Frequently Asked Questions
Useful Information
Will these classes aid in self defense?
The question of self defense is a tricky one to answer, more often than not because it is competing with peoples' expectations, built up over the consumption of media. A situation where you need to defend yourself is not going to look like a Jackie Chan or Tom Cruise movie. They will probably have a knife or a gun, everything hurts, and you are risking your life. The best advice I could give is to use your words before your fists to de-escalate the situation. 9 times out of 10, that will work. If it does not, then getting lucky with a good punch to the nose and running like Usain Bolt is your best option. Not the most pretty of responses, but the most realistic.
Do you have a grading system, like Karate?
No. The grading system in its modern form did not enter Chinese martial arts such as Northern Shaolin until after WW2, when American soldiers began learning and spreading the martial art, as a carry over from Japanese schools. Before this, the hierarchy of a school was based in seniority, older students held more respect than younger students. We do something similar. You will enter the school as a novice, progress to apprentice, finally becoming a master when you have learned all you need to and are ready to go on.
Do I need to have previous knowledge in martial arts?
Short answer, no. Long answer. We offer beginners classes which include such things as how to throw a punch, or how to properly kick, so complete novices are able to find their feet just fine. We do have students that have more experience, but do not let that be thought of as a negative for you if you are new. Everyone needs to start somewhere.