1. What style of martial art do we teach?
TaeKwonDo (a Korean martial art).
Hapkido
Ho Shin Sul
2. What is TaeKwonDo?
TaeKwonDo is a Korean unarmed martial art (although we do have occasional weapon training). It is not only kicking and punching, but a way of thinking and living. The main goal of TaeKwonDo is to achieve total mind and body control through training.
3. What is the difference between Karate and TaeKwonDo?
The country of origin for Karate is Japan, whereas TaeKwonDo is a Korean martial art. Karate places a primary emphasis on utilizing strikes or blocks, while TaeKwonDo emphasizes the legs and kicking. Also, TaeKwonDo is an official Olympic sport, whereas Karate has not made it to the Olympics yet. TaeKwonDo is one of the most popular martial arts in the U.S. right now, and is extremely popular with families and children.
4. Do we have classes for women and children?
Our school divides classes by age (Children, Junior and Adults). These main classes are all co-ed, however we do have one Women's Self Defense class which is for women only. We do not have family classes, however if you wish to participate with your child we can make arrangements.
5. Do we teach self-defense?
Yes, not only do we have a womens-only self-defense class, but we also teach self-defense regularly in class. In addition to standard defenses against punches and kicks, we also teach knife defense and escaping from grabs and chokes.
6. What are the benefits of TaeKwonDo?
TaeKwonDo teaches respect and courtesy, instilling a high personal standard in its students. It is great for weight control and keeping in shape. TaeKwonDo teaches students focus, discipline, integrity, and self-control.
7. Do you train with weapons at SunKiDo?
While we do train with weapons occasionally, they are not the main focus of our school because TaeKwonDo is traditionally an unarmed martial art. Once they reach higher ranks our students are invited to cross-train with weapons if they show an interest and are responsible with good self control, and respect for the art. Nunchucks, and Escrima Sticks are the main weapons taught.
8. Will my child get hurt?
Safety is our number one priority at SunKiDo. All of our students are required to wear protective gear and helmets during sparring drills. To ensure beginners do not get hurt, there is no contact in any beginner classes. However, since TaeKwonDo is a contact sport, there is always a risk associated with it.
9. Will my child turn into a bully?
No. TaeKwonDo emphasizes self-defense, and teaches discipline and self-control. Students are expected to show respect and courtesy in all situations, and never to use their fighting skills unless absolutely necessary.
10. How do students earn new belts?
About every two months we have a promotion test to which prepared students are invited to attend. If they pass the test, they earn a new belt which will be distributed about a week later during class.
11. Who is the Main Instructor?
Master Laurence Platoni is the Head Instructor of Sunkido Martial Arts with over 25 years of experience.
He is a 4th degree Black Belt Certified by the World Tae Kwon Do Federation.
12. Do students compete in tournaments?
Yes. Sunkido students participated is several tournaments a year. There is also a special traveling tournament team.