Two years of the Keurmerk Vechtsportautoriteit: steps forward

Update: In 2025 the Dutch martial arts federation (Nederlandse Vechtsportbond, NVB) took over the issuing and renewal of the Keurmerk Vechtsportautoriteit (quality mark for martial arts gyms) from the Nederlandse Vechtsportautoriteit. For current information and answers to all questions we therefore refer you to the NVB. The VA does continue to carry out the audits at martial arts gyms. Questions about this can be sent to info@vechtsportautoriteit.nl

The Keurmerk Vechtsportautoriteit was launched in the spring of 2021. Two years on, we are taking stock: what has it achieved? A look at the sector shows that we have taken steps forward, but there is always room for improvement.

Recognition
The Keurmerk Vechtsportautoriteit for martial arts gyms serves several purposes. It gives good gyms the opportunity to demonstrate that their affairs are in order. Many gym owners have said that they see the quality mark as recognition of what they have built up over many years of hard work. The quality mark plaque is therefore often given a prominent place in the gym.

Positive media coverage
Since the launch, more than 85 articles have appeared in local and regional media about gyms that had obtained the quality mark. Often a positive report, sometimes combined with an interview, and regularly with a photograph of a municipal executive (wethouder) coming to congratulate the gym owner. That is valuable publicity, both for the gym and for martial arts. It creates confidence among athletes and the parents of young athletes, and also within the municipality.

Municipalities
The quality mark makes it possible for municipalities to address substandard gyms. If sports entrepreneurs are unwilling to grow to the desired level, they can be told that in future they will no longer be allowed to use municipal facilities, such as the sports hall. Over the past two years, numerous municipalities have included in their policy that they require the Keurmerk Vechtsportautoriteit as a condition for cooperation with martial arts gyms. This encourages gyms to raise their quality, which is in everyone's interest.

A means of pressure
The quality mark can also be used as a means of pressure when members, trainers or supporters of a martial arts gym misbehave. Several gyms lost the quality mark in this way. These gyms can no longer take part in competitions in the Netherlands. This reduces the risk of problems at events. Other gyms received official warnings because their supporters misbehaved around competitions. Since then they have been watching their step, because otherwise they too will no longer be allowed to take part in competitions. The quality mark is therefore also used to ensure that martial arts events run smoothly.

More qualified trainers
The introduction of the quality mark was mainly intended as a positive incentive to invest in quality. And that has not been in vain. The number of trainers who followed a course and obtained a diploma at a recognised training institute has more than doubled compared with the years before the quality mark was introduced. In practice this means that thousands of athletes who previously had an unqualified trainer in front of the group are now taught by someone who is demonstrably qualified.

Shortened courses are also organised for experienced kickboxing instructors

Safety
It is important for the martial arts sector that everyone can take part in sport in a safe environment. That is one of the reasons why we require a certificate of good conduct (verklaring omtrent het gedrag, VOG) for all youth trainers. In the application we also draw attention to the four-eyes principle. In addition, we explain how gym owners can deal with matters of trust and confidentiality. These are aspects for which much appreciation is expressed within the sector. We also hear that gyms which previously had difficulty taking out liability insurance have now taken the step, thanks to the quality mark requirement and our referral to Everion. Proper insurance also contributes to safety.

Renewal
The VA quality mark is valid for two years. This means that the gyms that were first in line in 2021 have now applied for a new assessment. Enquiries with the federations show that virtually all gyms that regularly took part in competitions now hold the quality mark. Other gyms are still working on getting their diplomas and facilities in order. The VA hopes to welcome them in the coming months, because the more martial arts entrepreneurs come on board, the better for martial arts as a whole.

Points for improvement
The quality mark is still young and the VA is keen to learn from practical experience. The VA audit team and office staff visit dozens of gyms each year. They hear from owners how they experience the quality mark and receive numerous questions and suggestions, because there is always room for improvement. The quality mark is of course no guarantee of a perfect gym. It sets a minimum set of requirements. Many gym owners set the bar higher for themselves and argue that the VA should do the same by tightening the requirements. Many suggestions are received that can contribute to further improving quality in the martial arts sector. Input from people working in practice is very valuable. Gym owners and other parties involved are therefore encouraged to share criticism, points for improvement and suggestions via keurmerk@vechtsportautoriteit.nl You can also always contact us here with questions.