Your Sensei and Dojo Need You

You develop a bond with your martial arts school after a few months or even years of training. It becomes your second home, a place of growth, challenge, and camaraderie. Supporting your school goes beyond just attending classes; it involves active participation in its community and contributing to its success. Here’s how you can help your dojo thrive and remain strong:

Show Up Consistently

Consistency is key in martial arts training. Regular attendance improves your skills and fosters a stable training environment. Your presence contributes to the collective energy of the class, motivating both peers and instructors.

Financial Support

Paying your tuition dues and purchasing supplies is fundamental. These contributions help cover operational costs, equipment maintenance, and instructor salaries. By fulfilling your financial obligations promptly, you ensure the dojo can continue providing quality training and facilities.

Bring in New Students

Referring new students is one of the most impactful ways to support your school. A steady influx of new members keeps the dojo vibrant and operational. Encourage your friends, family, and colleagues to join. Share your positive experiences and the benefits you’ve gained from training. Referrals often lead to committed students who trust the school from the outset.

Share Your Enthusiasm

Become an evangelist for your school. Your passion and belief in the training can inspire others. Speak proudly about your dojo, the instructors, and your journey. This contagious enthusiasm helps build a strong, supportive community around the dojo.

Respect and Acknowledge Your Instructors

Respect for your instructors and their teachings is paramount. Acknowledge their efforts by demonstrating good etiquette, following dojo rules, and showing gratitude. When you bring new students, it reflects your trust and appreciation for the instructor’s guidance. This mutual respect strengthens the bond between students and instructors.

Volunteer and Participate

Offer to help with events, clean-ups, or administrative tasks. Volunteering your time and skills shows your commitment to the dojo’s well-being. Participating in school events, seminars, and competitions also boosts the dojo’s profile and fosters a sense of community.

Provide Constructive Feedback

Instructors value feedback as it helps improve the training experience. Share your thoughts respectfully and constructively. Whether it’s about class structure, teaching methods, or facility improvements, your input can lead to positive changes that benefit everyone.

Wear Your School’s Gear

Wearing dojo-branded apparel not only shows school spirit but also serves as a marketing tool. When you wear your school’s gear outside the dojo, you help spread awareness and pique interest among potential new students.

Engage in Social Media

Follow your dojo’s social media pages, like and share their posts, and leave positive reviews. Social media is a powerful tool for attracting new students and building an online community. Your engagement helps increase the school’s visibility and reach.

Be a Role Model

Lead by example in and out of the dojo. Display martial arts values, such as discipline, respect, and perseverance, in your daily life. Your behavior reflects on your school and can influence others positively.

Conclusion

Supporting your martial arts school is about more than just financial contributions. It’s about being an active, engaged member of the community. By referring new students, showing enthusiasm, respecting your instructors, volunteering, and engaging on social media, you contribute to the dojo’s growth and success. Remember, a dojo is nothing without its students. Your support and involvement are crucial in making your martial arts school a thriving, dynamic place for everyone. Make your instructor proud and be a pillar of your martial arts community.

Author

  • Bryan Bagnas

    Master and Founder of Golden Leopard Kempo Martial Arts School, teaching Philippine Combatives, Karazenpo Go Shinjutsu, Combat Kickboxing, Hawaiian Shaolin Kempo, and Self-Defense to San Diego students for over three decades.

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