Maximizing Engagement During the Dog Days of Summer: Strategies for Krav Maga and Martial Arts Schools

1. Implement Summer Promotions for Former Students and Newcomers

Summer promotions are a powerful tool to boost attendance and attract new students. Here are some effective promotions to consider:

• Welcome Back Pass: Offer former students a 25% discount on all classes throughout the summer. This incentive can reignite their interest and bring them back to your school.
• Bring a Friend Discount: Encourage new students to join with a friend by offering a discount each or other incentives such as a pro shop gift card. Training with friends not only boosts enrollment but also enhances the community aspect of your school.
• Summer Trial Offer: Introduce a special rate for a 2-week trial for newcomers. This allows potential students to experience Krav Maga without a long-term commitment.

Promote these offers through email campaigns, social media channels, and local community boards to maximize their reach.

2. Optimize Summer Schedules to Reduce Labor Costs

Adjusting your class schedule during the summer can help manage labor costs while ensuring quality training sessions. I typically reduce class offerings by 10-20 percent – and email the “Summer Schedule” to all students. Consider the following strategies:

• Consolidated Classes: Combine classes of similar skill levels to ensure higher attendance in each session, which reduces the need for multiple instructors.
• Peak Times Focus: Schedule more classes during peak hours (early mornings and evenings) when students are more likely to attend.
• Reduce the Total Number of Classes: Eliminate classes with poor attendance – as long those classes don’t hold some strategic significance.
• Flexible Instructors: Utilize instructors who can teach multiple disciplines to cover a variety of classes, optimizing your resources.

Strategic scheduling allows you to maintain efficient operations and continue providing top-notch training.

3. Host Engaging Seminars for Young Adults

For college-bound students and young adults, seminars that are practical and empowering can be highly appealing. Consider offering:

• Short but Effective Seminars: Offering something akin to Fear & Adrenal Stress Training (FAST) provides maximum benefit for the time spent on the mats. Market these style seminars by punching up those kinds of benefits.  Market to parents.
• Personal Safety on Campus: Teach essential self-defense techniques and safety strategies tailored for the college environment.
• Stress Management Through Krav Maga: Show how Krav Maga can help manage stress and maintain mental well-being during demanding academic years.
• Self-Defense for Urban Environments: Provide practical skills for navigating and staying safe in new and unfamiliar urban settings.

These seminars prepare young adults for their next big adventure, armed with confidence and practical skills.

4. Organize Fun and Educational Kids Camps

Summer camps for kids are a great way to keep them active, engaged, and learning new skills. Highlights can include:

• Krav Maga Fundamentals: Teach kids the basics of self-defense in a safe and supportive setting.
• Fitness and Fun: Combine physical fitness with fun games, fostering teamwork and discipline.
• Anti-Bullying Workshops: Empower children with the skills and confidence to handle bullying situations effectively.

These camps build character, discipline, and confidence in young participants, providing a holistic approach to martial arts training.

5. Recap and Promote Ongoing Summer Promotions

Keep the energy high and the community growing by continually promoting your summer deals. Remind students and potential newcomers of the benefits and savings they can enjoy by participating in your summer programs.

By implementing these strategies, you can make the dog days of summer a season of growth and success for your Krav Maga or martial arts school. Stay proactive, engage your community, and watch your school thrive!