frequently asked questions
When can I start?
New students can begin any day of the week. Please give us a call to schedule your orientation class which we offer before your first class.
How long are classes?
Our 4-6 year old children train for 30 minutes. Classes for beginning children ages 7-11, teens and adults are 45 minutes. Advanced classes and our Black Belt College classes are longer.
How often do I come to class?
In order for you to learn and retain the skills and to achieve the positive habits necessary to become physically fit, beginners are expected to attend classes two times a week for the first six months. After that you may qualify for our Black Belt College program, where you can train more often. We’ll talk more about that later on. For now, just get into the habit of coming to class twice-a-week ready to work hard and learn all you can.
Do I have to be in shape before I start training here?
One of the biggest misconceptions about studying martial arts is that you have to already be in shape to learn. Most students come to us looking to get in shape and to develop a healthy lifestyle by learning something interesting that they can do for the rest of their lives. Two months after you start you will feel so much better, you won’t believe it.
Do I have to wear a uniform?
Students can also wear our school t-shirts and sweatshirts in class. However, for testing you will need to wear your full uniform.
How do I get my next belt?
You will be eligible to test for your yellow belt after about 16 classes or so. First you will be informally pre-tested during class. Then you will receive a test notice in the mail. During the first year you should test every two months, depending on how regularly you come to class.
So, how long does it take to earn my black belt?
Everyone progresses at their own pace, but the average time it takes to earn your black belt is around four years.
So, how safe is studying martial arts? And what’s all that fighting?
First of all we don’t “fight”. Fighting has no rules and is done when all other options have been exhausted. We practice “sparring”. Sparring has rules (especially for safety). We wear protective gear and use only enough power to score points. We don’t try to knock each other out. We teach respect. Injuring your sparring partner is disrespectful. In reality, this is one of the safest activities you and your child will ever enjoy.
Does martial arts training really help children who have low self-esteem problems?
It’s amazing what martial arts can do for a child’s self-esteem and within a reasonably short amount of time. This quality derives from consistent training. Even when a child doesn’t see the results for himself, he must be encouraged to continue with the training. Eventually, it will manifest itself in surprising ways.
Why is structure so important in contributing to self-esteem in children?
Children expect to be told what to do: otherwise, they become fearful. Rewarding them when they’re good, and disciplining them when they’re bad is a basic martial arts structure, which will help them develop a pattern of accomplishment.
Will my training give me the confidence to take more chances in life?
Definitely. Martial arts successes can be carried over into daily life. If, for example, you can see how you’ve accomplished breaking a board to earn your yellow belt, then why can’t you go in and ask for a promotion at work? Understanding that you can accomplish what you set out to do is a great discovery achieved through consistent training.
When will I start to feel better about myself?
As soon as you put on your uniform, and take a part in a class. Becoming part of positive group that has the same goal in mind, directed by a positive and anchored instructor, is a great source of comfort for the soul.
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