Running a dojo is challenging, but it’s worth it when you witness your pupils improving and achieving their objectives. If you’re thinking of opening your dojo or just starting and are finding it difficult to attract new students, here are some steps you can follow to get started.
Step 1: Find a great location for your dojo
Before you can open your doors to students, you need to find a suitable location for your dojo. Look for a space with enough parking, is easily accessible by public transportation, and is located in a safe area. This will make it easier for students to get to your class, and you won’t have to worry about them getting home safely after class.
Of course, location is vital to all businesses. This means that you’ll need to do some research on your potential students and find out where they live, work, and play. Once you have a good idea of where your students will be coming from, you can start looking for locations that fit your needs.
Step 2: Handle the business side of your dojo
Now that you’ve found the perfect location for your dojo, it’s time to take care of the business side of things. This includes everything from registering your business with the government to getting insurance. If you’re not familiar with the process of starting a business, it’s a good idea to consult with an accountant or lawyer.
They can help you take care of all the bureaucratic details and ensure that your dojo complies with all the laws and regulations. You should also get martial arts liability insurance to protect yourself and your students in the event of an accident. This will help your students and their parents feel more comfortable enrolling in your classes.
Step 3: Decide on the atmosphere of your dojo
It’s not enough to just have ample space, though. You also need to think about the atmosphere of your dojo. Will you have a traditional feel with tatami mats and hanging scrolls? Or, will you go for a more modern look with sleek furniture and bright colors?
The atmosphere of your dojo will set the tone for your classes. If you’re looking to attract new students, it’s crucial to choose a style that will appeal to them. You may also want to consider what type of training you will be offering. There are many styles of karate, so you’ll need to decide which one you want to focus on.
Step 4: Equip your dojo with the necessary equipment
Now that you’ve decided on the style of your dojo, it’s time to start equipping it with the required gear. This will include a training area, weapons racks, and a changing room. Depending on your dojo’s style, you may also need things like tatami mats, a bokken (wooden sword), and a dojo banner.
Don’t forget that you’ll also need a desk and chair for your sensei to sit at during class. Be sure to have plenty of space to store all of this equipment, too. Having the proper equipment is essential to running a successful dojo. Without it, you’ll be unable to offer your students the training they need.
Step 5: Start spreading the word about your dojo
Once your dojo is up and running, it’s time to start promoting it. This can be done in many ways, but some of the most effective methods include word-of-mouth, fliers, and social media. And of course, don’t forget to list your dojo in the local phone book!
When it comes to promoting your dojo, it’s essential to be creative. You want your students to be excited about coming to class, so make sure you’re offering something they can’t get anywhere else. If you put in the effort, you’re sure to see results. Spreading the word about your dojo is essential to its success.
Step 6: Attract new students to your dojo
Now that you’ve started promoting your dojo, it’s time to start attracting new students. One of the best ways to do this is by holding a free trial class. This will give potential students a chance to see what your dojo is all about and decide if they want to enroll.
You can also attract new students by offering them discounts on classes or membership fees. And don’t forget to put up flyers in local businesses and post information about your dojo on social media. If you market your dojo correctly, you’ll start seeing new students trickle in.
Step 7: Keep your students coming back
Once you’ve attracted new students to your dojo, it’s essential to keep them coming back. One way to do this is by offering them a variety of classes that appeal to different interests. You can also hold special events like tournaments and martial arts demonstrations.
And don’t forget to keep your sensei’s classes interesting by changing the routine occasionally. This will help keep your students from getting bored and encourage them to keep coming back.
Running a dojo can be a lot of work, but it’s worth it when you see your students progressing and achieving their goals. By following these simple steps, you’ll be on your way to opening a successful dojo.
