While visitors are checking out this site on self-defense, many will be interested in furthering their studies. For some this means finding a course offered by your local police department or parks and recreation. For others it will be at a formal martial arts school. I say "formal" not meaning in a stuffy environment, but formal in the sense of studying in an established school with a defined curriculum.

A defined curriculum is important because the study of an unarmed art encompasses a variety of strategies and techniques which cannot be learned in one session. The curriculum, to be effective, must be comprehensive yet must be graduated so new skills build and strengthen previously-learned skills.

But which school or self-defense course to join? A quick look in any yellow pages reveals a number of schools with very strange and difficult to pronounce names. So now what?

Is it self-defense, fitness or competition? Many schools offer these in varying degrees, but some specialize in some areas more than others.

Some schools concentrate on the sporting aspects and are heavily involved in tournament competition. A large display of trophies and announcements or flyers on upcoming area tournaments would be signs indicating this concentration.

Some schools emphasize the spiritual aspects of karate and are usually concerned with the perfection of technique and the honing of the human spirit. A minimalistic look and an emphasis on Oriental terms, traditional uniforms and correct etiquette are signs of this emphasis.

Some schools emphasize the self-defense aspects and are often looked at as "fighting schools". The best of these schools blend the most effective strategies and techniques from many styles. Some of these schools attract the best, brightest and most progressive martial artists and can offer very, very advanced training in fighting and self-defense. However, the worst of these schools shortchange their students by teaching them a hodge-podge of fighting techniques without a solid foundation. One thing to look for here -- if the school doesn't have a large, padded deck, it probably does very little throwing and grappling training, a sure sign that you won't get realistic and effective self-defense training.

If you want to stick with your training, it makes sense to find a school that will be convenient to attend.

However, be aware that attending the school that you like and is right for you is the most important aspect. It will be worth it, even if you have to drive a few extra minutes to get there.

Be wary of school that only offer "private" instruction in little cubicles. it is difficult to gauge the type of progress you are making if you cannot see your fellow classmates performing the same techniques. In addition, one of the most beneficial aspects of studying in a school is the variety of body types and skill levels of the other students with which you will be working.

These are the people whom you will rely on for your knowledge.

Do they seem genuinely concerned with students' progress? Watch out for instructors who feed their own egos by brutalizing students. You should look forward to class, not have to endure it.

Also, does the instructor communicate in a style which works for you? Avoid instructors who use sticks to smack, poke or prod students into "understanding" a complicated technique.

You'll be surprised how many people are studying, or have studied, the martial arts or have taken a self-defense course. Ask around and see which schools they recommend. Conversely, you might also find out which schools to avoid. Also you might ask your local police resource officer.

Avoid schools which ascribe to the "no pain, no gain" theory. If you are injured, you can't train. If you can't train, you can't improve.

Look for a controlled environment and the use of padded safety equipment.

After you've shopped around, take the plunge and start studying -- you'll love it! You'll look better, feel better and begin performing better in all areas of your life.

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