When someone joins a martial arts club, they’re often stepping out of their comfort zone. Many new students feel nervous or unsure of how to navigate the environment, which can hinder their progress and even lead to them not returning.
As a martial arts club owner or instructor, fostering an inclusive, supportive atmosphere can transform these first experiences into a strong, lasting relationship with your facility.
Why does this matter? Because new student retention directly impacts your bottom line. High retention rates mean a more predictable income, better referrals, and more positive reviews. When students feel comfortable and confident, they’re more likely to stick with their martial arts journey – and with your dojo. Making new students feel at home isn’t just good customer service; it’s a smart business strategy.
Here are three essential strategies to help your new students feel at ease in those first few weeks and ensure they remain long-term members of your martial arts club.
Create a Warm and Welcoming Onboarding Experience
Many people are intimidated by the idea of joining a martial arts club, especially if they’re new to the sport in general. A structured onboarding process will reduce their anxiety, help them understand the environment, and build trust with your team.
Once they’ve joined, send them a welcome pack that has all of the information they need to know before they visit. Opening hours, house rules, class timetables, amenities and even parking information are all helpful for new students. You can even add a personal note encouraging them to reach out if they have any questions.
Then, make sure new students have a proper taster session. While you’re walking them around the club and showing them how to use the equipment, ask them what they want to get out of their membership and make a note of their goals in their online profile. That way, you’ll know exactly how to help them (and stop them leaving because they haven’t moved up a belt within the first few weeks!)
The onboarding process doesn’t stop after the induction. Schedule follow-ups a week, two weeks and a month after their first session to see how they’re getting on and whether there’s anything you can do to support them in their martial arts journey. This will help you address any concerns or doubts from new students straight away.
Provide Beginner-Friendly Resources
Navigating martial arts curriculums and combat equipment can be overwhelming for newcomers. Without guidance, new students may feel lost or self-conscious, which can lead to frustration and eventually, they’ll stop booking classes. Providing resources ensures they start their journey with knowledge and confidence.
Make sure equipment is clearly labelled and offer instructions on how to use it. A great way to execute this is to have QR codes placed around the dojo so that new students can scan them and watch a video tutorial on how to use pads and protective gear. For a new student, this can be much less daunting than asking someone for help!
You could even offer a free one-on-one training session when new students join to boost their confidence in navigating a martial arts environment and building a programme that works for their goals.
Foster a Supportive Community
A strong sense of community can turn your martial arts club from a transactional experience into a valued part of a student’s lifestyle. Feeling a sense of belonging reduces anxiety and builds emotional connection. When students feel they’re part of a community, they’re more likely to keep coming back.
Invite new students to events, take part in challenges, or attend workshops that encourage connection and community building. Encourage instructors to learn names and build rapport with their students.
“Clubs that truly embrace community thrive – not just in retention, but in everything from sales to staff engagement. A strong community keeps people connected and excited and even reduces staff turnover because everyone feels part of something special,” says Fitness Business Consultant, Ryan Charlesworth. “Building that doesn’t happen by chance; it requires effort from the top down. It’s not just about hosting events but fostering meaningful interactions daily. Greeting people by name, engaging with them, and making them feel valued. When people love your club, they stay longer, spend more, and become your biggest advocates. That’s the power of community.”
Making new students feel comfortable and confident in your martial arts club isn’t just about excellent customer service, it’s about creating a culture where everyone feels valued and supported. By implementing these strategies, you’ll not only improve retention but also build a thriving community that students are proud to be part of. Start small, measure the impact, and refine your approach over time. The results will show in happier students, positive reviews, and a stronger, more successful martial arts club.
ClubRight is the go-to management software for martial arts clubs, taking care of everything from membership management and billing to class bookings and online joining—plus a whole lot more. Give us a call today on +44 (0)203 884 977 or book a free online demo with one of our product experts to find out why we’re trusted by more than 1000+ fitness businesses across the UK.
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