So I'm 16 and want to learn a martial art. But unfortunately the only school within a reasonable amount of distance that teaches anything is a local ATA school.
I read that ATA has a terrible reputation and is considered the pinnacle of a McDojo.
But I figured any training is better than no training. Should I at least look into it?
?
Favorite Answer
You won't be learning martial arts at the ATA. You'll be getting some exercise and enter into a new social circle, but that is it. So buy it for what it is.
possum
What is it you want to do? If it's to learn self-defense, then probably ATA won't fit the bill. If you want to compete, then ATA might be fine for you.
Your first lesson in self-defense is to watch your purse or wallet: stay away from long term contracts. At 16, you won't be allowed to sign a contract anyway; that means, your parents will have to do it, or you'll have to pay by the month. No matter how much it costs you, it's better to pay by the month for 6 months or more. You want to see if this is the school for you. If you get into a long-term contract, and another school comes along, you won't be able to go to the new school (unless you don't mind paying for the remainder of the contract). Or you may decide that the place isn't that bad, but, maybe you don't get along with one of the instructors or other students. If you signed a contract, you're stuck. And yes, long-term contracts are very much enforceable.
Also, many ATA schools are notorious for nickel-and-diming you on every small thing, like test fees, leadership clubs, weapons, etc. If you know this up front, and you don't mind paying for this; OR, maybe this school isn't the typical ATA stereotype, then there won't be a problem. Just be mindful of your goals: they're not around for self-defense, only sport-fighting.
If you decide to go there, find out first what the cost is to break the contract (it might be 1 or 2 months payment), or they'll let you do it for free. Find out what the other costs are, like testing, weapons, uniforms, clubs, etc.
EDIT: @J - you're right... but he's only 16 and has no other means to find another place. This could be the place to get him interested enough to find a better place when he gets older and able to drive. And, there are a couple of good ATA schools out there, we don't know if this is one of them (however unlikely...)
Jay
Any training IS better than no training, but the ATA is plain horrible and you'd be better off not picking up any of their psudo-style that tries to imitate a martial art.
If you go to an ATA school, you'll get stuck with a contract. You won't earn anything, you just pay for your belts and a pat on the back. They posses next to no self defense value, and you will only be able to compete in ATA tournaments, never any outside places... for good reason. The ATA has a strict policy to avoid any outside contact from other Taekwondo associations.
EDIT
I'm surprised to see people actually in support of the ATA. Any logical thinking and you would boycotting them from the martial arts. They should be listed under interpretive dance, or at least mock martial arts. The ATA has nothing good to offer.
I'm strongly against the idea of using them as exercise. You're still supporting an organization who has single handedly bastardized Taekwondo, and for some reason many outlooks on Karate as well, in the West.
There is nothing good about the ATA, and they should not be supported in any way. By giving them money, you're in line with tarnishing the nature of real martial arts.
pugpaws2
I rarely speak out about martial arts schools or chains. The ATA is an exception. I would not send my worst enemy to an ATA school. If you are serious about learning a martial art, I suggest that you save your money. Sooner or later you will either have something better open in your area, or you will be able to train where there are better schools.
...
Cheetah
If you're looking for exercise and to meet people sure, but you can do that for $25/mos at 24 hour fitness.
One fact is indisputable - ATA is not Taekwondo. I can call my mut puppy a Doberman all I want but if the AKC doesn't give me papers to support it, I'm just making it up. Korea doesn't acknowledge ATA as a legitimate form of Taekwondo.