Syphax

Good luck! I am sure you will continue to love TSD!

Congratulations!

Agreed.

I really like the mindset behind that. Interesting viewpoint. I would tend to agree with you.

I am a Tang Soo Do guy and I have to say that my favorites are Jin Do and Kong Sang Koon.

There are multiple applications of most techniques. This is another way.

Nothing you can really do but wait for your feet to toughen up.

Welcome!

Rattan is strong stuff. It's also a little more flexible than hardwood staffs.

Thanks.

Use only what counter attacks you must.

Welcome Clint! You will soon find that the Martial Arts are well worth the time you spend in them.

That is perfectly fine if that is what you ask of your students.

If you show the exact same respect to your instructor that you show to "any other person" then you should probably reevaluate your outlook on your instructor and his/her rank. When you properly address your instructor, you are honoring the art that you study as well. I agree with this...... inside the dojo. I on the other hand, disagree. Respect should be given to your instructors at all times. Titles such as Sensei, Sifu, Professor, etc, whatever title(s) your instructor has earned. It's much similar to college professors - you don't approach them and address them as Mr. Johnson, you would address them as Professor Johnson. Addressing your instuctor by their rank is tradition. You wouldn't see old school karateka bumping into their sensei in a social setting and address them as Mr. so-and-so. Not unless that karateka would like a severe lesson in disciple and respect next class (if not on the spot). This is why we always bow in and out of the dojo and to our instructors. It's a sign of respect. When I call my sensei on the phone I only address him as sensei. When I run into him at the grocery store (it's happened a few times), I immediately stop, bow, and address him as sensei. I'm paying respect for his accomplishments and thanking him for allowing me to study under him. To do less is not how I was brought up in the MA world. I could not agree with you more.

Then its great For you.

If it's all you have, then go for it. You need some instruction. But if there is any way you can train in person then absolutely shoot for that option.

Good outlook.

Welcome!

There are really three major categories of staffs: Competition Staffs: These staffs are designed to make your forms look better. They are usually lightweight and are not designed for impact. These staffs will shatter if used in combat. Practice/Standard Staffs: These staffs are made of stronger wood than the competition staffs, but are not specifically designed for combat. They can withstand minor to moderate impacts, but any major blows will crack or break the staff. Combat Staffs: These staffs are designed for heavy impact. They are usually made of hardwood or hardened rattan. They are much heavier than competition staffs, but they can withstand heavy blows. There are obviously more types of staffs, but I think these are the main categories in regard to strength. For heavy striking, look for a combat staff. Hope this helps.

I train it with a backfist. Which book did you find by Hwan Kee?

The form you are referring to sounds like Kong Sang Koon (Romanized). In Tang Soo Do, it is usually a Sah Dan requirement hyung.

Tang Soo Do is not necessarily more traditional than Tae Kwan Do. It depends on the individual instructors. This idea was spread mostly because TKD was formed the react to Hwan Kee's growing success in Korea with TSDMDK.

You looked good. Good luck with the results!

I personally do not fence, but several of my good friends do. They recommend Blue Gauntlet. Good luck finding the right blade.

If you show the exact same respect to your instructor that you show to "any other person" then you should probably reevaluate your outlook on your instructor and his/her rank. When you properly address your instructor, you are honoring the art that you study as well.