The time it takes to become a Black Belt is
dependent on your abilities. However, most students will have learned
the basic techniques in 3 to 6 months. In fact, most of our students
are surprised at the progress they make in that short time period.
In most self defense systems, you should be fairly confident that you can
defend yourself reasonably well after 6 months. To reach a Black
Belt, or expert level takes most students four to five years. However,
the same variables still play a part in the success of the individual student.
At George Pesare's Kenpo Karate Institute, you set the pace you want to
maintain. The more time spent in practice in conjunction with 2 or
3 classes per week will allow you to progress more rapidly than those who
only practice in class.
How may classes per week should I attend?
Most instructors recommend a minimum of two
classes per week, plus some practice in between classes. You should
pace yourself for your own fitness level and increase the training time
as you become more physically fit.
Is Karate a fitness program?
Yes. Our programs are designed to provide
our students with an excellent cardiovascular work out as well as improving
coordination, flexibility, and stamina. Of course, the programs are
also designed to defend yourself while you get in shape, thus eliminating
the boring nature found in other fitness programs.
Does Karate exercise the mind?
The mind es exercised in numerous ways with
martial arts training. The most obvious is the concentration that
is developed while learning the techniques needed to be proficient in self-defense.
We also teach the students to develop a greater sense of awareness, to
stop and enjoy moments of silence, and how to relax when under stressful
situations.
Are the classes safe?
All of our classes are supervised by experienced
martial artists. These instructors are responsible for the safety
of the students and are trained in first aid and CPR. The latest
safety equipment is required before students are allowed to participate
even in the light contact training. These same rules apply for those
students who want to participate in sparring classes as well. Therefore,
the chances of injury are extremely low. In fact, the martial arts
has one of the lowest injury rates of any contact sports.
How are classes organized?
At the Institute, we have basic children's
and basic adult classes to start your training program. You can eventually
enter the advanced level classes with the instructors' permission.
Weekend classes are a combination of basic and advanced students to broaden
your experiences within the Institute.
Do you have any weapons programs?
At George Pesare's Kenpo Karate Institute we
have an optional weapons program for our students. We arrange our
program to present intermediate and advanced students an opportunity to
increase their knowledge, appreciation, and understanding within the martial
arts.
Eskrima weapons training at the Institute
is formulated through the Inayan Training Organization. This Philippine
weapons program has been structured by Filipino Master Mike Inay, San Jose,
California. The weapons classes are independent of the regular class
programs and are available to both those in regular programs or those outside
of traditional training. Traditional weapons training is also taught
and includes bo, sai, and nunchaku.
The weapons programs do not
teach you how to fight with weapons as the primary objective. It
is presented as a supplement to your ever increasing martial arts skills.
The programs will help you increase and improve your reflexes, dexterity,
hand-eye coordination, hand speed and timing.