Frequently asked questions
What is Karate? How is it different from other martial arts? A: Karate, as we know it today, originally comes from Okinawa. It is an eclectic martial art that has evolved from older systems. Its primary foundations are rooted in Shaolin Kung Fu, Ti, and Tegumi, which are traditional Okinawan fighting methods. The merging of these styles was aimed at addressing the combat challenges of the time, resembling an early form of mixed martial arts (MMA). Over time, these techniques developed into the complete fighting system we now recognize as Karate, which encompasses striking, grappling, and weapon techniques. Learn more.
What should my child/I wear to the first week of class? How do we order uniforms? A: Comfortable, roomy clothing such as sweat pants and a T-shirt are perfect to begin. Once you sign up, we order you a size-appropriate Karate Gi (uniform) with our school insignia patches.
Are parents allowed to stay and watch the kids during class? A: During the Free Week, parents are allowed to be present at the beginning and end of classes. We find that many children become distracted when their parents are nearby. Therefore, our general policy is to ask that you wait outside the studio during the classes. Thank you for your understanding.
What are the monthly class rates for the kids' and adult programs? A: $140 per month for the Kids Program, and $175 per month for the Adult/Teen program.
Where are you located? A: 1414 4th Street, Suite 100 San Rafael, CA 94901
Do you require a liability waiver to be signed? A: Yes, standard protocol requires you to sign a waiver before you can begin classes.
What happens after my child/I complete the trial week of classes? How do I join? A: Once your trial is complete, we activate your membership with a payment method stored on file. You also purchase your uniform (gi) at this time. Going forward, your account is auto-debited once a month while your membership remains active. You also have the option to purchase class passes of four and eight before making a full monthly committment.
Should my child/I be practicing karate outside of classes? A: Absolutely. We recommend spending 15-20 minutes practicing kata and fundamentals most days of the week. This additional training is beneficial, and all martial arts masters engage in daily training. As part of your membership, you have access to a comprehensive media library that includes a series of videos for at-home training. We regularly add new material to keep the content fresh and engaging.
Does my monthly tuition include unlimited classes for my child/me? A: Yes it does. You may come as many days as you like.
Which style of karate is taught at The Martial Arts Academy? Is it similar to Shotokan Karate? A: Richard Kim’s Shōrinji Ryū Karate is the style taught at The Martial Arts Academy. This style features techniques that involve rapid combinations of attacks, soft blocks (parries), knock-downs, and throws. Its primary foundation comes from Yabu Kentsu’s Shōrin Ryū, infused with elements of Western boxing, judo, and Bagua Zhang. Richard Kim effectively utilized these methods in knockout matches in Shanghai during the 1940s. Shōrinji Ryū is, in fact, the parent of the modern derivative known as Shotokan Karate. Shotokan began to spread globally in the 1950s and has developed unique characteristics that vary depending on the individual school. Generally, Shotokan incorporates a larger frame, which means its stances and arm techniques are extended for a greater striking distance. In contrast, Shōrinji Ryū Karate, which means "Shaolin Way Empty Hand," taught at The Martial Arts Academy, employs a more moderately framed approach that is closer to the original form from Okinawa. This style is characterized by rapid, powerful movements that rely on relaxation and Ki (breath), rather than the tension and strength that dominate many contemporary karate schools in the USA.
Who is Sensei Will Yturriaga, and what is his background in Shōrinji Ryū Karate and other martial arts? A: Will Yturriaga is a local who grew up in West Marin. He began his Martial Arts journey in 1987, training under Sensei Sam Samarrai at the San Anselmo Recreation Center. Sensei Samarrai was affiliated with Richard Kim’s Dai Nippon Butoku Kai International Organization (an organization focused on all Japanese martial virtues). During this time, Will trained intensively in full-contact Shōrinji Ryū Karate, Bagua Zhang, and meditation. His studies eventually led him to Sifu John Kang’s East West Wing Chun Kung Fu school in San Francisco’s Chinatown, where he later became the main instructor. Will taught at the school for over six years, focusing on developing a core group of instructors. In 2014, he founded The Martial Arts Academy in Marin County while continuing his training under his Sensei. Currently, he teaches full-contact Shōrinji Ryū Karate, combining adaptability and modern innovation with a deep respect for tradition. One of his favorite pastimes is exploring the mountains of West Marin, where he practices and refines his Karate and Zen for hours at a time.
I've read that karate has a hard, linear style while kung fu is soft and circular – making it the better of the two. Is that true? A: Many people have a common misconception that all styles of Karate and Kung Fu are the same. In reality, each style can vary significantly, with some showcasing more hard or linear methods depending on the specific school. At The Martial Arts Academy, we teach Shōrinji Ryū Karate, which is a soft style. This style incorporates relaxed yet explosive movements in both offensive and defensive techniques, allowing for fluidity in all directions. A true martial art should not restrict your techniques to a narrow set of parameters; instead, it should be philosophically flexible and adaptable to a variety of conditions.
I’ve heard martial arts such as aikido or tai chi are favorable because they don’t hit people. Would non-violent martial arts be better for my child/me? A: A positive moral outlook is a central philosophy at The Martial Arts Academy and is essential to all Okinawan Karate methods. Key strategies such as situational awareness, avoidance, and de-escalation can effectively resolve 99% of unwanted encounters. However, there are rare instances when these primary methods may fail, and you may need to resort to physical self-defense techniques to protect yourself and your loved ones. In the face of any unwanted force, it is crucial to respond with effective techniques to ensure safety. It is important not to classify one method as "bad" and another as "good," as this can lead to the dangerous training of ineffective self-defense methods. Instead, focus on a functional style that works for you under pressure and encompasses a wide variety of techniques to handle different situations. While the idea of “non-violent martial arts” may sound appealing, it is ultimately a misconception for those unfamiliar with the reality of self-defense. Avoid falling into the trap of an academic debate on this topic.
I’m concerned about high-speed punches and kicks. How long will it take for my child/I to overcome this? A: We acknowledge this issue and take extra measures to ensure a welcoming atmosphere at The Martial Arts Academy. Our unique progressive training program provides you with the tools you need in a step-by-step manner that emphasizes quality and understanding. This approach addresses the common fear many experience at the beginning, while also building confidence and encouraging you to advance in an enjoyable way.
My child/I have never practiced a martial art before. Are your classes beginner-friendly? A: Absolutely. We have a comprehensive program that builds on fundamental techniques which are effective under real pressure. It is perfect for beginners and is also appealing to more advanced practitioners. This dual-function approach caters to all skill levels, as the basics always have something to teach us. This makes partnering with a training partner easy.
Is karate good for self-defense, and can it help build my child’s/my confidence? A: Yes, it is. Shōrinji Ryū Karate is a comprehensive martial art that has been time-tested and battle-proven. It builds confidence in a systematic way by: 1. Establishing a strong foundation of effective techniques that are tested under pressure. 2. Maintaining a positive learning environment where you can track your progress, which helps enhance both confidence and skill. 3. Providing a solid philosophical framework that allows you to apply the principles of Karate to your daily life.
Will my child/I fight at The Martial Arts Academy? A: We engage in full-contact fighting every week to keep our skills sharp and functional. This approach is the best way to test the practical application of Kata and combat drills. The intensity of the fights varies based on each individual's abilities and age group, ranging from very light to full power.
Is karate safe? Will my kids/I get hurt during class? A: Yes, it is very safe. Contrary to what pop culture and movies often portray, real Karate training focuses on safe practices and preventing harm. Most of Karate emphasizes safe training methods, including learning how to fall properly, maintaining correct body alignment, and achieving balance. These safety protocols are integrated into our program and benefit individuals in all aspects of life, extending well into old age.
My child/I’ve trained in a different style of karate and have a belt rank from the school. Is there a belt integration program at The Martial Arts Academy? A: We offer a standard multi-rank Colored Belt and Black Belt Integration program. To assess an incoming individual's knowledge at their specific level, we use several metrics: Kihon (Basic Fundamentals), Kata (Karate Forms), Bunkai (Combat Application derived from Kata), Jiyu Kumite (Freestyle Full-Contact Fighting), and Philosophy. For more details, please contact us.
How do I cancel my monthly membership? A: Please send an email, 30 days in advance of the stop date, to admin@martialartsmarin.com requesting cancellation of your monthly membership. Please include your child’s name. We invite you to stay connected with our community, OSS!