Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Why “Attitude First”?

It starts with the name…it is all about Attitude!  Our training focuses on highly functional, no-nonsense applications. More importantly, our training focuses on awareness of many other important aspects of self-defense beyond the physical levels. Although there are lots of hours spent at understanding the striking and manipulation stages of action, additional time is spent at recognizing and using defensive strategies in and out of contact and contact stages of action. It’s at these stages that situations begin. Here an individual’s levels of emotional, mental, and spiritual fitness are extremely important.

What is the Attitude First Philosophy?

With a 37-year history in the valley of the sun, Attitude First is based on a strong commitment to providing our clients with practical and effective Self-Defense, Fitness, and Competitive Training. Our highest priority is to help enhance the lives of our clients through positive encouragement and disciplined instruction. Toward that end, we will provide a broad spectrum of experiences and exercises that will foster a fuller understanding of the Martial Arts and of Life. We will continually work to improve our resources and to establish an environment that helps promote ACTIONs that are productive, safe, and healthy.

What “Martial Art” do you teach?

Ed Parker’s American Kenpo.  We follow our instructor Mr. Skip Hancock and the Path to Excellence organization.  We have also refined and simplified our art into what we call the “Universal Martial Arts Science”.

What skill do I need to start?

The simple answer is “None.” All we ask is that you or the child are willing to learn, commit fully during class time, practice at home, and be open to experiencing the wonders of the art. We also understand that patience and kindness play a huge role in the success of all of our students.

Are your senior instructors certified?

All of our instructors are certified by “Kenpo: The Path to Excellence” both on individual skills and teaching requirements. In other words, not only do they learn the most practical methods of defending themselves, they learn the most innovative and effective processes for helping others develop and improve.

Why should I send my child to Attitude First Martial Arts Academy?

Attitude First Martial Arts Academy is the Valley’s leader in developing strong, confident, and healthy youth! We have the belief that it takes a village to raise a child. Mom, Dad, and anyone that is doing their best with today’s youth needs all the help they can get in making sure their child/teen grows up into the fine adult that they want.

We have been recognized in Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada as one of the most talented staffs for working with and developing children. Our unique methods provide a challenging and fun way to develop confident, disciplined, and respectful youth.

Our training is designed to make every member that joins a well-rounded defender of themselves: Perceptually, Emotionally, Mentally and Physically. It is designed for all ages: 3 – 5 (Lil’ Attitudes), 6 – 12 (Youth), 13 – 17 (Teens), and 18 – adult (Adult).

We are excited that our members develop and grow in these areas congruently with their physical prowess.

What classes and programs do you offer?

We have specific classes for different ages groups (3 to 6, 6 to 13, 13 to 17, 18 and up).  We also have special classes for women’s self-defense, BJJ, and Yoga.

What are your prices?

We understand that price per class matters. Our Martial Art plans are based on the commitment of the participant to their training. We have memberships that provide classes at $5 per class or lower.  Other programs and seminars might have different pricing.

Where can I find your schedule?

Our class schedule is listed on this site (click here for the link).

How long with it take to get my Black Belt?

We believe that a Black Belt (as with all of our belts) is never given, it is always earned. Those that have earned an Attitude First Black Belt have earned the honor and privilege.  If you want an Attitude First Black Belt, attended 3 classes or more a week, practiced at home daily, continued to push yourself, and stay committed to your goal – the journey to a Black Belt is about a 7 1/2 year journey. Can it be done quicker… sure.  Can it take longer… absolutely.  Because it is up to you to train and practice. An Attitude First Black Belt not only signifies how well you listen to your instructors,  it also means that you are committed to both the art and science of what we have taught. We do have two requirement – you must at least 16 years of age and have a reason for what you will do with your Black Belt when you receive it.

Can I get a Black Belt quicker like the other schools?

Sorry.  We aren’t like the other schools.  We don’t use the black belt as a money-making scheme. You progress through the ranks based on your own abilities and commitment and earn the rank you wear. If you want to pay to play around then we aren’t the school for you. If you want to train and learn then we are the school for you. 

If the frequently asked questions don’t provide you with all of the information you need please call (623) 253-5530, email us at info@attitudefirst.com  or better yet, drop in after 4:30p and meet us in person.

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