General Questions and Answers
What is taekwondo?
Taekwondo is a Korean martial art popularized on TV and in movies for its dramatic punches and kicks. The name comes from the Korean words tae (foot, or kick), kwon (fist or punch), and do (art or way of life), and literally means "the way of the hand and foot."
Who can benefit from taekwondo training?
Everyone can! The ATA has students of all ages, as well as the largest number of active women black belts of any martial arts organization in the world. Taekwondo also offers something that no other sport can: it's a learning-based athletic activity that develops a sense of self-discipline that can carry over into all aspects of competition and life.
Why study and practice taekwondo?
The ATA has developed and refined several programs for a variety of purposes, ranging from basic martial arts to self-defense, self-esteem and life skills building. Over the years, the ATA has come to realize that there are many reasons for studying taekwondo, and we have worked hard to develop programs that will help realize these goals rather than forcing our students into one, linear area of study and practice.
Taekwondo itself is always evolving, and as such the ATA will always develop new programs and update our existing ones to ensure our students have as much access to the different aspects of taekwondo as possible.
Why different colored belts?
The concept of belts and rank is one that people often associate with taekwondo and martial arts in general, even if they only have a passing interest in the subject. In taekwondo, our belts reflect a member's proven level of competence and (just as importantly) the progression of colors reflects an inner journey that never truly ends. Each belt achieved is truly an accomplishment worthy of respect.
It is also worth noting that achieving a belt isn't just a matter of "spending enough time" in a previous belt. In order to achieve their next rank, a student must demonstrate their proficiency in their current belt's techniques, including basic moves, sparring, and forms, or a series of moves put together to show the student how their techniques can work together. Each successive form becomes longer and progressively more difficult than the one before it.
How do I advance to the next level belt?
Testing is scheduled once every 8-10 weeks. The student’s head instructor will determine if the student is eligible to test. Students must have four stripes on their belt from in-class testing of their rank's material, and attend a minimum number of regular classes and sparring classes (Camo Belt and above). Not all students are eligible every testing cycle, especially at the higher belt levels. The test will require the student to demonstrate their current form and self defense techniques. Lower level color belts must also demonstrate their one steps, while higher level color belts must demonstrate sparring and lower rank material to supplement their own.
Generally there will be several judges at each testing. The judges will individually score your test results. The sum of these scores will determine whether a student passes and moves on to the next belt level or receives a “no change”. Higher level color belts are required to complete board breaks and will receive a “no change” if they fail to do so.
How long will it take me to earn my black belt?
The black belt in taekwondo is symbolic of an advanced level of skill as well as above average physical, mental, and emotional strength. The length of study necessary to attain a black belt varies depending on one's effort and dedication. Dedicated students may earn their 1st Degree Black Belt (there are nine degrees total) within three years. To achieve black belt requires consistent class attendance, sustained and committed effort, and a black belt attitude. Since each student progresses at his or her own ability and rate, some students may require additional time. Some black belt levels also have minimum age requirements.
The journey to black belt is as important as the destination itself. The student must first complete the ATA Family Martial Arts' 9-Steps to Black Belt curriculum, which they may begin at the rank of Brown Belt Recommended (this can be found here). The student must also demonstrate proficiency at the black belt level, including mastery of multiple color belt forms, sparring, self-defense techniques, one weapon selected by the student and head instructor, and board breaks.
Does your school particpate in tournaments and competitions?
Yes, ATA Family Martial Arts students may participate in regional, national, and international competitions. Our region, Region 109, hosts four local tournaments each year. There are also two or three National tournaments and one World Championship tournament each year. Regular tournament participation is not required, but ATA Family Martial Arts believes these tournaments offer an exciting opportunity for those students interested in particpating and reaching the next level of proficiency. As part of the American Taekwondo Association, students interested in competing may earn State, National, and World Championship titles.
Do I have to sign a long term contract?
No long term contract is required for our Basic or Black Belt Club Programs. The Basic Program, which permits students to attend up to two classes a week out of five different days (see our schedule here), is intended for our newest students to get comfortable with taekwondo. As the material students must learn becomes more difficult with each rank, we encourage students to join the Black Belt Club Program at the intermediate level to be able to keep up with the addition of sparring classes at that level and still advance by the end of the 8-10 week testing cycle. This allows students to pick four classes a week rather than two and shows a strong commitment to taekwondo as a whole. Instead of a contract, both of these programs are offered with a month-to-month payment plan that can be cancelled at any time.
How much are your tuition or membership fees?
Because ATA Family Martial Arts offers multiple payment plans and programs, we do not handle tuition fees over the phone or the internet. If you are interested in becoming a student at ATA Family Martial Arts, please call or come in to set up an appointment with one of our nationally-certified black belt instructors and for a free introductory lesson. The black belt instructor or office manager can then discuss the available programs and costs.
Beware of martial arts schools offering short term trial memberships or training at extremely low prices. We believe that ATA Family Martial Arts offers a unique value for a superior and time-proven program of traditional martial arts, weapons, self-defense, life skills, leadership classes, instructor training, and physical fitness.
What if I am not sure?
We currently offer a $49 introductory, no obligation, 4-week membership that includes a free uniform. We even offer longer trial memberships during promotional periods and membership drives. Please stop by and meet with us to find out what’s new!
How do we get started?
Our contact information can be found here if you wish to schedule an introductory meeting and lesson. We will review and discuss your child's or your personal objectives and determine how the ATA and our programs can best serve you.
