General-

Q: Can anybody join?

A: Yes from any fitness level, beginners to advanced, at Performance Martial Arts we want to make each individual feel like they want to learn and enjoy being a part of a martial arts club. If you have a particular worry or need please speak to the Instructor before the class who will discuss this with you and decide on the best course of action.

Q: What is Kung Fu?

A: Originally, to practice Kung fu did not just mean to practice Chinese martial arts. Instead, it referred to the process of one's training - the strengthening of the body and the mind, the learning and the perfection of one's skills - rather than to what was being trained. It refers to excellence achieved through long practice in any endeavour.

Q: Do I need to be fit?

A: No, just willingness to learn. Progression is the key, if starting Kung fu or Tai Chi from scratch you will build the body slowly and then begin to feel your body's strength and stamina improve, and then it's important to continue to improve with motivating and safe exercises.

Q: Do I need to pay membership or insurance?

A: No, all insurance is paid for by Performance Martial arts

Q: What type of class is better for weight loss?

A: We offer a fighting fit class that includes circuit training for cardio benefits and the use of weights for toning.

Q: What is Tai Chi?

A: It is an ancient form of Chinese exercise, it is believed there are meridians or pathways which travel through the body carrying Chi- (energy). Whilst doing external movements we can assist the free flow of internal energy which in time promotes better health and boosts the immune system.

Q: Is Tai Chi a form of exercise?

A: Yes, the movements are gentle and slow to begin with, but the low stances stretch muscles and tendons and build up leg strength. The free flowing upper body movements give you a gentle workout.

Q: What should I wear?

A: Loose, comfortable clothing is best with plimsoll type shoes. Club t shirts are available.

Q: What if I have studied another martial art?

A: With all Martial arts extending your knowledge is extremely important. Learning a new style can only strengthen your passion for martial arts.

Children-

Q: What age do children have to be to attend a Performance Martial Arts Class?

A: From age 5

Q: My child is being bullied, will he/she learn about self defence and gain confidence?

A: Yes, many of our classes cover aspects of self defence and confidence building techniques. If you child has a particular worry or need please speak to the Instructor who will address this in an appropriate manner.

Q: I don't want my child to learn to fight, so can he/she still learn Kung Fu?

A: All of our children's classes are totally non-contact. The instructors regularly talk to the children about the importance of not using the skills learnt outside of the classroom, apart from to practise, and never to use any techniques to hurt or intimidate anybody.

Q: Do you have a grading system?

A: Yes, for those wanting to test their skills we start our grading with stage 1 which includes stances, balance work, punches, kicks and some Tai chi for which you receive the Sash then you progress to earn 5 badges - The Monkey, The Crane, The Bear, The Tiger, and the ultimate Fu Dragon.

If you have any further questions which are not answered here please feel free to send your question via the contact us page