Questions
Frequently asked questions
Can’t find your answer? Call Sensei Troy at (604) 302-7945 or send us a message.
Getting started
What age can my child start?
Tiger TOTS starts at 3. The main thing is that your child can join a group class and follow simple instructions while you watch from the parents’ area. Not sure if they’re ready? Their first Tiger TOTS class is free.
Do I need experience or to be fit already?
No. Every program takes complete beginners, kids and adults alike. You start where you are and build from there.
How do trials work?
Pick your class and time on our trial page and book it in under a minute. Every trial is free: Tiger TOTS start with a free first class, karate with a free 2-week trial of 4 classes, and kickboxing with a free week of unlimited classes.
What should we wear to the first class?
Comfortable clothes you can move in, and a water bottle. Karate is barefoot on our padded floor. Arrive 10 minutes early so Sensei Troy can say hello and show you around.
Can parents watch?
Yes. The parents’ viewing area looks right onto the mat, and you’re welcome to watch every class.
Is it safe?
Safety comes first. The whole training floor is padded, we use padded equipment, and every class is run by an experienced instructor who matches drills to each student’s age and size.
Is Safeguard a good fit for kids with ADHD or autism?
Many kids with ADHD or autism have thrived here, and Sensei Troy has ADHD himself. Classes are structured, encouraging and patient, with clear routines kids can count on.
How long does it take to get a black belt?
Years, and that’s the point. Belts are earned, never handed out. For some students the journey takes a decade, and the confidence and discipline they build along the way are the real reward.
Do you run birthday parties?
Yes, on Sundays from 12–2 pm and 3–5 pm: martial arts games, board breaking, and the birthday child cuts the cake with a samurai sword, carefully supervised. $499 for up to 10 kids, plus $25 for each extra guest. You bring the food.
Prices and memberships
Are there any sign-up fees?
Tiger TOTS has a $199 registration when you join. Ask Sensei Troy about anything else, like uniforms, at your trial.
What’s included with kickboxing plans?
Unlimited classes in your division. The 6- and 12-month plans also include boxing gloves and shin-instep guards to get you started.
Can my child come to more than one class a week?
Yes. Junior Karate covers all four weekly beginner classes, and teen and adult memberships are unlimited in their division. Tiger TOTS is one class a week.
Is my 3-year-old ready?
If your child can join a group activity for 30 minutes and follow simple instructions, they’re ready. If you’re not sure, book the free class and see how they do. There’s no pressure either way.
Can I stay and watch?
Yes. The parents’ viewing area looks right onto the mat, and most parents watch every class.
What should they wear to the first class?
Comfortable clothes they can move in, and a water bottle. Karate is barefoot on our padded floor.
Junior Karate 5–7
Classes, times and prices for Junior Karate 5–7 →My child has never done a sport. Is that OK?
Absolutely. Every new student starts at white belt, and the class is built for beginners. We meet each child where they are.
How often should they come?
Your membership covers all four weekly classes. Most families come twice a week, which is where we see kids improve fastest.
When will they get their first belt?
Students earn stripes along the way and test for their next belt when Sensei Troy sees they’re ready. Belts are earned, never handed out.
Junior Karate 8–12
Classes, times and prices for Junior Karate 8–12 →Is my child too old to start at 11 or 12?
Not at all. Plenty of our students started at this age. Everyone begins at white belt and progresses at their own pace.
Do they spar?
Partner work is always supervised and matched to each student’s belt and age. Safety comes first, every class.
What does the uniform cost?
Wear comfortable clothes for the trial. We’ll go over uniforms with you when you join.
Teen & Adult Karate
Classes, times and prices for Teen & Adult Karate →I’m out of shape. Can I still start?
Yes. You train at your own pace, and the class meets you where you are. Most adults are surprised how quickly their fitness comes back.
I trained years ago. Where do I start?
Come to a trial and talk to Sensei Troy. Returning students are welcome, and we’ll find the right starting point together.
Can teens and parents train together?
Yes. The class is for ages 13 and up, and families training together is one of our favourite things to see.
Youth Kickboxing
Classes, times and prices for Youth Kickboxing →Is kickboxing safe for kids?
Yes. Kids wear gloves and shin guards, work mostly on pads, and every drill is coached closely and matched to their age and size.
Do they need gear for the trial?
No. Wear athletic clothes and bring water. If you join on a 6- or 12-month plan, gloves and shin guards are included.
Is it good for kids who have a lot of energy?
It’s perfect for them. The class is fast and active, and kids learn to use that energy with focus and control.
Teen & Adult Kickboxing
Classes, times and prices for Teen & Adult Kickboxing →Do I need to be fit to start?
No. Everyone works at their own level, and the coaching scales to you. Fitness comes from showing up.
Is there sparring?
Classes are built around pads, bags and technique. Any partner work is controlled, supervised and never forced.
What do I bring to the trial?
Athletic clothes and water. We have gear you can use, and 6- and 12-month plans include your own gloves and shin guards.
Your first class is waiting.
Book online in about a minute, or call and talk to Sensei Troy.