Frequently Asked Questions
When can I start training at Zen Dan Kwan School of Martial Arts? ↓
Any time is a great time to start your training. Zen Dan Kwan School of Martial Arts holds classes throughout the year, including school holidays. There is no time like the present to get started!
What is a good age to start training? ↓
Zen Dan Kwan School of Martial Arts has so much to offer people of all ages. Students can start training from as young as 3 years old, and we have students still training into their 60’s. All of our classes are targeted at specific ages to ensure everyone gets the real benefits of the Martial Arts, no matter what their age.
How often will I have to come to class? ↓
Students are expected to attend an average of 2 classes per week. Some students find two classes is all they can manage. Other students find they cannot get enough of training at Zen Dan Kwan and may come to 4 or even more classes per week. It is about finding your balance. The beauty of training at Zen Dan Kwan School of Martial Arts is that you are not locked in to any specific time or day. Students are welcome to attend any of the over 95 classes per week offered at Zen Dan Kwan School of Martial Arts.
When are your classes? ↓
Classes are held during the daytime, afternoon and evenings each weekday, and on Saturday mornings as well! See our class schedule page for a detailed review of all our class times.
How fast will I progress? ↓
On average it takes a person 3½ to 4 years to be ready for their Black Belt Exam. Testing is held regularly at Zen Dan Kwan School of Martial Arts, and most students are ready for their first Belt Exam within 4 months of starting their training. The rate of progress is never so important as the enjoyment that students experience along the journey.
Can I train with a pre existing injury? ↓
There are a number of students who train at Zen Dan Kwan School of Martial Arts who have certain physical challenges. All students are encouraged to seek the advice of their doctor before engaging in Martial Arts training. It is important to let your Instructor know of any condition that may affect your ability to participate in any part of the Martial Arts class.
Will I get hurt training with Zen Dan Kwan? ↓
Our Insurance company tells us that statistically, Martial Arts is one of the safest activities you can do! At Zen Dan Kwan School of Martial Arts safety is very important to us. There is a large amount of safety equipment used in classes at Zen Dan Kwan School of Martial Arts which gives the students the best possible Martial Arts experience and at the same time guarantees their safety.
Will there be lots of people in my class? ↓
All our classes at Zen Dan Kwan School of Martial Arts are separated into beginners, intermediate and advanced students. This means that the other students in class with you will be beginners, just like you. This keeps class sizes manageable for the Instructors too! In our preschool classes we have a ratio of 1 Instructor to 5 students. In the Tigers class the ratio is one to 7, in the Dragons class it is 1 to 10. The Eagles and Adults classes also have beginners class ratios of one Instructor per 10 students for everyone’s safety and learning.
Do you train with weapons? ↓
Weapons are a part of the training at Zen Dan Kwan School of Martial Arts, however they are not tested until Black Belt level. Students have the opportunity to start training with weapons after approximately 6 months of training at Zen Dan Kwan School of Martial Arts. Weaponry is an optional study at Zen Dan Kwan until Black Belt level.
Will I have to do tournaments? ↓
Zen Dan Kwan School of Martial Arts does not participate in tournaments. Zen Dan Kwan is taught as a Martial Art, and a method of increasing mental growth and physical health, not as a sport where tournament participation is usually mandatory. At Zen Dan Kwan School of Martial Arts you will learn to become a better person than who you are today. You will not be encouraged to learn to beat any other person.
Are your Instructors Qualified? ↓
All the Instructors at Zen Dan Kwan School of Martial Arts are full time Martial Arts professionals. They have all undergone extensive training in the theory of Martial Arts education and the physical skills of Instructing. In addition, all Instructors are qualified in First Aid. They also have the ‘Working with Children’ check carried out on them prior to be accepted as a staff member of Zen Dan Kwan School of Martial Arts. The Instructors all train directly under Master Mark Walker, and we are very proud of the quality of Instruction we offer at our School.
What are the ongoing costs of training in the Martial Arts? ↓
At Zen Dan Kwan School of Martial Arts the monthly membership fee covers all of your ongoing costs, including registration and start up costs, testing fees and all necessary items, including your first Martial Arts uniform. Students have the opportunity to purchase additional equipment if they choose to, however all necessary costs are covered by the monthly fees.
Do I have to sign a contract? ↓
Zen Dan Kwan School of Martial Arts have agreements with their students. The agreements cover important rights and responsibilities for both the students and the School. Students enrol in a course of study at Zen Dan Kwan School of Martial Arts that runs for a certain time period. However, students also have the opportunity to cancel their membership agreement if their circumstances change.
Is there an opportunity to try a class before I make my decision? ↓
Of course! We encourage everyone to take advantage of our free trial offer. This is a great way to find out exactly how much fun it is to be a student of Zen Dan Kwan. It is also a way to ask any other questions that may occur to you when you are here in our School. There is no obligation when you try out a class, so you have nothing to lose and a whole new world to gain!
What should I wear to my first class? ↓
At your first lesson we will provide you with a Martial Arts uniform to wear. We also train in bare feet, so there is no need to bring anything extra with you to your first class!