Karate Classes - Tora Martial Arts - Tora Martial Arts Academy

Youth Classes

Our youth program offers our students the chance to learn and grow in clean, safe, and fun environment. Martial arts is more than just learning self-defense. We emphasize positive character development: focus, discipline, respect, kindness; for us these attributes are just as important. Your child will learn the physical skills they need to be confident enough to stand up for themselves if they are ever targeted by a bully, as well as valuable life lessons that will serve them as they grow into young adults.

Location

1081 East Main St.
Radford, VA 24141

Schedule

Curriculum

Tuesday & Thursday
Beginner 3:30 - 4:15 p.m.
Intermediate 4:15 - 5:15 p.m.
Advanced 5:15 - 6:15

Click below to download the Youth Karate/Self Defense Curriculum
- Karate/Self-Defense Curriculum

Frequently Asked Questions

Will martial arts training make my son/daughter violent or aggressive?
Quite the opposite. Children who have a positive outlet for their energy, who are taught self- control and who participate in activities that boost their confidence and self-esteem, have proven to be calmer, less prone to violent outbursts and more easily able to resolve conflict without becoming physical. In our program we stress that one’s skills should only be used when absolutely necessary.

What styles are taught in the youth classes?
Our youth classes are a mix of traditional Japanese Karate as well as a self-defense and grappling component, which comes from both Japanese and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

What should my child wear to their first class?
They can wear any comfortable, athletic wear such as basketball shorts, sweat pants, yoga pants/legging, and a t-shirt. After their first trial class, new students will sign up for our Kickstart program, which will come with a FREE uniform.

How do I get my child started?
Just contact the instructor and set up a day to bring your child in a few minutes before class starts. There will be a short form to fill out and then they can jump right in and give it a try!

How does the Kickstart program work?
The Kickstart program is our new student introductory offer. It is $35 for the first 4 weeks of class, and includes a FREE uniform.

What is the youngest age my child can start?
Five years is the youngest age we accept in our beginner class.

My child is not in great shape, can they still train?
Absolutely. Martial arts is a great way for children to improve their physical fitness. In the beginning, some activities and exercises may be challenging, but over time you will see significant improvements in your child’s abilities.

Can my child get injured in class?
While any sport, exercise, or physical activity comes with certain risks, we take great care to minimize the chance of injury to our members. Students are encouraged to listen to their body and determine the signals that mean it’s time to slow down. Any live sparring or grappling we do is always done with a friendly, ego-free attitude to ensure all our students can learn and grow together while minimizing the chance of any injury. And we will NEVER spar with full contact force to the head/face!

How much does the program cost?
To get up-to-date pricing information, please contact us, or come in and speak with the owner. We offer competitive pricing, as well as student and family discounts! We do monthly billing, but there are never any long-term contracts or obligations; you can cancel your membership at any time.

What equipment do I need to buy?
For the beginner class, there no equipment needed besides the uniform, which is included for free in the Kickstart program. Eventually, when students move into the intermediate and advanced classes, they will need a set of sparring gear. This can be purchased directly through the school. Just ask the instructor!

How do I find out if classes are cancelled? Are classes cancelled if school is cancelled?
If school is cancelled for weather related or other hazardous/emergency conditions, then youth classes will also be cancelled for that day. If you are ever unsure about class cancellation, check the academy’s Facebook page, or contact the owner.

How long will it take my child to reach black belt?
This can vary depending on several factors, such as how old you are when you start training, any previous martial arts experience, your natural coordination and athletic ability, how many days per week you train, and how much you practice outside of class. It generally takes a minimum of 4-6 years of training for teen/adult students to reach the black belt level. Younger students may take considerably longer.