ATA

[Aodhan]

ATA is OK for sport TKD, not for self defense. Make sure you read the contract carefully at an ATA school, they like to use 24 - 36 month contracts.

That varies from school to school, and I know a lot of local schools that are NOT ATA that also use 2-4 year contracts.

And I would beg to differ on the self defense. Yes, our tournament sparring is a very "tag" oriented type of sparring, but we also teach street style sparring, ground fighting, joint locks, release maneuvers, etc. It's going to vary from school to school, just as any other art will.

Aodhan

[Aodhan]

I think it is really tough so many to choose from. How does a person know if he has no knowledge on the martial arts. I think everyone, including myself, believes their style is the best. I can't wait to be involved longer, and try out different styles. One of our ATA instructors is getting his black belt in Judo very soon, and plans on teaching some ground fighting techniques once a week. I can't wait. I came from a wrestling background. Diversification is awesome. Thank you for emphasizing the contract issue. If you have to have contracts to keep people in your school, you better look in the mirror and correct something.

To choose a martial art, should be like choosing a car. You pick out several that appeal to you, and go test drive them. Same for MA, pick several styles and go take a week or two of lessons. Most schools will offer up to 30 days free.

As far as contracts, they are not just a club to keep people in the school, although they can be misused in that sense. A contract allows an instructor to budget, forecast expenses/income, several other vital business related items. It's when a person is held to a contract despite injuries, moving/other, and there is no buyout option or release clauses.

Oh, and contracts also help prevent the "Well, little timmy didn't like class this week so we're never coming again" syndrome.

Can you run a school without contracts? Sure, there are lots that do. However, it makes running a school a much easier proposition. It's like a stick...it's all in how you apply it. :D

Aodhan

[MasterH]

Most succsessfull schools run with contracts, it's not an ATA issue.

[White_Tiger]

I earned my first Black Belt at an ATA. I learned good technique, but it was all very sport oriented. I didn't like the 'brain-washing' that went on in our school that ATA was the best and only way to train in martial arts. For 2.5 years at that school I never had a punch come at my head. As soon as I left and started working out at other schools I got my head torn off by punches. So, I guess my biggest problem with the school was them teaching sport TKD as if it was real self defense.

[MasterH]

I earned my first Black Belt at an ATA. I learned good technique, but it was all very sport oriented. I didn't like the 'brain-washing' that went on in our school that ATA was the best and only way to train in martial arts. For 2.5 years at that school I never had a punch come at my head. As soon as I left and started working out at other schools I got my head torn off by punches. So, I guess my biggest problem with the school was them teaching sport TKD as if it was real self defense.

Now that is an issue. ATA does say it's "America's leader in Martial Arts" now are they the best? If you ask an ATA guy most will say yes, but if you ask a ITF guy the same question what would he say, or a WTF guy? I bet you get the same answer more than not.

As for hands to the head, you nailed that one! I wish I had been trained earlier to go to the head. Would have saved me a broken nose and a brusied ego.

[Balrog]

I'll be glad to answer any questions about ATA that I can, as well.

I'm a 5th Degree with ATA, certified instructor and school owner.

[MasterH]

I'll be glad to answer any questions about ATA that I can, as well.

I'm a 5th Degree with ATA, certified instructor and school owner.

Hey, I know this guy..............welcome to KF!

-Adam

[Aodhan]

I'll be glad to answer any questions about ATA that I can, as well.

I'm a 5th Degree with ATA, certified instructor and school owner.

5th degree? Look to the left, Mr. Balrog, sir. You are a white belt!!

::drops for more pushups::

Aodhan

[Balrog]

I'll be glad to answer any questions about ATA that I can, as well.

I'm a 5th Degree with ATA, certified instructor and school owner.

5th degree? Look to the left, Mr. Balrog, sir. You are a white belt!!

::drops for more pushups::

Aodhan

We all have to start somewhere!

[h2whoa]

I've done some reseach. Been to several classes. I'm just curious what people think? How many people are ATA here? Or have been at one time. I'm not looking for a flame fest. I would ask that you respectfully post you opinions.

Thanks!

My opinion:

Camoflague belts = Mc DOjo