thelimabeanking

I am not certain as to the detail on this issue... this brings to attention that I should probably ask precisely what i paid for, whether it is a set number of lessons or if it is literally lessons up to black belt. There is a beginner and intermediate curriculum, each of which you pay a set number of monthly payments, which take care of lessons and belts (i dont know the status quo of most martial arts schools, so i may be going into peculiarly specific detail). I own the equipment necessary for training (sparring gear, etc), so all I would need is uniforms as they deteriorate and wood for breaking. I guess all it comes down to, is I don't know. But hypothetically speaking, supposing all lessons up to black belt are taken care of, and unknowing if this is a 2 year deal or a 20 year deal, is there any advice you might be able to share with me? Another thing worth mentioning: I am a college student, and may move out of New Jersey once I am looking for a job. I may not be able therefore to train with the same school after a few years; maybe I should train in a popular style so I do not have to relearn very much. Thank you lbk

Doing very well, thank you... Started running and weight lifting regularly... and now I feel like I would like an activity to channel these gains into, so remembering the days i attended TSK Hybrid style karate are coming back to me... Even though Tiger Schulmann has my money up to black belt, I'm still taking the time to see which schools are in accord with my interests (namely self defense first, and 2nd: open, flowy, natural style & forms). Of course if TSK's self defense (and the fact its free) outweigh the positives other schools have to offer, I'll go back... but otherwise, I might study something else if I feel like i can put more heart into it. Any recommendations?

I am 21, and currently attending college for Political Science. I was a member of Tiger Schulmann's Karate for a while, however took a few years off to consume junk food and watch television. I think I've finally gotten to the point in my life where I can discipline myself enough to properly appreciate a martial art. I am paid to black belt in TSK, however, I am taking a period of exploration to learn more about martial arts; the histories, the mechanics... trying to gain the cannonical knowledge many people here seem to have I plan on asking more than telling, so please have patience with me if some of the answers seem self evident... and please correct me if an ignorant assumption is implied in the things I say. Thank you all, in advance, for whatever! John S.

I joined Tiger Schulmann's Karate. I only made it up to blue belt (the belt in their ranking system directly over white), and stopped attending. I did, however, pay for lessons up to my black belt. On the other hand, I truly appreciate the flowing, natural forms many practitioners of kung fu practice, and karate itself doesn't carry the stylistic appeal I am looking for... Although being able to handle myself in the street and not feel intimidated when I am outside is still my primary goal I am attending college for political science, and needless to say, I have very little money to go to a new martial arts school, however, if the goals of this school were incompatable with my personal goals, I would want to make that effort. Most importantly, I would like to know how Tiger Schulmann's Karate is different from some other styles out there, particularly ones with wide, open natural forms (that would still be highly practical, im not sure if such a thing exists even). Any help would be beneficial. If anyone feels the need to go outside the forum guidelines (however I would prefer opinions respectful of all others' disciplines), my email is thelimabeanking@yahoo.com Thank you for your help! lbk