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Question 065: Cost of classes

I am interested in starting my two children in Taekwondo classes. How much will the classes cost?


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In general, the cost of martial art classes can range from inexpensive to expensive. Classes at a local YMCA/YWCA, community center, college, etc. can be relatively inexpensive since the instructor usually does not have to pay rent, utilities, etc. Classes at a commercial marital arts school can be relatively expensive, but, when compared to some of the other sports for children, such as football, Little League, soccer, etc., they may be a bargain since many schools have a family rate that permits the whole family to train.

Most people only think about the monthly cost for classes and the uniform cost when considering martial arts classes, but there are many added costs that martial art schools tend to minimize when talking to potential customers.

Here is a run down of potential costs for each student at a commercial school:.

  • Monthly fee. $50-$150 Organization fee. In some schools, students are automatically enrolled in the certifying organization for free, but some organizations may charge $20-$50 a year for membership.
  • Uniform. Sometimes free. Basic uniform $25-$35.
  • Patches for uniform. Depends on the school but could total from $10 to $50.
  • Sparring Equipment. Can range from $15 for a mouth protector and groin cup to hundreds of dollars for hand, foot, shin, elbow, head, and chest protectors. Hand and foot protectors will wear out every year or two and will need to be replaced for about $80.
  • Promotions. Testing periods vary; many are every two months. Fee for test each could range from $25-$100 for color belts to possibly hundreds of dollars for black belts.
  • Belts. Most times they are included in the testing fee, but could cost from $10-$30.
  • Camps. May be one, two, or more a year. Attendance may or may not be required. Cost of camp may be $150-$300 dollars, not counting transportation costs..
  • Seminars. May be one, two, or more a year. Attendance may or may not be required. Enter fee may be $20-$100 and then there are transportation and lodging costs.
  • Tournaments. May be one, two, or more a year. Attendance may or may not be required. Entry fee may be $25-$50 and then there is transportation and lodging so a tournament may cost hundreds of dollars to attend.
  • Children outings and parties. $20 and up for each child.

At a noncommercial school, the annual cost for each beginning student may be less then $500. At an average commercial school, the annual cost for each beginning student could easily exceed $2000.