1. First, we suggest that you drop by to visit a class. This will give you a chance to view a class in progress, along with being able to see the interaction between our students and instructors. In addition, this will also give you an opportunity to speak with an instructor, who will be happy to answer any questions that you might have.
(REMEMBER: Please let us know when you arrive that you are here to observe a class so that we can answer questions that you might have as they arise - before, during or after class)

2. If you would like to try a FREE TRIAL CLASS, please give us a call beforehand and we will be happy to schedule a time when it would be most appropriate from you, based on your age, level of previous experience and so on. There is no cost or obligation for a free trial class, and we have found that, very often, a 'hands on' exposure is the best way to communicate the benefits and the differences between our program and other martial arts in the area

3. Initial Enrollment. When you decided to sign up, we will be happy to go over our current prices (we offer a number of different holiday and seasonal specials, along with Buddy Plans and Family Plans that we'll explain to you when you come in) and you will be asked to fill out a small amount of paperwork. Once the paperwork and the Initial Enrollment Fee has been taken care of, you will be provided with a Martial Arts Student Uniform and a class schedule will be arranged.

4. Your first several classes will generally be with one of our certified instructors readily available to help you through any challenges you might have and facilitate your assimilation into a regular class structure as rapidly as possible. We encourage your questions and comments during this time.

Remember that, like everything else, martial arts training is a step-by-step process, a gradual advancement through the curriculum from Beginner to Black Belt, and it is our goal at Upstate Kuk Sool Won™  - through our internationally-recognized curriculum, supportive atmosphere, and our caring and certified staff - to make the transition to Black Belt a process that will enrich your life in every way.

Upstate Kuk Sool Won™ is a Black Belt School and this is our goal for every one of our students - to make you the best martial artist you want to be!

Choosing a Martial Arts School

1. Compare different schools -- remember, not all martial arts schools are the same.  You should try to find one that completely suits your needs.

2. Talk to the Instructor -- but more importantly, talk to other students and (if you are looking for a program for your child) other parents.  Ask them specific questions.  If they are happy with the program, they will be glad to give you any information that you need.

3. Ask 'open-ended' questions about what you are looking for specifically.  Don't ask, "Do you teach weapons?" for example -- ask "What do you teach?" and don't be afraid to probe for more specifics.  Some unscrupulous instructors may tell you that they teach a certain thing just to get you to enroll -- and then forget all about their promises once you are a student.

4. Look for nationally recognized affiliations.  Without a larger affiliation, any rank that you receive may be meaningless if you move to another area or school (for example, the World Kuk Sool Association sets the curriculum and issues rank certification for hundreds of affiliated schools worldwide!)

5. Pay attention to how the Instructor teaches -- a black belt may be a world champion, but still be a horrible teacher.  Don't be overly impressed by titles or (often inflated) credentials

6. Always ask to view -- or even better, PARTICIPATE IN -- a trial class before you make a decision

REMEMBER:  Take your time in choosing a reputable school and instructor and always consider your choice for the long term.