Gary Steele Karate Studio
Pursuing the Spirit of Excellence Since 1974
Frequently Asked Questions
Will training in a martial art make my child become violent?
No! Children at this age naturally explore the world around them. They like to test limits. For some this is pretending to be a ninja turtle, playing in ways that seem dangerous, and acting out the world around them.
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Participating in martial arts helps children become calmer and develop abilities that will assist them in growing to be more focused, respectful, and confident.
Is my child at risk of being injured while training in a martial art such as karate or jiu jitsu?
Injuries are very rare. Along with training in how to perform the techniques we teach, we also make every effort to train students in how to use the techniques in a manner that is safe to not only themselves but also their training partners.
At what age do you start training karate? At what age do you start jiu-jitsu?
Generally, we start training children in karate at four years old. Some children are able to start as early as three years old.
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With jiu-jitsu, we normally start children at around nine years old. As jiu-jitsu involves partner involvement, self-control is an essential skill. For younger children, we suggest starting them in the Little Dragons and Children's karate programs. This allows them time to develop their self-control while still gaining other valuable life skills!
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The right time to start training is now! Martial arts offers benefits to people of all ages. Some of the benefits include learning self-defense, self-control, focus, confidence, respect, responsibility, athleticism, courtesy, sportsmanship, punctuality, perseverance, and so much more!
Is my child athletic enough to train in karate or jiu jitsu?
Athleticism is equal parts learned skill and confidence. As children develop their knowledge of a skill, they become more confident in their abilities. Many children who are "not athletic," just aren't great at team sports. Martial arts allows everyone who works hard to develop their abilities their own moment to shine!
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Parenting.com has a great article on the benefits of martial arts training in a child's development!
See "Karate Kids: The Benefits of Martial Arts" by Alison Hendrie on Parenting.com
Are martial arts only for boys? Can girls participate as well?
Many of the needs for boys and girls are the same. Everyone needs to develop a better knowledge of how to protect themselves. Everyone needs to develop self-discipline. The benefits our programs help students achieve are beneficial for all boys and girls the same.
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Parenting.com has a great article on the benefits of martial arts training in a child's development!
See "Karate Kids: The Benefits of Martial Arts" by Alison Hendrie on Parenting.com
Am I fit enough to train in karate, jiu-jitsu, or kickboxing?
Many people say "I'll start after I lose some weight. Then I'll be in good enough shape to train." This is like saying you want to lose a few pounds before you start exercising.
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Our programs help you become more active. When added to a healthy diet, you will be well on your way to making changes that can provide you with a lifetime of health benefits.
What if I'm not very athletic?
This is the same as it is for children. You do not have to be a "natural athlete" in order to be successful with a martial art. A successful martial artist is a person who never gives up, develops confidence and focus, and works to create positive changes in their life.
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You will have the ability to do techniques at your own pace. If you need to slow down, then you can. If you discover you are able to do a technique in a quicker manner, then you can. The most important thing is to persevere through the things that seem difficult!
Am I too old to train in martial arts?
It's not very likely. Our programs allow you to work at a pace that is right for you!