Mountain Academy Martial Arts

How to Choose the Right Martial Arts School

// May 6th, 2012 // No Comments » // Classes, General Info, Master Rankin

Joining a martial arts school is a lot like purchasing a used car: You don’t always know what you are getting until it’s too late.

In the marketplace of martial arts, all schools are not created equal. Martial arts teachers generally do not have to answer to a state regulatory commission or a government agency, and there is no consumer group to act as a watchdog to ensure the quality of instruction. Anyone, in fact, can acquire a business license, purchase a black belt, rent studio space and, to the unwitting public, appear to be the second coming of Bruce Lee.

How, then, can the discerning buyer make a knowledgeable choice when it comes to martial arts instruction? By shopping around. Like any other product, there are certain criteria that make some martial arts studios more appealing-and legitimate-than others.

Unfortunately, most first-timers-and some veterans-have a difficult time seeing past the price tag or the convenience of location when choosing a martial arts school. Those should not, however, be the only determining factors when deciding on a school. It is vitally important to visit as many schools as possible before committing to one. See what each school has to offer, then make your decision.

The first thing to do is make a list of the martial arts schools within your acceptable travel distance and your preferred style (if you have one). Then make an appointment to watch both beginning and advanced classes. If the school offers a free introductory class, take it.

The following are factors that should all be weighed before you sign on the dotted line.

Attitude

The attitude of both the instructor and the students can serve as an accurate indicator of school spirit. Instructors who treat their students with little respect, yet demand it themselves, may be on an ego trip. Student respect and discipline can be forced or natural; watch how the students react when the instructor is not within sight. If they step languidly through the motions or chat with one another, their previous show of respect and discipline was a facade. Hopefully, the students diligently continue with their drills in the instructor’s absence.

Warm-Ups and Cool-Downs

Warming up is essential to a martial arts workout. Stretching is especially important, since there is a good chance you will be performing kicking drills and could injure muscles or ligaments that are not properly conditioned. A short “cool-down” workout after a vigorous training session is also recommended. By visiting a school, you can discover whether these facets are included in the training.

Location

A school’s proximity to your home or work should be taken into consideration prior to signing up. Although an hour commute to class might not seem too bad at first, keep in mind that you will be making that drive two-to-three times a week for the next several years. Find a school that fits your needs, but is also within an acceptable driving distance.

Equipment/ Facility

Martial arts schools vary in the type of equipment and amenities they offer. Some are large and modern, and provide weight-training equipment, showers and lockers, while others do not. It is up to you to decide what is most important and necessary for your training. All schools should offer basic comforts, adequate equipment and learning essentials. Remember: A pretty school isn’t necessarily a highly functional school, and vice versa.

Styles

Most instructors recommend starting with one type of martial art and learning its essentials before trying another style. However, many martial artists like to be exposed to a variety of styles, and compare them to their own, instead of focusing on one art. There are schools that offer both types of training; you must decide which method you prefer. Ask instructors about the size and composition of classes before signing up for lessons. Adults may not want to be in the same class with children, some of whom may be able to perform the techniques better than their older counterparts.

Class Sizes and Schedules

Many new students prefer to be part of a large training group, rather than a small class. However, the benefits of a smaller class should not be overlooked. In a smaller class, you will likely receive more individual attention from the instructor, and there is less of a chance of becoming “just a number.” If you prefer private, one-on-one lessons with the chief instructor, that can usually be arranged.

You should also check with the instructor about what time of day classes are offered, as well as their duration. Some schools offer 90-minute classes, but most seem to be an hour long. Decide what length you would be most comfortable with before committing to a school that offers classes that are either too long or too short for your tastes.

Quality of Instruction

If the school is headed by a well-known martial arts master, many prospective students mistakenly believe they will receive their instruction from this individual. Such is rarely the case, however. More often than not, classes will be taught by an assistant or high-ranking students at the school. That’s not to say these individuals are not fully qualified to teach, but a prospective student should ascertain ahead of time who will be doing the instruction, and how available the master instructor will be to help you during the course of your learning.

Class Age Groups

Check to see if classes are separated by age and/or belt level. Adult students may not appreciate training with second-graders, some of whom may be able to execute the techniques better than they can. You may find yourself as the only adult in a class full of much younger students, and the different maturity levels could prove distracting to both you and them.

Ranking

Some martial arts instructors are in business simply to get your money and could care less about your progress in the art they teach. To discover if this is the case, ask the instructor about his belt ranking system. If he says you need to be proficient in a certain number of basic movements, forms, sparring and self-defense techniques before he will promote you to a higher belt level, you are likely dealing with an honest teacher.

If, on the other hand, the instructor tells you that you will receive a new belt every two months, be wary. You should never move up in rank until you are ready and qualified to do so. A good instructor does not push students to move up in rank merely to receive a belt-testing fee.

Size of School

Martial Arts schools come in all sizes. Some are part of a large chain, others are small operations run by a single instructor. The quality of instruction you will receive at a school is not necessarily related to its size. You can receive both poor or excellent instruction at a small school, and the same goes for large schools. Although large schools may have better equipment and a nicer facility, smaller schools offer students more personal attention from the instructor(s). Check out both types during your research.

Price of Instruction

Rarely do martial arts schools advertise their price of instruction in the phone book. Prices could be determined on a monthly basis, over several months, or by how often you train each week. In some cases, the price is negotiable depending on how many people will be taking classes with you (family package deals, for example). There are instructors who charge as little as $50 dollars a month for instruction, and there are those who garner $50 or more for a single one-hour session. It is up to you to determine what you feel is a fair and manageable price for instruction. After some research, you will know who is asking too much.

There are countless other minor details to consider when choosing a school. Is the school clean? A clean school is a sign of pride and respect.

Is the instructor receptive to your questions? If you are treated like an annoyance when trying to find out about the school, you will probably be treated like an annoyance while you’re taking classes. Conversely, if the instructor seems too eager to sign you up and answers with rehearsed responses, a warning light should go off in your head. Does the school have air-conditioning and/or heating? Seems like a silly question until it’s sizzling or freezing outside.

All of this may sound like a lot of work simply to find a place to take martial arts lessons. But if you are planning to invest hundreds of dollars and hundreds of hours in martial arts classes over the next few years, don’t you want to be sure of what you are getting in return? If you make a list of the things you feel are important, and check off those items as you visit prospective schools, you will find that your choices are quickly narrowed. Before long, you will be performing martial arts drills at a school that is right for you.

Grand Master John W. Rankin

Learn to Fight so You Don’t Have to Fight

// April 22nd, 2012 // No Comments » // General Info, Master Rankin

The availability of so many choices in martial arts study – Jujitsu, Kung Fu, Judo, Taekwondo, and Karate to name a few – has made it easy for almost anyone to sign up for classes, and as a result, many have.

Each style is slightly different to its approach of teaching, but they all have one general overriding philosophy. No matter which of the martial arts you choose to practice, you will find that they all focus on concentration, focus, discipline, self-defense, and spirituality. So not only do they provide a good exercise routine and teach a new life skill, they require the student to master other critical life skills in order to obtain knowledge of the whole practice.

The ultimate irony in martial arts, if there is one, is that once you’ve spent years of training and studying and mastering techniques, you can never use the fighting skills you’ve learned; unless of course, you have no other choice.

This is where the acquired skill of mental and physical discipline pays off. Because once you’ve learned a martial art, the hardest thing to do will be to exercise restraint to not use it at every opportunity, and that requires discipline. Intense discipline.

And then it suddenly becomes clear to you why spirituality, concentration, focus, and discipline were such a vital part of the teachings. You have to be aware of what’s all around you when you get in a situation, use your intellect to avoid a conflict if you can, and only then, when all other avenues have been exhausted, can you use your art to defend yourself.

As important as all of these mental attributes are to one’s training in martial art program, they often get overlooked or neglected to focus on the more obvious, tangible benefits of the program, like increased strength, improved flexibility, or weight loss. But these attributes are actually the core of a martial arts program, and ignoring them is self-defeating.

Anyone can get stronger, or more flexible, or lose weight if they want to, but the rigors of mental discipline, focus, concentration, spirituality, and serenity must be taught. And that’s the real benefit of martial arts.

Grand Master John W. Rankin

The Cane

// April 12th, 2012 // No Comments » // Master Rankin, Technique

In today’s society it is against the law to carry almost any type of object which may be deemed as a weapon. The cane may very well be one of the last “permissible” weapons available which you can carry to defend yourself without violating the law. Fortunately, the cane is easy to learn, versatile and an extremely effective weapon for self-defense.

The use of the cane in not uncommon to other martial arts. Many of the Korean martial arts include some instruction in the use of the ji pang e for self-defense. To see how the cane was used as a defensive weapon in ancient times, let’s take a look at its evolution in Korea.

Korean monks sometimes carried the cane during their travels. The cane served them in several different ways; it was used to help them maintain their balance climbing hills and over rough terrain. It was also used to help the monks defend themselves from bandits and wild animals during their travels throughout the country. Some Buddhist temples had animals they raised, and the monks would used their canes to help oversee their herds and flocks. If the temple was attacked, the cane could quickly become a defensive weapon, used to drive the invaders off.

Types Of Canes

There are primarily three different types of canes. The first type was from five and one-half to seven feet in length and curved like a hook at one end, similar to the canes carried by shepherds. The second type of cane was about waist-high, straight, with either a knob or short straight handle. The third type of cane is the type most commonly used both in the past and today. It is about waist-high, straight and has a curved (hook-type) end used as the handle. The common people favored it for its practicality.

The Shepherd’s Cane

There are primarily three different types of canes. The first type was from five and one-half to seven feet in length and curved like a hook at one end, similar to the canes carried by shepherds. The curved portion of the cane was quite often used for the application of kwan jyel sul (joint manipulation techniques). This was the type of cane the monks used for herding animals and sometimes as a walking pole on their travels.

Sometimes, in order to escape from bandits, a monk would use the curved portion of this long version of the cane, to hook a high branch of a tree, climb up the cane to the branch, then pull the cane up with him. This is another example of how certain monks got the reputation of being able to become invisible. The monk could remain hidden in the tree until the bandits had moved on. If it became necessary, he could use the cane to strike the bandits as they passed under the tree, or he could use the hook portion of the cane to pull them off of their horses. When the encounter was over the monk would again hook the cane to the branch, climb down, then continue on his way.

Another favorite tactic the monks used was to hook the top of a high wall with the ji pang e, then pull themselves to the top of the wall and over. A perfect example of how they could “walk through walls”.

The Aristocrat’s Cane

The second type of cane was about waist-high, straight, with either a knob or short straight handle. This type of cane was not as popular with the monks because it was not as practical for their needs. However, the straight cane was used very often by the hwa rang, members of the upper classes, and members of the royal families.

The cane became not only a sign of importance and wealth, but a deadly weapon for self-defense. Many times the handle bore the crest of the family, and was made of gold or silver with jewels embedded in it. In some cases a blade was concealed in the cane. A sharp pull on the handle and the blade would be ready for action. For the upper classes the straight cane was what suited their needs for both appearance and self- protection.

During the sixth century, Korea was divided into three separate Kingdoms; Koguryo, the largest of the three, was in the north, Baek-Je, the second largest was located in the southwest portion of the Korean peninsula; and Silla, the smallest of the three Kingdoms, was in the southeast. It was in the Kingdom of Silla where a group of young warriors called the Hwa Rang (flowering youths) were created. The hwa rang were instructed in several different forms of defense were also part of Buldo mu do (Buddhist martial arts); kwan jyel sul (joint manipulation), hyel do sul (striking vital points of the body), and ji pang e sul (cane techniques). They were instructed in the use of the cane by Korean monks including the famous Won Kang. As part of their specialized training, the hwa rang trained in the application of techniques using the cane for striking, throwing, controlling, and the application of kwan jyel defenses. They also carried the cane as a sign of their social position and status.

The Everyday Cane

The third type of cane is the type most commonly used both in the past and today. It is about waist-high, straight and has a curved (hook-type) end used as the handle. The common people favored it for its practicality. Korean Buddhist monks also used this type of cane for self-defense because the hooked portion aided them in the application of kwan jyel techniques, allowing for better control of an opponent without the use of excessive force.

Today the cane may be used as a means to defend yourself. You need not use an excessive amount of force to subdue an opponent, you can use kwan jyel techniques to immobilize the opponent by using the cane to help augment the techniques. The elderly can use kwan jyel techniques with a cane for self-defense with very little training.

The cane, combined with kwan jyel techniques, is one of the most practical and useful tools for self-defense you may find today. Be sure to use extreme caution when working with cane techniques. You will be able to exert much more power than you believe you can when you use the leverage of the cane to give added strength to your techniques. Always let your instructor guide you each step of the way with your training.

Grand Master John W. Rankin

Tae Kwon Do Isn’t Just for Kids

// March 28th, 2012 // 1 Comment » // General Info

Rhee Tae Kwon-Do self-defence drill in May 2007. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

While Tae Kwon Do is great for children; learning and improving physical and mental abilities while growing self confidence, Adults can benefit just as much, in fact I think even more. I started Tae Kwon Do when I was in my mid twenties and those people who knew me before that can attest to how much it has changed me.

Many people are content with their rut and would prefer to stay that way, but I challenge those people to take a closer look at our classes. According to the Center for Disease Control over one third (34.33%) of Americans are overweight. What better way to lose a few pounds than kicking face?! While classes are not always centered around cardio and endurance, many are. A popular workout trend these days is muscle confusion: not allowing your body to become accustomed to a set regiment. In class we focus on everything from improving stretch to cardio.

I’ve heard that it’s too much of a time commitment. Classes are held three times a week for an hour. Once a week is a minimum registration (for the Link rec center) and during the lower ranks would be enough to learn the material. Factor in travel time and perhaps time to change into a dobalk and we’re only talking two hours a week. If you add that up it’s only eight hours a month. According to the Silicon Valley Insider the average person spends nearly seven hours a month on Facebook! Just remember that time is relative. If you really want to do something, you will find the time. And parents, if you’re all ready coming to class to watch your child then why not just get up and participate? It’s a great opportunity to bond with your child.

Another common excuse I hear is “I’ve got a bad knee/shoulder/back.” No one is ever 100%. Several of our blackbelts and instructors have chronic pains or injuries. Bruce Lee was told he would never walk again after suffering a back injury and that was mid way through his film career. Tae Kwon Do is adaptable as are we. We can help you work around your injury. Being active and stretching may even improve your injury and help you recover.

And lest we forget the obvious benefit, self defense. With the popularization of MMA and the UFC, Tae Kwon Do has been pushed aside as a kids’ thing because Muay Thai and Jujitsu are seen as more aggressive. The simple fact that we do not train to be cage fighters does not nullify the usefulness or effectivenss of Tae Kwon Do. We utilize techniques to recognize situations and how to get out them or avoid them alltogether. We teach you how to get out of holds as early as whitebelt. Through basic exercises and sparring we desensitize the fear of a fist or foot coming at you. We also teach you how to move and to block to minimize damage from a physical attack. Whether you’re on a playground or a bar these techniques are just as valid.

The next time you think Tae Kwon Do is just for kids, consider the fact that many well known actors, politicians and athletes have studied Tae Kwon Do such as UFC fighter Stephan Bonner, professional baseball player Kyle McPherson,  and actress Evan Rachel Wood.

- Dan Barrow

The Perfect Front Stance

// March 19th, 2012 // No Comments » // General Info, Technique

When I was a white belt, one of the first things I learned was the front stance. I remember it like it was yesterday. Front knee bent. Back leg locked. Hips and shoulders square. I worked very diligently, because I wanted to have the perfect front stance. I figured that since it was taught to white belts so early on, it must be pretty easy, so it’s a good element to work on making perfect. White belt is a fun time of ech chan cho bu, and 3 step and basics – everything you need to keep repeating the front stance. White belt is front stance, front stance, front stance. When you think you are done, do another front stance. My front stance got better for sure.

As I progressed through the ranks, I stopped worrying about my front stance so much. It had gotten to a point where it was very difficult to make it any better. It was pretty close to perfect, and I was happy with that. This stage continued on for years, even into my black belt rank. Then one day, something happened that changed my mindset. I noticed that my front stance was not as good as it once was. Why was I bending my back leg? How did my stance get so shallow? I had a pretty good front stance, but all of a sudden it seemed like it was falling apart! I thought about it for a while, and finally realized what was happening. I had lost my desire to have a perfect front stance. I was settling for ‘good enough’.

Everyone that has studied martial arts knows that in order to get better at any technique, and to learn new technique is to focus and practice. Most people apply this to their new form, or a new kick or such, which is great. A true martial artist, however, needs to apply this to their entire martial arts repertoire to some degree. One should never accept that any technique is good enough to be put on a shelf. Things of shelves get dusty and forgotten. We must strive for the perfection of all aspects of the techniques we practice.

Now whenever I practice any technique I have learned, or am learning, I try to think about them as a complete technique. Is the counter correct? What stance should be used? Am I doing that stance correctly? What needs to be improved to do this technique perfectly? I don’t put any part of the technique ‘on the shelf’ and assume it’s correct. Everything needs some amount of attention. If it’s not getting better, it’s probably getting worse.

Maybe someday we will have a perfect front stance, but in the meantime let’s keep striving for it!

Master Doug O’Hara

Advanced Class Free for March

// March 3rd, 2012 // No Comments » // Classes

As the title says, for the month of March, the Advanced Class will be no charge. Advanced class is held at the Littleton location for red belts and above.

This is a great opportunity to check out the class if you haven’t already done so. As a red belt, it provides you with an opportunity to get more one on one attention to improve and refine your technique. As a black belt, it gives you a chance to focus on your technique for a change and to learn something new.

We hope to see you there!

2/23 Lakewood Class Canceled

// February 23rd, 2012 // 1 Comment » // Classes

We were just notified that the Lakewood Link is currently without power so there will be no class tonight. They hope they will have power by Saturday, but we will keep you updated as we become aware of changes.