Question 1

What is the difference between Taekwondo and Karate?

Accepted Answer

Traditional Karate is a Japanese martial art that focuses on striking, with powerful upper body techniques. Traditional Karate has a long and rich history, with many recognized branches. There are people who use the word "karate" to mean all martial arts. At some schools the name "karate" is used when what is really being taught is a mixture of different martial arts techniques that lack the foundation of traditional martial arts.

Taekwondo originated in Korea and is an Olympic sport well known for dynamic kicking. We attend competitions at the local, state, and national level. You will see truly amazing jumping and spinning kicks unlike any other martial art.

World Taekwondo oversees the practice of the sport in over 160 countries worldwide. Our style of Taekwondo is standardized, so anywhere you go the poomsae and rules of sparring will be the same. What is also really important to know is that our black belts are internationally certified through Kukkiwon. This means that if you earn your black belt at Grand Valley Taekwondo, you will be recognized as a black belt anywhere in the world - which means you won't have to start over if you move.

Karate and Taekwondo are both martial arts and if taught by qualified instructors they can change lives. The important thing is to find a school that matches your goals and values.

Question 2

Am I too old to start martial arts?

Accepted Answer

No! Martial arts are an individual sport. You will practice with training partners but ultimately you are on your own journey. At competitions and belt advancements you are judged on your own performance, your personal growth and potential. This means you can start at any age and be successful!

Question 3

Do I have to be in good shape before I start?

Accepted Answer

No. You will get into shape as you train. We are able to accomodate all fitness levels in our training program. You will be amazed at your increased endurance, greater strength and overall improved health!

Question 4

How long does it take to get a black belt?

Accepted Answer

This answer is different for every student. It will take years of effort and diligent practice to meet the physical requirements, along with developing the attitude and mental control requisite for a black belt. Most students take around five years but some take longer. Bear in mind that black belt is only the beginning! Once you achieve your black belt you are ready for the fun to truly begin.

Question 5

Is "sensei" the word for my teacher?

Accepted Answer

Taekwondo comes from Korea, and the Korean word for teacher is "sabunim." ("Sensei" is Japanese.) In our studio ("dojang") we use quite a bit of Korean vocabulary which you will pick up as you train.

Question 6

I'm just shopping around. How do I know if yours is the right school for me?

Accepted Answer

We get it! You have a lot of great choices in town. When trying to find the perfect studio, it can be hard to know if you're comparing apples to oranges. We encourage you to take an introductory class! Take the time to visit the schools and talk with the instructors. These questions will help you know if you've found the right fit.

Instructors:
Are you comfortable around the instructors?
Are the instructors adult black belts?
How long have the instructors been teaching?
Are the instructors certified by a national and/or international governing body?
 
Classes:
Is there a reasonable student-to-teacher ratio?
Do classes have good energy? Is there a good mix of fun and discipline?

Facility:
Is the school clean and well maintained?
Do you feel safe in the school? In the parking lot?
 
Financial:
What does tuition include? How long are classes and how many can you attend per week?
Do you have to sign a contract? How long is it?
Do the fees increase as you get higher in rank?

Vision and Focus:
Does the mission statement align with your own values and goals?
Do they teach their students self control and respect?
Can students continue to progress beyond first degree black belt?
Is the instructor someone you want to emulate?

Don't be afraid to ask questions. Most instructors are happy to answer them all! Good luck in your search for a martial arts school.

Question 7

How much are classes?

Accepted Answer

We often get this question from people who are doing a quick Google search of martial arts schools in the area. We don't want to frustrate you, but we want to make sure that you are comparing apples to apples. We strongly encourage you to try a free introductory class. It will give you the opportunity to really discover what we are all about. That said, you can find our prices listed at the bottom of our Programs page; we invite you to browse our programs on your way there.

Question 8

Do I have to sign a contract?

Accepted Answer

Nope! We believe that our program is so great, you will never want to leave!

Frequently asked questions