the children’s names and speak to them warmly?
- Are children moving most of the time, or standing in long lines?
- Are instructions short, clear and demonstrated?
- How are mistakes corrected: calmly and specifically, or with shouting and embarrassment?
- Is there a proper warm-up?
- Are partners matched by size, age and experience?
- How many instructors and assistants are on the mat for the number of children?
- Are the mats, changing area and bathrooms clean?
- How do the higher belts look? Sloppy advanced students suggest belts come too easily.
- Is your child included and encouraged, especially if shy?
- How does your child feel afterward? Ask them on the drive home.
Ask about instructors and safety
- Who will usually teach my child, and what is their experience with children?
- Are instructors background-checked and trained in first aid?
- How big are the classes at the time we would come?
- When do children start sparring or live practice, how hard is it, and is head contact allowed?
- What protective gear is required, and must it be bought from the school?
- What happens if a child gets hurt or takes a knock to the head?
Ask about belts and progress
- How often do children test, and what does each test cost?
- How long does a junior black belt usually take?
- Can a child fail a test, and what happens if they are not ready?
Ask about cost and contracts
- What is the total cost for the first year, including sign-up, testing, uniform and gear?
- Is there a month-to-month option, and how long is the shortest contract?
- How do cancellation and freezing work if my child is injured, loses interest or we move?
- Are there upgrades such as a black belt club, and when are they usually offered?
- Can I take the contract home to read before signing?
Red flags
Be cautious if you are pressed to sign today, offered a discount that expires at the end of the visit, promised a black belt by a fixed date, refused a written price list, or told you cannot watch classes. Our guide to spotting a McDojo lists more warning signs, and black belt clubs and upsells explains the most common add-ons.
After the trial
Compare your notes across schools, check the total yearly cost with our cost calculator, and let your child’s enthusiasm be one big factor among several. For more on choosing, see how to choose a martial arts school.
Questions parents and students ask
What should I look for in a martial arts trial class?
Watch how the instructor speaks to children, whether kids are moving and engaged, how safely partners are matched, and how the advanced students look. Notice how your child feels afterward. Then ask about costs and contracts before signing anything.
Should I sign up on the first day?
No. Take the price sheet and contract home, compare schools and read the terms carefully. Pressure to sign immediately, especially with a discount that expires today, is a common warning sign.
How many trial classes should we do?
One or two at each school you are considering is usually enough. Many schools offer a free first class or a short paid trial period; ask for one at your top two choices.
