At what age can my child start training?
Our youth karate program starts out at 5 years old. Martial arts training requires focus and discipline as well as the ability to follow specific directions. We have found that some children are ready at 5 years old and others would benefit from waiting a year until they turn 6 years old.
When can I sign up?
Registration is conducted on a month by month basis. Currently registration is conducted within a 2 week window. The last week of the previous month and the first week of the current month is when registration should occur. There is a $20 late fee after this 2 week period. When registering for the first time, we ask that you arrive 15 to 20 minutes before class start time to complete the necessary paperwork. All minors are required to have a parent/legal guardian signature to participate. If you are wanting to “Try Out” a class, please feel free to do so anytime.
How can I pay?
Payments are made with cash or check. There is a $30 fee for any returned checks. You can also use Venmo but cash or check is best. We try to keep our fees affordable so we do not accept credit or debit cards due to all the extra fees associated with that process.
What should I wear?
In the beginning we ask that you wear something that is easy to exercise and move in. By the time that you are nearing the end of your first month of training, we ask that you purchase a traditional black “Gi” (gee) or uniform. A black workout t-shirt with our logo is acceptable to wear under the Gi. Our training area is a completely matted floor and we ask that no shoes are worn on that area. For your convenience, t-shirts and uniforms can be purchased at the school.
What equipment is needed?
On sparring nights all students are required to have certain items. During sparring all students must wear a mouthpiece to help protect the teeth from accidental injury. It is also required that students wear protective hand pads, foot pads and helmet. There are many styles and varieties of these on the market today and Sensei Smith can help you decide what is best as well as purchase them for your convenience. Also required for all male students is an athletic cup which may be purchased at your local Wal-Mart or sporting goods store.
Are parents required to stay on the premises during class?
Parents are always welcome to stay and watch, but not required. Many parents stay and watch and many have ended up joining in the fun!
