Continental Tang Soo Do Federation -General Questions and Answers

How long does it take to learn to defend oneself and to become a black belt?
It depends on the person and there effort, they can notice improvements as soon after they begin. To become a black belt can take about 3 years depending on the person it can take more or less time.

What is the purpose of yelling in Tang Soo Do?
The yell (Kee-Hahp) helps Tang Soo Do practice to increase concentration in class to relieve shyness and stress, when learning Tang Soo Do. It can throw an opponent off guard and it is beneficial to the respiratory tract.

Why must one bow in Tang Soo Do training?
The bow is a symbol of respect not only to others but also to oneself it is also indicative of the strength of one's character.

Why are Shoes prohibited in the Doh-jahng?
It keeps the Doh-jahng environment cleaner and healthier.

How can I tell between Instructor, Master and Grand Master?
* Instructor- any active 1st to 3rd degree black belt with a current Instructor certificate.
(You can find out on the uniform under the federation patch the instructor patch)* Master- any active 4th to 7th degree black belt with a current certificate
(Center of belt has a red line)* Grand Master- any active 8th and higher with current certificate.

How can I become a certified Instructor?
Any Tang Soo Do black belt with a Masters recommendation can become a certified Instructor once they completed the training instructor course and passed the instructor test.
If they don't have an instructor certificate they can't test for the 4th degree Master test.

Should I respect my Master and Instructor if I see him in public?
Yes, Once your master always your master, whether inside or outside Doh-Jahng.
This is a reflection of respect to your master and yourself.

Can Master and I be friends?
No and yes students and Masters cannot be friends but there are some that have good relationships.

How can I handle ongoing tensions or threatening situations with someone at work, school, or with a neighbor?
Always try to talk the problem away. If that does not work, then walk away. Even if the person hits you walk away, it gives a better impact than hitting back. If they keep going then notify the authorities. However at any moment that my life is threatened and I have no other choice, morally I must defend myself.

What if someone harasses me on the street?
Simply walk or run away. There's no need to deal with dirt bags. If I have no choice however,
I must defend myself.

What if I get mugged?
If they are asking for your personal things then give it to them, If it is too important to give up then use your own judgment.

The best weapon, the best tool, the best self-defense is… "SELF-CONFIDENCE"

1. What is the meaning of Self Development?
A person program designed to continuously improve your self confidence, self defense, physical and mental strength, character, and self image.

2. What are the four elements of discipline?
-do what is expected of you
-do it in a timely manner
-conduct yourself in a proper manner
-daily exercise to achieve self control

3. What is patience?
The ability to wait without frustration.

4. What is perseverance?
The will to continue trying until you succeed, regardless of difficulty.

5. What is self control?
The ability to determine your own actions and behavior.

6. What is self confidence?
A strong belief in your own skills and abilities; knowing that you can handle any challenge of situation that could arise.

7. What is the inherent responsibility of all martial artists?
Preserving the quality and tradition of the martial arts by passing it on to the next generation.
Striving to improve this art without changing the basic essence and structure of it.

8. What is loyalty?
A feeling of obligation to serve a cause.

9. What is dedication?
A feeling of and reverence for a cause.

10. What is commitment?
The action taken to show your support of a cause.

11. What is quality?
To be perfectly correct in all actions and without flaw.

12. What is leadership?
Taking the responsibility to ensure the success of a cause, and setting a positive example for others to follow.

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