FAQ
General FAQ
I want to try karate – how do I start?
In the first instance, we recommend that you come down for a trial class and give it a go! To arrange a free trial class, either click this link, give us a call on 03 9754 7892, email enquiries@goldencobra.org.au or pop into the dojo when we’re open. If you decide you want to join the club, we can arrange for the purchase of a starter pack and get you signed up!
Karate seems dangerous – will I get hurt?
Students are taught to use karate for defence only and all classes are conducted in a safe and controlled manner to minimise the risk of injury. For the most part, karate is taught as a non-contact sport at the mascot level and lower grades; however, some contact is required as students progress through the belt system. Our core focus is to teach control and discipline in technique.
Our experienced instructors will make sure that any activities you try will be suitable for your age, physical fitness level and experience. We will ask you to sign a waiver at your trial class to make sure everyone understands any risks involved, and we always ask any participants to disclose any pre-existing medical conditions or injuries so the activities can be amended as required.
Your prices seem low compared to other dojos – why is this the case?
Golden Cobra Martial Arts is a not-for-profit dojo. This means we can provide high quality martial arts training for a lower price than many other dojos. All our instructors and committee are volunteers who love the sport and want to be able to pass on their knowledge to the local community without the high fees that other dojos may charge.
When do your classes run?
All class information is on our timetable. You can attend as many classes that are relevant to your age/skill level as you would like each week. We run a slightly amended timetable through school holidays; all members are advised via email when this timetable takes effect.
What should I wear?
If you are coming along for a FREE trial, you should wear comfortable clothing that is easy to move about in. No shoes are worn on the mats and students train in bare feet (no socks). Members should always wear their Gi (karate uniform) and belt during training. No jewellery is to be worn during training.
Protective equipment, including hand mitts, shin pads and a mouthguard, is required when sparring.
How much does it cost?
Cost is always a factor and our goal is to provide martial arts trainings at a low cost as detailed in full on the fees page. This is your club, and membership allows for voting rights at our AGM and other matters.
Costs include:
- Annual Membership
- Monthly Training Fees
- Starter Pack when first joining (Gi (training uniform), white belt, sparring equipment (hand mitts, shin guards and mouthguard) and training manual.
- Access to as many classes per week that are suitable for your age and level of experience.
- School holidays – we run an amended timetable but still operate with no additional charges to the normal monthly fees
- Additionally, we offer great family discounts
- Free access to the members area on our website
Our fees are outlined here
How long does it take to get a black belt?
We have a training curriculum that students can work through at their own pace to progress to become a black belt. Our training manual lists the skills that need to be signed off by an instructor before a student can grade – the process by which they will progress to the next kyu or rank. We run grading sessions most months on a Saturday morning and all students are welcome to attend gradings to see how they work and what will be expected of them when they grade. In general, it takes a minimum of four years to progress to a black belt level, but each student is different and will progress at their own pace.
What is the order of belts in karate at Golden Cobra?
Our belt system is as follows:
- Orange Belt – Purple Belt (Little Cobras)
- White Belt
- Blue Belt
- Yellow Belt
- Green Belt
- Brown Belt
- Black Belt
Can I train with weapons?
As part of our regular training, we may practice defences from weapons such as knives or bos (fighting staff). In this instance, we use special wooden training equipment, and all activities will take place under the supervision of an experienced instructor.
We also offer a weekly weapons class by invitation to more experienced students – usually green belt and above.
Is there the opportunity to compete in competitions?
Yes! We run an annual dojo tournament, which usually runs in October and allows our members to experience competition in a safe environment. If members choose to, there is also the opportunity to enter ISKA tournaments, which run several times a year in Victoria and interstate. The dojo has a variety of equipment that members can borrow to use in tournaments if required.
What is the best form of martial arts for self-defence?
What martial art should I do?
How to tie a martial arts belt
Join us for a free trial class at Golden Cobra Martial Arts School in the Dandenong Ranges and discover the benefits of Karate. All ages and abilities are welcome.
Book online using the button below or contact us to find out more.
