Martial arts schools, especially those teaching karate and taekwondo, are widespread and popular. However, with their popularity comes the risk of encountering a McDojo—a school more focused on making money than providing quality martial arts training. This post explores the experiences of people who found themselves in McDojos and how they realized it wasn’t genuine karate or taekwondo.
What is a McDojo?
A McDojo is a martial arts school that prioritizes profit over proper training. These schools often have flashy marketing, quick promotions, and an emphasis on high fees rather than skill development. Common signs of a McDojo include:
- Expensive Testing Fees: Charging excessive fees for belt tests and frequent promotions.
- Quick Black Belts: Promising black belts in an unrealistically short time.
- Lack of Sparring or Self-Defense Training: Focusing only on forms or point sparring without teaching practical self-defense.
- High Membership Fees: Requiring long-term contracts with high monthly fees.
Personal Experiences with McDojos
Falling into the Trap
u/MachineGreene98 shared a common sentiment: just because a school focuses on the sport aspect doesn’t mean it’s a McDojo. However, others had more telling experiences.
u/braidenfreeman79 recounted spending three weeks in a “Systema” school before realizing it was more of a cult than a martial arts dojo. The training was nonsensical, and the environment was unhealthy. Recognizing these red flags early can save time and prevent negative experiences.
The Cult-Like Dojo
u/BogatyrOfMurom faced a more severe situation. She joined a dojo that initially seemed legitimate but eventually revealed its true nature. The training quality declined, and the environment became cult-like, led by a narcissistic, sociopathic instructor. Fortunately, she found a new dojo with a supportive community and a dedicated instructor who helped her regain trust in martial arts.
Ridiculous Practices
u/OrganizedSprinkles described a bizarre experience where she had to test for a white belt and train alongside very young children. This setup was clearly inappropriate for an adult beginner, and the school’s practices were impractical and unsafe.
Misleading Promotions
u/cai_85 provided insight into how some dojos may start genuine but eventually adopt questionable business practices. His dojo began emphasizing sports karate and increasing costs, which led him to seek a new, more authentic training environment.
Avoiding McDojos
While falling into a McDojo can be frustrating, knowing how to identify them can help you avoid these pitfalls. Here are some tips:
Research and Visit Multiple Dojos
Before committing to a dojo, research several options and visit them. Observe classes, talk to instructors and students, and assess the overall environment. A good dojo will welcome your interest and be transparent about their training methods and fees.
Look for Authenticity and Practical Training
Authentic martial arts schools prioritize practical training, including self-defense and full-contact sparring. They will have a balanced curriculum that covers kihon (basics), kata (forms), and kumite (sparring). Schools that only focus on point fighting or forms may not provide comprehensive training.
Check Instructor Credentials
Ensure that the instructors have legitimate credentials and a solid background in their martial art. Experienced instructors with a genuine passion for teaching will create a positive and effective training environment.
Finding the Right Dojo
If you’re looking for a genuine martial arts experience, particularly in Kyokushin karate, finding the right dojo is crucial. For those in Peterborough, HAITO Karate offers an authentic and supportive training environment.
Why Choose HAITO Karate? 
- Experienced Instructor: Sensei Gabi is dedicated to providing high-quality training and personalized attention to every student.
- Comprehensive Training: HAITO Karate focuses on all aspects of Kyokushin, including kihon, kata, and kumite, ensuring a well-rounded martial arts education.
- Supportive Community: Join a community that fosters mutual growth and support, helping you build confidence, discipline, and self-respect.
Avoiding McDojos and finding a genuine martial arts school can significantly impact your training experience. By choosing a reputable dojo like HAITO Karate, you can ensure that your journey in martial arts is both rewarding and authentic.
Explore the benefits of Kyokushin karate at HAITO Karate and take the first step towards a stronger, more confident you. 
Do you have a story about encountering a McDojo? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below!