What are our classes like?

Adults and Teens Classes

Students are asked to arrive 10 or 15 minutes early to do some mild stretching. As they arrive to the dojang, they enter, look for Sabumnim, greet him with a bow, and then prepare for class. Children typically arrive with their uniforms on, although that's not recommended, due to the fact that they can become soiled very easily. Students can change in the changing room adjacent to the couch, or they can use the restroom at the other end of the dojang.

Children typically need help tying their belt. However, it is proper etiquette that they learn to tie them themselves.

Once changed into appropriate attire, if there is a class already going on, it is proper to sit along the walls and quietly stretch. Often, Sabumnim will offer the incoming students to sit on the red mats in the back to make it easier to stretch, and also, to clear the entry way of bags, people, and conversation.

When class is about to begin, students will be directed to line up. Usually the lowest rank stands closest to Sabumnim. Next, we bow to the flags to show respect. Bowing is appropriate, as is placing one's right hand over the heart. Next, face Sabumnim and bow to him. As you do this, greet him by saying, "Good evening, Sabumnim!"

Class will begin with some formal cardio - jumping jacks - and some stretches. Be sure not to overdo the stretches, typically, you are not warmed up yet. The idea is to get the muscles loosened.

After this, you will ease into the class. What happens next depends on who's in class, how many, what their ranks are, etc. This is the bulk of your workout.

When class is over, students will end with some sit ups or some static stretches. Static stretches are important, because they will relieve the muscles of lactic acid buildup. This buildup, if not released, causes extreme soreness later on.

Students should get changed and then may leave. It is proper etiquette to bow to Sabumnim before leaving, if you happen to see him.

Children's Classes

Children's classes are no different than adult classes. There are two primary differences. First, children don't stretch much - nor should they. Children require mild stretching, and nothing more. Second, their classes are only a half-hour long, due to the fact that their attention spans are smaller.

As children arrive, it is important that they tie their belts themselves, and to remain as quiet as possible so as not to disrupt a class already in session. Noise in the lobby area is distracting to students, and can be dangerous if they cannot hear safety instructions, or if they cannot focus on their workout.

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