Unlocking Potential: How to Turn Your Students into Instructors

Napoleon pointed to a map of China and said, "There lies a sleeping giant. If it ever wakes up, it will be unstoppable." This sentiment can easily apply to your martial arts school. Each member of your school represents the potential that, if properly nurtured, can evolve into the next generation of instructors. This transformation is not merely about financial support or regular attendance but about walking the Master's Path—actively learning, growing, sharing, serving, leading, and inspiring.

The Chief Instructor's Role

At the heart of developing students into instructors is the chief instructor's commitment to helping students reach their fullest potential. Traditional martial arts schools need to expand the reach of their values and benefits to as many people as possible, and this expansion begins with cultivating certified instructors from within. Most school owners typically evolve from wanting more students to wanting more black belts and, finally, more instructors.

To grow a thriving school, it's essential to focus on developing passionate instructors from among your current students. These instructors will carry the art forward and know how to recruit new members effectively.

The Four Pillars of Success

In our certified instructor training program, we emphasize four pillars of success:

1. Future Orientation - Encouraging students to envision their roles as future leaders.

1. Goal Orientation - Setting clear, achievable goals.

1. Action Orientation - Taking decisive steps towards those goals.

1. Excellence Orientation - Striving to achieve the highest standards in all endeavors.

Every student should be seen as a future instructor, each with unique gifts and potential to contribute to the school's success.

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The SHAPE of a Great Instructor

We believe that each great instructor embodies the acronym SHAPE:

• Spiritual Gift of the Artist (this is their core genius or number one superpower)

• Heart

• Abilities

• Personality

• Experience

Some instructors will shine visibly while others may work behind the scenes, yet both are crucial torchbearers for the school's growth. It's essential to foster a team mentality where everyone contributes to the greater good, recognizing that together, everyone achieves more.

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Structuring for Growth

School owners must choose whether their studio is structured for control or growth. No single person can manage everything at a specific size, so successful school owners excel at building teams and assigning instructors to areas of expertise.

One effective method is to move new or intermediate students into a leadership program early on, selecting those wanting to advance further into an Assistant Instructor Training Program or Certified Instructor Training Program.

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Establishing an Instructor Placement Process

Implementing a structured instructor placement process involves six steps:

1. Attend instructor training class.

1. Commit to serving as an instructor.

1. Complete an ethics agreement form.

1. Complete a personal SHAPE profile.

1. Have a personal interview with program directors.

1. Pass the instructor training test.

Continuous, consistent on-the-job training is vital to keep instructors updated and skilled. Typically, this is conducted weekly or bi-weekly. Ensure the process is led by a fully trained instructor who has completed the program and established clear standards and guidelines. Trust your program directors, delegate authority and responsibility, and provide necessary support while regularly renewing the school's vision.

By following these guidelines, martial arts schools can tap into the latent potential within their students, transforming members into instructors who will not only teach but also inspire future generations. Are you ready to unlock the potential within your school? Start by identifying aspiring leaders in your school and nurture their development into the instructors of tomorrow.

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Remember, the journey to growing your school begins with a single step. Implement these strategies today and watch your instructor corp grow.

To all the martial arts school owners and instructors, remember that the path to mastery in our field is not just about perfecting our art—crafting a purposeful path that elevates every aspect of our practice, including how we teach and run our schools. Here's to your success on this unique purpose path.

Always in the Spirit of Moo Do Excellence,

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Are you encouraged by this article? Please share it with fellow martial arts enthusiasts and school owners who might benefit from these insights. And if you've experienced growth from applying these principles, we'd love to hear your story! Share your success in the comments below or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, or email. ?

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Remember, success is not a destination but a continual growth, learning, and adaptation process. It's about crafting a legacy wherein your actions speak volumes of the art you've dedicated your life to mastering.

Committed to Your Success,

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The APTSDF Business Development Committee & Master’s Path Consulting, LLC

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"Know the way, Go the way, Show the way." – The Master's Path