I've been asked countless times how a new student to martial arts can tell whether the instructor or school they are considering for both warrior and philosopher training is legitimate or some kind of scam. When you are new to martial arts or philosophy, it can be difficult to determine the quality of instruction available.

To be sure, there are scams out there. People claiming to have credentials they do not have, long-term, expensive contract commitments before you really know if the school and style are right for you, schools that may not be here in six months. All of these should be avoided.

The question is, how can you tell the good from the bad? Here are some things you can do to get started.

Start by looking at their premises, including their website. Are they clean, well-ordered and maintained? Stay away from schools that appear run down or neglected. Also, see if their written materials discuss the Warrior-Philosopher concept intelligently.

Check their references and reputation. If they don't list any, ask for some. Naturally, any reluctance to give you references should be a red flag.

Watch a few classes being taught. The instructor should have no problem allowing you to observe some classes. While you watch, see how well the students are treated and encouraged. Stay away from schools that treat their students poorly. See if time is devoted to both warrior and philosopher skills. See if the style being taught feels right for you.

Both Warrior and Philosopher Skills

Ask what personal security skills are taught along with the martial skills. This is important and often overlooked. Most martial arts skills are illegal, unless you are being attacked. That is to say, you can't walk up to someone and start using these techniques, or you'll be arrested for assault! You want to be certain you or your children are also being taught skills that can reduce conflict and promote cooperation and personal success.

Creating Safe Space

Along these same lines, I think it's important to ask whether the students are taught to fight when confronted, or to avoid violence. Most instructors will tell you they teach their students to avoid violence. Ask how many hours a week are devoted to fighting skills and how many hours a week are devoted to skills in creating safe space. Most schools teach almost no skills at all for avoiding or defusing conflictive situations. You want a school that teaches beyond fighting skills.

Life skills should be taught along with martial skills. While learning the discipline, persistence and structure that go with most martial arts systems, look for skills such as personal goal setting, problem solving and personal growth. Combining these with martial arts is a natural fit and creates a more well-rounded experience.

There should be certificates on their walls. If they have certificates, write down the names of the organizations and people who signed them. You can then Google those to see if they are real, and if they are, you can contact them to ask their opinion of the school or instructor in question.

Match the school to your personal preferences. You're looking for a good "fit". If you are a highly competitive person, get with a competitive school. If you are more inclined to harmony and peace, find a school that promotes that in its approach and style.

Lastly, regardless of which school or style you go with, continue to monitor your progress and how happy you or your children are with the experience.  Life is short, make sure you are enjoying it.

    ~ Dr. Jim Samuels, Grandmaster of Martial Arts Philosophy