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 matial 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 regiment 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 main stay 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 I get hurt?

In the beginning of your training you may experience some soreness due to the fact that you will probably be using some muscles that have been previously inactive. As a beginner, your classes do not typically consist of sparring practice or uncontrolled partner training. Your classes will be supervised by a nationally certified instructor and your activity will be structured in a manner that will gradually build your ability and confidence. It must be remembered that Tang Soo Do Karate is a contact activity. Minor bumps, bruises, strains and sprains can be a normal part of hard training. All instruction while taught in groups is individualized and students are brought along at their own comfortable pace.

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 provide the tools children need to strengthen both their minds and bodies.

I'm interested in joining your school (dojang) but can I observe a class first?

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 much is the karate uniform (Do Bok)?

A uniform is provided to you free of charge when you enroll in any one of our programs. Do Boks are required because they provide maximum movement and wearing them contributes to the serious tone of the class.

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

There are several ranking 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 3-9 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 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 is many different martial arts schools who practice martial arts form many different perspectives. Some schools and "sports" oriented while 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!

Why do we bow as we enter and leave the practice hall and when we meet another instructor or senior member?

When a bow is performed between individuals it is a sign of respectful greeting, much as a handshake in the West. When the bow is performed between entering and leaving the dojang it is an outward sign of a students respect towards their training, as well as, a demonstration of their personal commitment to upholding the martial arts principles and tenants as set forth by their dojang.

Why do we meditate?

To begin with meditation has nothing to do with religion. Basically we do it as a way of calming the mind so as to prepare ourselves for training or as a method of relaxing after a training session. Meditation as practiced in Tang Soo Do is for the purpose of uniting the mind, body and spirit in a wholesome and healthy manner. It is a great way to calm the mind and prepare the body for sincere practice. When practiced properly, meditation prepares ones mind to be fresh and ready, able to see the many possibilities available.

How much does it cost to study Tang Soo do at your dojang?

Tang Soo Do training is probably the most cost effective physical activity one could engage in. While I personally believe that you cannot put a price on what is gained by martial arts training, I know that this question must always be answered with hard numbers. Training at the West Haven Academy of Karate currently cost $75.00 per month. This amounts to approximately $9.00 per class when students average two training sessions per week. Because many of our students take advantage of our unlimited training sessions per week policy they are able to lower their cost to only $3.00 to $4.00 per session. There is no activity on this planet that even comes close on a dollar to value basis than Tang Soo Do karate.

Do I have to sign a contract?

All our students sign a student agreement for one year of martial arts training. We realize that there can be unforeseen circumstances that students may face after they sign-up for one of our programs. It is for this reason that our student agreement allows our students to discontinue their training at anytime with a 30 day written notice.

How many days per week do I have to train?

Most students train two to three times per week. All of our programs and promotions schedules are based on two classes per week. However, we at the West Haven Academy of Karate have an unlimited training session policy. This means that students are free to train as often as they wish. We offer classes 6 days per week and students are free to train everyday.

When should I begin my Tang Soo Do training?

"Why not start immediately...today!"