Q: I'm a beginner, how do I start? Is there a term or a course registration date?
A: You can begin at any time. Unlike many activities (where you have to wait for the start of the next beginners class) Gorindo classes incorporate newcomers into the general class where every one is training together but working on technique at their own level. There are also separate classes where senior students focus on advanced technique.
Usually, if desired, we are able to schedule a separate introductory session to help familiarize yourself with some basics before joining the class.
One of the unique aspects of good martial art training is the emphasis on the constant improvement of basics so you will find that others in the class are happy to have the opportunity to work with or alongside you as you learn a new technique.
In Gorindo the coloured belt system is not a reward structure. Instead it is a visible reminder to others of where in the progressive program of the Gorindo method you are working. You are not expected to know anything as a beginner white belt and you will be treated with great care. Remember everyone in the room with you began as a white belt too.
Q: I used to practice another martial art. Do I have to start over?
A: You will find your previous training of assistance to you as you begin the study of Gorindo. In all likelihood there will be knowledge about stances, balance, movement and breathing which will transfer easily to the new training. You know what you know, so it is more accurate to say that you are starting in a new direction rather than starting over.
We ask every new student to don a white belt and move through the progressive system of the Gorindo method so that we can ensure that everyone has the same foundation of basics and the same vocabulary of technique. Years of study and experience have gone into the development of the Gorindo program and we will insist on correction of any technique or attitude that might result in injury or interfere with the enjoyment of other students in the training. Everyone is usually happy to reacquaint themselves with technique and get back in shape without the pressure of performing at their previous level.
A: As a beginner you can wear a t-shirt (white if you have it) and any comfortable loose pant that allows range of motion. Later in the training you will want to obtain a Gi (uniform) jacket and pants and a white belt.
Q: How long does it take to get a black belt?
A: This is a very good question and one which several stories have been written about. The usual answer, in a cryptic zen way, is to say “as long as it takes!”. It entirely depends on the individual and how much time they are able to devote to the training. With consistent progress and regular attendance a student could find themselves preparing for a black belt grading in three years. Some pass the threshold earlier and some much later. After that of course there are many levels of black belt training to work on. In our experience in Gorindo the closer one gets to black belt the less one is concerned about it as a major milestone and most folk tend to see it as another step along the way.
A: Probably not! At Gorindo we are very proud of the fact that we can offer the training to a wide age spectrum and with some adaptations of technique and a particular emphasis on individual progress everyone can learn and enjoy the benefits of the training. Whenever we have set limits on participation there has always been an individual who has come along and surprised us as an exception. With our new school in Ottawa and small classes we are offering an adult environment particularly conducive to the older demographic who are not well served by martial art classes in malls and community centres which cater largely to children.
We suggest to all students that they consult with their own medical professional to ensure that they can participate in sometimes vigourous exercise with a reasonable range of motion. Gorindo has proven to be an exercise program that offers a controlled, progressive, low impact means of getting or maintaining fitness, flexibility, strength, balance and mental focus.
Q: Will I learn to defend myself?
A: Yes, and in more ways than you might imagine.
Certainly self-defense is a cornerstone of Martial Art but Gorindo training teaches how to protect yourself from more than the classic attacker in a dark alley. Good health, stress reduction and improved strength, reflexes and awareness will be of greater service to you in your daily life. In reality you are in more danger stepping off a curb at an intersection in broad daylight than in that proverbial alley, but you will know how to defend yourself there as well. You will learn some very practical breaks and releases as an aspect of your repertoire of technique. And even though practicing how to block a punch is one of the first exercises you will not learn how to stand in a brawl at a bar because your Gorindo training will likely have you moving in the other direction.
