Got Questions?

Of course you do. It is impossible for us to answer them all here, but some more common ones are addressed here. We hope you will give us a call or come by a training session to see what is going on. Our contact information can be found on the home page. Don't hesitate!

What are the benefits of self defense training?

This is a tough question to answer in a short space. Everyone gets something slightly different out of training, but from my personal experience and those of the students I have trained I can say there a few common ones. The first is confidence. People of all levels of ability can come to class, and see successes from the first day. Each class you learn something, overcome a small learning hurdle and progress. This builds confidence quickly and only grows as you progress through the program.

The next is knowledge. As you take on these new challenges and study new materials you will grow what you know, and that growth in knowledge is contagious. It will make you eager to learn more both related to martial arts and in life in general. This type of training is great for broadening your horizons in many ways.

Finally, and perhaps most important, is you will develop a sense of friendship and community with your fellow students. We strive to make our training groups fun and supportive - a family environment.

Strength, endurance and fitness are also benefits. In class we focus on learning the techniques and important mental aspects of self defense. The act of practicing the techniques, punching and kicking drills is aerobic and fun. In my opinion that is because it is 'hidden' aerobics - you don't realize you're even doing it! (Unlike running on the treadmill). These are not cardio kickboxing classes, but you still get a good workout of the mind and body.

I don't have any experience, can I still do this?

Of course! Everyone starts from zero at some point. No one is born a black belt. And while everyone progresses at their own pace, there are few true naturals. The thing that kept me from starting training years ago was fear that I was too uncoordinated or otherwise unable to learn. Don't let it stop you. Almost 2 decades later I have seen every body size and shape come in and see success.

What does it cost?

This is a wise question to ask. Money is tight and it is an excellent idea to know what you are getting in to. We have very competitive rates, and we know you won't find a training program quite like this at any price anywhere else. We are also committed to be as transparent as possible. Unlike some other businesses, we don't want to rely on hidden fees or have our students feel 'nickel-and-dimed'. Here is a breakdown of what the fees are:

• New student fee - this is a small fee to get you started in the program and goes towards your uniform, and our set up fees with the ICHF (international organization that certifies me and our students), and includes your first month of training. That is over 40% off the normal prices!
• Monthly dues - these are affordable rates to train monthly and get you in to as many classes as we offer. We have discounts available for pre-payment of a full year, as well as discounts for the second and third family member to sign up with you.
• Annual membership - the ICHF collects a yearly fee from every student. It has historically been about $40. Your first year is included in your new student fee.
• Testing fees - as you progress through the 10 belt ranks, you will pay a fee to cover the cost of your belt and certification through ICHF. You can expect this to happen every 2-3 months in the beginning ranks, and less frequently at the higher ranks. We also progress check several times between belt testing. There is no fee for progress checks. If you ever 'fail' a test - you do not need to pay for it again. You pay once for each rank. We will not engage in the reprehensible act of forced failing to generate revenue. (On the flip side - just because you pay, doesn't mean you pass. Rank cannot be purchased, only earned).
• Equipment - there is no requirement to buy more than the basic training clothes, though it will help if you have some of your own equipment. The only thing required is a uniform in good shape (no holes), and mat safe shoes (like wrestling shoes). It is helpful to have your own training knife, dummy firearms, escrima sticks, etc. We appreciate if you buy these things through the school - we are a Century Martial arts outlet - as we make a small commission and it helps us to cover our costs.
• Training aids - many schools sell books, videos, etc. to help students prepare at home. Some such materials are available through the school from the ICHF, but you will never be held back if you do not buy them. The one exception is the ICHF requires a short essay to be written on about a book they publish. The essay must be written prior to obtaining your first black belt in the system. As of now, it is a one-time event.

Our program is a humble one, just starting to grow in Indiana. We ask for respect from our students in the classroom, and it is only fair we give back that respect with honest up front business practices.

 

When is the right age to start?

Any time!

That bears some clarification. Hapkido techniques are easy to execute, but do require an adult level of fine motor control. Because of that, we cannot accept students younger than 13 years old.

Aside from that, people of all ages can train in this system. The wonderful thing about our martial arts ancestors who developed the style is that they knew a basic truth. We all get old! The youthful athleticism that makes other styles look explosive and flash on TV and in tournaments does not stay with us forever. These techniques are designed so that if you are still mobile you can still use them.

 

When does the next class start?

Classes are on going. That means you join any time.

 

Why haven't I called you yet?

We don't know! Our number is at the bottom of the page! :)