What is Train with the Masters?

Train with the Masters is a martial arts training seminar hosted by the Francis Fong Academy.

When is Train with the Masters?

The next TWTM will be September 24, 25 & 26, 2010.

Who are the instructors?

Sifu Francis Fong, Guro Dan Inosanto, Ajarn Chai Sirisute and Professor Pedro Sauer.

Can we bring items for them to autograph?

Sifu Francis and Ajarn Chai will sign autographs AFTER their seminar sessions have ended. We ask that you use consideration for the amount of items you bring and that you only approach them to sign when it is the appropriate time. Please also be considerate of other students wishing to meet & greet them.

Sifu Francis Fong has the Summer 2009 Masters Magazine available for purchase through the Academy office, and he will be happy to personalize them for you. Current students may also purchase these (and other items) any time at the Academy.

Will merchandise be available for purchase?

Yes, most items are displayed in the front office where they may be purchased. 

Joel Clark usually brings Inosanto Academy merchandise, which will be set up for purchase during the entire event.

Can I film or take pictures?

No! Absolutely no videoing, audio recording or taking pictures during any seminar training session! However, you may bring a camera to take photos with Sifu Francis, Ajarn Chai, Professor Sauer or other students AFTER each training session has ended or at the end of the entire conference. Please be respectful of this or a staff member will hold your camera at the front office until the session has ended! The only people filming or taking photos during the conference will be Inosanto/Fong Academy staff members.

Can I take notes?

Yes, you may take notes for personal use only.

Can anyone come?

Yes, anyone is welcome to attend. People travel from all over the U.S. and world to attend these Conferences - men and women with a range of experience levels! You don't have to be a student of the academy or even a certified instructor! You can even be entirely new to the martial arts arena or train in a different style elsewhere. Everyone is welcome!

Can children participate?

Yes, but it would depend on each case. Usually, we only have a handful of children attending. However, most are at least 13 years of age.  Please understand that the conference is serious training.  Ask the FFMAA office staff if you are in question about your child (before registering).

Do I have to take all three days of this conference?

No, you can take the portions/styles that you like or the entire conference. Please see the registration form for a breakdown of hours and prices.

Can I come just to watch?

You are permitted to visit to see the Academy and learn about our programs. However, please understand that this is a 'paid-for-only' event.  If you wish to observe a session, you must pay for the session.

Are there any recommended hotels nearby? Do you have special rates with them?

Yes, for our out-of-town guests, we have arranged a special Francis Fong Academy Room Rate with the Atlanta Marriott Norcross.  Please contact them at (770) 263-8558 to make your reservation and specify that you are with the Francis Fong Academy in order to receive the corporate rate.

Can I stay longer and train at your academy?

Sure! We encourage you to, if you are able.  Everyone is welcome!

Can I drop in for classes?

Absolutely! Normal classes at the FFMAA will resume the Monday following the seminar. Please see the current class schedule and check with the office for rates.

Can I take private lessons also?

Yes, you can take private lessons. Often, a lot of out of town guests stay a few days before and/or after the seminar to make the most of their time and training in this manner. Please check with the front office for available instructors and times. 

Are there any special discounts?

Yes, if you sign up early, you save more! Please see the registration form for rate schedule and dates of offers.

Does this count towards certified training?

Every attendee will receive a certificate of official, certified hours of completion in designated areas, which is personally signed by all three instructors.

Do we have to wear a uniform?

No. You can wear your own academy's clothing if you wish. However, any type of loose and comfortable-fitting workout attire is fine.

*Protective Eyewear is required during Filipino Martial Arts sessions!

Anything else I need to know?

No shoes of any kind are permitted on the training mats! If you are unsure of the proper protocol, please ask a staff member.

Have a good time and enjoy your training!