First Contact

Everyone comes to martial arts for a different reason.

Some people are looking for a specific type of training. Others are interested in fitness, confidence, discipline, self-defense, or a new activity for themselves or their children. And sometimes, someone simply sees our school in Uptown Virginia and decides to stop in and learn more.

Whatever brings you to us, we are happy to answer your questions.

You can contact us by email, text, phone, or by stopping in when we're available. Our goal during that first conversation is simply to learn more about you and help you determine whether one of our programs may be a good fit.

Things to Consider

Before contacting us, it can be helpful to think about a few questions:

• Why are you interested in martial arts training?
• What are you hoping to gain from classes?
• Are you or your child interested in competition?
• Are there any physical, developmental, emotional, or other individual needs we should be aware of?

There are no wrong answers. Knowing a little more about your goals helps us recommend the program and approach that may work best for you or your child.

Tang Soo Do (Karate)

Our Tang Soo Do program is available for students ages 7 and older.

In some cases, younger students may be considered when joining with family members, with approval from the head instructor.

Learning Together

Most students prefer to become part of the class rather than being separated from everyone else when they begin. For that reason, most instruction takes place in a group environment.

Training alongside students of different experience levels provides opportunities for reinforcement, observation, and encouragement. At the same time, instructors provide individual tips and corrections to help each student improve and work toward their personal goals.

Getting Comfortable

Starting martial arts can feel intimidating, especially during the first few classes.

To help new students become more comfortable, we may introduce basic rules, techniques, and expectations in a smaller group or occasionally one-on-one with an instructor or senior student. This allows beginners to learn the first parts of their training at a comfortable pace before becoming fully familiar with the larger class environment.

Our only expectation of a new student is simple:

Try your best.

We do not expect everyone to begin with the same athletic ability, coordination, confidence, or personality. Every experienced martial artist was once a beginner.

Tiny Tigers (Ages 4–6)

Tiny Tigers is designed specifically for our youngest martial artists.

A parent or guardian must be present during classes.

The program runs one night per week in eight-week seasons. After the eight weeks of instruction, students participate in a testing week. Promotions then take place alongside the Tang Soo Do program the following week.

Following promotions, Tiny Tigers takes a four-week break before the next season begins.

This seasonal format gives young students an opportunity to learn, grow, and experience martial arts in a program designed around their age and development.

Haidong Gumdo (Korean Sword Martial Art)

Our Haidong Gumdo classes range from relaxed practice sessions to challenging drill days.

Each class can be flexible based on the students in attendance and their current goals. Some days may focus heavily on technique and forms, while others may involve more intense physical training.

The program is generally designed for students ages 12 and older. However, younger students with previous martial arts experience or those training alongside family members may be considered.

A Complete Curriculum

Students begin learning from a structured curriculum starting with their very first class.

The earliest stages of training may not be especially cardio-intensive, but don't be fooled—you'll likely discover muscles in your arms, back, and legs that you didn't realize you were using!

As your body adapts and your techniques improve, movements become more natural and the patterns, drills, and sword work become increasingly enjoyable.

Six-Week Trial Membership

Before participating in classes, you, your child, or your family will complete a registration form.

There is no long-term commitment required at this stage. The form simply allows us to collect the necessary information and receive consent for participation.

Your Introduction to Our School

Your first introductory class is completely free.

During this introduction, you'll have the opportunity to:

• Learn more about our school and instructors
• Become familiar with class rules and expectations
• Ask questions
• Learn some basic martial arts techniques
• Experience the atmosphere of our program

After your introductory class, your first full class is also free.

We offer these first experiences as a courtesy to new students so you can decide whether training with us feels like the right fit before moving forward.

For your first few classes, we recommend loose-fitting, lightweight clothing. A T-shirt and sweatpants are perfectly acceptable.

After experiencing your introductory and first full class, you can decide whether you would like to begin with a six-week trial membership or move directly into one of our regular enrollment options.

Your First Weeks of Class

The first week or two can feel a little overwhelming, especially if you have never experienced a Korean martial art before.

We use Korean terminology and commands throughout our classes. At first, you may not understand every command or know exactly what to do—and that's completely normal.

Every instructor and experienced student remembers what it was like to be a beginner.

As new students become familiar with the terminology, instructors will often use English alongside Korean commands to help make the transition easier. With time and practice, the commands and routines will begin to feel much more natural.

After the First Few Classes

It's common for students to experience some muscle soreness after their first few classes.

This is especially common among adults and teenagers who are introducing their bodies to new movements and activities. Students who are already involved in athletics may experience less soreness because their bodies are accustomed to regular physical activity.

Don't let a little soreness discourage you.

Your body is adapting to new movements and becoming stronger. If you or your child experiences soreness, let us know. We can offer general suggestions to help you remain comfortable and continue training appropriately.

Sounds Great! Now What?

We offer seasonal enrollment throughout the year.

Our four seasons begin at the end of:

• February
• May
• August
• November

You can contact us any time to learn more about our programs, and join our programs by completing the form below.

We're always happy to help you take the first step.