FAQ's

QUESTION: Are there training videos and support outside of class?
ANSWER: Yes! Go to our exclusive Shaolin Kempo Arts training app on our website. This is for students only so you need to have the current access code.

QUESTION: Are there belt test fees?
ANSWER: Yes. Each student has the opportunity to promote to their new belt rank through a formal belt testing process that includes a complete presentation of skills and ceremony. Fees range between $130-$180 per belt depending upon their rank. Black Belt test fees are $575.00

QUESTION: How does my child progress through the program?
ANSWER: Each child progresses at their own pace and rate depending upon a few factors: attendance, practicing outside of class, and ability to retain knowledge and material. There is no race to Black Belt. Every student is on their own journey and every belt rank has its own pace. We utilize skills cards to help gauge each student's progress.

QUESTION: Is it required for my child to practice outside of class?
ANSWER: While not required, we highly encourage practice and consistent at-home training in order to have your child be successful in our program.
QUESTION: How do I book a birthday party at your school?
ANSWER: Please go to our birthday party page for answers to all of your questions! We book in advance and take payment in full to secure the date and time. Please tell us which package you would like and how many party guests you will be having.

QUESTION: How long does it take to get from White to Black Belt?
ANSWER: The journey to Black Belt is very individual and there is no prescribed or set time line. The average time is approximately 4 years, but it depends on consistency, attendance and commitment to the program.

QUESTION: Am I required to purchase the uniform and all the safety gear upon enrollment?
ANSWER: Upon enrollment, each student purchases a Kung fu top, bottom, logo patch and white belt. They are also required to purchase all of our safety gear which includes headgear with plastic built-in mask, chest guard, sparring gloves, and shin and instep protectors. This is for safety while sparring and practicing their Martial arts. All gear MUST be purchased through Shaolin Kempo Arts with no exceptions. Everything is approved and registered with our insurance company for the ultimate safety. All gear and uniform is purchased at the onset of enrollment with the first month's tuition. No exceptions and no refunds.

QUESTION: Do you have tournaments?
ANSWER: Yes! We offer in-house tournaments and open tournaments each year. All students are encouraged, but not required to participate. We have forms, sparring and weapons divisions for all belt levels and ages. Every child does receive a trophy for their participation and efforts in our in-house tournaments. For info on our open tournaments, please go to our Tournaments page.

QUESTION: If I need to discontinue my program, what kind of notice do I need to give? Do you offer refunds?
ANSWER: If for any reason you need to discontinue your program at any time, please notify us in writing at your earliest convenience lori@carmelvalleykarate.com. We require at least 72 hours notice prior to the next month's billing in order to suspend charges. We do not offer refunds.

QUESTION: Do you offer a trial class?
ANSWER: Before committing to a program, we do encourage potential students to sample our program in what we call a trial week. It is $25 per student and that allows you to experience our 5-star program first-hand before official enrollment. Our classes are ongoing so new students are always welcome!

QUESTION: How can I encourage my child not to use their Martial Arts at home or in school?
ANSWER: This is a great question and one we get asked often. At Shaolin Kempo Arts, we teach all students to use their Martial Arts skills in the dojo and only if necessary outside our dojo walls. We teach self defense and self protection. While young children are often wanting to show their ninja skills on the playground, we reinforce the concept that those techniques are designed just for practice in the dojo under the supervision of our highly-trained instructors.

QUESTION: What is the student to Sensei ratio? How big are the classes?
ANSWER: We pride ourselves on having a low student to Sensei ratio. We typically have 6-20 kids in a class with 2-3 instructors; 2 Master Senseis and our Leadership Team Jr. Senseis all are highly trained and skilled to work with our students. Our classes are divided by age and grade so that the students are working out with their peers. We feel the proper socialization component is paramount to their learning environment.

QUESTION: Can I bring a friend or sibling to class who is not a student?
ANSWER: We value our referral program! Every month we do a buddy day and you can bring a friend, classmate, neighbor or sibling to class with you for free!

QUESTION: Can I wear undergarments under my uniform?
ANSWER: All uniforms must be worn with no undershirts showing, even on cold or rainy days. We keep the dojo temperature at a comfortable environment and within minutes the students are working out and warming up. The only undergarments must be ones that cannot be seen on the shoulders or arms. It otherwise changes the look of the uniform. Thank you for your understanding.