The Ultimate in Martial Arts

Questions and Answers

What should I wear?

Wear comfortable shorts or sweatpants. On your first lesson you may wear any tshirt. Upon joining you will receive the school tshirt at no additional charge. The school tshirt is required to be worn during class. Barefeet, socks or wrestling shoes are allowed on the mat.

Do I need any equipment

There is no required equipment. We do however recommend you own a pair of boxing gloves. We have them in stock if you would like to purchase a pair.

How long will it take me to become reasonably proficient and how long will it take to attain black belt level?

The time it takes to become proficient varies upon the style and your own abilities. In most self defense systems, you should feel that you could defend yourself fairly well after six months. To reach to reach black belt, the same variables are in play, but somewhere between three and five years is about right.

How many classes per week should I attend?

Most instructors recommend two classes per week, plus some practice time in between classes. You should match your involvement with fitness level.

Will there be other beginners in my class?

At this studio, the are grouped by age and rank. This means that you should be in a class with other beginners and lower ranks.

Is sparring necessary to learn martial arts?

Some martial arts do not require sparring. Most other martial arts do. Since martial arts involves dealing with an opponent, it is necessary to practice in conditions similar to an actual confrontation. In this way you learn about reactions, timing and speed. There are many different ways to spar which include very light contact to full-contact. The amount of contact is decided by the student. There is never any pressure to spar hard. Students are encouraged to spar at a level in which they feel comfortable.

What are the chances of getting injured?

The chances of getting injured are very small since the training should be constantly supervised with safety in mind. The better equipped that the studio is (mats,etc.) and the protective gear that is required to be worn by all students reduces the chances even further.

Should I take group or private lessons?

Private lessons will increase your progression two to three times faster than by taking group lessons alone. The personalized attention and energy of an instructor is a tremendous advantage. Group lessons are good because it allows you to see how different people react to situations and techniques. You also get to meet new people and friends. The best of both worlds is a program that lets you have both group and private lessons. Email Tim Mousel at mousel@defend.net if you're interested in scheduling a private lesson.