FAQ's

Q: How is Safety America Karate’s teaching philosophy different from other martial arts schools?

A: We focus on teaching life lessons through the principles of karate. Honor, loyalty, leadership, self-control, humility, courtesy, perseverance, spirit, and sportsmanship are the cornerstones of our teaching philosophy. These principles, when implemented through our structured classes, are carried forward to everyday life.

Q: How is Safety America Karate’s training philosophy different from other martial arts schools?

A: We focus on teaching students “street” self-defense techniques. When you arm your child with self-defense skills you have given them a gift that will last a lifetime. These skills (like learning to ride a bike) will never be forgotten and could someday save their life.

Q: What is the difference between Karate and Tae-Kwon-Do?

A: Karate (Empty Hand) is a Japanese/Okinawan martial art that utilizes 50% hand techniques and 50% kicking techniques. Tae-Kwon-Do, sometimes referred to as Korean Karate, is a Korean martial art that is primarily a kicking sport. The use of hand techniques (which are faster and more accurate than feet techniques) is essential to successful street self- defense. At Safety America, we teach the Zen Do-Kai system, which utilizes both the kicking techniques from Tae-Kwon-Do and the hand techniques from Japanese karate, while maintaining a focus on street self-defense.

Q: How long does it take to become a black belt?

A: You can receive a black belt at many martial arts schools in 18 months-2 years. However, to earn a black belt, through dedication, sweat and hard work, it normally takes about 4 years (similar to a college education). Our reputation and high standards have set us apart for many years. We believe in providing our students with the highest quality training available.

Q: Is training in karate safe?

A: As our name indicates, safety is the number one priority at Safety America. Our safety incident record is the best in Fort Bend County. All of our certified black belt instructors have been trained in all aspects of child safety.

Q: How many times a week do students usually attend class?

A: New students that generally train two times a week should be able to progress regularly through our curriculum. In fact, our lesson plans are set up with this schedule in mind. We understand that you have other activities with work, school and family. That’s why we offer several different class times during the days and evenings so you can pick what is most convenient for you. Our advanced curriculum offers students the opportunity to train up to six times a week.

Q: Can I come watch a class?

A: Yes, spectators are welcome at any time in the lobby area.

Q: Are there any religious connotations in your style of karate?

A: None!

Q: When do your classes begin? Do I need to wait until the beginning of the season to start?

A: Unlike some activities like baseball or soccer, you can begin classes at Safety America at any time. There really isn’t a martial arts “season,” and it is an activity that can be practiced year round. We accept new students on a daily basis and each student learns at their own pace.

Q: I have an old injury that bothers me from time to time, will karate training be too much for me?

A: Because our training is self-paced and personal, age or reasonable physical limitations are never a problem, and we are able to structure your training around any old injuries or restrictions you may have.

Q: As a member, would I be required to attend karate tournaments?

A: No. Karate tournaments are expensive and sometimes require a full day of your time. However, students interested in participating in karate tournaments, are welcome to join our tournament team. At Safety America, we sponsor two tournaments each year. Students are encouraged, but not required to attend.

Q: I already have a belt in another martial art. Will I be able to keep my same rank?

A: Unfortunately, all martial arts schools are not created equal, and therefor the level of quality varies greatly from school to school. Over the past 28 years, Safety America has established a reputation of very high standards in the martial arts. Students joining our system with belts from another school are evaluated to determine an equivalent rank at our school.

Q: How can I decide which activities will work better for my children?

A: First of all, our flexible schedule will likely allow your kids to do both activities since kids generally attend karate class only twice a week. If you still must choose between the two activities based on time constraints, understand that any type of activity can potentially be beneficial for children. However, its important to know that karate not only teaches physical skills, but also positive values such as respect, self-confidence, discipline, goal setting, etc. At Safety America, we offer a supportive environment with positive role models to help them develop into confident, polite and respectful citizens.