The first thing I would tell you is don't go to a chain. Find a private or single instruction class. Chains sell their belts-private instructors make you earn them. If you aren't sure, ask and if they say you have to pay for your belt, head for the door.
The spouse took Kendo (if I remember correctly) Karate and the flexibility and fitness he got from it were terrific. He got to blue and then quit, though. And after all these years, I'm still not allowed to toss out his Ghi
