Questions About Pensacola Martial Arts Classes

Frequently Asked Questions About our Martial Arts Classes

How do I know which martial arts school is right for me?

All professional martial arts schools offer a trial membership. It could be one free lesson or a discounted week or month of classes. Call around to other schools and listen to how they handle the call. Are they professional and enthusiastic about hearing from you? Ask if they have a student creed; do they belong to a professional martial arts association and what is their trial membership like? If you have a good feeling, go and watch a class, meet the staff, talk to other members. It is extremely important to find out if their focus meets what your own goals and desired outcome.


Will my child become violent through martial arts training?

Absolutely Not! Martial arts are for self-defense ONLY. Students are taught from day one to never misuse the martial arts. Contrary to popular belief, martial arts students get into fewer conflicts than those who do not study the martial arts. We understand that some children in our program may be hyperactive or aggressive and need to learn respect for self and others. These children are the ones who will benefit the most from our program. The martial arts are a great way to channel energy in a positive way, while at the same time focusing on respect. Students understand when they can and cannot use the martial arts and to use common sense before self defense. You can find more information in a professional article about children in the martial arts.


How young will you accept children in your martial arts program?

Great question! We would like to first point out that some 4 year olds are ready to join the martial arts and some 6 year olds are not ready. A good age to start training is at 4 years of age and we have a GREAT program designed especially for young children called the Little Samurais. During the Introductory Program we will determine if the child is ready. We want to make sure that the student will be able to retain the information taught to them and if their motor skills are developed enough to successfully complete the children’s class requirements. They have their entire lives to study the martial arts; we do not wish to force it too early.


Are classes safe?

Although every athletic activity carries a risk of injury, our instructors place a great emphasis on safety and mutual respect for classmates. Students are never asked to perform any movement or drill that would unnecessarily place them in danger.


Am I too old to start the martial arts?

Never! Martial arts are beneficial for people of all ages, including adults. We emphasize the positive attributes of our students while making allowances for each individual’s personal limitations. Martial arts are great for getting into shape resulting in stress relief and higher levels of self-confidence and positive self-image. At the same time, students learn self-defense and know that they can protect themselves and their families. Students are always encouraged to go at there own pace.


How do I get started in the martial arts?

The first step in getting started in the martial arts is to complete our Introductory Program. The Introductory Program is a trial program which first consists of private lessons and then moves onto group lessons to really try out our Karate classes. We never want to take a new student and throw them out on the mat and say “go do Karate!” Having private lessons first helps us to ease clients into the program. The cost of the Introductory Program is only $29.95 and the student will also receive a FREE uniform. There is no obligation or commitment after the Introductory Program is completed.


What happens after the Introductory Program?

After the Introductory Program is completed we have a couple of different options that you can choose from. We offer a very popular NO contract option as well as a 6 or 12 month agreement plan. You can pay in full or you can set up a monthly tuition plan that works best for your budget. We understand that each student and family has different needs and desires, so you will be able to pick which program fits you best. Please give us a call and we will be more than happy to answer any further questions that you may have.


How much do lessons cost?

Tuition costs range from $64 to $99 per month depending on what program you choose and any discounts that you or your family may be able to receive. In determining the value of your investment in anything it is important to see exactly what it is that you are paying for. Once you have completed the Introductory Program you will be able to make an informed buying decision. There is never any high pressure sales tactics or false advertising at Seikou Martial Arts Academy. Please come and watch a class or two and talk to the other parents and students anytime.


Do you offer discounts for multiple children or for military?

Yes, we do! Here is a list of all the groups that we offer discounts to:

Multiple family members.
Law enforcement and their immediate family.
Military service members and their family.
Those employed in the medical field.
Government and County employees and their immediate family members.

Please give us a call and we can tell you more about the discounts and how they might apply.


Are your children and adult classes together or separate?

The classes are separate. It wouldn’t be fair for us to expect a 6 year-old to work out with a 35 year-old or for an adult to be able to train in self-defense realistically with a child. We split up our classes into the following age groups:

• 5 and under (Little Samurais)
• 6 to 9 (Youths)
• 10 to 15 (Juniors)
• 16 and up (Adults)

Furthermore, our classes are also broken down by Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced training levels. Students are training with their peers who possess the same experience and abilities. We understand that some parents wish to take classes with their child, so we offer private lessons and we occasionally will get involve parents during children’s classes.


I heard that there are plans for University Mall in Pensacola to be renovated. What are your plans for the future when these takes place?

We are aware of the plans and have in our agreement with the mall that we will have a 6 month notice prior to us having to relocate. We are pursing a new location and will have no lapse in our classes during the transition. The mall is a great place to still shop, spend time and is a convenient location for our academy. We are looking forward to our new location!


I have a past injury can I still participate in the martial arts?

Yes, you can. As long as you have a doctor’s release and are comfortable with what is being asked of you. Please inform the instructors of your past injuries and we will accommodate you as best as we are able.


Do you offer morning or evening classes?

We offer both. We pride ourselves with having one of the most flexible schedules for our students and families in Pensacola. Please view our schedule here.


How often should I attend class?

You goal should be to attend class at least 2 times per week. If you miss a class, you should do your best to make it up.


My child has ADD/ADHD. Will the martial arts help?

The National Attention Deficit Disorder Association and Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder support the idea that the martial arts will help these individuals cope with the disorder. They say that such courses help ease the symptoms of the disorder: inability to concentrate and, in some cases, hyperactivity. The martial arts demand a kind of concentration that forces coordination of the attention centers of the brain; specifically, the frontal cortex, the cerebellum and the limbic system. The martial arts are repetitive, slow, structured and individualistic, thereby facilitating a learning of the coordination of skills that are difficult for those with ADD/ADHD.


How long does it take to achieve the Black Belt?

The average is 4 years, depending on the student. It is by no means a race to get to Black Belt. A Black Belt is not a representation of how long you have been training but it is how well you perform and understand the techniques you have been taught. The responsibility for learning and perfecting these techniques is with the student; practice and effort will greatly determine when a Black Belt is earned.


Do you have a certification process for your instructors?

Yes, all of our Instructors and Assistant Instructors have many requirements that must be met to even be considered for such an important position. We have a strict training program and standards of excellence for all of our staff. They are trained in how to discipline positively, how to motivate students professionally, customer service skills, CPR, proper way to warm up and stretch- just to name a few of many areas on which our leadership development program focuses. Staff development is ongoing and never ending. We have monthly training sessions, staff workshops, training videos and tapes, and our staff training handbook. We are very proud of our staff-training program!


Do you teach any religious views or values, such as Buddhism or Taoism?

No, not in a religious sense at all. We are Christians who believe in following some Eastern traditions, such as bowing to one another to show respect and courtesy. Nothing in our training program or curriculum will conflict with your own personal beliefs and worship. Here is a link for more information concerning the compatibility of Karate and religion.