Martial Arts Training Safety

Martial Arts Training Safety

The practice of martial arts by its very nature has a tendency to lead to injury. According to data from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the most common martial arts injuries are sprains, strains, cuts and bruises, with broken bones being listed as a frequent injury as well.

Proper training and preparation are vital to minimizing injury potential and severity. Here are some ways to help insure that your students learn and practice safely.

Create a safe training environment

Make sure practice is in an area with ample cushioned mat space and wall padding, if possible. Don’t overcrowd the practice area. Sparring pairs are more likely to accidentally strike or collide with other students when too many people are packed closely together.

Be ready to administer first aid

Make sure you have the proper training and supplies on hand to deal with routine injuries such as bruises, minor strains and sprains, or small cuts. Have a protocol in place to summon prompt emergency assistance for serious injuries.

Establish safety rules

Create a list of class rules designed to protect students from injury and make sure that all participants are aware of them and follow them. These might include the words or gestures that students will use to indicate submission after a technique demonstration, visible markers such as colored armbands that designate previously injured participants, the clothing and footwear that students must wear, and guidelines for use of training equipment.

Teach safety basics

Before students begin practicing more complicated martial arts techniques, make sure they are taught to fall safely. All new tactics should be practiced at half speed or slower, and only after you have explained the specific risks to various parts of the anatomy from each technique.

Monitor technique closely

As a trainer, you should be watching all participants during practice sessions. If you cannot monitor all students at once, consider having a capable assistant help with spotting or limit the number of students who can practice at once.

Be prepared for the unexpected

Despite your best efforts, there is always a chance that a student injury could take place in class and lead to a lawsuit against you. Lockton Fitness Martial Arts Instructor Insurance is essential coverage that safeguards your personal assets from the devastating effects of a liability claim against you.