Can I try out Tang Soo Do and see if it is for me?
Of course! Your first two lessons are free. There are always beginners in
the class and everyone is looked after. Come on in and see what we do. Spectators
are welcome - we're the ones in the white pyjamas.
What kind of things can I expect from a class?
In most classes we learn fighting skills, self defense, blocks, punches, holds,
footwork, patterns, Tai Chi, breathing, meditation, even a little philosophy
and history. Master Shin has often surprised us by adding interesting elements
to the class, like a short lesson in Korean Massage techniques.
Will I get fit doing Tang Soo Do?
Especially later in the semester, Tang Soo Do can leave you feeling like you've
just participated in a tough aerobics class or circuit training. It is great
for fitness and you will reap the benefits.
Do I have to be fit to join?
No. Of course, if you have a medical problem we want to know about it in advance,
but there is no required fitness level. People do Tang Soo Do for different
reasons, and getting in shape during the year is a popular one.
Do I need to learn special etiquette (bowing etc) before I join in?
No, beginners are not expected to know the training room etiquette immediately.
We'll fill you in on that.
Will I do contact free fighting straight away?
No. Beginners do only non-contact free fighting until they have developed
to a sufficient level where they have control. The higher belt free fighting
is done only under supervision and we emphasise technique and look after each
other. There are no "heroes" here.
Have you ever had any serious injuries?
No. Apart from some minor bruises occasionally, Tang Soo Do is a very safe
sport, and we emphasise safety in the club. Every member who free fights must
have a mouthguard and we provide all other protective gear required. Safety
is paramount to our instructors at all times.
Are there any females in the club?
Yes, at the moment, we have three female members who are progressing well. Tang
Soo Do teaches us many practical personal self defense techniques which boost
confidence in dealing with any situation.
Do you need to be strong to do Tang Soo Do?
Tang Soo Do techniques are based on using your brains and reflexes rather
than brute force. A small person even has advantages doing Tang Soo Do in
terms of speed - check out the size of Master Shin!.
Who can I ask questions?
There is an email address and contact phone numbers on the main homepage,
but don't be afraid to ask the higher belts questions during and after the
class. They are there to help you! The belt order goes: white, yellow, orange,
green, blue, brown, red, black.
How much does it cost?
Please see our how-to-join page
for tuition fees, but it is very cheap compared to any martial arts
tuition outside Swinburne. For your small contribution, you get a year of
lessons from one of the highest ranked instructors in the world. Join Today!
What does Tang Soo Do mean?
It means, the way of the 'Tang' hand, and is pronounced "tongue-sue-doe".
How long does it take to get to black belt?
Tang Soo Do is lifelong journey and does not stop at black belt, however if
you are dedicated and train hard, you can earn your black belt by the time
you finish your course. There are many places to train in Tang Soo Do in Melbourne.
Where can I see Tang Soo Do in action?
We always have a demonstration during sports day of "O"rientation week, the
first week in March. In that we show basic techniques, self defense, free
fighting and some spectacular breaking. Keep an eye on notice boards around
campus for when sports day is - the performance is at lunch time - we'll be
where the crowd is!
Come and visit us at the Tang Soo Do display stall, or sit in and watch any
class: Mondays and Fridays at 6:30pm, upstairs in the Sports Centre
at the Hawthorn campus.
How long does the class last?
The classes officially last one and a half hours, however members are always
willing to stay back and answer questions or work on an area of difficulty
such as sparring or basic techniques. It is good etiquette to arrive and warm
up about fifteen minutes before a class, so please be prompt! We want to get
as much out of Master Shin's time as we can.
Is there any extra training?
The secondary training session is on Friday at 6:30pm at the sports centre.
This is for those who are interested in doing additional work on their technique -
two classes or more per week speed progression in the art. There are other clubs
around Melbourne, the largest being in Notting Hill. The addresses of all training
sessions are below - (note that only Swinburne Tang Soo Do is covered by your joining fee):
* Swinburne Sports Association
Monday & Friday, 6:30 to 8pm John St, Hawthorn, VIC 3122
* Notting Hill Hall
Saturday 1:30pm cnr Ferntree Gully and Blackburn Rds, Notting Hill
Melways Map ref. 70H8
* Surry Hills
Details coming soon.