Frequently asked questions

Yes. Submitting the free trial form entitles you to 30 days of unrestricted martial arts training worth $100. We will contact you to set up your first class. There is no obligation to continue afterwards.

Tiny Tigers starts at age 3. Little Dragons covers ages 5–6. Dynamic Karate Kids, Dynamic Black-Belt Training and Dynamic Masters Training cover ages 7–11. Elite Teen and Adult Training is open to teenagers and adults, and there is no upper age limit — adults start from scratch with us all the time.

None at all. Your first class covers a stance, a block, a punch and a kick — the same fundamentals every black belt began with. Every exercise has a beginner version and an advanced version, and you choose which one to do.

Each programme has a suggested weekly attendance: one or two classes for Tiny Tigers, two for Little Dragons and Karate Kids, three for Black-Belt Training and Elite Teen/Adult, four for Masters Training and five for Elite Junior Black Belts. The full list is on the schedule page.

Loose, comfortable clothing — a t-shirt and sweatpants or shorts is perfect. You train barefoot on the mat. Once you decide to continue we will help you order a gi in the right size. Please remove jewellery and tie long hair back.

If Manchester School (Union 42) is closed due to weather, we will not be open. If questionable weather starts during or after school hours, please call the dojo and listen for an announcement on our answering service. First and foremost, please be safe.

We close for school breaks and major holidays rather than individual days. The closed dates page lists the annual pattern of closures.

Yes. Okinawan kobudo is part of the curriculum from year two onwards, starting with escrima stick drills and progressing to kama, nunchaku, bo staff, sai and tonfa. Our Thursday class also covers Chanbara sport weapon kumite.

Yes. Tournament kata and kumite are part of the programme, and students who want to compete can join the World/Sport Team, which meets monthly. Our students have competed at I.W.K.A. World Championships. See the World/Sport Team page.

Absolutely. Elite Teen and Adult Training runs at noon and in the evening on Monday and Wednesday, with further sessions on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Fitness Kickboxing and Grappling are also open to adults.

We keep our pricing simple and discuss it with families in person, because it depends on the programme and how many family members train. Call 207-622-7373 or contact the dojo and we will walk you through the options.

We are at 954 Western Ave., Manchester, ME 04351, minutes from Augusta, with parking at the door. Full directions are on the contact page.

We are happy to talk about dojo visits and demonstrations for schools and community groups. Call 207-622-7373 or email renshikick@pushardskarate.com with the date you have in mind.