At Seven Samurai we know how hugely rewarding the martial arts can be and we want you to get the most from your practice.
For beginners and parents, the martial arts can be a whole new world to discover. To help you get started on this journey, we have compiled the answers to questions we’ve encountered during our 30+ years of teaching and practicing martial arts.
If there is something else you would like to know please just ask!
What are the benefits of martial arts?
As a method of keeping fit and healthy, all martial arts develop balance, co-ordination, aerobic fitness, strength and flexibility. Unlike many other physical activities, they also challenge the brain and require constant mental alertness and agility helping to keep you young.
What does martial arts training consist of?
That really depends on the particular martial art, instructor, and school. However, most training is generally broken down into five main groups, each of which is designed to develop different skills.
1.
Basic exercises to develop skill in the basic kicking and hand techniques that make up Taekwondo.
2.Pre-arranged sparring - a two person exercise where a defender counters a pre-determined attack.
3.Katas/Patterns* - a solo exercise where combinations of blocks, kicks and hand techniques are performed in a set pattern.
4.Free sparring - another two person exercise except the attack and counter are not predetermined. For safety some techniques and striking areas are not allowed. Varying degrees of contact are allowed based on the level of skill of the participants.
5.Unarmed Combat - a variety of strikes, throws, holds, and other techniques which may not be used in free sparring are taught and practiced either in pre-arranged or freestyle combat.
A class will consist of warm up exercises and may then cover all of the above or concentrate on just a few aspects, depending on the perceived needs of the students present.
* Some martial arts do not practice pre-arranged solo combinations (katas or patterns).
What should I look for in a martial arts school?
It is important to realize that when you are looking for a good martial arts school, you are really looking for a good instructor. Whether you are looking for yourself or your child, the basics are the same. Every school is different because every instructor is different from school to school. Don't get confused by claims of black belt degrees, tournament wins, or martial art styles. The only style that matters is the teaching style of the instructor and how you or your child will respond to him or her.
Be sure to visit the school and watch an actual class. Beware of schools that only offer private or semi-private trial classes. You need to see an actual class to see how the instructor interacts with the students. Most schools offer two or three free lessons to beginners. Other indicators of a good martial arts school are the level of organisation and cleanliness of the school. Walk around and check out the entire facility. Does it look professional, warm and inviting? Are handouts presentable and well written? Is it well kept?
It is also helpful to talk to some of the students and parents. Are the students mannerly, respectful and well behaved? Ask the parents questions about what they like and don’t like about the school and instructors.
Will my child become too aggressive if he studies the martial arts?
No. One of the great things about any martial arts training is that students learn self-restraint and discipline. If anything, martial arts tend to “normalize” students.
Will the martial arts really teach my child discipline?
Yes. The martial arts are probably the foremost tool at your disposal for teaching children self-discipline and respect. Self-discipline is inherent in the structure of a typical martial arts class. In a good school, the students are motivated to learn how to control their actions, and to behave in a respectful and disciplined way. Eventually, the self-discipline students exhibit every day in class will become second nature and start showing up outside of class - at home and at school.
What is the right age to start in the martial arts?
The martial arts may be started at any age. While some types of martial arts are better for certain age groups than others, as long as there is an interest, it is a good time to start. Remember to watch actual classes to get a feel for the particular martial art, teaching style of the instructor and atmosphere of the school. All of these are important considerations when deciding to start training in the martial arts. Most schools will start young children at four or five years of age. It is important these students are in a class with other children their own age. The developmental stages of a four year old and an eight year old are quite different and the way these respective classes are taught should reflect this difference.
My child doesn't stick with anything. What if they want to quit this to?
Eventually every child will say "I don't feel like going to class today" or "I'm too tired" or even “I don’t like it anymore.” Your child probably doesn’t really mean that, it’s just that they don’t want to go to class right then. This is a critical time in your child’s development and a potent ‘teachable moment’ for you and your child. With your help and the help of their martial arts instructor, your child has an opportunity to learn about determination and commitment. After class, they will of course feel good about themselves for having gone to class.
What rank should the instructor be?
The rank of the instructor will actually mean very little to your classroom experience or the quality of the classes. Find an instructor who cares about student development is much more important than credentials or rank.
What should I do when I enter the training hall/gym?
A training hall or gym is called amongst other things a dojo or dojang. Students are expected to bow to show respect upon entering. Anyone accompanying students does not need to bow. Outdoor shoes may need to be removed depending on the training areas surface.
Can I watch a class?
Most clubs and schools allow spectators. You should usually sit down, watch quietly, turn off your cell phone and avoid eating. If ever in any doubt just ask an instructor.
Can I travel to class in uniform?
Different schools have different rules about appearing in public in your gi. Some don’t mind, and some prefer you only wear your gi in class. If ever in any doubt just ask an instructor.
What about gradings? How long should I wait before I can grade?
Gradings are recognised throughout many sports as a fantastic way to motivate students and keep interest in the sport. Whether or not you grade depends on your ability and more importantly if the instructor feels you are ready. The more you train, the more competent you will become. Do not expect to grade if you only turn up once a month or irregularly. Generally gradings are held at set times throughout the year so you will know when the next one is coming up and what is required to pass it.
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Quick Guide to Martial Arts
What is Taekwondo?
Tae kwon do is a Korean martial art emphasizing the development of flexibility, stamina, strength, co-ordination, and self discipline. Literally translated Taekwondo means the "Way (do) of striking with hand and foot". However the word "do" is more fully understood as "guide to living" as the attributes tae kwon do seeks to encourage such as determination, courage, respect and self discipline carry over into everyday life.
Taekwondo practitioners are known for their kicking skills. However to ensure good all round skills, they practice a wide variety of striking and grappling techniques. With an estimated 30 million practitioners worldwide, Taekwondo is the world's most popular martial art in terms of the number of practitioners. It is also an Olympic sport.
What is Judo?
Judo is known for its spectacular throwing techniques but also includes numerous techniques for controlling an opponent while on the ground. Judo is often compared to freestyle wrestling and while the two share many techniques, Judo retains many dangerous self-defence maneuvers.
A good judoka, one who practices Judo, will first use timing and leverage to bring his or her opponent off balance and execute a throw. Once the judoka has thrown his opponent to the ground, he will use painful hold-down techniques, chokes, strangleholds and arm locks to control and subdue the opponent. If the opponent does not surrender, he will either have his elbow joint dislocated by means of an arm lock or will be rendered unconscious with a chokehold.
A judoka first learns "ukemi", the art of falling properly to avoid injury. All Judo practitioners wear a judo gi and a belt. Judo is practiced on mats for safety.
What is Jujitsu?
Jujitsu is a martial art which reflects the movements of the attacker back upon him or her. It has been practiced in Japan since the sixteenth century even though it has its origins in Chinese martial arts. Jujitsu uses a series of joint locks, small weaponry, and defensive tactics in combination with conserved energy to neutralize an attacker. Many other martial arts such as judo and aikido have their roots in Jujitsu.
What is karate?
Karate is a martial art of Japanese origin that deals with attacks through evasive body movements and/or blocking, and counter attacks using kicks, punches and strikes. Joint locks, restraints and takedowns are also used, but to a lesser extent. People variously practice it as a form of self defence, a way of keeping healthy and a sport.
As a self defence system, karate does not so much teach a set of standard responses to a set of limited scenarios, but rather teaches a set of principles that can be applied in any situation.
Finally, the sporting element allows people of a sporting inclination to test their karate skills against others in a safe and controlled environment. The practice of karate is divided into three elements: kihon (basics), kata (forms) and kumite (sparring). However these three elements should not be considered separate, as they constantly overlap and rely on each other.
What is Kung Fu?
Kung Fu is a broad term that is used to describe all martial arts of Chinese origin. Kung-Fu has existed under many different names throughout China’s history. Initially Kung Fu was called Ch’uan Fa (fist way).
What is Aikido?
Aikido is considered to be a non-aggressive style of martial arts as the Aikido student does not instigate the attack. The basic principle of Aikido is “Do not fight force with force”. Aikido uses very few punches and kicks. Instead, the attackers force is redirected into throws, locks and restraining techniques. Size, weight, age and physical strength differences of the opponents play only a small role, as the skilled Aikido practitioner is able to redirect the attacker’s energy, keeping his attacker in a constant of unbalance.
What is kickboxing?
Kickboxing is not inherently a martial art, although most kick boxers originate from a martial arts background. Rules greatly vary but generally a certain number of kicks must be thrown per round or the fighter will have points deducted. Many boxers make the transition to kickboxing by training in the martial arts and learning how to kick.
For a full list of martial arts visit www.martial-arts-info.com
