Karate Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of classes?
We have 2 different programs available ranging from $118 for (12) weeks to $110 per month, depending on how many days per week you would like to attend classes. Please feel free to give us a call or stop by to discuss prices and the different options available for you or your child.
As a potential student, please be very cautious of any school that will not give you their prices either online or over the phone. Never feel pressured into joining a martial arts school or signing a contract for classes. You should only sign up for classes after doing all of your homework and feeling that it is the right decision for you or your family. If someone tries to use high pressure sales tactics, go somewhere else.
Do you offer family discounts?
Yes. We offer discounts on all of our monthly classes at TNT. The more family members that sign up, the more you save.
Do I have to sign a contract or join for a long period of time?
No. All of our programs are either monthly or short term sessions (8-12 weeks). We strongly disagree with requiring students to sign a contract for many reasons. We only want students at our dojo who truly want to be there, not because they are financially obligated to fulfill a contract.
If you choose another school that does require a contract, please be cautious and make sure you understand all of the details before signing any type of legally binding document. Again, you should never feel pressured into signing anything.
Are your prices higher than other schools?
No. Our prices are very comparable and often even lower than other schools in the area.
When comparing prices among schools, be sure to compare the experience of the instructors, the number of times you can attend each week, the facility you will be training in, the length of commitment you are required to make, and the additional costs you might incur in equipment fees, tournaments, etc.
Only by comparing all factors will you be able to determine the school that is best for your needs.
What are the additional costs that I will incur in my training at TNT?
We encourage each student to try the classes for a month or longer before purchasing any equipment.
There are different equipment requirements for different belt levels and different classes.
In general, you will need a uniform and the weapons we use in class. There are also patches that students may purchase for their uniform.
Intermediate level Karate students will also need sparring gear (protective equipment).
For students who choose to participate in belt testings, there is a testing fee.
Attending special events or seminars is always optional and most range from free to approximately $20, with a few exceptions for larger events.
If you have any questions about the specific requirements for the class you or your child will be participating in, please don't hesitate to ask. We feel it is important that there are no surprises when it comes to costs.
Do I need to buy a uniform?
Not right away. New students can participate by wearing sweatpants and a plain white t-shirt. Once you decide to purchase a uniform, we can help you select the one that is right for you and your budget.
How much is belt testing?
The cost for belt promotion is $35. Testing fees include a certificate, new belt, and participation in a promotion ceremony.
We never hold belt testing during a class or cancel a class for testings. They are held on Sundays and are many of our Black Belts attend to be sure that each student is evaluated and provided with written feedback on their performance. Testings are a big deal at TNT and always a very exciting event for the students as well as their families.
What style of Karate do you teach at TNT?
We offer American Free Style Karate
What is the difference between Karate & Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
Simply put, Karate is the "stand up" part of martial arts such as kicking and punching while BJJ is the "ground game".
While our Karate classes are based on kicking and punching, we also teach several different martial arts weapons as well as practical self-defense skills.
In our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes, students learn a variety of chokes, submissions, and other skills to learn how to defend themselves once the fight ends up on the ground.
At TNT, we have several students who participate in both Karate and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. We offer significant discounts for those who would like to do both.
How often will I test for a new belt?
Belt testing is a very individual thing. Beginners may test as often as 4 times per year. The higher you go in belt rankings, the less frequently you will test. Advanced students may only test 1-2 times per year.
Only students who have met minimum attendance requirements and have the recommendation of an Instructor will be considered for belt promotion.
We are not "belt pushers" and do not promote students simply because they want to test. We have worked hard to maintain a strong reputation by working with each individual to help them prepare and to ensure that they test only when they are ready. Martial Arts training is a very individual activity and we will make every effort to help you live up to your fullest potential. You will never be required to test, put in a position to test if you are not prepared, or compared to other students.
Are students required to participate in tournaments?
No. We do not require our students to participate in tournaments and we are not a tournament driven school.
If you choose to compete, we will be happy to help you prepare for competition. We have trained competitors who have participated in tournaments throughout the United States and even as far away as Japan.
While our students who have chosen to do so have done exceptionally well in tournaments, we recognize that most students are not interested in competitions.
Please be aware of schools that require you to participate in tournaments because this can add a significant cost to your training. Be sure to ask how many tournaments you will be required to compete in per year and factor registration fees and travel expenses into the cost of classes.
How many years have you been in business?
We have been teaching in Romeo since 1984
Can martial arts training improve my child's grades?
Yes! Students are taught to practice focus and concentration skills both inside and outside of the dojo which can lead to better grades and even better job performance for adults.
We have had many teachers (and parents) comment on what a difference they have seen in their students once they begin training in the martial arts.
We also encourage the children to bring in their school report cards and we reward them for good grades and good citizenship marks.
Are parents allowed to watch class?
Yes! We welcome and encourage spectators at all classes.
In our main training area, parents can overlook the action from theater style seating in the balcony and in the lower training area parents can watch from tables and chairs in our pro shop.
Do you offer any fun events outside of regular classes?
Yes! At TNT, we have a family atmosphere and we find that our students enjoy participating in fun events outside of regular classes. While participation is never required, we find that many students have made some great friends at TNT and truly enjoy the camaraderie and family fun of joining us for these types of events.
I'm a little nervous about joining. Is the atmosphere competitive or aggressive?
Almost everyone is a little nervous about attending his or her first class and that is perfectly understandable.
We are very proud of our family friendly, positive environment where everyone helps and encourages each other. Our goal is to make every student feel welcome and comfortable each and every time they walk through our doors.
At TNT you are part of a team and should never feel that you are competing against your fellow students. We believe that martial arts schools should provide an environment where everyone feels safe to learn and make mistakes, not a place to be humiliated, intimidated, or treated disrespectfully.
Do I have to be in great shape to join Karate classes?
Absolutely not.
One of the many benefits of martial arts training is the exercise but you certainly don't need to be in shape to get started.
As a new student, you are encouraged to work and your own pace and you will never be asked to do anything you aren't ready for. You will find that by coming to class you will quickly feel better, increase your flexibility, become stronger, improve your overall fitness level, and even lose weight if that is one of your goals.
We often have new students that haven't exercised in years and they can't believe how much better they feel in just a short time. No matter what your level of physical fitness is, we invite you to join us and get in the best shape of your life.
Isn't Karate for kids? I feel like I'm too old to get started.
You are never too old for martial arts! We have had many new students in their 60's and even a few in their 70's. We even currently have a Grandmother who attends classes with her Grandson.
While there are tremendous benefits for children such as focus, discipline, and respect, the martial arts still offers many benefits to adults as well. You are never too old to learn self-defense, relieve stress, get some great exercise, and have fun!
I'm concerned that martial arts will make my child aggressive or teach them to bully others.
No need to worry. While many people assume that martial arts teaches aggression, the opposite is actually true. The study of martial arts is based on respect, honor, self-control, and discipline.
Countless articles have been published by doctors and therapists who stress the many benefits of Karate. Proper instruction can help build self-confidence, increase self-esteem, and improve focus and concentration. Taught by qualified instructors at a professional school, it simply does not increase aggression.
We talk to the children about the proper use of martial arts and we expect students to conduct themselves with respect, discipline, and "Black Belt attitude" both inside and outside of the dojo.
Can I participate in a class with my child or can siblings be in the same class?
It depends on the program.
Our Karate classes are for ages 6-adult so parents and children can be in the same class together.
Are there many girls in the classes?
Yes! Years ago, martial arts training was heavily dominated by adult men. In recent years, thing have changed dramatically with more women, girls, and very young children participating in the martial arts than ever before.
At TNT, we are very proud to have a female Master Instructor, Chief Instructor, and several female Assistant Instructors. Many of our Instructors started out as Moms who decided to join their children in class.
Because so many of our classes are taught by females, we have a higher than average number of women and girls in our classes.
How many times per week can I attend classes?
If you sign up for classes with us at TNT, you may attend as many times per week as you like. While we encourage our unlimited students to attend class at least 2 days per week, we have some members who attend as often as 5 days per week.
If you join through one of our Parks & Recreation programs (offered through Romeo and Armada), you may attend 1 day per week. This is a great option for very young children or students who have a very limited amount of time to dedicate to their training.
Am I locked into a specific schedule?
No. All of our classes are offered at various days and times throughout the week.
Unlimited students can pick and choose whatever classes fit into their schedule each week. There is no need to make reservations or call ahead. You just show up for the classes you select.
Students who have signed up for a Parks & Rec class choose which 1 class they would like to attend each week. However, if you miss a class and need to do a make-up you simply come another day that your class is offered.
What type of experience do the instructors have?
Our 2 Master Instructors (a husband and wife team) have more than 75 years of combined martial arts experience.
Many martial arts schools allow their new instructors to teach classes, especially the beginner and children's classes. At our studio, we believe that all classes deserve the top-level instructors so the Master and Chief Instructors lead all classes.
We also want to give your Junior Instructors experience so they are allowed to assist with classes but only with the supervision of a higher level teacher.
All of our Instructors and Assistants are hand picked based on their ability to teach, patience, knowledge, and their dedication to helping each student meet their individual goals.
How do I know if TNT is the right school for me?
Of course you want to make sure you are choosing the right school to help you achieve your goals and meet your needs and not all schools are created equal.
We recommend that you ask your friends and neighbors. We are very proud of our longstanding reputation in the community and chances are, you know someone who is already a student at TNT.
We also suggest reading some of our student reviews online. You can click on one of the social media buttons at the top of the page to see reviews on places such as google, yahoo, Facebook, etc. or you can click on one of the links below:
http://detroit.cityvoter.com/tnt-martial-arts/biz/104042
http://4thebest.clickondetroit.com/place/887-tnt-martial-arts
Whether you choose TNT or another school, always ask around the community, check out the schools online reputation, and watch at least one class. Watch how the instructors interact with the students and be aware of the overall atmosphere and camaraderie among the students.
You could possibly spend years at the same school (some of our students have been with us since 1984!) so you want to make the best decision for you or your child.
What can I expect from my first class?
When you arrive for your first class, you will be introduced to one of our Instructors. That Instructor will work with you, and any other new students, throughout the entire class. No matter which program you join, you will not be left alone to figure it out on your own or feel lost among the more experienced students.
The Instructor will explain some basic "dojo etiquette", talk to you about the structure of the class, teach you some of the fundamental techniques, and help guide you as you learn new skills.
We will make every effort to make sure you feel comfortable and we encourage you to ask questions and work at your own pace.
What is the best way to get started?
The best way to get started is to give us a call or send us an e-mail and set up a convenient time for you to come in and tour our facility, meet with one of the Master Instructors, watch a class if you like, and ask any questions you may have.
There are absolutely no obligations to join and you will never feel pressured to sign up for classes.