CLASSES
About Our Arts
Apart from being a tool for self development, a martial arts system is designed to study a specific aspect of conflict. At this academy we study the arts of Taekwondo, Tang Soo Do and Hapkido/Aikido.
Taekwondo and Tang Soo Do
Both Taekwondo and Tang Soo Do focus on using ones hands and feet to strike an opponent. Modern Taekwondo is an Olympic sport/combat sport which emphasizes scoring on your opponent primarily with the use of kicks. Unlike point Karate, sparring in Taekwondo is continuous and full contact (optional). Though the fighting is aggressive and athletic, it remains much safer than other full contact striking sports due to the ban on punching to the face/head and the use of protective equipment. This allows athletes to compete vigorously against fully resisting opponents on a regular basis without the same risks of damage to the head and body.
Tang Soo Do (called Karate in Japanese) is a traditional striking system emphasizing striking ones opponent in vital points with the hands, feet, knees and elbows. It also emphasizes gripping the opponent to help aid in the ability to strike them, such as grabbing their arm and pulling them into a punch from a safe position. This is practiced at the academy by working with a partner in a cooperative manner.
Hapkido/Aikido
The art of Hapkido (called Aikido in Japanese) is designed to help one make an accord or to harmonize with their attacker. The goal of this training is to avoid a fight by using ones awareness, distancing and escaping skills. For this reason the art cannot easily be practiced as a sport. The system views situations as though there are likely multiple attackers and likely weapons involved in the confrontation. The basic pins and joint locks used in the art place a high value on mobility rather than on controlling the person (which is more emphasized in jujutsu and wrestling). The system also focuses on the basic use of weapons and weapon retention/disarm skills. While the art can potentially be used to control someone, such as with police style pins, it places a greater emphasis on the importance of escaping because it assumes you will be outmatched.
Scroll down for more information on:
- Children Classes ages 5 to 7
- Children Classes ages 8 to 12
- Adult Classes ages 13+
CHILDREN CLASSES 5-7
CHILDREN (ages 5-7)
Martial arts training benefits young children by providing a structured environment in which self control and respect are of major importance. Through the disciplined practice, children develop their minds, bodies and spirits, all while having a great time. The techniques of martial arts help children learn to focus all of their attention on one thing at a time.
They also help develop memorization and problem solving skills. Physically, martial arts techniques offer a great toolbox for learning balance, coordination and posture. Spiritually (mindset), the martial arts emphasize perseverance, positive thinking and presenting ones self with confidence.
CHILDREN CLASSES 8-12
Children (ages 8-12)
A good martial arts program is one of the best things children can be involved in. Our training promotes physical development, self control/discipline, concentration and confidence. Martial arts training is the perfect foundation for any athlete as it develops core strength, balance and flexibility.
One of the greatest benefits training can bring to children is the ability to set a goal and see it through to completion. Beyond the physical, our training helps to show children how to be responsible, successful individuals.
ADULT CLASSES AGES 13+
Adults (ages 13+)
For teenagers, martial arts can serve as a great tool to help with the transition from child to young adult. The practice demonstrates the benefits of a disciplined, healthy lifestyle and will provide them with challenges to help them explore their potential. Doing martial drills and sparring with other young adults assists in building a sense of competency and confidence, a useful thing for teenagers to develop. Competition is also of interest to many teenagers and is once again, a fantastic tool to help them prove to themselves that they are capable individuals.
For adults, martial arts training offers a great escape from the many stresses of life. As martial arts requires tremendous focus, all outside thoughts and feelings will be left at the door. After finishing a class, one will often have a satisfied feeling of being refreshed, with a positive mindset. Physically, martial arts training is a great way to persevere ones youth. The techniques require posture based strength, flexibility and for those who engage in sparring, endurance. Being part of a martial arts academy is also a great way to meet new friends and develop confidence in how one presents one’s self.