How long does it take to become a Black Belt, or at least reasonably capable of defending myself?
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 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 practice only 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 workout 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 is 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.
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.
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.