FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions...
- How is it possible to reach Black Belt in just one year when other schools make you train 3-
4 years or even longer?
Becoming a black belt is about two things, being able to perform like a black belt and
being able to proficiently handle yourself in a self defense situation. Other schools
spend class time on things that don't directly affect either of these. We don't have 'filler
material' to take up time, we only teach material that matters in becoming proficient.
- How many classes per week should I attend?
We recommend two classes per week. Some practice at home will help too but is not
necessary. Kobudo students need to train in one specialized class per week in addition
to their karate classes.
- How are the classes organized?
At All Star Karate, we organize classes by age and skill level. Children's classes are
separate from adults so each can learn at their own pace. Also advanced youth
students are separate from beginner students.
- Will martial arts training make my child too aggressive?
Contrary to popular belief, karate students are actually more controlled because of
their training. At All Star Karate Academy, we emphasize how to resolve conflict and
demonstrate self-control under pressure. Aggression is channeled into assertiveness,
but never violence.
- Why do people bow when entering and leaving the training area?
The bow in karate is a sign of respect.
We attach no religious connotation to it at the All Star Karate Academy.
- Is sparring necessary to learn martial arts?
Yes. The principles of distancing, timing, speed and strategy are developed
through sparring. These are an integral part of a student's karate development and the
reason why we include sparring drills in classes. All Sparring at All Star Karate must be
controlled so as not to hurt your fellow students.
- What are the chances of getting injured?
Injuries are very uncommon at the All Star Karate because a qualified Black Belt
Instructor supervises each class. Protective gear is used in sparring to reduce the
chance of injury even more. That being said, karate is a contact sport. Students must
fully understand that participation in karate could result in injuries. Students choosing
to train must accept all elements of risk involved.
- How many belt colors are there and how do I earn these?
Colored belts denote skill level. Every martial art school has its own belt system.
At All Star Karate we have different belt systems for each art as well.
Karate: White - Blue - Green - Brown - Black
Kobudo: White - Yellow - Yellow/Black - Blue - Blue/Black - Green - Green/Black - Brown - Black
- Why are there more belts in Kobudo?
It does take longer in kobudo to obtain black belt (2 years); reason handling all the different
weapons isn't as natural for people and it takes longer to develop the skill of a black belt.
- What happens when I miss a class?
We have additional classes that you may use to make-up absences or use as extra
training time.
- Are there any age limits?
Our youngest students start at age four and we have yet to find an upper age limit for
our adult students.
- How about persons with disabilities?
We have taught many people with varying disabilities. We are willing to work with
students to adapt our curriculum and teaching methods where possible. Our desire is
to make karate training as accessible as possible to as many people as possible.