Student retention is key for building and maintaining a martial arts school. Are you a business that offers martial arts classes to students of all ages? If so, you’re likely familiar with the challenge of getting – and keeping – your students interested in learning more. Student retention is essential for any successful martial arts business, but it doesn’t have to be a struggle. By making simple tweaks to your program, amenities and student experience overall, you can create a positive environment that helps keep both current and new students coming back on a regular basis. Read on for our top tips on how to improve student retention for your martial arts business.

Improve student retention by giving discounts and special offers to returning students as an incentive

As the school year comes to a close, many businesses are looking for ways to attract students who will be returning next year. Offering discounts and special offers to returning students is a great way to incentivize them to come back. Whether it’s a percentage off their purchase or a free item with every purchase, these small gestures can go a long way in building customer loyalty. Not only will returning students appreciate the savings, but they will also feel valued as customers. So, if you want to attract returning students to your business, consider offering them discounts and special offers.

Transition new students with carefully planned introductory classes

Starting college is an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming for new students. That’s why carefully planned introductory classes can make all the difference AND encourage student retention over time. By providing a structured and supportive environment, these classes can help ease the transition from high school to college. Not only do they help students become familiar with campus resources, but they also provide an opportunity to build relationships with fellow classmates and faculty. Whether it’s a seminar on time management or a group discussion on college culture, these classes can set the foundation for success in college and beyond.

Create a mentorship program with veteran martial artists to help beginners adjust to the culture quickly

Among beginners in the world of martial arts, there are students are often overwhelmed by the technical terms and unfamiliar culture. Fear not! We have a solution for you. Introduce a mentorship program, where your veteran martial artists will guide and support students through their journey towards becoming a master. Mentors will help students understand the art form and adapt to the culture quickly, and offer advice and encouragement along the way. With their expertise and the student’s determination, they’ll be able to master the craft in no time. Invite them to join your mentorship program and start their journey towards becoming a martial arts expert.

Offer free trial classes or short-term memberships for prospective students

Ask: are you considering joining a gym, but not quite sure if it’s worth the investment?  Explain that you understand their hesitation. Offer free trial classes and short-term memberships for prospective students. Give them the opportunity to try out all of your state-of-the-art equipment, meet your friendly staff, and see if your gym is the right fit before committing to a long-term membership. With nothing to lose and everything to gain, why shouldn’t they give it a try? By inviting them to experience all your gym has to offer and see how you can help them achieve their fitness goals, they will likely join and come back again and again.

Increase student retention by hosting events or seminars that feature guest instructors and offer unique learning experiences 

Have you ever attended an event or seminar that left you feeling inspired and curious to learn more? Host your own event or seminar and offer your attendees the opportunity to experience that same feeling. Topics are endless.  By featuring guest instructors, you can offer unique perspectives and experiences that your attendees may not have otherwise had access to. Whether it’s a cooking class taught by an award-winning chef or a photography workshop led by a renowned photographer, your guests are sure to leave your event feeling not only educated but also energized and motivated to continue their learning journey. So why not provide a platform for individuals to come together and create exceptional learning experiences? Plan your next event or seminar, and watch how it can positively impact and inspire those who attend.

Utilize digital marketing campaigns to engage current and potential students

In today’s digital age, it’s important for universities and colleges to utilize digital marketing campaigns in order to effectively engage and reach current and potential students. With the vast amount of information available online, it can be overwhelming for students to navigate and find the information they need. That’s where digital marketing comes in. Through targeted social media ads, email campaigns, and search engine optimization, universities can create personalized and tailored messages to prospective students, highlighting the unique benefits and opportunities available at their institution. By utilizing digital marketing strategies, martial arts schools can not only increase their visibility but also deliver their message directly to interested and engaged students. In the long run, this will help increase student retention.

Martial arts schools need to make sure that they keep their returning students and welcome new ones into their community. Offering discounts, multi-week introductory lessons, mentorship programs, free trials and seminars featuring guest instructors can give prospective and current students the impression of a well-rounded school. Implementing digital marketing campaigns is a great way to increase engagement with current and potential students. By creating an exciting community atmosphere where learning martial arts is easily accessible, it will help set your martial arts school up for success. So waste no time in establishing these strategies so you can elevate your martial arts school to the next level!