How is the economy affecting your martial arts?

[Nathan Teodoro]

I posted on this at TDA Training, but want the discussion to take place here, as many of us are either instructors, school owners, or dedicated students (many are all three!).

It seems to me that anything that affects someone's disposable income, or his willingness to spend it (i.e. his confidence in the economy), then it must affect all aspects of that actvity, be it skiing, competitive table tennis, or martial arts instruction.

Have any of you had to close a school, had your school closed, had to reduce training, or changed your plans to start?

As for me, it doesn't, since I no longer charge or pay for training, but for those who are in the business I'm guessing it's hurting them. Is it? Any ideas to combat that, or strategies you want to share?

[Bob Patterson]

We had about three people quit our Kung fu school due to the economy. All three had jobs that were tied to it (factory, carpet layer, etc.).

Right now I can afford lessons so I'm lucky.

[Richard Kimura]

Aloha from Hawaii.
The cost of living here in Hawaii is high and with tourism down many people are lining up at the unemployment office.
I had been teaching free of cost, but being with limited income, starting this month I have begun charging $20 a month to cover hall rental.
Fortunately I have not lost any students. Perhaps it is because the majority are police officers and their family. Government employees have a lower chance of being laid off, but , it does happen to them as well.
I have, however, noticed a decline of students in other dojos nearby.

[Nathan Teodoro]

An interesting discussion, to me, since the replies I have seen have been so diverse at TDA as well. I taught for free as well, but had no real expenses involved.

I wonder if there are any more good ideas out there on how to adjust as a student, or as an instructor?

[James Brown]

Nathan, good thread! My "for pay" training that I offer is all done privately. In this recession I've not experienced a downturn, my students are still coming as usual. However, I'm careful to monitor their situations and have let a couple of them know that if they experience any hardship to let me know and I'll adjust for them- temporarily. I'd rather "keep them coming" and provide them their instruction. Keep in mind that my studio in home-based, so I don't have an overhead to worry about so this allows me to be more flexible. And during these tight economic times I feel it just makes sense to either throw in a "freebie" from time to time, or allow an extra 15-20 minutes of training occasionally.

[Nathan Teodoro]

Thanks James. It seems like a wise move to proactively approach your students on their financial state, rather then have them just stop showing up.

My situation is pretty good, thank God, but I want to plan for the worst. I may end up doing what you and Richard are, charging...

[Rick Matz]

I've just been laid off and until I get back to work can't justify continuing my taijiquan class.

I have plenty of material to work on at home, as well as time to work on it.

I'm also going to start training with a group of guys who live near me who push hands regularly.

[Nathan Teodoro]

Rick,
Sorry to hear about that brother. On the other hand, this could be time that you make a breakthrough in training, but for me, basic needs trump all. We wish you much success in gaining a better position!

Nathan/TDA Training

[Jesse Crouch]

I won't be going to a seminar I wanted to go to.

At the same time though.. I've found a lot more time to blog.