To do anything well, you must have only two things: Technical know-how, and the right tools. In our previous chapter we discussed the beginner and intermediate curriculum, (which serves as know how) and in this chapter we will pair with the right tools: Defining the classic tools of shadow boxing, bag work, pad work and hand to hand modalities drive the appropriate skill sets and how to speak symmetrically: that the purpose of the modality matches the student attention.

Success’ is not random. It is the outcome of a design, habits, and standards. A martial art school is no different. A successful school with plenty of students is essentially a large amount of people saying the same thing, every day for a long time: “I love those classes and need to have them in my life”. This may sound like a tall task to fulfill (and it is), but this is the job. If you have a method in place to ensure all your classes are great, then this task is not tall at all, but rather very simple.

Students should happily stay, pay and refer because the outcomes of staying are good for them. The challenge for the instructor is to have a process that delivers such outcomes to a group of people, consistently over time. Central to this is to have a map. Something that outlines basic learning goals for someone to progress towards and have a destination for their improvement.

We can wear many hats as school owners; most of which are unnecessary. These are the only 4 hats you need to wear.

Being a Martial Art instructor is about understanding that the body we are training houses a mind, and a heart—faculties that may be in a much different state than what the body presents. Understanding the power of ‘recreation’ is key.