Q: What type of Martial Arts should I Choose?
A: This really depends mainly on your interests. Some people must take in consideration of
your health and your physical abilities. However, I have met some students that have
overcome severe handicaps in order to participate in Martial Arts. So, to say that training in
Martial Arts depends on your physical fitness is also only a minor percentage of the
consideration factor. Basically if you want to learn about kicking, then join a Taekwondo
Club. If you like throws and joint locks, join something like Hapkido or Aikido, and if you like
weapons, then join something like Koryo Gumdo or Ninjutsu.
Q: How Long will it Take to Get a Blackbelt?
A: Some schools differ, but in White Tiger it usually takes about 2 years. That is constant
training, both physical and mental at least tow times a week for 2 years. One has to be
serious in order to complete the training. Because it is so demanding, it is not for everyone.
Q: How Much Does it Cost?
A: The cost of a blackbelt now days ranges from about $2000-$3000 depending on the
school. Some schools are much more expensive if they are well recognized. Most schools
though will accept monthly payments and that makes purchasing a blackbelt a lot easier.
Princes usually run about $75-$150 a month.
Q: What is a Typical Class Like?
A: The classes are set up at first as basic instruction and then there is a form of repetition
until the curriculum is learned. For some of these classes it takes two to three months to
learn a particular technique or ability.
Q: Why are Adults Mixed in with Kids Classes?
A: Some schools have separate classes for adults and kids. However, the way that the
class is structured, it really is not a problem and the two can be mixed if need be. The
classes are designed for the students to learn at their own pace. So, it is really easy for an
adult that studies hard to supersede a child in belt progression. I do know some adults who
have felt embarrassed that they are the only adults a particular class. One must stay
focused on the training and not who is in class or their age. Progress at your own pace and
stay focused on your own training.
Q: What is the Most Important Thing about Martial Arts?
A: Training. Training needs to be an everyday ritual. Some type of training needs to be
accomplished daily. Even if it is just going over forms in your head, you must make training
an important exercise. Otherwise you will not progress in the class.
Q: If I am not Flexible, Can I Still Study Martial Arts?
A: Yes. Martial Arts can make you more flexible, but remember, the basic purpose is to keep
you safe. So, flexibility is only a small part of studying Martial Arts.
Q: If I am Overweight, Can I Still Study Martial Arts?
A: Yes. It is advisable to contact your personal physician before training. However, I have
met many people who are overweight and they train and study Martial Arts. The trick is not
to overdo something to the point where you get sick, or hurt. Many have lost weight using
Martial Arts as their cardio workout.
Q: Do I have to Wear a Uniform and Belt?
A: Yes. The uniform and belt are traditional wear specifically for the class. They are
designed for the class and are usually a representation of the school in some way. Some
might have the school design or logo on the back or somewhere else on the uniform. The
belt is usually a way to designate rank and where one lines up in class, and their progress
toward a blackbelt. A uniform is important for any Martial Arts' class.
Q: Will I have to do Push-Ups?
A: Yes. One can substitute sit-ups for push-ups if one is not able to perform push-ups.
Push-ups are used sometimes as a form of discipline. However one should not look at
push-ups in a negative manner. Push-ups help build muscle and develops stamina. So
when one gets in trouble, just execute the push-ups, thank your Master Instructor for giving
them to you, and go on learning keeping in mind what you did so you will not repeat the
mistake again.
Q: If I do not Come to Class, Will I have to Pay for It?
A: Most schools conduct their business by contract. So, if you do not come to class, you
still owe the amount of money that you promised to pay to the school. You will be expected
to pay for the classes that you do not attend. The instructor expects you to be there and
expects you to pay for the contract that you signed. This is his/her way of getting paid and
providing for their family so they expect their student to stay current on their payment
schedule.
Q: Do I have to Pay for Classes that are Cancelled?
A: Most of the contracts that you sign are a contract of training and not of a monthly class
session or a single training session. Most of the contracts are about training to a certain belt
or from a certain date to an ending date listed on the contract, or both. Classes are going to
be cancelled for one reason or another, and emergencies are going to arise. If you feel that
you have been shorted on your training, it is up to you to communicate with your instructor
and tell him or her how you feel. Sometimes instructors will make up the days missed or
give extra instruction in needed areas. However, most of the time a few missed or cancelled
classes will not affect your training or belt testing.
Q: Who can Instruct at a Martial Arts School?
A: An instructor should be certified by whatever organization that he or she belongs to. The
instructor should be able to show you their certified instruction certificates. There are some
students that the instructor allows to help instruct called assistant instructors. These
student s may be picked because of rank or how long they have been in class. Only the
instructor will be allowed to have these students help instruct during class time.
Q: Does My Training Stop When I Reach Blackbelt?
A: No, you can test for degrees in blackbelt. 1st degree is held for one year, and then you
can test for 2nd. 2nd is held for 2 years and then you can test for 3rd etc. There are 9
degrees of blackbelt if you train you can make it to Grand Master. Also you can teach and
get an Instructor's Certificate at a blackbelt level.
Q: When is a Good Time to Start Classes?
A: Usually at the beginning of the month, but Martial Arts is a continual study. It is not
seasonal like football, or baseball. It is on going, so anytime is okay.
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