Getting Started
Can I try a class before deciding to join?
Absolutely! New students in our Little Tigers, Youth, Junior, Adult and Fitness with a Purpose programs can take advantage of a FREE two-week trial. Choosing a martial arts school is an important decision, and we want you to have an opportunity to experience our classes, meet our instructors and see if Volpe Martial Arts is the right fit for you or your family.
I've never done martial arts before. Can I still join?
Absolutely. No previous martial arts experience is needed. Students come to us with all different levels of experience, fitness and ability. Our classes are structured so beginners can learn at their own pace while gradually developing their skills, confidence and fitness.
Which program is right for me or my child?
For most students, program placement is based on age. Each program has been designed with the developmental needs and abilities of that age group in mind. If you're unsure where you or your child would fit, just contact us. We'd be happy to help you choose the best place to start.
What should I wear to my first class?
You don't need a martial arts uniform for your first class. Comfortable athletic clothing that allows you to move freely is a great place to start. We'll explain uniforms and any equipment you may eventually need as you become more familiar with the program.
2 Weeks FREE
About Our Training
What martial arts do you teach?
Volpe Martial Arts teaches a combination of Kung Fu and Hapkido. Our curriculum brings together the traditions and skills of Kung Fu with practical self-defence from Hapkido, giving students a well-rounded martial arts experience.
Do you teach Kung Fu and Hapkido separately?
No. Our curriculum combines both styles. Much of our forms training comes from our Kung Fu lineage, while our self-defence draws from our Hapkido lineage. By bringing the two together, students experience a varied and well-rounded martial arts program while respecting the traditions of both arts.
What can I expect in a typical class?
Classes combine physical conditioning with martial arts skill development. Depending on the program, students may work on cardio, strength, flexibility, coordination, drills, forms, techniques, self-defence and curriculum development. Youth, Junior, Adult and Fitness with a Purpose classes are generally one-hour, while Little Tigers classes are 30-minutes and follow an age-appropriate structure designed specifically for younger children.
Do I need to be in good shape before I start?
Not at all. You don't need to get in shape before starting martial arts. Our students come to us with many different fitness levels and abilities, and our goal is to help you develop gradually from where you are today. The first step is simply getting started.
Am I too old to start martial arts?
You are never expected to have started martial arts as a child. Our Adult program welcomes beginners ages 15+, and our Fitness with a Purpose program provides another option for adults who prefer a supportive, lower-impact approach to training. Your experience, fitness level and starting point are all part of your individual journey.
Do students have to compete in tournaments?
No. Competition is completely optional. Students can enjoy martial arts, progress through their training and achieve their personal goals without competing. For students who are interested in competition, Volpe Martial Arts also provides opportunities to challenge themselves through tournaments and competition-focused training.
Children & Families
My child is shy or nervous. Is martial arts still a good fit?
It certainly can be. Starting something new can feel intimidating, especially for a child. We work to create a welcoming and encouraging environment where students can become comfortable with their instructors, classmates and class routine over time. Every child's journey is different. If there's something you'd like us to know before your child's first class, please tell us so we can help make their introduction to the academy a positive one.
Can martial arts help with confidence, focus and discipline?
Confidence, focus, discipline and perseverance are all qualities we encourage through martial arts training. Students are regularly given opportunities to listen, learn, practise, overcome challenges and recognize their own progress. Every student develops differently, so we don't promise a particular result or timeline. Our goal is to provide an environment that encourages positive growth both in and outside the academy.
My child isn't very athletic. Can they still participate?
Absolutely. A child does not need to already be athletic to begin martial arts. Training gives students opportunities to gradually develop coordination, balance, flexibility, fitness and body awareness while learning at their own pace. The goal isn't to compare one student with another. It's to help each student continue improving from where they started.
Can family members train together?
Yes! Our age-specific programs allow different members of the family to train at Volpe Martial Arts, and eligible Youth, Junior and Adult students also have the opportunity to train together in our Family Class. It's a wonderful way for families who train at the academy to share the martial arts experience.
What is Family Class?
Family Class brings eligible active students from our Youth, Junior and Adult programs together in the same class. Despite the name, students do not have to be related and they don't need to attend with a family member. It's an opportunity for students from different programs to train together — and for families who do train at the academy, it's a special chance to share the experience. Please see our current class schedule for Family Class days and times.
Other Questions
What is Fitness with a Purpose?
Fitness with a Purpose is a supportive fitness and martial arts-based program designed primarily for adults 45+. Classes focus on areas such as strength, flexibility, balance and agility, aerobic fitness, mobility, stress reduction and practical self-defence. There are no high-impact movements or sparring, and no previous martial arts experience is needed. The program is designed to help adults work toward their individual fitness goals in a welcoming and encouraging environment.
Do you offer private classes?
Yes. We offer private and semi-private training by request. Private training can be helpful for current students looking for additional instruction or focused practice, as well as new students who may prefer to begin in a one-on-one or smaller setting. Contact us and we'd be happy to discuss what you're looking for and whether private training would be a good fit.
Ready to Get Started?
The best way to find out whether Volpe Martial Arts is right for you or your child is to experience it for yourself.