Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I am afraid my son might get hurt.  Are the classes at BSMA safe?

A: Absolutely. Any physical activity involves some risk of injury. However, all of our classes are taught by certified Black Belt instructors who strictly monitor all classes to ensure the safety of every student. The risk involved in training in our martial arts classes is no greater than participating in soccer or dance.

Q: My son is full of energy.  Will the BSMA program make my Child overly aggressive?

A: Not at all. At BSMA, we teach our students how to focus and develop their concentration. We will work with your son to teach him how to channel his excess energy in a more positive direction.

Q: My daughter is very shy.  I would like to see her improve her self- confidence and self-esteem. How can the classes at BSMA help?

A: At BSMA we incorporate confidence building drills into every class. Each child receives personal praise and recognition for their accomplishment. When students earn their belts, it gives them a sense of achievement that really improves the way they feel about themselves. Participation in karate classes is different from team sports because the only person you compete against is yourself.

Q: Our two sons have been interested in karate for a long time, but we don’t want our kids to think that fighting is that way to solve their problems.  How can we resolve this dilemma?

A: At BSMA we promote non-violent resolutions to conflict. Your children will be taught how to avoid conflict and resolve differences without resorting to fighting and to use what they have learned only as a last resort when defending themselves in specific situations.

Q: My son is kind of small.  I’m worried about him being in class with older more advanced children.  How are your classes structured?

A: Our classes are divided strictly by age group and skill level. Your son will always be in a class with students of his own age and ability so our instructors can focus in on the particular needs of the group and design lesson plans that are informative, fun and exciting.

Q: My daughter is very busy with school and other activities.  How often will her classes meet?

A: For best result, we recommend that your daughter attend class an average of twice per week plus practicing a little at home.We offer classes six days per week, so our class schedule is very flexible. If your daughter happens to miss one of her regularly scheduled classes, she can make it up at your convenience.

Q: Why are there so many different colored belts?  What do they represent?

A:  The belts represent the rank and proficiency of the student.  Students begin at white belt.  As they improve and their skill increases, they earn darker colored belts, eventually culminating with Black Belt.  The belt ranking system also serves as a merit system, rewarding students for their continued effort and improvement which helps to increase their enthusiasm.