It has been a long time since I started as a beginner Tae Kwon Do student. Over the years I have learned about what is important to me in a Tae Kwon Do school or training facility (dojang) and have put together a short article on best practices you can use when screen Tae Kwon Do schools for the best and most appropriate place for you. I’ve met with several students who have found themselves years later wishing they had made other choices and I’m hoping to help you make a good, educated decision. You never know where you might be in the future — I never thought I’d still be training hard and teaching as a Fourth Dan (degree black belt) over a decade after I had begun.

1. What is the Philosophy and Goal of the School?

This is perhaps the most important question you can ask. What is the mentality in the school? Some want to fight. Others prefer forms and less fighting because they don’t wish to be hurt from aggressive physical contact. At SMS Tae Kwon Do, the emphasis is primarily on conditioning, forms and self-defense techniques. Sparring sessions do occur among the more active and physical students but they are not as emphasized as other schools, such as those advertising being MMA / Mixed Martial Arts training schools. And while you may not do as much fighting and sparring as other locations, you can be rest assured that you’ll be in top shape and have terrific form. Understanding the goals of the school or individual classes will help you make a decision as to whether a Dojang is the right place for you to reach your goals.

2. Research the Master of the Tae Kwon Do School

Understanding the master of a Tae Kwon Do school will usually help you set expectations as to how a school will be run and his or her philosophy. Many Tae Kwon Do masters are much about discipline, especially if they are Korean. The best Tae Kwon Do practitioners are those who exhibit great self-control.

Is the master reputable? Can you find out information about him or her online that might be helpful? Do you trust the Master and that he or she understands your goals and will help you reach them? How many years has the master been teaching? Does he or she train primarily adults or children? What are the policies for promotion? Answering all of these questions will help you set expectations.

3. Is the Tae Kwon Do School Kukkiwon Certified?

The Kukkiwon in Korea is the central location for official certification. If your Master is from Seoul, South Korea, chances are that he or she knows about the Kukkiwon and is certified. Your black belt achievements are recognized at any Tae Kown Do school. A problem many students discover later is that their achievements are only recognized by the school that provided the black belt. This can be disappointing so ask questions before you begin training.

4. Who are the Students?

Class chemistry is extremely important. Get a feel for the people who attend classes as well as their ages and genders. Forming a bond with others is what can draw you to make it to class even on days when you’re tired, lethargic or just not in the mood. If you don’t feel comfortable or have an inkling that you might not get along, you may not enjoy Tae Kwon Do classes. It’s also important to take note of the gender, ages and experience level of students.

While many women can participate well with men, the latter tend to be much more aggressive and may not realize the effects of their strength. It is a common and understandable complaint. Age can also play an important role. Is your body able to keep up with the demands of classes and will you recuperate the same as someone who may be 20 years your junior? If you’re the 40 year old in a class of 20 somethings, you may find yourself challenged to maintain the pace. And if you’re close to or have your black belt but classes are mostly run for beginners, you will probably become frustrated easily unless there is an advanced class which suits your needs.

5. Is the Location Sufficiently Convenient?

If getting to the school is a chore, you won’t feel compelled to go. It’s just like the gym. If your Tae Kwon Do “Dojang” or school is a hassle, you’ll find yourself missing classes. Unlike desk work, practicing at home is usually no substitute for in class training.