Frequently Asked Questions

At what age do you begin training? We start children at age 3.  Our programs for children 3-6 years old are what we like to call “Structured Fun”.  The classes are taught at an age appropriate and ability appropriate level.  The children learn basic martial arts techniques along with age appropriate physical fitness and social development skills.  At age 7, we begin teaching the traditional techniques and forms offered in our style along with the history and philosophy of Chinese Martial Arts.

How does martial art training benefit children? Martial arts training for children aids in areas such as physical fitness, weight control and personal safety as well as the development of self-discipline, focus, improved coordination, respect for self and others, improved confidence, a higher self image and more.

How does martial arts training benefit adults?  Adults will receive the same benefits as children along with stress reduction, improved flexibility, improved respiratory and circulatory functions and a full mind and body workout.

Will martial arts make my child violent? No.  Martial Arts gives children a positive physical outlet for aggressions while at the same time giving them reinforcement on the appropriate way in which martial arts training is to be used.  By giving them a physical activity that builds their confidence and self esteem, children are more likely to resolve conflict easily though words and avoidance.  Typically children are violent due to low self esteem and feelings of inadequacy.  At CDS Academy, through positive teaching, we allow children the needed physical and emotional releases intermixed with positive feedback and forward progress, helping them to overcome any feeling of low self worth.

Does martial art training help children with learning disabilities? Yes, if it is taught appropriately in a warm and caring environment.  Martial arts’ training has been proven to help children with disabilities such as ADD, ADHD, Dyslexia, Aspergers, Autism, Turrets and more.  In a proper martial arts school, there is no labeling, and teaching is non-competitive and positive, allowing the children to feel a sense of pride and accomplishment and to personally develop their emotional, social, physical and mental skills.

Can a physically handicapped person train at your studio? Yes, Absolutely.  Our studio is completely handicap accessible and we will adjust our curriculum accordingly to give the most beneficial training and the most physical aid possible.

What makes CDS Academy different? CDS Academy of Martial Arts is about the individual students and their own level of “Personal Excellence”.  We strive to provide positive classes packed with personal results.  We work diligently to make each student see that they are special and help them to see their fullest level of potential.

How often should you train?  At CDS Academy we recommend that students ages 5 and up train twice a week.  Children under 5 may take 1or 2 classes per week.  In addition, students should be practicing the material they learned in class independently at least 30-45 minutes per week outside of the studio.

Do you offer family classes? Yes, for ages 7 and up.  The classes for ages 3-6 are age specific.

Why do you limit the number of classes per week?  CDS Academy limits training to twice a week for several reasons.  One is time management.  Students tend to get that adrenalin run when doing something new, this leads to daily training and early burnout.  In addition, practice is needed in between classes.  If you are attending daily, you are using class time to practice your skills vs. gaining new knowledge and technique.  Over training in one sport can cause injury in youth.  CDS Academy recommends participation in at least 1 other sport to offer cross-training and diversity for all individuals.

Do I need to be in shape to take classes? No.  Martial arts are a full fitness programs.  It will help you get in shape.  Depending on your level of fitness, the program will gradually build your endurance and assist with weight loss, weight control, flexibility, cardiovascular endurance, improved balance and coordination and overall muscle toning.

Do you spar?  Yes, but not until the early intermediate level of training.  For most (children ages 3-6 excluded), it is approximately 10-12 months into our program.

Why do you wait so long to spar?  Our sparring is structured to reflect the techniques taught in our style.  It is also light contact.  By waiting until the intermediate level, we insure that students are sparring in a very controlled fashion with the techniques they have learned.  Sparring at the beginner levels is more likely to produce injury, even on a light contact level.  Beginners tend to have less control of power and accuracy, and with fewer techniques, they are likely to revert to basic street instinct verses trained technique.

Do you teach MMA? No, we teach traditional Chinese martial arts.  For those who wish to learn, we do teach full contact Lei Tai Fighting to ADULTS taking our martial arts program.  Lei Tai differs from MMA in that the matches are held on a platform surrounded by mats and the competitors wear protective face and headgear to help prevent facial and head injuries.

How long does it take to get a black belt? For someone age 12 or older, training 2 times per week and practicing the required amount, it is feasible to earn a Black Belt in 4 years. Younger students will receive the level of Junior Black Belt prior to age 13.  Adults who train more vigorously, it is possible to earn a Black Belt in 3 to 3.5 years.

Is the staff experienced? The Spoor’s a Husband and Wife Team, have owned and operated martial art schools for the past 16 years.  They are both Internationally Recognized Black Belts through The World Kuoshu Federation and Tien Shan Pai Association.  They continue to train with their teacher Grandmaster Huang, Chien-Liang in Owings Mills, Maryland, expanding their martial arts education.  In addition to being in the EFC and Black Belt Halls of Fame, the Spoors have received numerous Certificates of Recognition from Senators, Congressmen and Governors for their Positive Promotion of Chinese Martial Arts.  In addition to her martial arts teaching experience, Ms. Spoor is a Certified Preschool Teacher.