What is the best martial art to take?

How effective is a martial art?

What makes any Martial Art better than another?

How do I find what is right for me?


These are very good questions, and we deserve to find the best Martial Art that will fit within our specific abilities. I would like very much to tell you that Shizen-Ryu Aiki-Jujutsu is the greatest Martial Art in the world today! Unfortunately, if I did, I wouldn't be honest. So I will explain what has been taught to me, and hope that you can find your answer somewhere within this explanation.



I happen to believe that Shizen-Ryu Aiki-Jujutsu is one of the best Martial Arts in existence but that is a very one sided view.  No matter what Martial Art you decide to practice, it is essential to keep an open mind to techniques not covered by the Martial Art you have chosen.



Also, understand that no two Martial Arts are alike... if they were were, the choice would be easy! You would go to the nearest school and learn! The fact is, that not 1, but 4 major factors influence most any art.

 

Style

Origin
Era
Instructor



Once you've decided that you want to take Martial Arts, begin by visiting as many of the schools in your area as possible. Any credible instructor will allow you to come and observe classes, at almost anytime. If they don't, or if they require you to pay for an introductory lesson, then something is wrong! Start looking for another school as quickly as possible. Anyone whose credentials are honest will welcome you almost anytime to come and watch.  



There are really no mystical, magical, secretive, hidden techniques that can only be shown to a student under a full moon in the third year of training! Trust this.. there are variations of techniques, but to anyone who has been in the arts long enough... no secrets!



After taking the time to see a number of styles, choose one whose instructors seem dedicated and interested in their students' well being. Also try to choose an art that you feel is both practical, and effective. Don't be afraid to ask if you could have an introductory lesson, or if you might be able to pay a small fee for an introduction to try that particular martial art. And lastly don't make an immediate decision, or be pressured into one. Take a few days to mull it over.



Many schools also get you on the quarterly, semi-annual, or yearly plans. Considering that most people who begin taking a martial art, drop out, these payment plans are solely for the benefit of the school, not the student.

Also find out what addiional costs are expected... for example:

Testing costs, new belt costs, tournament costs, promotion costs... etc.



From this point on it's up to you!



BUT REMEMBER if you join a dojo and aren't satisfied, don't give up... Pack up your gi and keep looking. There is something out there for everyone.



There is no secret, no short cut, and no easy path. If you want to learn, please, by all means come join us. We are slow... we are repetitious; we are traditional, and honest in our approach. Most of all, if your are honest in you desire to learn, we welcome you.