How young can kids start?
Typically the youngest child TMA will accept is 5 years old. At this age, they are receptive to conversation and can follow basic instructions. There are some exceptions where TMA will accept younger children, but that must be discussed with the TMA Master before signing up.

How often are the classes?
The TMA class schedules will vary with each club location, so please check with the club location most convenient for you. The TMA classes on Monday through Thursday typically start around 4pm and run for about 45 minutes. Adult classes are often held in the evenings. Friday and Saturday class schedules differ from the rest of the week, so check with your Bally^SM TMA Master for more accurate schedule information.

How do you sign up? Is it a contract?
Signing up is easy. Just find a Bally Total Fitness® club nearest to you and speak with a TMA Master or sales representative about getting a membership. These memberships at Bally TMA are tailored to fit your needs. If your goal is to earn a black belt through TMA, the 3-year TMA program is the best option for you. If you're not sure of your schedule or would simply like to try it out, Bally TMA has membership options to fit those needs as well. For more details, please see a TMA Master or Bally Fitness Coach at a Bally Total Fitness club near you.

Can we try it out?
Yes! Contact the TMA Master at the club nearest you and schedule an introductory class to see if TMA is right for you!

When can they start?
New TMA students can begin class as soon as they wish. They will require a uniform to continue taking classes, and martial arts shoes are highly recommended for TMA martial arts training. Both uniforms and shoes, along with other TMA gear, can be ordered through the TMA Master.

What style of martial arts?
TMA Masters focus on two types of martial arts in their classrooms. Taekwondo, Korea's national martial art, focuses on high-energy kicks and punches, utilizing whole body movements to develop its techniques. The second martial art, Hapkido, focuses on joint locks, throws and opponent manipulation to encompass a truly self-defense oriented martial art, ideal for adults wanting to learn to defend themselves and enjoy a workout at the same time. For more details, please see the Systems and Benefits section of the Bally TMA website.

Who qualifies the Masters?
All of our Masters receive their martial art rankings and certifications from internationally recognized martial art organizations. The World Taekwondo Federation and the Korean Traditional Hapkido Federation recognizes rankings for both our Masters and our students when they earn their black belts.

How long does it take to become a Black Belt?
The journey to earning a Black Belt through TMA takes approximately 3 years to complete. In that time, students not only learn martial arts techniques, but discipline, self-confidence and other character-building qualities that our students will use throughout their lives, long after they have received their black belts.

How many classes can I or should I attend?
Our Masters recommend attending class 2-3 times a week at minimum, but unlimited class attendance is available. Please speak with a TMA Master about class attendance and scheduling.

What if I'm not flexible?
It is rare to see a student begin TMA classes who is already flexible. That means that the vast majority of our students are NOT flexible. If flexibility is one of your goals, our Masters are the people to see. Among their skills are a myriad methods to improve flexibility throughout the whole body. If you are not flexible, they will show you how to improve it!

Will martial arts help me to lose weight?
Practicing martial arts techniques involves using your entire body. Building strength and speed and high intensity Olympic-style training sessions are just some of the things that are offered in our TMA classes. You want to lose weight? Our Masters will show you how!

Will I be able to defend myself?
Learning martial arts means learning the tools to be able to defend yourself in threatening situations. However, becoming good at defending yourself requires practice. Come to class consistently and become good at self-defense!

Am I too old to begin martial arts?
Our Masters are here to teach people to become martial artists, but will always adjust the training intensity to fit your abilities. We have students of all ages, and training methods to fit each age group. If you have an interest in martial arts, but are unsure of which of our martial arts is right for you, speak with one of our TMA Masters and have your concerns answered.