FAQ

Who benefits from Tang Soo Do training?

Tang Soo Do (Karate) is for everyone! You are never too short, too tall, too young or too old to benefit from martial arts training. If you are medically fit to participate in moderate physical activity you can learn Tang Soo Do Karate.

How can training in Tang Soo Do be good for my health?

Tang Soo do is a cardiovascular exercise, therefore it will improve your overall strength, speed and endurance. Stretching is a regular part of a martial arts training regimen and as a result of keeping the body pliant and flexible you will maintain your youthful vigor into old age. The longterm benefits of Tang Soo Do training will result in rejuvenation and prolonging of life beyond the normal span. Other benefits reported by our students are loss of weight, lower blood pressure and improved mental outlook resulting in increased self-esteem. Tang Soo Do involves a whole body workout which means your body's conditioning develops in a well-balanced manner.

I am out of shape, will I be able to do martial arts at your school?

Yes, absolutely! All students are mainstreamed into beginner classes. These classes are geared towards students who have not been active for years, as well as, towards students who may be athletic but who have not had any martial arts experience. In our classes our students not only learn self-defense, mental awareness and self-control but they also attain high levels of physical fitness as they gradually improve and progress at a rate that is most comfortable for them.

Will I be able to defend myself after studying at your school (dojang)?

Tang Soo Do is a classical martial art and therefore self-defense training is a mainstay to our program. Students are taught to defend themselves quickly, efficiently and in a realistic manner. We of course, emphasize the importance of developing the intensity and confidence to avoid most confrontations. When it comes to knowledge of self-defense, it is better to have it and not need it than it is to need it and not have it. Our philosophy is "Where there is preparation, there is no fear!"

Will my child benefit from Tang Soo Do Training?

Without a doubt! Tang Soo Do training produces a life-long commitment to health and personal integrity. It teaches respect for self and others. Parents tell us of improvements in their children's attitudes toward responsibilities at home and school. Tang Soo Do provides the tools children need to strengthen both their minds and bodies.

I'm interested in joining your school. May I visit a class and watch?

Yes! The instructors and students at the West Haven Academy of Karate always welcome visitors to come in and observe a training session. Often people have a misconception regarding training in the martial arts, so observing a training session is the best way for you to see exactly what we do in Tang Soo Do and if it is for you! It is always recommended that you contact the dojang first so your visit does not come unexpected. If you have any questions regarding your observations, the instructor will be happy to answer them for you at the end of class.

How do the belts work in your school and how do I earn them?

There are several rankings below black belt represented by the colors white, orange, green and red. Each color belt has various levels which are denoted by stripes added to the tips of the belts. Depending on your rank, between 3 and 9 months of regular training is required before advancing to the next level. You will be notified by your instructor when you are ready for grading to the next level. (It is never considered good etiquette to ask your instructor when you will be testing.) If you train on a regular basis (which is at least two times per week), you can expect to earn your orange belt in 3 months, your green belt in about one year, your red belt in 2 years and your black belt (dan) in approximately 3 and 1/2 years. Of course, no belt is guaranteed but you can earn these levels by adherence to the "three A's" (attitude, attendance, aptitude.)

What is "Traditional Tang Soo Do Training"?

There are as many different martial arts schools and approaches as can possibly be imagined. Some schools are "sports" oriented, yet others are centered on combat skills. Traditional Tang Soo Do practice, however, sees martial arts training as a cultural experience that is multi-dimensional. Principles and concepts in addition to physical techniques are all intended to uplift the participant. The objective is not just to practice a martial art but to become a martial artist. In this way, the training has applications that extend beyond the dojang and into your everyday living. While there are sporting aspects and activities in our art, Tang Soo Do is first and foremost an art form, not a merely a sport: It is a living art!