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Questions and Answers
We are occasionally asked the
following questions by concerned
individuals.
Q. Does this school teach Eastern Religion?
A. Martial arts taught at this school have no Eastern Religious bearing. Martial arts in itself has many building blocks. The teachings at this school are based on building self-discipline, self-confidence, self-control, teamwork, physical conditioning and self-defense.
Q. What is the philosophy behind the bow if it is not religious?
A. The rei (bow), zarei ni and zarei san (salutes) are signs of respect, a show of honor and an expression of a willingness to learn. They are not gestures of worship and are not to be confused as such. There is no connection between early Judeo-Christian culture where bowing pays homage to diety and Eastern cultures where bowing is more akin to a hand shake or a military salute. Bowing is a way of participating in the only competition of any real significance, a competition, the rules of which were outlined by the Apostle Paul in Romans 12:10b (RSV), “Outdo one another in showing honor”. Dr. Ronald W. Sebring
Q. Are the Martial Arts taught at Eagle’s Wings Martial Arts Christian in
nature?
A. Martial Arts consists of punches, kicks, blocks and other defensive and evasive techniques. These are simply movements of the body with no religious meaning. However, at Eagle’s Wings
Martial Arts, memorization of scripture verses is required for belt promotions. Class time will begin and end with prayer and a short illustration will be given. Our goal is for each student to grow physically, mentally and spiritually in an environment of martial arts training and discipline.
Q. Can I get in shape taking martial arts?
A. Yes, martial arts can be helpful in getting in shape in conjunction with a regular exercise program. Martial arts can be very physically demanding in training. Through stretching, conditioning, floor drills, sparring, katas and self-defense, students will be taught to use muscles they never knew they had.
In addition, each belt test is
preceded by a fitness test. The
fitness tests start out very easy and
become more difficult with each
successive belt rank. The
student will probably find it
necessary to begin a regular
walking/running program outside of
class in order to pass the
intermediate and advanced fitness
runs.
Q. Can I defend myself in today’s society with what is being taught at this school?
A. Absolutely. The basics in karate will be repeated time and time again until they become second nature. These basics will be used as a foundation in learning actual self-defense in today’s environment. As students advance, they will practice and play out self-defense techniques.
Q. Will this school teach my children to fight and to be bullies?
A. Your children will be taught to avoid bullies and situations which could lead to trouble. They will learn how to walk (or run) away from a bad situation. They will, however, be taught to defend themselves when there are absolutely no other options or in the event of an attempted abduction.
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