I have been training in Taekwondo since 2001, and
hold the rank of 2nd degree. I had assisted my first instructor beginning in 2005, and teaching my own classes since 2007. I have taught preschool,
children, adult, and age-mixed classes. This dojang opened in August of 2010, and I have been absolutely enjoying myself teaching here.
This is an independent martial arts school dedicated to the growth of the individual, the quality of family time, and the health of the community. This is shown through our low monthly tuition rates and family discounts so that everyone may participate during these hard economic times, and through our supportive interaction, as individuals and as a school, with the community.
The purpose of these classes is to equip youth through
adults with the ability to defend one's self through the healthy
activity of Taekwondo. Classes are divided into three main sections:
hyungs, which are the solo patterns that stress executing techniques
and stances precisely as the practitioner battles multiple imaginary
opponents; line drills which allow for partner-work to continue
learning other techniques; and sparring, which pairs students off to
work on speed, accuracy, and using those combinations in a more real
situation. We do not use pads during sparring, so students must use self control to
pull their attacks at the body without penetrating so as not to harm
one another. This allows for as realistic close-in fighting without being weighed down with padded gear, but still allows both partners to walk away unharmed, gaining the experience without the injuries.
Along with attacks and blocks, students will be learning how to take care of and stretch their muscles to prevent injury, etc. Each self-defense class is built to develop the body and mind as the students work on their techniques, but the classes are also about using an active and fun environment with peers and family to develop focus, respect, trust, and to train and hopefully live by the Taekwondo tenets: Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control, Indomitable Spirit.
Because we respect one another and want to practice one of many ways to express self-control, this is a non-contact style of martial arts. This is the traditional style versus the full-contact sports version seen in the Olympics.
We also emphasize skeletal structure over brute strength. Not only does this allow everyone to train regardless of age, but students can develop their bodies to generate as much power without stressing the body. If it ever comes down to a real-life situation on the streets and you have to use your self-defense training, you may need to keep all the energy you can to get through it.
All persons who seek self-growth and are willing to stand
against injustice deserve the opportunity to train in martial arts and are
welcome at our school.
We believe in the old saying ‘Prudence Excels Strength’, and
will fight with our heads when at all possible before resorting to physical
measures.
Because of our skills, we have higher expectations for
restraint in how we conduct ourselves.
Because of our training, we are able to handle conflict and
danger better than others. We gladly
accept the obligation of coming to the aid of any and all who need it. All persons are deserving of being free of fear,
pain, and harassment; to believe and live as they choose.
Through training together we believe in building a family
where we feel safe and welcome. As a
family we look after one another, and together we look after our community.
