In-Person vs Online Training
Sometimes, I hear from peers that it’s impossible to learn a martial art like Kali online, but I totally disagree with the majority of this idea. Though of course there are aspects that absolutely require in-person practice with a partner, many skills can still be obtained through online and solo training. I would say that about 80-90% of my overall personal training has been solo over the decades, practicing this martial art.
Let’s examine the pros and cons of in-person and online training and why I believe you should incorporate both learning methods into your Kali practice.
In Person Pro’s
Training in person with a teacher ensures you learn and practice the techniques with precision and correct mechanics.
Practicing drills with a partner allows for instant feedback on how accurate and precise the execution of skills is.
Sparring is a necessary component of building functional skills and obviously can only be done with a partner.
Attending classes offers the ability to train with multiple partners ranging from different skill levels boosting your training experience.
In Person Con’s
This assumes you have a quality teacher. I poor teacher likely won’t help your skills grow much.
You cannot pause or rewind to rewatch a lesson at in-person classes
Class schedules may not work best with your schedule at all times causing you to miss classes.
Relying on attending occasional seminars due to not having a local teacher and classes available in your area.
Online Training Pro’s
Train at your own pace. Make the training schedule that works best for you.
You can pause, replay, or slow down most video players to review a single lesson as many times as you need.
With today’s technology, you can attend Livestream classes or 1-on-1 sessions and still get instant feedback from your teacher as long as they offer this service.
Build solid coordination which will prepare you for classes allowing you to get even more out of in-person training sessions.
Online Training Con’s
It’s easier to set up shop online than it is a brick and mortar meaning it may be more challenging to find a good teacher.
Lacking that kinetic time with a partner is a big con.
Not all online training offers a live coaching service which would make it difficult to ensure you’re executing techniques correctly.
Disciplining oneself to train consistently is often more challenging than having others around to push you and hold you accountable.
I think in today’s times it a great idea to use both means. Nothing replaces in person training where you get to make real contact but, nothing beats that solitary learning where you can take your time and breakdown techniques, movement patterns and skills to build your base athleticism and understanding of the knowledge. If you’re attending classes for just a few hours per week you are likely leaving a lot of potential training and skill growth time on the table.
A martial art like Kali, I know it can be difficult finding a good teacher or classes in many areas which is why I started Kali Center in 2014. It’s to give a solid resource covering the wide spectrum of Kali to those in areas who don’t have access to teachers and classes as well as to those who do and want a little extra to build their skills.
At Kali Center, we do offer the service of Livestream Classes and 1-On-1 Live Video Coaching where you can interact with your teacher and coach on the spot. This service is offered inside our Online School. We also hold multiple seminars and training camps every year for that in person and kinetic training for those who seek this option.
Combining in-person and online training is a powerful thing that help fast track your learning and skill development.