FAQ'S

If these questions and answers do not answer your question,  feel free to email us from the Home Page. We will add your question to the list if it gets asked more often
 
Q:  How do I know if a school is a good one or bad one?

A:  Go to  Choosing a School  page.  This will answer most of your questions.

Q:  How long does it take to earn a black belt?

A:  There are many factors that vary from school to school, system to system, and student to student. Typically around 4-5 years.

Q:  How often should students attend class?

A:  At least twice per week. This way it is not over demanding plus it will develop long term consistency.

Q:  Does the style or system really matter?

A:  It can. It really depends on the goals of the students.  The quality of the instructors are also a significant factor.  Like any other profession, there are good ones and not so good ones. A good instructor can make almost any system more interesting.

Q:  Why do some school have service agreements?

A:  In today's day and age, most professional service businesses will not do business unless there is a formal agreement.  Most martial arts schools who use service agreements are on the up and up because their client base has a higher level of commitment.

Q:  Overall, are most martial arts schools the same?

A:  Absolutely not! It would be like saying all attorneys are the same.  There are all different kinds of attorneys just like there are martial arts schools.

Q:  Do I have to be in shape to join a martial arts program?

A:  No.  In most cases, the objective to a beginner program is to help new students learn how to get into good physical condition.  You will have to be patient and consistent to get results. There are no shortcuts.

Q:  Are martial arts programs dangerous?

A:  They certainly can be. Due to the nature of what martial arts schools teach, there is always the possibility of injury no matter what the activity. However,  almost all professional schools have safety as the number one priority.  If this is a concern, speak with the master instructor of the school to find out what  his or her safety standards are. These standards vary as well from school to school.

Q:  What kind of instructor to student ratio would you think is reasonable?

A:  Typically, 1 instructor per 12 students.  Again, there are other factors involved.

Q:  Does martial arts training really build confidence and self esteem?

A:  Confidence and Self Esteem are tied into competence.  Most quality martial arts programs make sure each and every student is performing at his or her personal best.  Therefore as competence improves, so will confidence and self esteem. 

Q:  Is martial arts training expensive?

A:  In most cases, in any product or service, you will get what you pay for.  It is up to you to make an educated evaluation of any service or product.  Simply compare tuition costs plus any undisclosed costs with competing schools then decide what gives the best value.  There are many factors to consider.