The time it takes to become proficient varies with each individual depending on the effort they put forth. We have found that students are very often amazed by their own ability and accomplishment in as little as one year. This training will give you the confidence that comes with knowing you can defend yourself in most situations. Your real goal, however, should be to attain the rank of Black Belt. This level of proficiency typically takes about four years.
Yes. Our staff has worked with many beginners over the years, and you can rest assured you will be in a supportive environment to help you become the best martial artist you can be.
It is recommended that you participate in all classes offered, plus a little extra practice time on your own between classes, in order to maintain a certain level of understanding. This allows time to work on material between classes and become proficient before new concepts are introduced.
In short, yes, our classes are safe. You certainly assume all risks associated with practicing martial arts, but we foster an environment of safety here. Please advise your instructor of any restrictions or limitations you may have prior to training.
Furthermore, our staff has been vetted by the YMCA through background checks, so you can feel completely safe with the instruction you will receive!
Tang Soo Do focuses primarily on the “stand-up” aspects of martial arts (kicks, punches, and blocks). In the self-defense training, you will also find heavy usage of joint-locks and counter-strikes.
As we hold the safety of our students in the highest regard, all free sparring is a “light-to-medium-contact” activity. All students interested in sparring are required to wear protective equipment (head, foot, and hand gear, mouth-guard, and protective cup (for males). Although not required, you are also welcome to invest in chest protectors, face shields, and shin guards. Sparring is allowed ONLY under the direct supervision of an instructor. Please see LTMA staff for sparring gear packages we have available at a discount.
Keep in mind, our goal is not to promote violence in the first place. Rather, it is to develop the student as a person, while teaching useful self-defense techniques as a part of our broader art form.
Classes are available to anyone age 7 or older. We very much encourage families to participate together in our classes!
Children are taught that the martial arts are not to be used as an offensive weapon, but rather only to defend oneself, or the defenseless, in certain situations. Aggressive behavior is channeled into assertiveness to increase the child’s self esteem, increase self-discipline, and build character. Our program also helps the shy child to develop self-confidence and become more assertive. Studies have shown that, on average, children who study martial arts are actually less likely to get into fights.
Absolutely! Practical self-defense is an important part of training in Tang Soo Do. How to roll, fall, break out of a hold, use joint locks and manipulation, and defend against weapons are some of the aspects of self-defense taught for real life situations. Students will learn techniques that will help them defend against larger, stronger attackers, and advanced students learn techniques to defend against multiple attackers.
No. Everyone trains at his or her own level. If you are not used to hard physical training, that’s fine. You will find that your strength, endurance, and flexibility increase steadily as you work out. If you are a conditioned athlete however, don’t worry; you will get a good workout. We welcome students of all backgrounds and abilities. People who are physically challenged are encouraged to join. Tang Soo Do is very much a personal art.
No previous experience in the martial arts is required. All you need is the desire to learn. However, we welcome students of any martial arts background.
Not right away. If you enjoy the class and continue to train, you will be required to purchase a martial arts uniform through Mr. Burkett, as we offer them with the proper patches and printing, at prices comparable to what you could find elsewhere.
Speaking of uniforms, how much does it cost to be a student of LifeTrek?
Great question! There are a couple of categories you should prepare to budget for:
- Tuition: This is handled directly with the YMCA, not Mr. Burkett or LifeTrek. They have rate structures for both Y members AND non-members. Also, while we don’t publish rates on the LifeTrek website, you may contact the front desk at either location for more info. Our rates are very competitive to our local market, even if you are not a Y member!
- If you would like to try a class before enrolling, please see the front desk at the Dunigan YMCA, and they will be happy to provide you with a one-time pass. We think you’ll have a great time, but we want you to feel free to try us on for size before investing in our program.
- Most other things: are handled through Mr. Burkett or directly with whatever group or vendor we are working with for an event. He will be happy to provide you with a budget guide, but some items you would pay in addition to tuition include: testing fees, uniforms, sparring equipment, tournament fees, and lodging/meals/transportation to events outside of class. While we can’t give you a hard number that guarantees covering everything, we can at least provide you with a very good idea of what to expect. It is our goal to make this accessible to everyone possible.
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