Here are some frequently asked questions about beginning the study of Taekwon-Do.

How old should my child be before starting Taekwon-Do?

Generally, children fours years old and above are capable of learning Taekwon-Do. Because very young children aren't able to focus for long periods, children's classes involve a lot of running and games designed to keep their interest, interspersed with learning patterns and kicking. DMAC has nearly 40 years experience in teaching martial arts to children and has developed a number of very successful techniques to accomplish this.

Doesn't learning martial arts lead to aggression in children?

Studies have shown just the opposite. Children who learn Taekwon-Do or other martial arts learn self-control and self-confidence, leading to a reduction in aggressive behavior. Your child will be taught from the first lesson that true Taekwon-Do practitioners never misuse their martial arts skills. Throughout their training, they will be reminded that being physically and mentally tough does not mean that you are tough with others. Instead, Taekwon-Do students are expected to be humble, courteous, respectful and careful about when and where they practice their skills. DMAC continually teaches your child that Taekwon-Do is a form of exercise and self improvement, not a tool for bullying.

Can someone be too old to learn Taekwon-Do?

Not really. DMAC regularly has people in their fifties and sixties starting Taekwon-Do. Other schools have had new students well into their seventies. The advantage of Taekwon-Do is that students advance at their own pace, rather than one set by the instructor or the curriculum.

What kind of time commitment is expected of a student?

On average a student should attend class two to three times per week. Classes are 45 minutes long. In addition, it is expected that students will regularly practice their current pattern outside of class. DMAC understands that family and work obligations will sometimes get in the way of class attendance. In those cases, you should arrange to make up classes whenever possible.

How long does it take to earn a black belt?

It takes about three years for a beginning student to earn their black belt with regular twice-weekly class attendance and home practice. If class attendance is interrupted by work or family obligations, then the time to earn a black belt may be slightly longer.

Does DMAC charge testing fees?

No. Unlike many other schools, the cost of testing is included in the monthly tuition rate. You pay only your monthly tuition regardless of how many times you test for your next belt level. Similarly, when you do pass your test for a new belt, the cost of the new belt is also included in your monthly tuition. You may keep your old belt as a memento. (Many students mount their old belts on a bedroom wall as a reminder of their progress in Taekwon-Do and a monument to their hard work.)

Does the study of Taekwon-Do lead to physical injuries, such as during sparring?

While any physical activity may lead to occasional injury, sparring is closely monitored, the floor is padded and students wear protective gear to protect the body from injury. Similarly, students are taught how to use hands and feet to attack and to break boards without suffering injury. All classes begin with stretching exercises designed to warm up the muscles and to reduce strains.

Are there physical requirements for receiving a black belt?

It is expected that after several years of training students will be well conditioned. The requirements for testing for black belt include a three mile run within a specified period of time. That requirement can be modified in special circumstances.

I think I may be too out of shape to do Taekwon-Do.

Taekwon-Do is a means of becoming physically fit. As long as your physician says that you are capable of performing strenuous physical activity, Taekwon-Do can help you reach your physical fitness goals. Taekwon-Do is unique in that students progress at their own pace. Taekwon-Do asks only that you push yourself slightly beyond your comfort level. Continuing to do so will get you to your fitness goal faster than you think.

What is the belt system in Taekwon-Do?

There are 10 levels (the Korean term gup) within 5 belt colors (white, yellow, green, blue and red) leading to the 1st degree black belt. There are, in addition, 9 successive degrees of black belt, each one taking longer to achieve and requiring greater mastery. You can find more explanation here.

Can I take classes with my child?

Yes. In fact, many families are finding Taekwon-Do to be the perfect family activity, combining an exciting workout with a new learning experience. You have your choice of attending children's and adults' classes individually or learning together as a family. Either way you'll have a great time and create a special family bond. You'll find more information on learning Taekwon-Do as a family here.

Can I observe a class? Can I try a class?

Yes to both. It is often helpful for both a parent and a child to see what classes are going to be like before committing to a program. And being able to ask questions of Grandmaster Donnelly before participating in a class can often resolve particular concerns a parent or child might have.

You may also try a free class by phoning us (802-865-1234) to arrange it. Talking to Grandmaster Donnelly will help you select the class most appropriate for your age or physical condition. We suggest you wear loose fitting clothes, such as sweatpants and a T-shirt, to your free class.

When you do sign up for lessons, DMAC will provide you with the proper size uniform (called a Do-Bok) and a white belt at your first lesson.

My child has some attention issues (or other similar condition or physical issue). Will this be a problem?

No, this will not be an issue. In Taekwon-Do, we focus on learning self-discipline and respect. The student learns respect for their parents, their fellow students, and themselves. They also learn how to be properly self-disciplined when in class. The instructor will remind them if they are behaving inappropriately. Instructors know when to be flexible and allow students to burn off energy, and when to be stern and correct a student's behavior. Students quickly learn the appropriate behavior by watching how others behave in class.

My child is very shy. Will he/she be intimidated in class?

Every student is different and every student has a different comfort threshold. If your student is shy and quiet, they might be uncomfortable at first with all the noise surrounding them and the movement that they are asked to do. But given a few classes, when they see that everyone else is learning, that everyone else is loud, and that everyone else is having a good time, they will begin to have more fun with it. If your child has a friend that would be interested in joining our school too, they can come to class together and provide each other with moral support.

Can I join anytime during the year?

Yes, students can begin classes at any time. Beginning students learn in classes with more advanced students. Seeing how more advanced students perform a technique is often helpful in the learning process. Instructors walk new students through each new technique or pattern. In addition, advanced students, as part of their training, are encouraged to assist lower belt students in learning proper technique.