Frequently Asked Questions

Not at all! We welcome complete beginners. Our instructors are experienced in teaching all skill levels, from first-time martial artists to competitive athletes. Your first class will focus on basics and helping you feel comfortable.

Just comfortable athletic clothing (t-shirt and loose pants or shorts). We have loaner uniforms (gi) available for your first few classes. Bring water and an open mind! Training is done barefoot, so no shoes on the mat.

We're happy to help! Book a free trial class and speak with our instructors. We'll discuss your goals (fitness, self-defense, competition, etc.) and recommend the best path. Many students train in both Karate and Arnis!

We train everyone — kids from age 4 (Little Dragons), teens, adults, and seniors. Our oldest active student is in their 60s. Martial arts is truly for all ages and fitness levels.

Yes! Safety is our top priority. Classes are supervised, techniques are taught progressively, and protective equipment is used when needed. Contact in sparring is controlled. You train at your own pace and comfort level.

Contact us to schedule your trial: call or text 778-871-1544, email info@reiskymartialarts.com, or fill out the booking form on our free trial page. We'll confirm a date and time that works for you. Please arrive 15 minutes early to complete a short waiver.

If you'd like to continue, we'll help you choose a membership package that fits your schedule and goals, order your gi (uniform), and get you onto the regular class schedule. There's no pressure — take your time deciding.

We teach two disciplines: Traditional Shito-Ryu Karate (Japanese — strikes, kicks, kata, sparring) and Filipino Arnis (stick and blade techniques, disarms, empty-hand applications) through our WEKAF-affiliated Mabuhay Arnis Club. Many students cross-train in both.

We recommend 2–3 sessions per week for steady progress. Our Karate package covers 2× per week ($100/month), Karate + Arnis covers 3× karate plus Arnis ($120/month), and All Classes gives you access to every session including Karate and Arnis ($150/month).

Absolutely — many of our students do. Our Karate + Arnis package ($120/month) covers 3× karate per week plus Arnis at no extra charge. Our All Classes package ($150/month) covers every session. Cross-training develops better reflexes, coordination, and a more complete skill set.

Classes run 90 minutes: warm-up and stretching (10 min), fundamental techniques and forms (20 min), skill development — partner drills, kata, or controlled sparring (50 min), and cool-down with Q&A (10 min). Beginners work at their own pace while advanced students receive more challenging material.

Not at all — martial arts training is how you get in shape. We have students of every fitness level. You work at your own intensity and gradually build strength, flexibility, and endurance. Many students tell us martial arts is the first form of exercise they've actually enjoyed long-term.

Classes are 90 minutes. This allows for proper warm-up, technique instruction, practice, and cool-down. You'll be actively training for about 70–75 minutes.

With unlimited packages, just come to the next class. With limited packages (e.g., 2×/week), you can make up missed classes within the same month if space allows. Life happens — we're flexible!

Typically 4–6 years of consistent training for adults, slightly longer for children as they grow into their skills. It's not just about time — it's about skill, character, and dedication. Your journey is unique.

Yes! Both Karate and Arnis include practical self-defense. While we teach traditional martial arts, our instructors emphasise real-world applicability. Arnis in particular focuses on practical weapon and empty-hand defense.

Karate (Shito-Ryu) is a Japanese martial art emphasising strikes, kicks, blocks, and forms (kata). Arnis is a Filipino martial art focusing on stick and blade techniques, disarms, and empty-hand applications. Both build discipline, fitness, and self-defense skills — and they complement each other beautifully.

Monthly packages: Arnis Only $75/mo (Mon & Sat Arnis via Mabuhay Arnis Club), Karate $100/mo (2× per week), Karate + Arnis $120/mo (3× karate + Arnis included — most popular), All Classes $150/mo (all karate and Arnis sessions including Elite). No long-term contracts required.

No mandatory long-term contracts. You pay monthly and can cancel with 30 days' notice. We believe in earning your continued membership, not locking you in.

Your package includes all scheduled classes for your tier, training in our facility, and access to our community. Equipment rental/purchase and annual federation fees are separate.

Yes! We offer family discounts (10–15% off for multiple members) and occasional promotions. Active military, first responders, and students may qualify. Ask us about current offers.

Absolutely! Your first class is completely free with no obligation. We want you to experience our training and meet our community before making any decisions.

Karate students pay annual fees to the Seiko-Kai Reisky Dojo ($30), Suzuki-Ha Shito Ryu Karatedo Association ($10–$50 depending on age/rank), and Karate BC ($50–$85 depending on age/rank, commencing September 1). Arnis students pay the Mabuhay Arnis Club of BC annual fee ($30). We explain all fees clearly before you commit.

We accept e-transfer (preferred) to payments@reiskymartialarts.com. Payment is due on the 1st of each month. We'll send a reminder a few days in advance.

The opposite. Martial arts teaches discipline, respect, and self-control. Students learn when and how to use techniques appropriately — never for bullying. We consistently see improvements in focus, confidence, and respect at home and school.

Yes! We have a viewing area. For young children we recommend watching the first few classes, then allowing independence as they settle in. Some kids focus better without parents present — we'll guide you based on your child's needs.

Martial arts is perfect for shy kids. The structured environment and individual progress (no team pressure) build confidence naturally. Technique matters more than raw athleticism — we've seen countless shy children blossom into confident leaders.

Zero tolerance for bullying. We teach respect and discipline first. Classes are supervised, and any aggressive behaviour is addressed immediately. Many students joined specifically because they were bullied — and found confidence and community here.

Students test when ready (instructor recommendation). Gradings assess technique, forms, sparring, and knowledge. There are no automatic promotions — belts are earned. Testing fees are separate from tuition. We celebrate every achievement!

We accept children from age 4 in our Little Dragons program. Age groups: Little Dragons (4–6), Young Warriors (7–9), Junior Champions (10–12). At 13, students move into the adult Karate program.

Yes. Our kids classes use a padded training floor, age-appropriate equipment, and controlled contact only (no hard sparring for young children). There is constant instructor supervision and a low student-to-instructor ratio.

Absolutely! We support students at local, provincial, national, and international levels. Our instructors have competitive experience and provide specialised training for athletes. Competition is always optional — never required.

No — competition is completely optional. Many students train purely for fitness, self-defense, or personal development and never compete. We support both paths equally.

Local BC tournaments (3–4 per year), the Canadian National Championships, WEKAF-sanctioned Arnis tournaments, and international competitions for advanced students. Our Elite package includes competition-focused training.

Belt tests are held 2–3 times per year. Your instructor will invite you when you're ready. Testing covers techniques from your current rank, kata (forms), partner drills or light sparring, and for advanced ranks, breaking techniques. Testing fee: $40–$60 depending on rank.

It's rare — we only invite students when we're confident they're ready. If someone doesn't pass, it's usually test-day nerves rather than lack of skill. We'll work with you on any gaps and you can retest at the next session (typically 3–4 months later) at no additional cost.

Unit #210, 12960 84th Avenue, Surrey, BC. We're accessible by car and transit. Free parking is available in the studio lot.

Talk to us! Our instructors can modify techniques and accommodate most injuries or physical limitations. Martial arts can actually support recovery and build strength safely. We work with each student's individual needs.

Yes, changing rooms are available. Most students arrive in comfortable clothes and change into their gi at the dojo.

Of course! Contact us to schedule a tour or book your free trial class. We love showing people our dojo and introducing them to our instructors and community.

Yes — free parking is available in the studio lot. The dojo is also accessible by transit. See our contact page for detailed directions.

Nothing to start — just comfortable athletic clothing for your trial class. Once you join, you'll need a gi (uniform, $60–$80). Optional gear includes sparring equipment ($80–$150) and Arnis sticks ($20–$40, though we provide loaners initially).

Monday: Sports Karate 5:00–6:30 PM, Arnis 6:30–8:00 PM. Wednesday & Friday: Traditional Karate 5:00–6:30 PM (Children 6–11) and 7:00–8:30 PM (Youth/Adults 12+). Thursday: Sports Karate 5:00–6:30 PM, Elite Kumite 7:00–8:30 PM. Saturday: Sports Karate 9:00–10:30 AM, Elite Kata/Kumite 11:00 AM–12:30 PM, Arnis 1:00–2:30 PM. Sunday: Traditional Karate 9:00–10:30 AM, Elite Kata 11:00 AM–12:30 PM. Tuesday: Closed.