Studying the martial arts is a challenging undertaking. It requires determination, practice and hard work. Kung fu is a category of traditional Chinese martial arts styles that emphasize training through patterns of techniques called forms. Other martial arts come from Korea, Japan, Southeast Asia, Europe and America, but all of them share characteristics that make progressing in them a relatively similar process.
Find an Instructor
Step 1
Compile a list of available schools in your area. Your city's parks and recreation department may offer classes, or you can find studios online.
Step 2
Divide available schools by their styles and determine which style best suits your needs and inclination.
Step 3
Visit your top instructor choices for a trial lesson. Remember that the quality of the instructor is often more important for your success than the style taught. Based upon your research and visits, decide on an instructor.
Establish Your Training
Step 1
Set aside time for at least two to three classes per week. Regular attendance is crucial to your success, and the key to regular attendance is committing to your training. Telling family or friends what your schedule is so they know when you'll be training and thus unavailable is a good way to avoid distractions. Getting a friend to train with you can help both of you stay motivated and on track.
Step 2
Schedule regular practice time; regular private practice is critical to improving the techniques learned in your school. Set aside two to three hours per week and stick to your schedule.
Step 3
Perform regular self-evaluations and focus on improving weaknesses, not strengths. There is a tendency to ignore aspects of an art that a student is weak at; you will make better overall progress if you train hard to improve the areas in which you struggle.
Step 4
Focus on testable material when you are trying to achieve your next belt or level of advancement, but don't be afraid to dig into aspects of the art that are not necessarily tested. For example, if you are going to be tested on the technical execution of a form but not its application, don't hesitate to practice applications as well. A better understanding of the form will improve your performance and better your art overall, even if it isn't on your test.
References
- "Tao of Jeet Kune Do"; Bruce Lee; 1975
- "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Martial Arts"; Cezar Borkowski and Marion Manzo; 1999
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