What is Tang Soo Do?

Tang Soo Do

is a Korean martial art which teaches empty hand and foot fighting, fighting forms, self-defense, and weapons. Tang Soo Do also teaches people to live a healthy and harmonious life. This ancient martial art traces its lineage back 2,000 years to the Korean peninsula.

In today's society, there is no doubt that martial arts training is on the rise and that people are becoming more interested in learning self-defense skills. Tang Soo Do is an extremely effective method of self-defense. But there are many other reasons why men, women and children from all walks of life have taken up Tang Soo Do training. This ancient form of martial art is known for having the most effective training methods for self-discipline, self-confidence, physical fitness, stress management and the ultimate form of self-defense techniques. Our membership includes women, children and older adult students. Our students range in age from 4 years old to 50 years old.

Whatever brings each of us to Tang Soo Do, we all set goals in our training; BLACK BELT or MASTER. But, Belts only symbolize the goal, they are not the goal itself. The real value of Tang Soo Do is not the belt you earn, but the changes that occur within you, in your quest for them. These changes include the betterment of your mind, body and spirit and the development of individual character and respect for others. The true goal of Tang Soo Do training is to use the lessons you learn in the studio to enrich every part of your life.

A Brief History of Tang Soo Do?

Tang Soo Do is one of the oldest martial arts, with its origins in Korea around two thousand years ago. It is thought by many to be the classical form of Korean karate with its techniques and philosophy still taught as they were in ancient times. For those who commit themselves to the art, it provides a way of thinking and acting which guides and teaches its students in all areas of life. There is no doubt that many have benefited from increased self confidence and well being as a result of studying its techniques.

One consequence of the Japanese occupation of Korea between 1909 and 1945 was the restriction of the practice and teaching of martial arts. This restriction was lifted after World War II, and martial arts training schools began to re-establish themselves.

In 1965 all the various systems were united and became known as Tae Kwon Do. Tang Soo Do remained a traditional martial art, while Tae Kwon Do developed into a sport - most recently in the Sydney 2000 Olympics as a demonstration event. In 1968 Master Jae Chul Shin went to the US and soon after, this traditional and classical art was quickly accepted.