ninjanurse

I wouldn't say McDojo here...I would say burned out, looking for a change, hoping to score it big in the kick-boxing craze. I would find a new school...and even switch styles if I had to.

I didn't become a real athelete until I studied the martial arts. Prior to that I only dabbled in sports.

Of course it is every martial artists goal! But the UBBT is much more than that and I think if you knew the people involved in this you may change your sentiments. It is not a money making way to sell the arts...those that take the test are already sold on that aspect. It is a much more personal challenge...deep down into your core. Of course, just like any other martial arts program, there are those that scoff and doubt, that's par for the course in the martial arts world. For me, having trained under Mr. Callos for many years, I know where his heart is, I know what his personal expectations are, I knw what he expects of his students, and I know what that what they are "paying" for is PRICELESS! One of the many things I learned from Mr. Callos is "It's all about the details". The UBBT is definitely that! He wouldn't have it any other way! Mr. Mike....you and me...UBBT 2006...deal?

Well...I run, work on forms ( fast-slow-on balance beam-whatever I can think of), sparring drills, self-defense, basics, etc.

Welcome!

Generally TKD belts are as follows: White-innocent Yellow-a plant growing roots Green-a plant growing leaves Blue-a plant growing towards the sky Red-danger Black-maturity (opposite of innocence) *Poom belts are for Black Belts under the age of 16 Not all TKD schools follow this traditional structure but most have something similar. Our school has 3 additional colors (orange, purple, and brown) which basically serve as intermediate steps to the 5 phases of growth. No matter what the color scheme is the requirements are generally the same for each gup so it really doesn't matter.

Joint locks are used for control...and if you have to break bones to control then so be it.

Not much korean at my new school but at my old school, your BB test was in Korean..and if you didn't know it you failed! I still use korean once in a while but always with english too so the students are getting some exposure to it without becoming confused.

In my previous school, I helped develop and ran the "Karate Rangers" program which was specifically designed for 3 - 5 year olds. It focused on body awareness, attention & learning skills, and basic techniques. At 6 the kids were moved up to the kids classes. This age group is highly capable and are eager learners...not to mention a lot of fun!

I agree with Justice...foolish. Sounds to me like he thinks he has perfected the basics as a shodan! Training on the bag or heavy sparring should be done by 2nd degrees IN ADDITION TO all other curriculum...and it should take more time and effort to balance your training otherwise you probably are not ready to hold that rank.

It took me about 8 years or so to earn my first BB because I switched styles 3 times due to logistics during that time. My second & third(two different styles) took approx. 18 months. My 4th (this time a different system, but same style) approx. 6 months.

While there should be a physical standard to be met, having a Black Belt goes far beyond this. Character(which entails many complex qualities) should be the basis for promoting one to a dan grade and in most systems it is, however, there are a few schools out there that hand out belts like candy for any one that pays. Keeping the principles of Budo within a style is difficult in this day and age but not impossible and I admire those instructors(and systems) that strive to keep it alive.

You have no idea what an honor it is to train with Tom Callos and the West Coast Martial Arts Association! The UBBT is a personal challenge that goes far beyond the physical and the prize is being able to complete it and transform yourself...not a new rank! The cost....miniscule compared to what you get by far. Well worth the cash my friends!!! I suggest you explore the site completely and check out all the links...you might become inspired!!!

Woohoo!!!!

Hi! Welcome to the forums!

Howdy!

Welcome!

This is the way I handle it...generally I do it the way they are showing me and then get clarification AFTER class. On a rare occasion they may ask the students for guidance when they are unsure....then they get instant feedback from me.

This is s difficult situation yet all too common. Many parents (and grandparents)just don't understand the martial way and need to be taught just as their kids do. I think the key is to give regular feedback to the kids and their parents about their progress and not wait until before the promotional exam to drop the bomb. In additin, instructors must be on the same page and stick to a standard when recommending students for promotion. THis is sometimes just as hard.

Most of those shakes are to be used in combination with a specific diet and workout routine so it may work for you if you are getting enough protein otherwise. You need to feed your muscles approx. 1 hour after your workout not before...as muscle growth occurs after you break them down. Adequate carbs are also required so you have enough glycogen stored in the muscle for use during the workout. If not your body will burn muscle tissue for energy....and you don't want that! Good luck!

Definitely not my purpose to attack your position so why take such offense? As in any competition, players are allowed to fight anyway they want-within the rules- and just because someone else fights differently does not bind you to reciprocate their "style". If their hands are down that's their problem not yours. I don't think anyone would stop you from fighting the way you want..why would they? As for "control", we may be reading the same book but are not on the same page. Delivering a "full contact" technique to a specific, small, and often moving target is a matter of control. Speed, power, and accuracy are essential elements of technique and require a certain amount of physical and mental control to develop properly. In addition, the difference between trembling shock and full contact is a matter of symantics as no one delivers the same technique with the same power as the another and it seems pretty relative to the affect obtained. It may take your absolute best shot (i.e. "full contact")to achieve trembling shock depending on the technique used and factors involved. And yes, you are correct, the face is a valid target, I misspoke. I'd be interested in seeing you accomplish your goals. Good luck!

Welcome!

Hello and welcome!

Welcome!

43!