10 Tips for Martial Arts Marketing in 2024

10 things you should be doing in 2024 to build your business and grow your Martial Art School. 

This list is a solid list of where marketing is moving towards in 2024. Things are getting more crowded - so you need more tools in your arsenal to get out above the white noise of mediocrity. That middle area is where businesses go to die. We don't want that - we want to stand out. 

Check it out: 

1. Utilize Social Media Advertising

In today's digital age, social media platforms have become powerful marketing tools. Take advantage of targeted advertising options on platforms like Facebook and Instagram to reach potential students who are interested in martial arts. Use compelling visuals and engaging content to capture their attention and drive them to your website or studio. Use QR codes on print materials. 

2. Offer Free or Low Cost Trial Classes

One of the best ways to attract new students is by offering free or low cost trial classes. This allows people to experience your martial arts program firsthand and see the value you provide. Make sure to promote these trial classes through your website, social media, and local community channels to maximize attendance. Trial Cards are an epic way to get people to test the waters with you. 

3. Create Engaging Video Content

Video content is highly engaging and can help you showcase your martial arts skills and teaching style. Create instructional videos, highlight reels, and testimonials to share on your website and social media platforms. This will not only attract potential students but also establish you as an authority in the martial arts industry. Reels right now get in front of people you do NOT know. Posts on your feeds show to people you do know. Use both. 

4. Collaborate with Local Businesses

Partnering with local businesses can be a win-win situation. Reach out to gyms, fitness centers, and other complementary businesses to explore collaboration opportunities. You can offer joint promotions, cross-promote each other's services, or even host joint events. This can help you expand your reach and attract new students. This is a great way to use Rack Cards and also - Pizza Box Toppers - where you can foot the bill for the printing - and have an offer or multiple offers from a local Pizza shop - that will help you both grow. Those coupons often sit on a fridge for a month with multiple coupons - harness that power. 

5. Optimize Your Website for Search Engines

Having a well-optimized website is crucial for martial arts marketing. Research and incorporate relevant keywords into your website content to improve your search engine rankings. Make sure your website is mobile-friendly, loads quickly, and provides a seamless user experience. This will help potential students find you when they search for martial arts classes in your area. Blogs are one of the key most underrated ways to get eyeballs on your business via search. Google loves blogs. And here is a dirty secret most of your competitors are probably not using blogs to the fullest power. Blogs are a secret weapon. Use them - with AI - here and in Sept Google announced it will not penalize AI content - you have no reason not to be putting at least 2-3 blogs into your blog - a week. 

6. Offer Referral Incentives

Word-of-mouth marketing is powerful. Encourage your current students to refer their friends and family members to your martial arts program by offering referral incentives. This could be a discounted membership, free merchandise, or even a month of free classes. Happy students are more likely to recommend your program, and incentives can give them an extra push.

7. Host Workshops and Seminars

Position yourself as an expert in the martial arts field by hosting workshops and seminars. These events can attract both beginners and experienced practitioners who are looking to enhance their skills. Offer valuable insights, practical training sessions, and networking opportunities to make your events memorable and impactful. A customer sets up a booth outside of his school and gets foot traffic to stop and talk - he's signed up tons of new customers this way. 

8. Engage with Online Communities

Join online martial arts communities and forums to connect with like-minded individuals. Share your knowledge, answer questions, and provide valuable insights. This will help you establish yourself as an authority in the martial arts industry and attract potential students who are seeking guidance and expertise.

9. Offer Specialized Programs

Differentiate yourself from competitors by offering specialized martial arts programs. This could include self-defense classes, martial arts for children with special needs, or women's self-defense workshops. By catering to specific demographics or needs, you can attract a niche audience and position yourself as a leader in those areas. 

10. Collect and Showcase Testimonials

Positive testimonials from satisfied students can be powerful marketing tools. Collect testimonials from your current students and showcase them on your website and social media platforms. Potential students are more likely to trust the opinions of their peers, and testimonials can provide social proof of the value and effectiveness of your martial arts program.

The magic in this is you can also use testimonials to create video content and reels. Use Google reviews to really boost your SEO ranking and search visibility. Google Reviews are loved by google and they are optimized to help your SEO. Ask your students to leave genuine reviews. 

By implementing these 10 tips for martial arts marketing in 2024, you can attract new students, establish yourself as an industry expert, and grow your martial arts business. Remember to stay up-to-date with the latest marketing trends and adapt your strategies accordingly to stay ahead of the competition.