How Much Does Martial Arts Training Really Cost?


Martial Arts Cost

While training in martial arts is highly beneficial, some aren’t willing to attend the classes themselves, as they can get really expensive quickly. Although attending a class may assist you in progressing faster, training at home is definitely an option. Well, how much does martial arts training cost?

On average, it costs $175 per month to attend martial arts classes. Because some are unwilling to invest money in martial arts, training at home is an option. On average, practicing martial arts at home will cost $183 (one-time payment) for essential equipment, including a punching bag and gloves.

However, attending fighting classes has more benefits than practicing at home. For instance, the social aspect is lacking when practicing at home. However, the primary benefits, such as better physical shape and increased confidence, remain. 

If you’re interested in learning martial arts at home, I wrote a complete guide to do so. Additionally, after reading this article you’ll know what to expect from training and whether you should train at home or attend classes.

How much does attending martial arts classes cost?

At times, people aren’t willing to invest monthly payments for martial arts. Although that’s understandable, you’ll miss out on positive experiences. However, practicing at home is viable. You won’t have to spend as much money in the long term. Instead, a one-time payment will suffice. 

On average, attending martial arts classes cost $175 per month. However, the prices may vary from $60-$400 per month. The price will depend on the quality of the gym, the martial art itself, the instructor/coach instructing the class, and the number of workouts per month/week in the gym. 

Eventually, you may attend the top-tier fighting gym in your area, and therefore you’ll most likely pay more than average. That said, some offer a $60 monthly payment for equipment access. As a result, you won’t be able to attend any classes. However, you’ll have access to the gym. 

Some fighting styles tend to be more expensive than others. For instance, MMA gyms usually cost more than Karate. As a result, if that’s one of your concerns, I’ll include a table explaining that issue in detail down below. 

Martial artCost (Per Month)
MMA$174
Krav Maga$150
Karate$115
Taekwondo$125
Jiu-Jitsu$175
Jeet Kune Do$160
Judo$112
Wrestling$187
Martial arts and their average cost per month

Furthermore, you may desire to attend an online class. If that’s the case, you’ll most likely pay an average of $18 for access. In it, you’ll gain entry to various online classes for that same amount. 

Thus combining this method with buying equipment for your home may be wise. Not only will you pay a one-time fee for both, but you’ll also be able to progress at a similar pace to a typical session. 

Additionally, you’ll have to consider your goals regarding training. If you want to become a competitive fighter, attending professional classes is mandatory. Because of that, you may pay more for the lesson. 

That said, if you want to learn self-defense, various classes offer a course deal. As a result, you’ll pay a one-time fee for full access to a series of lessons. Such an alternative may be less expensive and therefore worth your money. 

Should you attend martial arts classes?

If you know your goal with martial arts, you’ll understand whether it’s worth it for you to attend classes. Let’s be honest; these numbers are up there. Because of that, some may not be in a position to purchase such an expensive gym membership. So, is it worth it?

Attending martial arts classes is worth it because of the numerous benefits you’ll gain. As a result, you’ll be able to develop both your physical and mental self. Furthermore, a martial arts gym may provide an outlet to socialize and meet new people. 

Live Muay-Thai Class

The average review of martial arts gyms is 4.9/5

From personal experience, I’ve seen success practicing in a legit gym. I found myself progressing faster and enjoying the process to a better degree Also, it’s not as common to see a person not seeing success with martial arts when training at home. So both ways are definitely viable options.

Training in martial arts has been shown to alter experiences of control and vulnerability, self-esteem, self-concept, fitness, confidence, and relaxation. As a result, some researchers characterize martial arts practice as a form of self-help.

(Columbus & Rice, 1998)

That said, if you’re capable of affording fighting classes, I will recommend you attend them. The number of benefits and the positive change it’ll have in your life is astounding. Not only will you get into shape quickly, but you’ll also increase your confidence and meet new people. 

Because of that, the price is worth the return. Furthermore, you’ll have one-on-one instruction. That way, you’ll learn faster and therefore know to fight appropriately. 

If you’ve ever tried to learn martial arts from a book, you know how challenging that is. Visual demonstrations will be helpful to show you how to perform the movement appropriately. That way, you’ll ensure you’re not doing it wrong.

How much does training in martial arts at home cost?

Although attending martial arts classes is beneficial, training at home is possible. Such an option especially fits those unwilling or incapable of investing money into fighting classes. Yet, it may end up costing as well. Let’s discuss how much it will cost to train at home. 

On average, the cost of training martial arts at home is $183. With that, you can purchase a punching bag, boxing gloves, and an online course. That said, the price may increase if you want to buy additional gear, such as hand wraps or a grappling dummy. 

ItemCost ($)
Headgear$31.75
Boxing gloves$37
MMA gloves$26
Punching bag$73.8
Online course$18
The average cost of the listed items

However, I recommend buying just these. That way, you’ll become capable of progressing even without attending martial arts classes.

I’ve used two products that assisted me to progress at home. Not only were they durable, but they were also comfortable and well-made. I recommend you buy this punching bag combined with these boxing gloves. If you want to train BJJ, you must own a grappling dummy. I wrote an article on the best grappling dummies, which you can read by following the 1st link. Likewise, if you already own one and want to learn to fill it up, follow the 2nd link.

Not only that, but you’ll also own the equipment. When you sign up for a gym, you don’t really own anything all you do is rent the place and the equipment. When you buy it, you’ll own it. Thus you can sell it after you finish using it. 

Furthermore, some people have trouble finding the time for training. Maybe the fighting gym is a lengthy drive, or they’re just busy. Anyway, training at home is a suitable alternative because you’re your own boss. You can train whenever you want at your home. 

The more you train, the better you’ll become. The better you become, the more benefits you’ll notice. Other than the social aspect of martial arts gyms, everything’s the same. You’ll still develop both your inner and physical self. 

Additionally, if you’re willing to buy more equipment to boost your training, I recommend doing so. Not only will you enjoy your sessions more, but you’ll also progress more quickly. The previous table is the average cost for the essential gear you may want to purchase. 

Should you train in martial arts at home?

Training at home is demanding because you won’t have instructor supervision. As a result, you may perform the movement incorrectly. For instance, if you learn from an online course, there’s no one to correct your mistakes. 

You should train in martial arts at home. Although learning martial arts at home is challenging, it will suit various people. Because you won’t have any supervision, you may make many mistakes. Additionally, staying consistent without the social aspect of training is demanding. 

Boxing Workout at Home

Eventually, some may be unwilling to invest money into learning martial arts. Now, that’s understandable. Progressing alone isn’t only possible, but it’s also uncomplicated. Anyone with a bit of consistency will notice results when doing martial arts. 

You’ll notice similar benefits and experiences. However, training with people is different. Although you’ll progress and learn to fight at home, you may miss out on crucial experiences. Having a social, non-judgmental outlet in a martial arts gym is beneficial. 

That said, you may be better training alone. If you’re the type of person who doesn’t stay consistent when training with people, you may shine at home. As a result, buying the essential equipment and training may be more suitable. 

Lastly, many platforms offer martial arts courses. Because of that, many people have listed their classes online. That’s fantastic because there’s a variety of knowledge you can get. Although it sometimes costs money, it’s worth it. 

If you don’t want to spend any money on martial arts, there are various alternatives. For instance, shadowboxing may be a suitable option for your state. However, I recommend buying the essentials so you can progress faster. 

How should you learn martial arts at home?

Today, the internet has presented us with plenty of opportunities. Knowing which ones hold value is crucial to ensure we progress. If you decide to practice martial arts at home, you can do it in a few ways. 

Following a YouTube channel

I particularly like this one because it’s, well, free. Some of you may be incapable of spending money on martial arts. As such, broadening your knowledge for free is smart. Additionally, by following an individual, you build a connection. As a result, learning and staying consistent will become easier. 

A few months ago, I began training Shaolin Kung Fu at home. As a result, I know which platforms provide the best learning experience. Now, who is it better to learn from other than the Shaolin monks themselves?

Shaolin Monks Final Test

Buying an online course

Such an option is viable, even if you’re unwilling to spend money because it’s cheap. On average, a complete online course will cost $18. As a result, anyone with an internet connection can afford to buy it. 

Honestly, I prefer the first route. Following a YouTube channel will assist you in progressing quickly. As a result, not only will you build a connection with the instructor, but you’ll also stay consistent and more manageably. As a result, I don’t recommend buying an online course, especially if you’re a beginner. 

Training with friends

Krav Maga
Image by Marvin Rheinheimer from Pixabay

Many of my friends do martial arts. Some of them practice Boxing and some Kung fu. Because of that, I can train with them. As a result, I’ll have supervision to correct my mistakes, and I’ll enjoy training. 

I recommend training with your friends because it makes training enjoyable. At times, we can feel as if it’s a burden to practice martial arts. You know what, sometimes it is. Because of that, training with your friends will make it an activity you expect. Because of that, you’ll train more efficiently and learn more. 

All of these are viable options. However, a mix between them will ensure you progress faster than ever. Picture yourself learning from a professional online course while practicing with your friends. You’ll become unstoppable and learn more quickly. 

What is the cheapest martial art to learn?

Although attending martial arts classes may get expensive, various ones are cheaper than the average. Because of that, it’ll fit those who are unwilling to invest more than the average in martial arts. Let’s dive into the cheapest ones, so you can begin training. 

The cheapest martial art one can learn- is Judo with an average of $112. Because it’s lower than average, more people may be inclined to learn it. Furthermore, Judo is a suitable martial art for enjoyment, learning self-defense and fighting techniques. 

martial arts
Image by Clker-Free-Vector-Images from Pixabay

Because of the price, learning Judo may be for you. I know what you’re going through. It is a significant expense to attend martial arts classes. However, the benefits overcome the price. It’s somewhat amusing when people don’t understand why I consider paying such a price. Yet, it’s worth it. 

That said, I recommend you choose a martial art that you enjoy. As a result, you’ll stay consistent and progress more quickly. If you’re interested in reading about the deadliest martial arts in the world, follow the link. 

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How long does it take to learn a martial art?

At times, you may be discouraged over the amount of time you’ll have to invest in learning a martial art. With consistency, you can expect to notice results sooner than you think. 

As a general rule, learning the fundamentals of martial arts may take anywhere from 2-12 months. If you’re learning a complicated fighting style, such as MMA, it’ll take longer. However, if you train in Krav Maga, seeing results after a few months is typical. 

Overall, the time depends on many factors, including your training consistency. As a result, you can optimize all the external factors to reduce the time. For instance, the more effort you invest, the faster you’ll see results. 

I wrote an article on the optimal age to begin learning martial arts. If you’re just starting to train, I recommend you read it, as it may insight you.

Is learning martial arts worth the money?

At times, you may get hesitant about learning martial arts. Not only are they costly, but they may not have any return. Right? Not precisely. Studies showed that participating in such an activity is highly beneficial for adults and young children. 

Learning martial arts is worth the money because you’ll experience many benefits, such as increased confidence and the knowledge to fight. As a result, You’ll grow both physical and mental health. As such, the money will have a return. 

Joe Rogan on Why He Started Doing Martial Arts

Overall, participating in such an activity is highly beneficial. I’ll include a quote from a recent study I read. It’s fascinating, and I recommend you to read the whole piece of research. 

Findings suggest that karate practice may improve self-esteem, physical self-perception, and exercise self-efficacy in young adults with VI. 

(Source)

Conclusion

To summarize, attending martial arts classes is an incredible decision. It’ll change your life, as it did mine. Throughout my training, I’ve witnessed many benefits flowing into my life. I was confident and had better self-esteem. 

Yet, training in a martial arts gym will get expensive over time. Because of that, training at home is a viable option for you. You may buy the essential equipment and begin to train by following a YouTube channel. Because of that, you’ll progress without spending monthly payments on martial arts

That said, martial arts gym provides us with a crucial aspect—social life. By attending classes, we’ll meet new people and therefore progress faster. Additionally, staying consistent will become easier. As a result, we’ll ensure we reach a high level.

If you made your choice on which platform you’ll learn martial arts, it’s time to choose one. For that, I wrote an entire article on the five best martial arts you should begin practicing. I highly recommend you to read it as it may assist you in deciding. 

You can also sign up for our Email Newsletter to keep up with our blog posts and gain access to free martial arts/self-improvement courses!

Here are other articles you’d enjoy reading:

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Levi

I've served in the military as a special forces operator for 4-years. In that period, I've trained in many martial arts, including karate, MMA, BJJ, boxing, and even Krav Maga. I want to share my passion with you, so here it is!

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