FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: What is Don Jitsu Ryu?
A: Don Jitsu Ryu is a fighting system that is modern in concept but ancient in character and is governed by a philosophy of determination to overcome.

Q: How long will it take to get to a Black Belt?
A: It takes about 2 to 3 years of serious regular training. However, ranks are not guaranteed.

Q: How many days a week do I have to train?
A: We recommend a minimum of 3 days training per week.

Q: Can I train at other branches as well?
A: Once you hold a valid membership card you can train at any Purple Dragon branch.

Q: Can I sew my own uniform or do I have to buy a Purple Dragon uniform?
A: All uniforms and equipment must be bought from a recognized martial arts supplier. Under no circumstances will students be allowed to train without the proper uniform.

Q: Once I begin training how soon will my first grading be?
A: You can expect to take your first grading exam within 3 - 4 months of beginning classes, once the Instructor is satisfied that you are ready.

Q: Can parents decide on their own when their children should take the grading examination without the Instructor's advice?
A: No. The Instructor is most qualified to decide when the child should grade, but if you have any questions about your child's progress you should discuss them with the Instructor.

Q: Can I walk on the floor or call out to my child while classes are in progress and take my child out?
A: Only after the Instructor or whoever is in charge is approached and permission is given by them.

Q: If my child is functioning poorly in school or at home and I wish to take my child out of Karate, what do I do?
A: First of all you must pay attention to all contractual agreements. If you decide to take your child out of karate, the full contract balance must be paid off. Secondly, think carefully about the reasons you are giving to take your child out of Don Jitsu. Don't use the Dojo as a bribe or a threat to make your child do what you want. If Don Jitsu is the only thing your child is excelling at right now, why make him stop?

Q: If my child forgets his/her clothes valuables etc. In the Dojo what do I do?
A: You should check your child's bag to be sure that all belongings are in his/her possession before you leave the Dojo. However if you discover that something is missing call immediately and have us check for you, except if your child is training in a Community Center or some place of that nature. Purple Dragon will not be responsible for carelessly placed belongings and we do request that any valuables are placed in a secured place during training.

Q: I am a single parent and I am scared. How can Purple Dragon help my child and me?
A: We are used to helping single parents and their children develop confidence. The Purple Dragon way can show you how to develop improved strength and self-confidence, self-defense and a more positive outlook on life. It also gives your child a greater ability to respect and respond to parents and teachers.

Q: Will my child be hurt or embarrassed?
A: No. Everyone who trains will be respected and well taken care of. You will be exposed to qualified Instructors as well as lectures on self-confidence, how to get or keep a job, do better in school, etc. Your Instructor will arrange for you better education through Purple Dragon.

Q: How regular will I/my child get to train under Professor Don Jacob himself?
A: If you are in the Purple Dragon Headquarters, about twice or more per week. If you are not then at least once/twice per month if you live in Trinidad. If you are in another country you can expect to train with Professor at least once every six(6) months or sooner. All our Instructors are very qualified and competent to assist you at all of our branches and constantly learning each time they train with Professor Don Jacob.

Q: How many Belts are there in Don-Jitsu-Ryu?
A: There are nine classic colors in our style.

Q: How long would a class last?
A: Approximately 1 to 2 hours, unless it is a special seminar.

Q: Can I come in and have a look from time to time when my child is training?
A: Yes, we encourage parents to support their children as we feel it creates Family Unity. The Most Supportive Parent's name goes down on our Hall of Fame board. We welcome your support. But you must not distract the child once he or she is on the floor.

Q: What if my child gets too aggressive and wants to beat me up?
A: These actions may occur only when the child is not into the discipline of Don Jitsu Ryu. Don Jitsu Ryu promotes discipline and respect for elders and parents. You won't regret this investment in your child's education at Purple Dragon.

Q: My child is already in another Martial Arts school but he/she wants to switch to Purple Dragon and keep his present Belt Ran. Is this possible?
A: We recommend that your child start over from a beginner's rank. Don Jitsu Ryu is an eclectic style of martial arts and the standard from another traditional style may not be compatible with ours. However, with the previous martial arts experience your child has they should progress much faster when they begin studying our system.

Q: Can my child be involved in other sporting activities and still study Martial Arts?
A: Yes. In fact, it is likely that your child will do much better in other sports if he/she is also practicing Martial Arts because it is one of the most disciplined Art Forms. Few other sports can compete with Martial Arts for discipline, not to mention respect, leadership and motivation.

Q: My child comes home crying because other children take advantage of him/her. Can Martial Arts help?
A: We have had thousands of kids who were scared, shy, lazy, weak or hyper and who wouldn't listen to anyone, but now with our program many of these kids have changed. They have improved in their schoolwork and they are now Local and International Champions since they have joined the Purple Dragon School.

Q: Can other parents or friends visit me/my child while training?
A: Yes, as long as you let us know and they are well behaved.

Q: Do I have to stop my child from Don Jitsu Ryu when it is exam time in school?
A: It is up to you the parent and the teacher at school to make the final decision but we recommend they don't stop completely during exams. Children need an outlet when they are under stress and, from independent research done, martial arts has been voted one of the best sports that helps children stay focused. Those who continue to train during exams attain better results than those who quit. This question also relates to adults, e.g. your inability to participate in any scheduled examination or function due to work commitments, studies etc. In such cases the Instructor must know of your absence and you must have their permission.