East Coast Black Belt Academy Frequently Asked Questions

We've Compiled A List Of The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Our School, Our Programs, And Our Training Philosophy.

Click any question to display the answer.

Answer: We teach Matsubayashi Shorin Ryu Karate, which includes a variety of kicks, punches, blocks, strikes, and traditional weaponry. Shorin Ryu is one of the oldest karate systems in the world. It comes from the birthplace of Karate, Okinawa. A traditional style of karate that relies on natural stances, practical self-defense techniques and ancient pre-arranged forms that anyone can learn.

Answer: Our "Little Karate Masters" can start as young as 5 years old.

Answer: The martial arts are an extremely safe activity. Because of the way our program is taught, most situations that can cause injuries are entirely eliminated. In fact, many studies have shown that because of the emphasis on control, martial arts is one of the safest activities around. From the beginning to the end of the class, we keep a sharp eye on everything that goes on. Of course, like in any contact sport, occasional bumps and bruises are possible, but we work our hardest to make sure that they are very rare.

Answer: The answer is a definite, "yes!" In fact, the martial arts are ideal for children who aren't naturally athletic. Why? Well, in organized sports like little league or soccer, much of the activity revolves around team performance and understanding the rules of the game. Naturally, some children catch on quicker than others, leaving the less experienced kids sitting out. This creates a vicious cycle until eventually, their self-esteem suffers and they don't feel like playing. In our martial art program, every child is given individual attention and has an opportunity to shine in a variety of areas. Each child can comfortably progress at his or her own pace, without feeling left out. We have a saying in our school, "there are absolutely no bench warmers in our family."

Answer: Well to put it simply, it is the most fun you can have in one hour, anywhere. If you watch one of our classes, you will see how our instructors are masters at blending education and entertainment. We call this Edu-tainment. We camouflage what would normally be seen as hard work (like exercise) into playful, game-like movements. And, it doesn't matter if it’s a child or adult program. All our classes are a blast, and everyone has the time of their life, but more than that, martial arts are inspiring and life-changing, from the mental to the physical. What could be more fun that?

Answer: We recommend between two and three times a week. In the first class, you will work on a particular move or skill. In the following classes, you will work to earn your stripe. After achieving a certain number of stripes you will then be ready to test for your next belt.

Answer: There are usually 2 to 3 instructors at a time on the floor.

Answer: Confidence is sometimes inherent, which means you are born with it. However, not many are so fortunate. For most people, confidence is developed, through a series of successes. However, we teach from an Eastern philosophy, which believes that in order to succeed, you must at times fail. We do not discourage or shame people into thinking failure is a bad thing. In fact, we teach failure is part of success! The more people try, the better they become. Instilling life-long confidence in a person is not an easy task, but we have done it time and time again. We have a long list of students who’ve developed confidence, self-esteem, and many more traits that have helped them to become tremendously successful.

Answer: We teach children from as young as 5 years old, to adults of any age. As with any kind of education, if a child starts Karate when they are very young, they will typically have an advantage that will benefit them throughout their childhood. But, martial arts does not discriminate. You are never too old to start reaping the rewards from martial arts training. In fact, when parents see the benefits their children gain, many of them become students themselves!

Answer: The answer for this one is a resounding yes! We have a good blend of girls and boys in our martial arts classes! Some people think that boys are more coordinated and capable. We throw all those stereotypes out with the garbage. Our girls are capable, tough, strong and lethal warriors.