Do you offer kid's classes?
Yes! We offer engaging and age appropriate classes for children. Kids learn practical self defense skills, develop focus, and build lasting friendships in a positive environment. Minimum age requirement is 8 years of age.
Do I need to have prior experience in martial arts?
No! While prior experience can be beneficial it is never required.
Do you spar?
Yes! Sparring is always performed at a learning level of intensity. Our style of sparring more closely resembles modern boxing or kickboxing. During sparring sessions the Gi may or may not be worn in favor of shorts and a t-shirt. Your instructor will always inform you ahead of time which attire will be worn for any particular class (see question above). Wild and uncontrolled sparring is never encouraged, condoned, or tolerated.
Do you wear a Gi?
Yes, but not always, and new students are not initially required to. The Gi is designed for durability in training allowing for safe practice of grips, throws, and submissions, while promoting discipline and unity among students. Your instructor can help you with Gi selection.
Can parents stay and watch their children's class?
Absolutely! In fact, parents are encouraged to stay during classes. Having you present helps your child feel supported and lets you see their progress and skills grow with each class.
​Is it a belt system? How long does it take to earn a black belt?
Yes, the ranking structure at Hillards Defense Arts is based upon the kyu/dan structure common in Okinawan/Japanese systems. The kyu levels are divided into white, green and brown belt groupings. Typically 8-10 years is required to achieve black belt, however, attendance, prior experience, combative concept acquisition/retention, etc. can effect the amount of time required. We do not award black belts to children.
Minimum age to earn rank of Shodan (first degree black belt) is 16-18. The emphasis at Hillards Defense Arts is never about rank, always about skill. Skill defines the martial artist, not the belt around their waist.
Am I too old to start?
No! You're never too old to learn a new skill, or learn how to protect yourself or others. Regardless of age or training focus, martial arts training is beneficial in many ways! Adaptations to training can always be made to accommodate physical ability/previous injury/age, etc. A full medical exam is always recommended to ensure a safe start to any physical training. The risk of injury cannot be removed entirely and must be considered prior to the start of any martial training. All measures are taken to reduce this as needed.
What do the kanji characters on the website mean?
The first two translate to ‘Okinawa’. The second two to ‘Kenpo’.
6:00 -7:30 pm Adult Kenpo