1. Student Expectations
What should I bring to my first class?
All students must bring a signed liability waiver before they are allowed to practice. Students should bring water and wear comfortable workout pants and a shirt.
If I sign up, am I obligated to attend every class during the semester?
No, you can come to as few or as many classes as you want! Note that you must meet minimum attendance requirements to test for your next belt rank.
2. Training and Curriculum
Is sparring mandatory?
Yes, it is a central component of taekwondo. Sparring begins after students have achieved their yellow belt, approximately in their second semester of training. Students will spar against others of similar skill and will not be forced to spar against opponents of significantly higher skill.
How long does it take to earn a black belt?
Exceptionally talented students with high class attendance who take and pass every belt exam with no interruptions can expect to earn their black belt at the end of their third year of training. Average students can expect to earn their black belt at the end of their fourth year of training.
3. Testing and Rank
If I test for and earn a black belt, will it be recognized?
Yes, students who earn a black belt will receive a Kukkiwon dan certificate.
Can I transfer my color belt rank?
All taekwondo programs are slightly different, so each student will be individually evaluated for rank placement.
How often will belt tests be held?
Color belt tests will be held twice a semester in mid-October and in early December and black belt tests will be held once a semester.
What are the requirements for belt tests?
Each belt test has specific requirements, but all belt tests will include forms (poomsae), sparring, board breaking, kicking combinations, and self-defense.
How do I know I am ready for a belt test?
Students who demonstrate a satisfactory performance during testing practice the week before testing, as determined by Master Instructors, and have meet minimum attendance requirements are eligible to test.
4. Equipment and Gear
Where do I buy my uniform and gear?
To ensure safety and quality standards, all full uniforms and new sparring equipment must be purchased through the club. Sparring equipment and uniform bottoms from previous training will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
When do I need to buy sparring equipment?
Full safety gear is required once a student achieves their yellow belt.
Do I have to wear my full uniform to every class?
Although full uniforms are only required at belt tests and special events, students must wear their belt and uniform bottoms during every class. Students are highly encouraged to wear a plain (logo-free) or NCSU-branded shirt.
5. Fees
How much is this club going to cost me?
Students are responsible for paying club dues every semester. Club dues are $75 per semester or $135 for the full academic year. Students are allowed to attend six practices for free before they must pay club dues to continue, which means that club dues are normally due by the end of the third week of the semester. Club dues can be paid via cash, check, or Venmo to the treasurer. Students are allowed to vote on officers and ballot initiatives after paying their club dues. Students are also responsible for paying for personal sparring equipment, uniforms, and belt tests. The color belt testing fee, which includes the new belt, is $30. The black belt testing fee, which includes the Kukkiwon certificate cost, for first dan is $120, for second dan is $140, and for third dan is $200, plus the cost of an embroidered belt. Club dues and belt test fees are used towards shared club equipment and event travel.
