1. Will I have to start over?

You have learned and gained skill through your prior training. This will allow you to progress faster through our system. Although you cannot be given an equivalent rank in Shan Tao,unless you can pass our exams, your prior training will help you, not hinder you.

2. How long before I can reach black belt/sash?

Normally it will take about 3 to 5 years but, because you are experienced you may be able to reach black belt/sash in half the normal time.

3. Is Shan Tao a mixed martial art?

In many ways, yes. If you take the elements of taekwondo, karate, judo, jujitsu, kobudo, Thai boxing, to name a few, and put them together you get closer to Kung Fu. Traditionally most Kung Fu was “mixed” but in the days of old they called it complete.

4. How many hours do I have to train daily to be proficient?

That depends on the level of skill you wish to attain. Traditionally people trained about 3-6 hours per day minimum (Mr. Garrett regularly did 8-10 hrs per day). But, that was to be able to achieve very high skill. If you are training for purposes less than mastery, than about 45 mins. to 1.5 hour will do.

5. How long does it take to become and instructor?

Shan Tao has four levels of instructor; Associate Instructor, Instructor, Senior Instructor, & Chief Instructor. Each level depends on your ranking and additional training in class management. To be a Instructor requires black sash ranking and about a 9 months of instructor training.

6. Since I would be learning different styles will I be separately ranked in each one.

Since Kung Fu styles did not traditional use such systems we adopted a system that is all inclusive in the Shan Tao ranking structure. But, once you acquire the knowledge you can teach the systems as separate styles. It just would not be a Shan Tao recognized rank.

7. Do I have to learn Shan Tao weaponry?

The Shan Tao weapons program is a separate program. The empty hand system of Shan Tao only require a few weapons that are simple to learn. Originally all the training was required but we found that many people did not have time to develop proficiency in a full weapons program and empty hand so they were separated to give people the choice to participate in one or both programs.

8. Do you spar in the weapons program?

Yes. With padded weapons and armor we engage each other in very safe but practical sparring. Often times there will be team competitions, such capturing the other teams flag, that enhance the excitement of the program while teaching practical applications of the tools.   

9.Do you teach how to use Qi/Ki?

Concepts of developing intrinsic skills can be taught. But, it is not required. Due to various belief systems we will not stress the learning of this skill for everyone. However, if you are interested in this training the Shan Tao system has much you can learn.

10. How does this training compare to training in China?

It is better. In China all the martial arts programs are government sponsored. In these programs foreigners are not taught very deeply. Partly due to language barriers, and also ethnocentrism. At Dragon Arts you get authentic realistic training with no information being held back. We do not show any form of favoritism.  

11. What type of school is Dragon Arts?

We sight three types of school; Those that focus on character and mainly teach children, those that focus on fitness, those that focus on self-defense. Dragon Arts is very balanced. We cover all of the above and more. We have programs structured to met the various needs of our students. This is done by having age , level, and interest specific classes. By having a core program for various age groups with many optional add ons through workshops and special classes you get the benefit of a well structured program with opportunity to personalize according to your interest.