KarateEd

I have used one before, similar to the one bushido described. I liked the ability to work on targeting specific areas. One problem was where the torso ended it creates a rather hard edge and I have seen people accidentally kick that edge. It can be a painful way to learn how to improve one's aim. Your BOB doesn't seem to have such a severe edge, though. Ed

I've known a few people that started in their late thirties and they did just fine. It shouldn't be a problem for y'all. Ed

Welcome to KF! Ed

I have never cared to see people be overly affectionate in public. I always feel like saying, quite loudly, "hey, get a room!" At my school, several years ago, we had two students that were dating, but they didn't make it obvious. I prefer it that way, but that is just my opinion. Ed

Welcome to KF!

Nice Monty Python reference! Ed

I agree with bushido_man here. This has been the biggest problem for me in this whole scenario. Why buy a black belt unless he wants to show it off to his friends, tell everyone he is a "black belt," or make himself feel good about his training. Ed

This is what you'll have to do. However, I do have some questions to ask. This large group that you mentioned, is it mostly parents or mostly other MA students? What are you nervous about, simply being in front of a large group of people, making mistakes, both, or something else? Ed

This over-reaction because of Columbine and similar events is ridiculous. Of course, considering the litigious nature of modern society you can't really blame the schools. gzk makes a good point in mentioning the use of grappling techniques, such as The BB of C used, in order to protect oneself from bullies AND avoid the repercussions of a "no tolerance" policy. Personally, I think if a student is defending himself, he shouldn't be punished for doing so. BTW, good job in helping out that kid BB of C Ed

Welcome to KF! Ed

World Youn Wha Ryu Association Tae Kwon Do is a separate TKD organization. Ed

6 months is more the norm but depending on someone's progression and when he/she began it could conceivably take up to 9 months. Ed

I haven't heard that term before either. I think you're idea of slowing down until you can fix your hip-movement problem is a good idea. I have seen students, wanting to imitate higher ranking students, use too much speed and degrade their form (for example: poor stances, incomplete movements, weak punches/blocks/kicks, leaving out movements). Ed

That was hilarious. I was laughing out loud! Ed

I saw something similar once called "Matrix Pong" where two guys were playing ping-pong and, using the same method as this video, were able to jump really high, hang in the air, and such. Both are really funny. Ed

In YWR-TKD it would take about 6-9 months to get to yellow belt (which is right after white in our system). If a person has previous experience then he/she may not need that much time. Ed

I found this video while wasting time on YouTube. Funny stuff! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bdap3T0AhX8&mode=related&search= Ed

Interesting video. Man, I need to go do some work for class, but one YouTube video inevitably leads to another, and another, and... Ed

Like bushido_man says, cuts on the forehead bleed rather profusely. Ask me how I know! Ed

Ooh, tough question. Maybe "The Wind Cries Mary" by Jimi Hendrix. There are so many good songs out there it is tough to chose only one. Ed

Congratulations KNOCKuOUT! Ed

Sorry to hear about your experiences so far. Don't give up on the school just yet. First, talk with your instructor about your concerns. If the situation doesn't improve and you decide to switch schools, at least you'll have a better idea of what to look for and which questions to ask the instructors at other schools. Ed

Congratulations! Ed

Looks interesting. I am bogged down with school and other commitments at the moment, but I would be interested in trying it out at some point. Ed