How to Learn Martial Arts as An Adult

So you want to learn martial arts as an adult? You think you can jump sidekick or spin roundhouse kick into a split after watching Cobra Kai or Shang Chi? Right?

It’s not too late to learn a martial art, like Tai Chi, Wu Shu, Muy Thai, Judo, Karate, or Taekwondo! No matter your age, you can learn. Studio memberships aren’t just for kids.

I’ll tell you how I did it since I paid my own way to learn martial arts.

Step #1: Decide Which Martial Art You Want to Try First

There are so many kinds of martial arts and places where they were developed. From Israel to Nigeria to the Philippines to China, Brazil, Thailand, South Korea, and Japan, it’s everywhere. Some martial arts mix martial arts styles, use grappling and weapons or do traditional Shaolin moves. Start with what you think you’ll like. The agility and flexibility of Taekwondo appealed to me. Based on Karate and Shaolin Kung Fu, it incorporates the acrobatics of Kung Fu and rigid formations of Karate. Here are some martial arts you might be interested in if you want to learn martial arts as an adult: 

Step #2: Make a Detailed List of Dojos, Dojangs, and Studios in Your Area

Okay, so Google Maps is your best friend here if you want to learn martial arts as an adult. Put “Taekwondo studios” in “(Your City)” or “Karate dojos” in “(Your City)” on Google Maps. You can save them to a list in Google Maps and call them later. You can see photos of their classes, what they specialize in, and who the teachers are on their website and social media.  

Step #3: Take a Trial Adult Class and Ask These Questions

If you’ve found a few places, email or call them for a trial class. There are a lot of places that offer free classes or a free week. Don’t just join anywhere since most martial arts studios require you to sign a contract. Don’t sign anything you’re not sure about.   

Here are some questions you should ask (you can tailor this to fit the martial arts style):

1. How much does a trial month cost?
2. Are you able to provide one?
3. Are (insert previous colour belts attained, i.e. yellow) belts grandfathered under the WTF (or other) system?
4. What is the cost of training at least three times per week?
5. Is there a monthly or yearly contract? Is it possible to pay on a monthly basis?
6. How do you handle cancellations?
7. Do you encourage your students to participate in competitions? Are you involved in tournaments?
8. Are there any leadership programs for black belts? Can black belts instruct or assist with instruction?
9. Can you tell me who teaches the classes? Are there any classes taught by the Grandmaster? What is the level of experience and how many years have they been in the position?
10. Do you host special workshops or invite guest instructors to speak?
11. How much does it cost to test for colour belts and black belts?
12. What is the cost of your uniform and equipment package?
13. How is the contract handled if there is one? Is it handled by the school or by the billing company?
14. What is the content of the curriculum? Does it consist solely of physical practice, or does it incorporate self-defence and other principles as well?
15. During what hours is the school/instructor available to answer questions or address concerns?
16. Is full-contact training a part of your training program?
17. Are there any special events (e.g., holidays) or other social activities for students to bond?

Step #4: Schedule Your Classes on A Calendar and Go At Least Once a Week

Now that you’ve met the teachers, watched a class from the sidelines, and participated in a class, it’s time to show up. Being an adult and practicing martial arts is tough. It takes a lot of time. If you want to make progress, you should come to class at least once a week, then work your way up to three. Being able to do it every day is awesome, but be careful not to burn out. It’s a thing.  

Step #5: Be a Beginner and Adopt a Growth Mindset

Observing yourself in the mirror or watching yourself on video may reveal that you’re not as good as you think you are. Martial arts is a lot about technique, but also about aesthetics. When you’re a black belt or at an advanced level, you refine your technique. Before then, let yourself suck and be amazed at how incompetent you are. Being an adult and learning from kids who are so much better than you is really humbling.  

Step #6: Make Short and Long-Term Goals for Your Martial Arts (Here are Some Ideas)

I’m thinking about taking a break now that I’ve gotten my black belt, just to prioritize a few other things. I can’t imagine life without martial arts. I’d feel terrible if I stopped forever, but yeah, you get burned out after a while. My aspirations post-black belt are mastering a weapon, competing as an adult, and improving my kicks and poomsae (Taekwondo patterns). Passing your test or learning a new trick can be your short-term goal. Your long-term skills can include sharpening and polishing your movements, participating in competitions, and learning a weapon. Tricks, stunts, and teaching are also long-term goals.  

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Bonus #1: Consider Private Lessons

Try a small dojo or get some private lessons if you want to advance fast and learn martial arts as an adult. If you’re really dedicated and have the space, you can practice at home.  

Bonus #2: Celebrate Your Goals with Cake!

This major milestone in my life definitely deserved a cake from Kyumi Cakes!  

Bonus #3: Keep Motivated and Learn New Things by Following Martial Artists on Social Media

I love following other martial artists. I wish there were more martial arts YouTubers, but there are plenty on TikTok and Instagram. Here are some I follow that you might like:  

Finding the right studio and teachers is the most critical thing. I can't stress enough how critical that is. I had to try two schools before I found one I liked. You'll get demotivated if it's too far away. Or, if your teacher's personality is...demeaning. If the class times aren't convenient for your work schedule, it won't work either. Setting yourself up for success means taking into account class times, the teacher's personality, and the location.  

So, you’ve decided you want to learn martial arts as an adult, but which one do you want to learn exactly? Let me know in the comments below.