Love Taekwondo? 36 Facts San Francisco’s Martial Arts Aficionados Should Know, PART 1

This four-part article series presents 36 different facts people who are interested in Taekwondo should know about this Korean martial art system.

If you, like so many other San Francisco residents, absolutely love Taekwondo and/or are interesting in starting classes, there are a number of things you should know in order to become better acquainted with this ancient combat sport. To help you make a solid start, in this four-part article series, we shall be exploring the most important and interesting facts about Taekwondo...

Let's begin!

Fact # 1: Taekwondo originated in South Korea over a thousand years ago and is, today, that country's national sport.

Fact # 2: Militia in the South Korean army are required to be fully skilled in Taekwondo as a part of their combat training. This enables them to fight enemy at close range without the use of weaponry.

Fact # 3: Taekwondo is a martial arts system that includes a variety of kicking and striking techniques. In fact, most of the emphasis in Taekwondo training in San Francisco is focused around kicks, blocks, punches and open-handed strikes. Students can also expect to master a suite of sweeps, chokeholds, joint locks, takedowns and throws. In this respect, Taekwondo offers students a very diverse physical education in both offensive and defensive combat techniques.

Fact # 4: The ranking in Taekwondo is easily remembered and completely without pretense. You're either an instructor or a student, and you're either a junior or a senior.

Fact # 5: Taekwondo doesn't typically involve the use of weaponry, which means that San Francisco residents can use this martial art system to become trained in the art of hand-to-hand combat. There is a keen focus on develop self-defense skills and on maintaining an exceptional standard of whole body strength, dexterity, alacrity and flexibility.

Fact # 6: Taekwondo is one of only two martial art styles that have been accepted by the Olympic Games. The other is Judo.

Fact # 7: Taekwondo's underlying philosophies, codes of conduct and moral teachings very much reflect Korea's tempestuous history and colorful national character.

Fact # 8: Although students of any San Francisco Taekwondo studio can expect to learn a great variety of combat techniques, this form of martial arts is perhaps best known for it's kicking techniques. To the educated eye, it's the specific techniques used that differentiate Taekwondo from "similar" forms of martial arts that stem from Korea's neighboring countries, such as southern Kung Fu (China) and karate (Japan).

Fact # 9: Taekwondo also requires students to become skilled in a number of takedown and grappling moves, many of which are quite similar in technique to Brazilian Jiu-jitsu. Think of it this way: it's not enough to kick and strike your opponent into submission; you're also going to need the full-contact skills necessary to neutralize an attacker should they happen to get close to you. Being able to throw, trip, wrestle and choke or joint hold an opponent is what could win you the round and – in extreme cases – allow you to escape with your life!

Stay Tuned for Part 2

Stay tuned for the second installment of this four-part article series to find out more interesting facts about one of the most popular martial art forms in San Francisco: Taekwondo!

A FAQ Guide to Kickboxing for Chicago Residents, PART 4

This four-part article series provides a comprehensive FAQ guide to kickboxing and why it is that this martial art form has become so immensely popular across the United States.

Welcome to the final installment of this four-part FAQ guide on kickboxing as a popular form of martial arts in Chicago. Let’s look at the answers to some final FAQ before wrapping up this series…

FAQ: What do I need to buy before starting kickboxing?

Chicago Kickboxing Instructor: “Pack as though you’re going for a workout at the gym! You’ll need comfortable, loose-fitting pants and a T-shirt, as well as a towel and water. Check with the kickboxing studio you’re signed up at as to whether or not they expect you to bring your own gloves. Many do for hygienic reasons, which is perfectly understandable. If they don’t supply gloves for students to use, they’ll certainly sell them.”

FAQ: Where should I purchase my kickboxing gear?

Chicago Kickboxing Instructor: “As it was explained, you should be able to buy gear from most kickboxing studios in Chicago. If your particular gym doesn’t, your instructor will certainly be able to point you in the right direction in terms of where you can get the best quality and priced gear.”

FAQ: Should I wear shoes to kickboxing classes?

Chicago Kickboxing Instructor: “The only time you will be expected to participate in kickboxing without shoes is when you’re going up against an opponent. The risk of injury would be too high. Otherwise, you should wear comfortable training shoes during practice as these will protect your feet and prevent the spread of germs.”

FAQ: What does a standard kickboxing class consist of?

Chicago Kickboxing Instructor: “You’ll begin with some light stretching and warm-up exercises, which vary depending on where you go. Skipping, running, jumping jacks are the more typical modes of warming the muscles for your impending martial arts workout. You’ll then start running through your offensive and defensive techniques, which include kicking, punching, quick maneuvers and blocking. You’ll also perform a suite of resistance and weight training exercises that are designed to increase muscle power, such as abdominal crunches and push-ups. Finally, you’ll conclude your kickboxing workout with thorough stretching and perhaps 5 to 10 minutes of light cardio to cool down.”

FAQ: I’m a girl and I’d like to take up kickboxing, but I’m worried about developing a more masculine physique. Is this often a problem for female kickboxers?

Chicago Kickboxing Instructor: “Kickboxing offers Chicago residents a whole body workout using your own body weight rather than heavy weight lifting, which can build excessive muscle mass. As such, this is really not a problem. And in any case, women do not naturally have enough testosterone in their bodies to build muscle like men do, so you don’t have to worry about looking like Arnold Schwarzenegger after a few months of kickboxing classes.”

FAQ: How long will it take me to become really good at kickboxing?

Chicago Kickboxing Instructor: “If you train hard, come in for private classes three to four times per week and work on your general fitness and strength outside of these classes, it won’t take you long to become good at kickboxing. Most people notice a distinct improvement in the tone and conditioning of their bodies after only three months and you should certainly be able to defend yourself effectively after just as long. On average, it takes dedicated students four years to achieve black belt.”

A FAQ Guide To Kickboxing For Atlanta Residents, PART 3

This four-part article series provides a comprehensive FAQ guide to kickboxing and why it is this martial art form has become so immensely popular across the United States.

Welcome to the third installment of this four-part FAQ guide on kickboxing as a popular form of martial arts in Atlanta. So far, we've looked into what kickboxing is, the age classes it caters to, whether it's considered dangerous and what impacts an old injury might have upon one's suitability for this form of martial arts. Let's look at some more FAQ...

FAQ: Do I need to book a class or can I just show up?

Atlanta Kickboxing Instructor: "This is something that will vary from kickboxing studio to studio in Atlanta. Some are more than happy to accept walk-in clients, while others require you to first book before you can participate. Most studios or gyms are more than happy to have interested people come in and take a look before they decide to join or not, so don't hesitate to stop by!

Additional advice is to be aware that there are certain slots during the day that will be busier, so if you can only attend classes after work - which is when most people go - you may need to book in advance. Some kickboxing studios operate on a first come first serve basis, so you also might want to arrive a little earlier. The best course of action is to call and speak to your instructor and find out how the studio works."

FAQ: Is there a difference between the kickboxing taught in specialist studios and the classes held in fitness gyms?

Atlanta Kickboxing Instructor: "Yes there is a difference between combat kickboxing and what is known as 'cardio kickboxing,' which is also often called Tae-bo or boxercise. For cardio kickboxing, the punching and kicking techniques are adapted into an aerobic routine, which is performed to music. You don't actually strike anything and you aren't learning how to defend yourself effectively. What you are doing is burning off a lot more calories than you would by simply jogging on the treadmill! Cardio kickboxing offers Atlanta residents a killer workout that is incredibly effective for weight loss and toning.

Combat kickboxing, on the other hand, is more traditional and involves mastering of the fighting and defensive techniques necessary to go up against an opponent. The skills you acquire in the studio will have real world applications and instead of punching and kicking thin air, you'll develop more power from practicing on kick shields, punching bags, and focus mitts."

FAQ: Is there a belt system used in kickboxing?

Atlanta Kickboxing Instructor: "Some kickboxing studios do offer students a belt grading system, which is nice in that it allows you to see your improvement and progress in the color of a sash you wear around your waist. The order from the highest level of achievement in kickboxing to lowest is: black, 3rd, 2nd and then 1st brown, green, blue, purple, orange, yellow and then white."

Stay Tuned for Part 4

Tune in again next week for the final installment of this four-part FAQ guide and to read the answers to a few last questions about kickboxing for Atlanta Residents!

A FAQ Guide To Kickboxing For Las Vegas Residents, PART 2

This four-part article series provides a comprehensive FAQ guide to kickboxing and why it is this martial art form has become so immensely popular across the United States.

Welcome to the second installment of this four-part FAQ guide on kickboxing as a popular form of martial arts in Las Vegas. Let's get straight back into the questions.

FAQ: If I take up kickboxing classes, will I actually have to spar or fight?

Las Vegas Kickboxing Instructor: "Absolutely not. While it is important to match your techniques against an opponent so that you can learn how to improve, or how to apply your skills to a real world situation, you don't have to do anything you don't want to. Many students of kickboxing only wish to improve their fitness, so they come to learn the skills and techniques and to run through the rigorous training without ever actually fighting.

Just be prepared though: you're probably going to want to give sparring a go after a few months of kickboxing! Direct and violent hits and kicks aren't typically allowed in practice rounds, so talk to your instructor about the rules and regulations and about whether he or she thinks you are ready."

FAQ: How dangerous is kickboxing training?

Las Vegas Kickboxing Instructor: "As with any sport and particularly combat sports, there is always the risk of injury, but not from the cause you might expect. Most injuries in kickboxing happen because someone is trying to pull off a difficult move, or they haven't warmed up sufficiently, or they don't fall correctly. Sparring, on the other hand, is closely supervised and there are many rules and regulations for contestants to follow. As such, fewer bad injuries actually happen during fights, although they do happen. The take-home message is that kickboxing training is no more dangerous than a sport such as tennis, and yet it is probably safer than contact sports like rugby and football."

FAQ: Can I take up kickboxing even if I have an injury?

Las Vegas Kickboxing Instructor: "Most Las Vegas residents bear some kind of injury they received months, years or even decades ago, so don't let it hold you back. If you are able to be physical and if your doctor has given you the green light on rigorous exercise, there is no reason for you to limit yourself and not take up kickboxing. In fact, the kind of training offered by this form of martial arts might actually see you on a shorter road to rehabilitation and recovery! Make sure you explain your injury to your instructor and pace yourself; work around it."

FAQ: Are there many women in kickboxing?

Las Vegas Kickboxing Instructor: "Oh yes! Nowadays, most kickboxing classes in Las Vegas are split down the middle in terms of male to female ratio. Actually, there may very well be more women because of a greater desire for self-defense skills. So, if you're a woman, you'll find yourself in good company!"

Stay Tuned for Part 3

Tune in again next week for the third installment of this four-part FAQ guide and to read the answers to more of your questions about kickboxing!

A FAQ Guide To Kickboxing For Los Angeles Residents, PART 1

This four-part article series provides a comprehensive FAQ guide to kickboxing and why it is this martial art form has become so immensely popular across the United States.

Kickboxing is a form of martial arts that is really a hybrid of several fighting styles and combat techniques. It's hallmark is that it combines both punching and kicking techniques, as well as a suite of grappling, wrestling and pinning moves. Combat kickboxing has become incredibly popular in Los Angeles, not only as a form of self-defense, but also of getting into the best physical shape possible and having fun while doing so.

In this four-part FAQ guide, we shall delve into the martial art form that is kickboxing and find out just what Los Angeles martial arts enthusiasts have to say about it.

FAQ: What's the ideal age to start learning kickboxing?

Los Angeles Kickboxing Instructor: "You can start at absolutely any age. Parents can sign their children up for classes after school; you can take it up for its self-defense techniques as an adult, or you can learn kickboxing to stay fit and healthy post-retirement. It's all in the mind: if you eliminate those mental boundaries, you can do it!"

FAQ: Is kickboxing good for kids?

Los Angeles Kickboxing Instructor: "Kickboxing is a rigorous form of martial arts and requires quite an expenditure of energy, which is fantastic for children. The classes that are provided for younger students will obviously steer clear of violence and focus more on gentler, more defensive techniques, so they are safe. In addition to learning some valuable self-defense techniques, kickboxing classes also teach children about respect, discipline and confidence."

FAQ: Might I be too old to take up kickboxing?

Los Angeles Kickboxing Instructor: "Again, there is no wrong age to start kickboxing. It is a journey of self-discovery and of redefining your previous physical limitations. These martial art classes can be a great way for older people to stay fit and healthy, not only physically but mentally too. So, it doesn't matter how old you are or how different your particular goals are: kickboxing classes can benefit you enormously."

FAQ: How fit do I need to be in order to start kickboxing?

Los Angeles Kickboxing Instructor: "I'm not fit enough for kickboxing: I need to get fit before I join up… these are the oldest excuses in the book for not getting started with martial arts. You get fit through regular classes and you will find yourself hungering for greater physical activity once you have started. You don't need to be fit at all to join a beginner's class and, in any case, you'll find yourself getting fit quick. Please note that this is not to say that beginner classes are easy. Expect to sweat, grunt, pull and strain!"

FAQ: How often should I start training?

Los Angeles Kickboxing Instructor: "How frequently you train depends quite heavily on your goals. If you want to become a professional kickboxer, then you should train almost every day of the week, focusing either on developing your kickboxing techniques or to increase your general fitness, strength and dexterity. The average for those just wanting to get fit and learn some useful self-defense techniques is 2 to 3 private classes per week. If you can only manage one or two, make sure you get some other form of exercise at least once or twice per week, so that you won't find yourself physically struggling to keep up with the class."

Stay Tuned for Part 2

Tune in again next week for the second installment of this four-part FAQ guide and to read the answers to more of your questions about kickboxing in Los Angeles!

Interesting Facts about Brazilian Jiu Jitsu: One of New York’s Most Popular Martial Arts

Explore the culture, history, origin and other fascinating facts about one of New York’s most popular forms of martial arts, Brazilian Jiu-jitsu.

Want to learn more about the combat sport taking New York by storm? Brazilian Jiu-jitsu may be one of today’s most popular fitness regimes and kick-butt sports, but it also has a fascinating history that really connects students to this martial art’s core philosophies. Let’s take a look at some interesting facts about Brazilian Jiu-jitsu…

What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

Brazilian Jiu-jitsu is a hybrid martial art form that focuses on teaching students a suite of grappling and wrestling techniques. These include joint-locks, chokeholds and other manipulations that force your opponent to yield to you and submit.

Fact # 1: Brazilian Jiu-jitsu isn’t only for New York citizens who want to get fit and learn how to protect themselves. It’s also used by law enforcement officials and by aspiring MMA fighters who want to expand their combat skill set.

Fact # 2: You don’t need to be big or tall to become proficient in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu or even to compete in one of New York’s tournaments. The philosophy of this form of martial art is to take the fight to the ground as quickly as possible, where your opponent cannot use his or her weight and/or height against you.

Fact # 3: Brazilian Jiu-jitsu originated in Japan many centuries ago. It was adapted by a Brazilian family called the Gracie’s (Carlos and Helio Gracie to be precise), at which stage it became known as Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, rather than just Jiu-jitsu. It was subsequent to this that it became a martial art and self-defense system for people who aren’t so impressive in size or stature.

Fact # 4: Carlos Gracie was taught Judo by one of Kano Jigoro’s students, Mitusyo Maeda. Jigoro was the founding father of Judo; so to say that he received an excellent education in this form of martial art would be an understatement.

Fact # 5: Brazilian Jiu-jitsu was initially called “Kano” Jiu-jitsu because Carlos was taught by one of his students.

Fact # 6: Helio Gracie – Carlos’ brother – was very small in stature and so he struggled to pull off some of the more dramatic throwing moves required in Judo. This is what influenced Brazilian Jiu-jitsu to take the fight to the ground where the relative height of an opponent doesn’t matter. He developed a suite of attack techniques that limited the need for strength in this martial art and instead, relied on clever and strategic maneuvers.

Fact # 7: The UFC – Ultimate Fighting Championship – is perhaps the biggest and most important organization for combat sports in the United States. This very establishment was started by the Gracie family as a way to market Brazilian Jiu-jitsu. How did they do this? They staged fights between Brazilian Jiu-jitsu fighters and fighters from other martial arts. It was this platform from which Mixed Martial Arts sprang (MMA)

Is Brazilian Jiu-jitsu For You?

The very rationale behind Brazilian Jiu-jitsu is that by taking the fight to the ground – that is, by tripping your opponent and getting them in a horizontal position – you can employ a suite of grappling, wrestling and holding positions to force them to submit. This means that you don’t need to be particularly strong or tall to naturally become an excellent fighter. So, if you’re interested in taking up martial arts in New York, Brazilian Jiu-jitsu could definitely be for you!

Kickboxing Athletes in Houston Explain the Top Benefits of Learning Martial Arts, PART 3

This three-part article series explains the many incredible physical, psychological and soulful benefits of mastering any form of martial arts.

Welcome to the final installment of this three-part article series on the many extraordinary advantages of martial arts classes as a form of fitness. In Part 1 and 2, we discussed the following benefits:

# 1: Get a killer body and become exceptionally fit
# 2: Learn to defend yourself
# 3: Bust stress and master inner peace
# 4: Build confidence and put an end to bullying in school

Let’s take a look at two final benefits offered by karate, judo, kung fu, jiu-jitsu, krav maga and kickboxing classes to Houston residents.

The Benefits of Learning Martial Arts # 5: Learn About the World

Martial arts may be about combat, but each system is supported by a complex framework of codified traditions and philosophies. These are born out of the culture from which the martial art sprang and speak volumes about that particular country’s history, culture and code of ethics. Most residents who go for martial arts classes in Houston will soon find themselves curious about the origins of their particular combat sport of choice. And most people who take martial arts to professional heights will even find themselves adopting some of the culture’s ideals and methods!

“I began jiu-jitsu simply to learn some cool self-defense techniques and also as a way to get fit, since I find myself getting bored at the gym,” says one Houston resident. “After a few weeks, I started becoming curious about Japanese culture and about the origins of jiu-jitsu. I spoke to my sensei (instructor), did some online reading and started watching martial arts movies. You discover so much about a culture through their martial art and its underlying philosophies. Understanding its country’s history is almost a fundamental piece of the puzzle. Now, I’ve booked myself a trip to Japan and I probably would never have gone if I didn’t sign up for jiu-jitsu in the first place!”

The Benefits of Learning Martial Arts # 6: Go Pro!

If your body takes to your choice of martial art, be it karate or kickboxing, you may have the opportunity to take it to professional heights! There are many kickboxing tournaments in Houston and across the country, as well as internationally. If you’re good and if you work very hard, you might become a big name in the combat sport. Aside from the obvious glory involved, there are also sponsorship deals to consider. Professional athletes don’t always make it big, but when they do there is quite a bit of money involved.

The Benefits of Learning Martial Arts # 7: Dance and Fight Choreography

Learning a martial art not only helps you get exceptionally fit and flexible, but it also teaches you a suite of body movements and skills that could actually become quite useful if you’re an actor or dancer. It would look really good on your acting résumé to be proficient in, for example, kickboxing. That’ll help you in your bid to be featured in that next action film while also enabling you to keep your body in beautiful condition between projects. If you’re a keen dancer, integrating certain martial arts movements and maneuvers into your routine could yield some beautiful and creative results! Think outside the box and enjoy success on a whole new level.