Black Belt Academy
4885 West Boulevard • Poplar Bluff Missouri 63901 • 573.785.KICK (5425)

What equipment do I need to get started?

The only thing we require of new students is their belt during their Intro Month.

Do you offer gender-specific classes?

Our regularly scheduled classes are available for both men and women, boys and girls. Currently, we have a Women's Self-Defense class on the schedule, Mondays at 6:15 p.m.

Do you offer age-specific classes?

Our 4:15 and 5:15 classes are available for all students five years old and up.

Our 6:15 sparring class is for all students ranked Camo belt and up.

Our 7:15 cardio-kickboxing/adult taekwondo class is for students thirteen and up.

How many classes per week can I attend?

You can attend as many classes per week as you want. You aren't limited to a set number, and a minimum is not required. We do, however, recommend you attend at least twice per week.

Is my child too young?

Probably not! Our youngest students are five years old.

Am I too old?

Definitely not! We have students in their 70s. As a matter of fact, the Wall Street Journal published an article in May 2012, Kicking from the Hip, on this very subject!

How do I schedule the free introductory class?

Just show up. Seriously! It isn't any more complicated than that!

The best time to take an introductory class is Monday through Thursday at either 4:15 p.m. or 5:15 p.m. These classes are structured for beginners and younger students.

Let us know why you're there and we'll get you started.

Oh -- and you'll want to take off your shoes and socks. :-)

At what point are the students required to learn weapons?

Students begin weapons training at White belt. We have Weapons Wednesday, where they can try out different weapons. Also, all of the GShim forms have a weapons (staff) variation.

Students who do a free-style weapons form at testing can earn bonus points.