If you’re looking for Martial Arts Clubs in Crawley you might be surprised to know there’s a very diverse array of clubs around the area.
More than you see advertised and many more than you’ll find on a simple “Google” search.
From the Chinese Arts (Kung Fu Schools and Styles) like Wing Chun, Preying Mantis, Japanese Arts like Judo, Karate, Ju Jitsu and Ninjitsu through to the more modern combat sports and self-defence systems.
Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Western Boxing and Submission Wrestling. Arts made popular by events like the UFC and through the Mixed Martial Art (MMA arena). And there are plenty of others styles tucked away in Crawley’s school halls, at the K2 Leisure Centre and at Tilgate Huts where we were once based.
There are loads to choose from… so where do you start?
Picking the Right Martial Arts Club
First is it for you? Or is it for your kids?
If it’s for you the biggest and most important question is why do you want to start training? Is it for fitness, to learn self-defence or master a martial art? Are you looking to complete, earn your Black Belt or — maybe — it’s just something you always wanted to do but never got ’round to?
If fitness is your primary concern then a sports based martial art should be a priority. Ideally an art with a competitive element (even if you don’t intend to compete) simply because they will push members to train hard, work up a sweat and get in great shape. Even if you don’t want to compete you’ll be training as hard as those who do and reap all the rewards without any of the pressure!
For self-defence, perhaps a traditional or simple style. Wing Chun is a practical style of Kung Fu taught in Crawley or perhaps look into one of the styles tried and tested in the ring and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) arena. Muay Thai for the punches, kicks, knees and elbows, Boxing for the hand-speed and physcial condition and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) for the grappling and ground side to things. Many self-defence experts say 90% of fights go to the ground… so the ground game should be part of your arsenal.
And if you just want an interesting hobby with a philosophical edge then a more traditional route is likely to be your best bet. Don’t necessarily count on the art for self-defence or expect extreme physical fitness but the roots of many more traditional arts are deeply embedded in Eastern religious philosophies. One of the exceptions being Muay Thai which has strong roots Buddhism with each and every fighter performing a ritual showing thanks and respect to their parents and teachers before fighting.
Choosing a Kids Martial Arts Class
The first question is and always will be your child’s safety. The environment they’re in, the techniques they will be learning and — of course — the instructors teaching them.
So choosing a professionally run martial arts school with friendly gym or club that encourages parents to watch classes is paramount.
