What should I wear to my first class?
Comfortable athletic clothing — workout pants and a t-shirt are fine. You will train barefoot, so clean feet matter. Do not wear shoes on the mat. We'll provide a loaner gi (uniform) if you want to try the feel of traditional training attire. If you enroll, we ask that you purchase a proper gi within your first month. We have recommendations and can help you order the right size.
Is there an age requirement?
Our youngest students start at age 5 in the Kids Karate program. We have no upper age limit for adults. Our oldest active student is 71. What matters is that you are physically able to train safely. If you have significant health concerns, mention them when you register and we will discuss what modifications or programs make sense for you.
I'm a complete beginner as an adult. Is that going to be a problem?
No. Adult beginners are common and welcome. The adult class has students at every level, and our instruction is structured so that beginners work on foundational material while advanced students work on more complex curriculum. You will not be thrown into advanced sparring on your first day. You will be taught fundamentals with patience and specificity.
How does belt testing work?
Sensei Hayashi recommends students for testing when he believes they are ready, not on a fixed calendar. A student who comes to class consistently and applies themselves will typically be ready to test every three to four months in the lower ranks. Testing fees range from $35 to $75. We do not hold artificial testing cycles to collect fees. Rank is earned on the mat, not on a schedule.
Do my kids need to be in good shape or have coordination to start?
Not at all. Martial arts training develops coordination and fitness over time. We don't expect children to arrive with athletic ability — we help build it. Children who feel awkward, unfocused, or unconfident are often the ones who benefit most from structured dojo training. If your child can follow basic instructions and is willing to try, they belong here.
What is the contract or commitment?
Monthly tuition is billed month-to-month with no long-term contract required. We ask for 30 days' written notice to cancel. There is a one-time registration fee of $65 for new students, which covers their registration with the dojo and initial assessment. The free trial class has no strings attached.
Can I watch a class before deciding?
Yes, and we encourage it. You're welcome to observe a class from the designated viewing area without obligation. We prefer that prospective adult students actually participate in the free trial rather than only observing, because the experience of training tells you far more than watching. But if you want to see the dojo and a class first, that's completely fine. Call ahead and we'll make sure the timing works.
Do you offer classes for students with prior rank from another school?
Yes. Students with prior rank are welcome to train with us. Sensei Hayashi will assess your current level during your first few classes and place you appropriately. Prior ranks are acknowledged, but formal rank recognition within our JKA-affiliated program requires a technical evaluation. Most experienced students find this straightforward. We don't make anyone re-earn everything from scratch without good reason.