2. What About Costs?
Cost shouldn’t be the most important factor in your decision. Consider it according to your own priorities. Prices vary widely. You can pay as little as $35/quarter (3 months) at a college, which is considered extremely inexpensive. Or you could pay as much as $100/month at a commercial school, which is considered higher than average.
Some schools give you a price break if you pay in advance for several months. Some schools require you to sign a long-term contract to join, and some allow you to pay month to month.
Many schools charge an additional fee for each belt test. This fee may be different depending on rank. They might charge $15 for your first test, and $1,000 for your black belt test. Be sure to ask. Some schools require that you belong (and therefore pay dues to) a worldwide organization. When inquiring about costs, be sure to ask about all costs.
You will probably have to buy an appropriate uniform or two. Uniforms vary with the school, but don’t be surprised if you have to pay $60 or more. You may also need to purchase other equipment, such as sparring gear/pads, training weapons, etc. depending on the school and/or style.
A lot of schools will let beginners get by without a uniform for a while at first; be sure to ask. In the interim your attire should be comfortable, secure, and modest. It’s prudent to avoid wearing your favorite florescent orange aerobic/dance skins, or your prize-winning swim wear. Plain old loose fitting sweats are often the best.
Some arts just inherently have a higher equipment cost associated with them. Kendo may be the most expensive because of all the armor needed to practice safely. You may think that Sumo is the cheapest since they don’t wear very much, but don’t forget the cost of all that food!
Many schools participate in or conduct tournaments. The cost for you to go to a tournament can range from $50 – $150 plus any travel expenses that you might incur. This can really add up over a years time so be sure to ask about tournaments.
You should also be aware that some schools may try to rip you off. This is not the norm, but it does happen. If you get a high-pressure sales pitch and you feel like you’re being hustled, just walk out. As with any business deal, the rule is caveat emptor – let the buyer beware.
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Summary of Potential Costs:
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• Tuition • Association Fees • Testing Fees • Uniform(s) • Patches • Sparring or other equipment • Student Manual • Tournaments |