ninjanurse

WTF does not require "fancy" kicks in their competitions but have recently added a extra point for spinning kicks. It is definitely all about fast feet and timing as stated. Our training-regardless of the perceived impracticality of these techniques for self defense-develops much better balanced and flexible students who are able to move quickly and explosively in response to attack. A useful training tool for self defense.

The Taeguek and Palgwe Poomse contain similar patterns, techniques, and concepts. I found them easy to pick up after studying the Heians for many years.....in either style, poomse/kata are just the basics!

I agree sensei....Without doubt there is no faith-without faith we cannot overcome doubt.

I really enjoyed it as did my students-we saw it together and had a lot to talk about afterwards regrading the martial arts and the messages.

Welcome!

Congratulations all...well deserved!!!!!!!

How do we define the time for which one is considered a "beginner"-weeks, months, years?

Welcome back!

Congratulations on your new beginning...hope it all works out. Train hard!

I would have to say that schools of the same style can also differ greatly so it is always best to observe several classes to get the feel of it. Instructors also have different styles of teaching which contributes to the confusion! Given the info you provide in your Introduction my advice is to go for the more rigid and disciplined school. Post a few names/links and someone on the forum may have some insight on the schools you have narrowed it down to.

Welcome to the Forums!! Good luck on your search-sounds as if you are being thorough!

Happy turkey Day to all!!!

Welcome!! For years I had a license plate that read "fmlykix"!

Welcome!

Congrats on the tournament and good luck on the grading!

Welcome!

Tiger Claw has inexpensive gear for most styles. Good advice to buy gear approved for competition! Your son is going to have so much fun!!!!!

I'll hire ya-LOL! Sounds like you are destined to become a great leader and instructor in the martial arts....and if that is your dream do whatever it takes to achieve it! If that means you have to find a new place that jives with your philosophical take on things then do it....you can't be loyal to a teacher that you do not trust and you must trust in your teacher and the things he is teaching you or you are not going to develop your skills properly. That being said....schools are not easy to run and scheduling events can be difficult when you factor in the season, work schedules, etc. While I do thank my parents and staff for their input it is not always prudent to change things around once they have been planned, plus-martial arts is a long journey and students and staff understand that their will be classes, seminars, and promotions they will miss because martial arts is just another aspect of their life that they are learning to juggle along the way. While he could have provided a better response to you he is not obligated to change for anyone. The students you work with know that you care and appreciate what you do for them-and you will be rewarded for your efforts every time you see them in their new belts! Take your eyes off of yourself and look at the big picture here....if you look long enough you will find the answers.

COngratulations!

I have been busy myself-trip to Malaysia followed by two conventions back to back!!! I can relate to your feeling....not a lot of time for training-makes one feel sluggish. Never fear....it will come back fast!!!

At my first grading (TSD) I was asked to do my form and then there was some discussion....I was immediately worried! They then asked me if I knew the next form-which I knew and performed. After the test my instructor told me they had double graded me!!!!

Repetition is the mother of skill.

There is more to breaking boards than gender, age, or fitness level.....and even more lessons to be learned.

The current system I am in does not require breaking until testing for 1st gup/kyu but we practice monthly and green belts and up may compete at tournaments in the breaking divisions. My previous system required breaking boards and bricks and Black Belt testing but we never really practiced it nor did we enter breaking at tournaments. Prior to that I studied Moo Duk Kwan which required breaking at each gup.

Hello and welcome to NY!!