Thanks so much for your advice, everyone. The whole situation just didn’t seem right to me, but I wasn’t sure what was the norm – so I’m glad I asked!
I really love what I’ve experienced of martial arts so far, and don’t want to give up on the whole affair. Last night I did some searching online for dojos that are in my area, and found out there is a small Tae Kwon Do place that’s even closer to me than this karate school is. I called them, and the instructor set up two private introductory lessons that will give me an idea about their facilities, his teaching methods, the fighting style, etc. From what I can tell, it sounds modest and privately owned – not one of these “McKarate” fighter factories. Once I sit down with him and go over financials I’ll come back here and get your opinions.
Oh, one more question – I got a free karate gi out of that introductory month with that karate place. Can I use it for Tae Kwon Do, or are their uniforms different? I’d hate to have to buy another…
I really love what I’ve experienced of martial arts so far, and don’t want to give up on the whole affair. Last night I did some searching online for dojos that are in my area, and found out there is a small Tae Kwon Do place that’s even closer to me than this karate school is. I called them, and the instructor set up two private introductory lessons that will give me an idea about their facilities, his teaching methods, the fighting style, etc. From what I can tell, it sounds modest and privately owned – not one of these “McKarate” fighter factories. Once I sit down with him and go over financials I’ll come back here and get your opinions.
Oh, one more question – I got a free karate gi out of that introductory month with that karate place. Can I use it for Tae Kwon Do, or are their uniforms different? I’d hate to have to buy another…