TheMartialArtForLife.com Student Services

Excellence - January/February 2012

2012-02-09T16:45:00.001Z

Are you ready for the '10 A Day Challenge'? Read the latest issue of Excellence below for more information.

Download Excellence (January/February 2012)

Class Update: Ealing CKD 13/02/2012 & 15/02/2012

2012-02-08T21:53:00.001Z

The half term school holiday means a brief relocation of our Choi Kwang-Do classes. We'll be training at Crowne Plaza hotel on Monday 13th and Wednesday 15th February.

Crowne Plaza London Ealing
Hanger Lane Gyratory
Western Avenue
Gyratory System
Ealing
London W5 1HG

Click here for a map of Crowne Plaza London Ealing

Both classes will be held in the Knightsbridge Suite on the lower ground floor at the usual class times.

5.30 Children's Class 1
6.30 Children's Class 2
7.30 Teen & Adults

If driving to the hotel, please ensure you obtain a permit from hotel reception. You'll need to display this in your car before attending the class.

Leadership & Black Belt Training - 03/02/2012

2012-02-03T07:50:00.002Z

This month's Leadership & Black Belt Training session will be on Friday 3rd February at Crowne Plaza London Ealing.

6.30 - 7.00pm Leadership Training (Junior Leadership Team, AIs, HIs & CIs)
7.00 - 9.00pm Black Belt Training (All Black Belts. Advanced level students upon invitation)

The next class will be on Friday 2nd March.

Leadership & Black Belt Training - 13/01/2012

2012-01-11T16:03:00.001Z

This is the first Leadership & Black Belt Training session of 2012, and much needed after the Christmas break! This Friday 13th January at Crowne Plaza London Ealing.

In these monthly classes we cover two areas of training:

1. Leadership Training
A short workshop when we work on refining the tools and techniques used for teaching, communicating and leading students in class.

2. Black Belt Training
A longer training session comprising of a physical review of all Choi Kwang-Do syllabus material. Essential for developing and maintaining a Black Belt standard.

6.30 - 7.00pm Leadership Training (Junior Leadership Team, AIs, HIs & CIs)
7.00 - 9.00pm Black Belt Training (All Black Belts. Advanced level students upon invitation)

View all scheduled Leadership & Black Belt Training dates for 2012

Where To Find What

2012-01-01T09:22:00.009Z

In class I often direct students to certain websites where you can get various pieces of information to support your training at Ealing Choi Kwang-Do. I also have students and parents say that they are not always sure which website to go for which information.

So here's a short guide on where to go to find what you might be looking for.

1. Ealing CKD School Website

TheMartialArtForLife.com
This is the website for prospective students. It provides general information about our classes for people wanting to start Choi Kwang-Do and enables them to book an Introductory Lesson. Once you have joined the school it is unlikely you will visit this site very often.

2. Student Services Website

EalingCKD.co.uk
This website is designed to support existing students and families who attend Ealing Choi Kwang-Do. This is the website you will probably find the most helpful and visit the most often once you have joined the school.

Visit this site to:

- Learn how to tie your belt.
- View or download the Welcome Pack and Student Guide.
- Check important dates throughout the year (there's a Calendar at the bottom of each page).
- Check Black Belt Grading times.
- View or download issues of our bi-monthly class newsletter, Excellence.

3. Student Shop

TheMartialArtForLifeShop.com
At this website you can pay for Grading Fees plus purchase any required training equipment for use in class. Delivery is made to students in class.

Go to this website to:

- Pay Grading Fees online via credit/debit card or PayPal.
- Purchase Safety Equipment.
- Buy Choi Kwang-Do uniforms and T-Shirts.

4. The Official CKD Website

ChoiKwangDo.com
This is the official website for Choi Kwang-Do Martial Art International.

Visit this site to:

- Read up on news directly from Choi Kwang-Do HQ.
- View a list of all Choi Kwang-Do school across the world. You can search by country and postcode.
- Login to the member's area via the Student Login link. This is where you can access your Syllabus Sheet which contains everything you need to know for your current belt level plus all preceding belt levels.

You will need your Student ID and PIN to login which will have been sent in your welcome email when you first joined. If you have misplaced (or even deleted) it please contact me and I can resend it.

In addition to these 4 websites you can also connect with Ealing Choi Kwang-Do through social media:

Like us at facebook.com/EalingCKD
Follow us at twitter.com/EalingCKD
Watch on youtube.com/EalingCKD

...and lastly our mobile web app. To view updates from our Student Services Website (see website number 2 above) plus Facebook, Twitter and YouTube all in one place and conveniently on your mobile phone simply go to ealingckd.mobi on your mobile phone's web browser only - it will not work on a desktop browser. Or if you use a Nokia mobile phone you can install the app directly via the Nokia Store

Black Belt Gradings 2012

2011-12-21T16:37:00.002Z

Please see below dates for Black Belt Choi Kwang-Do Gradings during 2012, all to be held at Wembley CKD:

Sunday 11th March
Sunday 10th June
Sunday 9th September
Sunday 2nd December

Coloured Belt Gradings 2012

2011-12-21T16:36:00.001Z

Please see below dates for Coloured Belt Choi Kwang-Do Gradings during 2012, all to be held in class at Ealing CKD:

Wednesday 29th February
Wednesday 25th April
Wednesday 20th June
Wednesday 22nd August
Wednesday 24th October
Wednesday 5th December

Leadership & Black Belt Training 2012

2011-12-21T16:30:00.004Z

Please see below dates for Leadership & Black Belt Training during 2012, all to be held at Crowne Plaza London Ealing:

Friday 13th January
Friday 3rd February
Friday 2nd March
Friday 6th April
Friday 4th May
Friday 1st June
Friday 6th July
Friday 3rd August
Friday 14th September
Friday 5th October
Friday 2nd November
Friday 30th November*

*A second class in late November ensures there is a session before the Black Belt Grading on Sunday 2nd December.

Excellence - November/December 2011

2011-12-03T16:59:00.004Z

Below is the current issue of our now bi-monthly newsletter Excellence. Includes details of our Christmas meal and dates for gradings and special classes throughout 2012.

Download Excellence (November/December 2011)

Coloured Belt Grading - December

2011-12-03T06:02:00.002Z

Our last Coloured Belt Grading for 2011 will be held on Wednesday 7th December. The class on Monday 5th will be the last opportunity for practise. The grading takes place in class time so please arrive 10 - 15 minutes early to be ready to start.

To check whether you will be grading please refer to the confirmed grading list sent by email.

Click here to pay Grading Fee online.

Grading dates for 2012 coming soon.

Throw Yourself Into It!

2011-12-01T16:00:00.000Z

Roughly a year ago I had our adult students working on sliding kicks.

The technical aspect of what these are isn't really that important but just to provide some context, as the name implies sliding kicks involves performing a kick whilst sliding forwards towards the target. It's a way of covering distance dynamically to reach an out of range target while simultaneously attacking. It's faster than taking a separate step forward towards the target and then kicking. Plus, it can also result in a more powerful kick as the whole body weight is being thrust forwards with the kick.

Officially, sliding kicks occur in the Choi Kwang-Do curriculum at 2nd Degree Black Belt but this wasn't a Black Belt Class. In fact, there were only three black belts in the entire class of 16 that evening...one of them being me!

So why was I getting the students to do this?

The first reason was that it was a fun challenge for many, without straying too far outside of what they would normally be working on, eg. basic kicks with the target in a comfortable range whereby a slide is not required. However, the main lesson behind the lesson (if you see what I mean) was that to perform a sliding kick you have to throw yourself into it.

Physically speaking, you really do have you launch your body weight towards the target but in a controlled manner. If you don't, you simply won't cover the distance and reach the target. If you do, your balance (and subsequent power) will be negatively affected. This is quite a radical change for most students because they would have been initially taught to kick from a stationary position without sliding.

Emotionally speaking there can be even more to learn. Once you have practised and realised the need to launch your body weight towards the target, you're less likely to hesitate when approaching similar techniques in the future.
You will have already demonstrated to yourself that to complete particular tasks, you sometimes have to overcome self-induced obstacles.

Of course, among the more junior students there was lots of hesitation at first. Perfectly natural given the circumstances, but that was that whole point; to enable the students to recognise when this is happening, when they may be deliberating over a task that has little or no damaging outcomes.

Make a decision.
Affirm commitment.
Throw yourself into it!

There are many areas of life whereby unless we make a commitment and throw ourselves into something, before starting we've already limited the experience we could potentially receive. A valuable and useful lesson for me, the students...and maybe for you too?

Leadership & Black Belt Training - 02/12/2011

2011-11-26T18:40:00.001Z

This is our last Leadership & Black Belt Training session for 2011 taking place on Friday 2nd December. The Black Belt Grading is on Sunday 4th so this final session will be chance to review your curriculum material.

Crowne Plaza London Ealing
Western Avenue
Hanger Lane Gyratory System
Ealing
London W5 1HG

Click here for a map of Crowne Plaza London Ealing

6.30 - 7.00pm Leadership Training (Junior Leadership Team, AIs, HIs & CIs)
7.00 - 9.00pm Black Belt Training (All Black Belts. Advanced level students upon invitation)

Look out for proposed dates throughout 2012 (typically the first Friday of each month) which will be posted shortly.

Black Belt Grading - December 2011

2011-11-26T18:30:00.000Z

The last Regional Black Belt Grading for 2011 will be on Sunday 4th December:

Wembley CKD School
Barham Primary School
Danethorpe Road
Wembley
Middx.
HA0 4RQ

Click here for a map of Wembley CKD School

10:00 Dan Test: Brown Senior, Il Dan Brown & Ee Dan Brown
12:00 Tag Test 1: Il Dan Plain, Yellow, Orange & Green
12:50 Tag Test 2: Il Dan Blue, Purple, Red. Ee Dan Plain, Gold, Green, Blue & Red. Sam Dan Plain, Gold & Blue
13:40 Scheduled Finish

Click here to pay Grading Fees online

2012 Black Belt Grading dates will be posted shortly.

Leadership & Black Belt Training - 04/11/2011

2011-11-03T16:10:00.001Z

November's Leadership & Black Belt Training takes place this Friday 4th at Crowne Plaza Ealing. We're back in the Knightsbridge Suite this month too!

6.30 - 7.00pm Leadership Training (Junior Leadership Team, AIs, HIs & CIs)
7.00 - 9.00pm Black Belt Training (All Black Belts. Advanced level students upon invitation)

Class Update: Ealing CKD 24/10/2011 & 26/10/2011

2011-10-22T23:05:00.004+01:00

During the half term the classes on Monday 24th and Wednesday 26th October will be held at Crowne Plaza hotel.

Crowne Plaza London Ealing
Western Avenue
Hanger Lane Gyratory System
Ealing
London W5 1HG

Click here for a map of Crowne Plaza London Ealing

NB. There is a minor change to the Teen & Adult Class timings on Monday 24th only.

Monday 24th October - Westminster Suite (lower ground, opposite the Knightsbridge Suite where we usually train)
5.30 Children Beginners
6.30 Children Intermediate & Advanced
7.30 Teens & Adults White Belt - Yellow Belt Senior
8.30 Teens & Adults Gold Belt and above*

*Instructor can attend earlier classes as usual.

Wednesday 26th October - Knightsbridge Suite (lower ground)
5.30 Children Beginners
6.30 Children Intermediate & Advanced
7.30 Teens & Adults all ranks

When at the hotel the usual parking procedures apply. Please obtain a permit from hotel reception or myself before attending the class.

Coloured Belt Grading - October 2011

2011-10-14T08:00:00.003+01:00

The October Coloured Belt Grading will be held on Wednesday 19th October. The grading takes place within your usual class time but ensure you arrive 10 - 15 minutes early.

Look out for the confirmed grading list which will be sent by email shortly.

For your convenience, Grading Fees can be paid online. Alternatively, Grading Fees can be paid on the day at the Admin Table.

The last Coloured Belt Grading for 2011 will be on Wednesday 7th December.

Leadership & Black Belt Training - 07/10/2011

2011-10-06T16:10:00.000+01:00

Friday 7th October is the date for our October Leadership & Black Belt Training session:

Crowne Plaza London Ealing
Western Avenue
Hanger Lane Gyratory System
Ealing
London W5 1HG

Click here for a map of Crowne Plaza London Ealing

6.30 - 7.00pm Leadership Training (Junior Leadership Team, AIs, HIs & CIs)
7.00 - 9.00pm Black Belt Training (All Black Belts. Advanced level students upon invitation)

NB. This month the class will take place in the Westminster Suite, directly opposite the Knightsbridge Suite where the class normally takes place.

The next class will be on Friday 4th November.

Class Update: Ealing CKD 05/10/2011

2011-10-02T20:09:00.005+01:00

Please note that there is no class on Wednesday 5th October as Ellen Wilkinson School are holding an open day. Apologies for any inconvenince, although if you train once class per week on a Wednesday then you're welcome to train both classes in the following week.

Classes continue on Monday 10th October as normal.

Look out for the grading list that I'll be sending to students and families next week. The grading is on Wednesday 19th October.

Leadership & Black Belt Training - 16/09/2011

2011-09-12T22:52:00.004+01:00

September's Leadership & Black Belt Training session will be held on Friday 16th:

Crowne Plaza London Ealing
Western Avenue
Hanger Lane Gyratory System
Ealing
London W5 1HG
Click here for a map of Crowne Plaza London Ealing

6.30 - 7.00pm Leadership Training (Junior Leadership Team, AIs, HIs & CIs)
7.00 - 9.00pm Black Belt Training (All Black Belts. Advanced level students upon invitation)

As previously posted, the September Black Belt Grading is on Sunday 18th so this class will essentially be a review of syllabus material.

Click here for dates of Leadership & Black Belt Training for the remainder of 2011

Excellence - September/October 2011

2011-09-09T12:08:00.004+01:00

Read the next issue of Excellence now for an update on Grandmaster Pereira's visit in September and the pending Choi Kwang-Do 25th anniversary celebrations in March 2012.

If you have any questions about the information you can let me know in the comments, by email or in class.

Download Excellence (September/October 2011)

Black Belt Grading - September 2011

2011-09-08T18:27:00.000+01:00

The Black Belt Grading takes place next week on Sunday 18th September:

Wembley CKD School
Barham Primary School
Danethorpe Road
Wembley
Middx.
HA0 4RQ

Click here for a map of Wembley CKD School

10:00 Dan Test: Brown Senior, Il Dan Brown & Ee Dan Brown
12:00 Tag Test 1: Il Dan Plain, Yellow & Gold
12:50 Tag Test 2: Il Dan Orange, Green, Blue, Purple & Red
13:40 Tage Test 3: Ee Dan Plain, Gold, Green, Blue & Red, Sam Dan Plain, Gold & Blue
14:30 Scheduled Finish

As usual, all times are approximate. Students are requested to arrive a minimum of 15 minutes before their allocated start time.

Click here to pay Grading Fees online

Black Belt Grading dates for 2011

Knowing & Understanding

2011-08-18T20:47:00.010+01:00

A few months back I recall working on kicking techniques with our children’s class. While reviewing the Rear Leg Front Kick we were breaking the kick down into two stages; shifting the body weight forwards first, then firing the kick off the back and stepping the foot down in front. Until this time, we’d simply practised the kick as a single movement.

Mid way through a very brief 'step by step' demonstration before we continued as a group, a student asked, "Why are we doing it like that? Why don’t we just kick?!"

Now, as an Instructor you never want to come across as too flippant or dismissive, but at the same time you want to keep the class momentum going. If you don’t you can open up the floor for all manner of questions ranging from favourite television programmes to how close a student is until their next birthday...in this case I managed to get away with, "We're working on making your kick even better!"

It was immediately apparent that the student in question felt that they already knew how to do the kick, ie. they knew how to perform a striking action using the foot. However, they didn't (yet) have a deeper understanding of all the finer parts of the movement that collectively make up that particular kick:

- Pushing of the rear leg to shift the body weight forwards
- Tucking the kicking leg by bending the knee
- Driving the kicking leg forwards to striking the target with the ball of the foot
- Following through the target
- Stepping down in front

To now break the technique down after practising the kick 'in full' wasn't furthering understanding - it was taking a step backwards! Therein possibly lies the difference between knowing a technique and understanding a technique...

Typically when I'm teaching a technique I'll usually follow one of two methods. I simply call them Bottom Up and Top Down. (Yes, I’m sure there are probably more eloquent names, but they do the job).

Bottom Up: Breaking the technique down into 2, 3, or 4 stages and teaching each components of the movement sequentially, building up to the full technique.

Top Down: Show the technique, explain a few defining points of the technique, show it again, then get students to copy it. On successive repetitions additional points and corrections are added or made as required.

Which method I use will depend on a number of factors such as:

- The age and abilities of the students
- The size of the group
- Teaching objective, ie. are we learning a technique for the first time, or reviewing a technique for improvement?
- Teaching time available

For example, Top Down is generally faster but assumes the student can interpret what they are seeing into movement. Whereas Bottom Up gives more detail and promotes better understanding of the technique, but takes longer to deliver.

What's your view on the difference between knowing and understanding?

(Tips on what has helped you to improve a technique are welcome too!)

Coloured Belt Grading - August 2011

2011-08-13T22:36:00.004+01:00

The August Coloured Belt Grading takes place this Wednesday 17th at Crowne Plaza Ealing hotel. The grading will take place the usual class times, children at 6.30pm and adults at 7.30pm although please arrive 10 - 15 minutes early so that you are ready to start on time.

Click here to pay Grading Fees online

View Coloured Belt Grading dates for 2011

Leadership & Black Belt Training - 05/08/2011

2011-08-01T22:31:00.005+01:00

Friday 5th August is the date for this month's Leadership & Black Belt Training:

Crowne Plaza London Ealing
Western Avenue
Hanger Lane Gyratory System
Ealing
London W5 1HG
Click here for a map of Crowne Plaza London Ealing
6.30 - 7.00pm Leadership Training (Junior Leadership Team, AIs, HIs & CIs)
7.00 - 9.00pm Black Belt Training (All Black Belts. Advanced level students upon invitation)

NB. The date of the session in September has been amended to Friday 16th.

Make sure you check the remaining scheduled dates for Ealing CKD and also alternative dates for Leadership & Black Belt Training at Hendon CKD.

Excellence - July/August 2011

2011-07-23T07:59:00.000+01:00

This newsletter contains full details of our summer schedule including Leadership & Black Belt Training in August and the next Coloured Belt Grading.

Download Excellence (July/August 2011)

Ealing CKD Summer Schedule 2011

2011-07-20T23:10:00.002+01:00

Our summer schedule of classes has now been confirmed. From Monday 25th July until Wednesday 24th August we will be training at:

Crowne Plaza London Ealing
Hanger Lane Gyratory
Western Avenue
Ealing
London W5 1HG
Click here for a map of Crowne Plaza London Ealing

Many of you are familiar with training at the hotel and most classes will take place in the Knightsbridge Suite on the lower ground floor at the following times.

6.30pm - 7.20pm Children all ranks
7.30pm - 8.30pm Teens & Adults all ranks

The dates for these classes are as follows:

Monday 25th July & Wednesday 27th July
Monday 1st August & Wednesday 3rd August
Monday 8th August & Wednesday 10th August
Monday 15th August & Wednesday 17th August
Monday 22nd August & Wednesday 24th August

The Coloured Belt Grading will take place on Wednesday 17th August.

NB. There are some changes to class time and/or location on the following dates:

Monday 8th August & Wednesday 10th August - Westminster Suite
5.30 Children Beginners
6.30 Children Intermediate & Advanced
7.30 Teens & Adults White - Yellow Senior
8.30 Teens & Adults Gold Belt and above

Monday 15th August - Knightsbridge Suite
7.00 Children all ranks
8.00 Teens & Adults all ranks

Wednesday 17th August - Knightsbridge Suite
6.30 Children all ranks
7.30 Teens & Adults all ranks

Monday 22nd August & Wednesday 24th August
6.30 Children all ranks
7.30 Teens & Adults all ranks

After the class on Wednesday 24th August we break up for the summer returning to Ellen Wilkinson School at the usual times on Monday 12th September.

When at the hotel the usual parking procedures apply. Please obtain a permit before attending the class.

Create Your Own Student Manual

2011-07-19T10:29:00.004+01:00

The Student Manual is an essential resource for Choi Kwang-Do students and instructors alike. Here's what you'll need to create your own:

1. A computer (or access to one) to login to the Choi Kwang-Do Student Area. Access is included with your school membership. You'll need you Student ID and PIN to login which would have been included in your welcome letter. Feel free to contact me for a reminder.

2. A printer (or access to one) and A4 paper to print out the syllabus sheets.

3. A4 file pockets. These are optional but you can get them from any stationary shop. If you're not using file pockets, you'll need a hole punch.

3. A4 folder. I've used this plastic ring binder from WH Smith. £4.29

5. Front cover insert. Make your own or download one I've created. It's in MS Word format in case you wish to personalise it, eg. with your name.

Next, all you need to do is:

1. Login to the Student Area.
2. Print the required Syllabus Sheets.
3. Insert in the file pockets or hole punch.
4. File the Syllabus Sheets in the folder in ascending belt order.

That's it...apart from repeating this process after each successful belt promotion!

You can do this without the plastic pockets, but they will help to protect the sheets as they accumulate and protect against wear and tear during transit to and from class.

Leadership & Black Belt Training - 08/07/2011

2011-07-06T10:17:00.005+01:00

July's Leadership & Black Belt Training takes place on Friday 8th. As well as being required training for seniors and instructors, this is also the best chance for Black Belts to cover new syllabus material following the Black Belt Grading in June.

Crowne Plaza London Ealing
Western Avenue
Hanger Lane Gyratory System
Ealing
London W5 1HG
Click here for a map of Crowne Plaza London Ealing

6.30 - 7.00pm Leadership Training (Junior Leadership Team, AIs, HIs & CIs)
7.00 - 9.00pm Black Belt Training (All Black Belts. Advanced level students upon invitation)

Unlike previous years, there is a chance that there will be a class in August. Details to follow.

Coloured Belt Grading - June 2011

2011-06-20T22:46:00.003+01:00

Our June Coloured Belt Grading is this Wednesday 22nd June.

The grading will be held within class time so attend class as normal ensuring you arrive 10 - 15 minutes early to be ready to start on time.

If you've not already made payment of your Grading Fees you can do so online here. Alternatively, payment can be made at the Admin Table to an Instructor upon arrival.

View Coloured Belt Grading dates for 2011

We've Gone Mobile!

2011-06-17T09:06:00.011+01:00

Do you have a mobile phone?

If you answered 'yes' to this question (which is highly likely nowadays) you can now keep up to date with news and events at Ealing Choi Kwang-Do via our new mobile web app.

We've mobilised all of our websites so you can now view updates on our blog posts, tweets on Twitter, Facebook Page updates and YouTube videos...all in one place and conveniently on your mobile phone. The best part is that you don't need any specific brand of phone - as long as your mobile phone enables you to access the internet through a web browser it should work*.

(Many thanks to those who have helped me to test this in the past few weeks).

To view the Ealing CKD mobile web app enter the following address on your mobile phone's web browser:

ealingckd.mobi

If you use a Nokia mobile phone you can install the app directly via the Nokia Store

*Ealing CKD mobile web app uses a small amount of internet data. Charges to use the internet vary depending on your mobile network and package, so please check before using.

Installation problems? Queries? Post them in the comments below and I'll do my best to help.

Black Belt Grading - June 2011

2011-06-10T17:37:00.003+01:00

June's Black Belt Grading takes place this weekend, Sunday 12th June:

Wembley CKD School
Barham Primary School
Danethorpe Road
Wembley
Middx.
HA0 4RQ

Click here for a map of Wembley CKD School

10:00 Dan Test: Brown Senior, Il Dan Brown & Ee Dan Brown
12:00 Tag Test 1: Il Dan Plain, Yellow & Gold
12:50 Tag Test 2: Il Dan Orange, Green, Blue, Purple & Red
13:40 Tage Test 3: Ee Dan Plain, Gold, Green, Blue & Red, Sam Dan Plain, Gold & Blue
14:30 Scheduled Finish

Click here to pay Grading Fees online

Black Belt Grading dates for 2011

Leadership & Black Belt Training - 03/06/2011

2011-06-02T21:02:00.002+01:00

It's time once again for our monthly Leadership & Black Belt Training session on Friday 3rd June:

Crowne Plaza London Ealing
Western Avenue
Hanger Lane Gyratory System
Ealing
London W5 1HG
Click here for a map of Crowne Plaza London Ealing

6.30 - 7.00pm Leadership Training (Junior Leadership Team, AIs, HIs & CIs)
7.00 - 9.00pm Black Belt Training (All Black Belts. Advanced level students upon invitation).

This the last opportunity to review material before the Black Belt Grading on Sunday 12th June.

NB. Leadership & Black Belt Training in July has been rescheduled from Friday 1st to Friday 8th. Apologies for any inconvenience.

Class Update: Ealing CKD 01/06/2011

2011-05-30T10:30:00.004+01:00

As it's half term this week and Ellen Wilkinson is closed, please remember that there will not be a class today, Monday 30th May. The class on Wednesday 1st June will be held at:

Crowne Plaza London Ealing (Knightsbridge Suite, lower ground)
Western Avenue
Hanger Lane Gyratory System
Ealing
London W5 1HG

Click here for a map of Crowne Plaza London Ealing

Please note the slight change of class times for this date only:

Children's Class 1: 6.00 – 6.50pm
Children's Class 2: 7.00 – 7.50pm
Teens & Adults Class: 8.00 – 9.00pm

We return to Ellen Wilkinson School at the normal class times on Monday 6th June.

Excellence - May 2011

2011-05-20T22:50:00.002+01:00

This months issue of Excellence contains a minor update to our grading procedure plus a project for Choi Kwang-Do students (and instructors) to do over the Bank Holiday weekend!

Download Excellence (May 2011)

Leadership & Black Belt Training - 06/05/2011

2011-05-04T23:57:00.001+01:00

Leadership & Black Belt Training continues this Friday 6th May:

Crowne Plaza London Ealing
Western Avenue
Hanger Lane Gyratory System
Ealing
London W5 1HG
Click here for a map of Crowne Plaza London Ealing

6.30 - 7.00pm Leadership Training (Junior Leadership Team, AIs, HIs & CIs)
7.00 - 9.00pm Black Belt Training (All Black Belts. Advanced level students upon invitation).

NB. The date of this class in June may need to be changed. The new date will be confirmed shortly.

Class Update: Ealing CKD 02/05/2011 & 30/05/2011

2011-04-29T13:45:00.002+01:00

A reminder that there are no Choi Kwang-Do classes at Ealing on the two Bank Holidays in May 2011. These are:

Monday 2nd May
Monday 30th May

If you normally attend the Monday class, you're welcome to attend the Wednesday class on these weeks instead.

Class Update: Ealing CKD Easter Holidays

2011-04-10T17:11:00.006+01:00

Classes for the next two weeks continue at the following location:

Crowne Plaza London Ealing (Knightsbridge Suite, lower ground)
Western Avenue
Hanger Lane Gyratory System
Ealing
London W5 1HG

Click here for a map of Crowne Plaza London Ealing

This applies to all Choi Kwang-Do classes on:

Monday 11th and 18th April
Wednesday 13th and 20th April

All classes will be in the Knightsbridge Suite on the lower ground floor. Please note the amendment to class times where each class will start 30 minutes later than normal.

Children's Class 1: 6.00 – 6.50pm
Children's Class 2: 7.00 – 7.50pm
Teens & Adults Class: 8.00 – 9.00pm

Parking at the hotel is on a first come first served basis and you will need to get a permit either from hotel reception or myself to display in your car.

Excellence - April 2011

2011-04-10T17:06:00.005+01:00

Read the April issue of Excellence, our class newsletter below. Please note the update on classes during the Easter holidays and the confirmed April grading date...at last!

Download Excellence (April 2011)

http://bit.ly/kLNYh7

Leadership & Black Belt Training - 01/04/2011

2011-03-29T17:23:00.001+01:00

Leadership & Black Belt Training for April takes place this Friday 1st:

Crowne Plaza London Ealing
Western Avenue
Hanger Lane Gyratory System
Ealing
London W5 1HG
Click here for a map of Crowne Plaza London Ealing

6.30 - 7.00pm Leadership Training (Junior Leadership Team, AIs, HIs & CIs)
7.00 - 9.00pm Black Belt Training (All Black Belts. Advanced level students upon invitation).

Next session is Friday 6th May.

Excellence - March 2011

2011-03-28T07:04:00.003+01:00

The March 2011 issue of Excellence is now ready (just in time!). This month's issue includes a reminder of our holiday and absence procedures.

Download Excellence (March 2011)

Black Belt Grading - March 2011

2011-03-16T22:48:00.003Z

This is the first Black Belt Grading for 2011 - Sunday 20th March at Wembley CKD:

Wembley CKD School
Barham Primary School
Danethorpe Road
Wembley
Middx.
HA0 4RQ

Click here for a map of Wembley CKD School

10:00 Line Up, Promise, Pledge, Principles, Welcome & Introductions.
10:10 Dan Test: Brown Senior, Il Dan Brown & Ee Dan Brown
12:00 Tag Test 1: Il Dan Plain, Yellow & Gold
12:50 Tag Test 2: Il Dan Orange, Green, Blue & Purple
13:40 Tag Test 3: Il Dan Red, Ee Dan Plain, Ee Dan Gold, Ee Dan Green, Ee Dan Blue, Ee Dan Red, Sam Dan Plain, Sam Dan Gold & Sam Dan Blue
14:30 Scheduled Finish

Click here to pay Grading Fees online

Black Belt Grading dates for 2011

Acknowledge Your Experience

2011-03-08T22:12:00.005Z

Can you ride a bicycle? Can you recall your first few times pedalling unassisted down the road?

Do you drive? If so, can you remember taking lessons? So many things to remember; steering, gears, mirrors, other road users, other learners driving like you - poorly...

Even if you haven't driven a car you will know that it has a steering wheel which is used to change or maintain the direction in which the car is travelling. If you can drive, during lessons you may have been instructed to hold the steering wheel with your hands at the 'quarter to three' or 'ten to two' positions. You may have also been instructed to turn the wheel using a 'push and pull' method.

(Disclaimer: if you are a non-driver or yet to take lessons, please note that I take no responsibility for any confusion arising from this explanation. Driving instruction should be taken from a qualified driving instructor!)

However, after some time, you became more confident with steering and driving a car in general. You may even have passed your test!

What happens next? You begin to hold the steering wheel and turn it using a slightly different, more fluid, more graceful manner.

The car hasn't changed.
The steering wheel hasn't changed?
So what's different?

You.

We know that the more we perform an action, the easier it can become and the better we can do it. Your position along the learning curve changes as each repetition of the action creates experience.

You no longer have to 'work out' how to perform the action each time you wish to perform it. At the same time, your experience helps you determine how well you can perform the action consistently with accuracy.

The same applies when learning and performing the Choi Kwang-Do techniques. In most cases the objective of the instructor when initially teaching techniques is provide an overview of the technique, then introduce the technique following a step-by-step breakdown.

In this way students can better understand the technique and the instructor can make corrections or adjustments can be made during the learning process.

Once a basic understanding of the fundamental movement has been grasped, the technique may then be repeated more fluidly.

Rather than allow students to work out how to do a technique – students are provided with the process of how to achieve the technique.

This is particularly important in Choi Kwang-Do due to sequential nature of the movements; a single punch requires involvement from a wide variety of parts around the entire body from the feet upwards.

Eventually, with time, patience and guidance you are able to perform the technique easily and effectively - almost without thinking, and this can often happen without us realising. Some people refer to this as unconscious competence, whereby you don’t even realise that your experience and abilities have evolved and you now possess a certain level of skill and proficiency.

It's great to be able to look back at where you once were, and then marvel at the range of skills and experience that you now have. As long as you bear in mind that irrespective of rank and years training, there is nearly always something new to learn, tweak or refine.

Leadership & Black Belt Training - 11/03/2011

2011-03-08T20:25:00.002Z

Our next Leadership & Black Belt Training session is this Friday 11th March:

Crowne Plaza London Ealing
Western Avenue
Hanger Lane Gyratory System
Ealing
London W5 1HG
Click here for a map of Crowne Plaza London Ealing

6.30 - 7.00pm Leadership Training (Junior Leadership Team, AIs, HIs & CIs)
7.00 - 9.00pm Black Belt Training (All Black Belts. Advanced level students upon invitation).

Next session is Friday 1st April.

Remember that you can now view dates for all of these sessions during 2011 (and also gradings) by clicking dates in the list of LABELS on the right hand side.

Leadership & Black Belt Training 2011

2011-02-18T09:35:00.005Z

Please see below dates for Leadership & Black Belt Training during 2011, all to be held at Crowne Plaza London Ealing:

Friday 7th January 2011
Friday 4th February 2011
Friday 11th March 2011
Friday 1st April 2011
Friday 6th May 2011
Friday 3rd June 2011
Friday 8th July 2011 (amended date)
Friday 5th August 2001 (new date)
Friday 16th September 2011 (amended date)
Friday 7th October 2011
Friday 4th November 2011
Friday 2nd December 2011

6.30 - 7.00pm Leadership Training (Junior Leadership Team, AIs, HIs & CIs)
7.00 - 9.00pm Black Belt Training (All Black Belts. Advanced level students upon invitation).

Coloured Belt Gradings 2011

2011-02-18T08:31:00.004Z

Please see below dates for Coloured Belt Choi Kwang-Do Gradings during 2011, all to be held in class at Ealing CKD:

Wednesday 23rd February 2011
Wednesday 13th April 2011
Wednesday 22nd June 2011
Wednesday 17th August 2011
Wednesday 19th October 2011
Wednesday 7th December 2011

Coloured Belt Grading - February 2011

2011-02-15T20:53:00.003Z

The Coloured Belt Grading for February will be held on Wednesday 23rd.

NB. This grading (and the class on Monday 21st February) is being held at Crowne Plaza hotel are the regular class times, although arrival 10 - 15 minutes beforehand is recommended so that students are ready to start on time.

Grading Fees are due in advance of the Grading Class. For convenience, you can click here to pay Grading Fees online

Class Update: Ealing CKD 16/02/2011, 21/02/2011 & 23/02/2011

2011-02-15T20:30:00.005Z

Due a school event in the Main Hall there will be no Choi Kwang-Do class on Wednesday 16th February. Apologies for any inconvenience.

The next two classes on Monday 21st and Wednesday 23rd February will be held at Crowne Plaza hotel:

Crowne Plaza London Ealing (Knightsbridge Suite, lower ground)
Western Avenue
Hanger Lane Gyratory System
Ealing
London W5 1HG

Click here for a map of Crowne Plaza London Ealing

Both classes will be will be held in the Knightsbridge Suite on the lower ground floor: Children 6.00pm – 7.00pm, Teens & Adults 7.15pm – 8.30pm.

Parking at the hotel is on a 'first come first served basis' and you will need to get a permit from hotel reception to display in your car.

Excellence - February 2011

2011-02-12T09:43:00.001Z

The first issue of Excellence for 2011 is now available to view or download. This issue contains an update on our new class schedule starting Monday 28th February.

Download Excellence (February 2011)

Leadership & Black Belt Training - 04/02/2011

2011-02-01T20:50:00.003Z

Leadership & Black Belt Training for February takes place this week, Friday 4th:

Crowne Plaza London Ealing
(Knightbridge Suite, Lower Ground)
Western Avenue
Hanger Lane Gyratory System
Ealing
London W5 1HG
Click here for a map of Crowne Plaza London Ealing

6.30 - 7.00pm Leadership Training (Junior Leadership Team, AIs, HIs & CIs)
7.00 - 9.00pm Black Belt Training (All Black Belts. Advanced level students upon invitation).

NB. The date of this class in March has been rescheduled from Friday 4th to the new date of Friday 11th March. A reminder will be sent out closer to the time.

First Classes For 2011

2011-01-08T20:58:00.002Z

Happy New Year. It's now 2011 so this is just a reminder that Choi Kwang-Do classes resume this coming week at Ealing, Monday 10th January at the usual times.

6.00 - 7.00pm Children
7.15 - 8.30pm Teens & Adults

Leadership & Black Belt Training - 07/01/2011

2011-01-05T23:14:00.003Z

Leadership & Black Belt Training is now taking place at a new time and location. The first session for 2011 is Friday 7th January at:

Crowne Plaza London Ealing
Western Avenue
Hanger Lane Gyratory System
Ealing
London W5 1HG
Click here for a map of Crowne Plaza London Ealing

6.30 - 7.00pm Leadership Training (Junior Leadership Team, AIs, HIs & CIs)
7.00 - 9.00pm Black Belt Training (All Black Belts. Advanced level students upon invitation).

For a complete list of dates for these sessions though 2011 see the December 2010/January 2011 issue of Excellence.

Excellence - December 2010/January 2011

2010-12-05T20:02:00.002Z

Follow the link below to download the December 2010/January 2011 issue of Excellence. As usual, this issue contains details of our last class for 2010 plus scheduled dates for the whole of 2011.

Download Excellence (December 2010/January 2011)

Black Belt Gradings 2011

2010-11-29T06:01:00.002Z

Please see below dates for Black Belt Choi Kwang-Do Gradings during 2011, all to be held at Wembley CKD:

Sunday 20th Mar 2011
Sunday 12th Jun 2011
Sunday 18th Sep 2011
Sunday 4th Dec 2011

Dan gradings are always a 10.00am start. Grading times for Tags will be available here the week preceding the grading.

Black Belt Grading - December 2010

2010-11-28T16:19:00.003Z

The last Black Belt Grading for 2010 is this Sunday 5th December:

Wembley CKD School
Barham Primary School
Danethorpe Road
Wembley
Middx.
HA0 4RQ

Click here for a map of Wembley CKD School

10:00 Line Up, Promise, Pledge, Principles, Welcome & Introductions.
10:10 Dan Test: Brown Senior, Il Dan Brown & Ee Dan Brown
11:45 Tag Test 1: Il Dan Plain, Yellow, Gold & Orange
12:45 Tag Test 2: Il Dan Green, Blue, Purple, Red, Ee Dan Tags & Sahm Dan Tags
13:45 Scheduled Finish

As always, all times are approximate.

Click here to pay Grading Fees online

Leadership & Black Belt Training - 05/11/2010 & 19/11/2010

2010-11-02T08:50:00.001Z

Please note that there are 2 classes scheduled for November, Friday 5th and Friday 19th. Both classes will be held at:

Crowne Plaza London Ealing
Western Avenue
Hanger Lane Gyratory System
Ealing
London W5 1HG
Click here for a map of Crowne Plaza London Ealing

6.30 - 7.00pm Leadership Training (Junior Leadership Team, AIs, HIs & CIs)
7.00 - 9.00pm Black Belt Training (All Black Belts. Advanced level students upon invitation).

At present there is no class planned for December (the December Black Belt Grading is on Sunday 5th). An update will be posted here should there be any change.

Excellence - October 2010

2010-10-28T16:24:00.003+01:00

Read the October issue of Excellence below.

Includes an update on gradings and a link to the recently released Choi Kwang-Do documentary!

Download Excellence (October 2010)

Class Update: Ealing CKD 25/10/2010 & 27/10/2010

2010-10-24T14:00:00.003+01:00

Please note that our Choi Kwang-Do classes this week, Monday 25th and Wednesday 27th October, will take place at the Crowne Plaza hotel.

Crowne Plaza London Ealing
Western Avenue
Hanger Lane Gyratory System
Ealing
London W5 1HG
Click here for a map of Crowne Plaza London Ealing

As usual the class will be held in the Knightsbridge Suite on the lower ground floor: Children 6.00pm – 7.00pm, Teens & Adults 7.15pm – 8.30pm.

NB. The grading for those attending our Teen & Adults Class will also take place during these classes. The grading for Children has been rescheduled until Wednesday 24th November.

As a reminder, free parking is available at the hotel on a first come first served basis, but clamping is in operation for unauthorised parking or parking in a space not designated for hotel users.

When you arrive at the hotel you should park first, then either get a permit from the hotel Reception or from me which you will need to display in your car. Local street parking is also available a short walk away.

Classes return to Ellen Wilkinson School on Monday 1st November.

Class Update: Ealing CKD 06/10/2010

2010-10-06T07:52:00.001+01:00

A reminder that there will be no Choi Kwang-Do class on Wednesday 6th October due to a school event.

The next class will be on Monday 11th.

The Meaning Of Self Defence

2010-10-01T09:55:00.004+01:00

What do you think of when you hear the term self defence?

- Practising releases from various restraining positions?
- Avoiding dimly lit streets?
- Hitting an attacker and then running away as fast as you can?

Any, if not all of these initial responses could be correct, although in Choi Kwang-Do, I believe the definition to self defence additionally follows two distinct paths:

Firstly, by employing principles of biomechanics, body movements are optimised to create powerful striking techniques while simultaneously reducing the risk of hyper extension damage in the joints.

Small adjustments to techniques can translate to greater output, even for those who are of small or medium build. These techniques are utilised within training drills designed to develop various aspects such as reactions, counter attacks, verbal skills, pre-emptive attacks and releases.

Such drills help to stimulate the central nervous system enabling it to more effectively recruit the muscle fibres required to execute the movements as well as respond with those movements faster.

This definition seems to best fall in line with the initial 'confrontation-based' responses to the definition of self defence.

Secondly, a core objective of Choi Kwang-Do is to employ martial arts training (the movements, combinations, training drills etc.) using the biomechanically designed techniques as a means of serving the well-being of the practitioner.

One example of this is the circular movement of the shoulder joint when punching creates synovial fluid which 'oils' the joint and helps maintain the active range of motion.

Think of this as defence for the self, if you like; protecting your physical and mental health now and in the future by taking moderate and regular exercise through Choi Kwang-Do training today.

I know that there may be some martial arts practitioners that may feel that such views dilute the true essence of martial arts, especially in the ever growing popularity of mixed martial arts and reality based training, but that's exactly the beauty of the martial arts world - there is more than enough choice to cater for everyone's needs and desires.

One could argue that if attacked, martial arts training would come into play to defend yourself. However, if you're never attacked for the whole of your life does that mean that the years spent refining your martial arts skills will have been a waste of your time?

Of course not.

No doubt your will have heard from various sources applauding the benefits of leading an active life, and I'm a strong advocate of martial arts as a stimulating and challenging method to fulfil this need.

If you're not already very active, could you include more activity and exercise in your life? Or to approach the same question from another angle: could you do it if your life depended upon it?

Many would argue that it does.

A few years ago the British Heart Foundation started a campaign called 30 A Day, the objective being to encourage people to take 30 minutes of moderate exercise five days a week which they say can halve the risk of heart disease.

(The good news is that if you're taking 2 Choi Kwang-Do classes per week you're already close to this).

Looking after your heart, whether through Choi Kwang-Do or any other activity, I hope you'll agree is definitely not a waste of your time.

Excellence - September 2010

2010-09-29T22:13:00.002+01:00

Read or download the September issue of Excellence. Please note the update on Saturday classes.

Download Excellence (September 2010)

Black Belt Grading - September 2010

2010-09-15T23:37:00.002+01:00

September's Black Belt Grading is this weekend, Sunday 19th at Wembley CKD:

Wembley CKD School
Barham Primary School
Danethorpe Road
Wembley
Middx.
HA0 4RQ

Click here for a map of Wembley CKD School

10:00 Line Up, Promise, Pledge, Principles, Welcome & Introductions.
10:10 Dan Test: Brown Senior, Il Dan Brown & Ee Dan Brown
11:45 Tag Test 1: Il Dan Plain & Il Dan Yellow
12:35 Tag Test 2: Il Dan Gold, Orange, Green, Blue & Purple
13:25 Tag Test 3: Il Dan Red, Ee Dan Tags & Sahm Dan Tags
14:15 Scheduled Finish

Click here to pay Grading Fees online

Next Black Belt Grading: Sunday 5th December 2010

First Classes In September 2010

2010-09-07T09:53:00.000+01:00

A reminder that Ealing Choi Kwang-Do classes resume on Monday 13th September back at Ellen Wilkinson School at the usual times:

Children 6.00 - 7.00pm
Teens & Adults 7.15 - 8.30pm

Look forward to seeing you all back in class after the summer break!

Cancelled: Leadership & Black Belt Training - 11/09/2010

2010-09-07T09:48:00.000+01:00

Unfortunately the session scheduled for Saturday 11th September has had to be cancelled.

If you are due to take the Black Belt Grading on Sunday 19th, please ensure you attend regular classes in the weeks preceding.

Black Belt grading times will be posted shortly.

To Spar Or Not To Spar?

2010-08-17T15:21:00.003+01:00

Alongside health and personal development, as a martial art Choi Kwang-Do also has a focus on developing self defence skills. Having said that, the fact that learning Choi Kwang-Do does not entail sparring often raises questions (and a fair amount of criticism).

Sparring is commonplace in many martial arts and can take a number of forms. Loosely speaking, sparring defines students engaging in combat with one another for the purpose of training or competition. Some martial arts allow no contact, some light or semi contact, and some full contact. The rules and format of sparring will vary between different marial arts.

The question is: do you believe that you have to practise sparring to be able to defend yourself effectively?

In Choi Kwang-Do we believe the answer is 'no'.

Based on this premise, Choi Kwang-Do Defence Drills comprise of a series of exercises which allow students to practise and develop their self defence skills progressively with another student.

More specifically, the Defence Drills are geared towards developing the confidence and ability of both students in a safe and controlled manner. (Point to note: Choi Kwang-Do Defence Drills are often described as non contact. I prefer to use the term non impact contact: while no contact is intentionally made when striking your partner, contact is obviously made when blocking).

Working in pairs, the Defence Drills start off by introducing basic foot work and dodging (evading an attack). An attacking partner will move in with punching techniques, and a defending partner will move back, begin to read and anticipate body movement prior to an attack, and dodge accordingly.

Then, instead of merely anticipating body movement, the defending student will start to respond by applying blocks to the attacking punches.

In the next stage of Defence Drills this basic conditioning is extended to include defence against combinations of punches and kicks combined with more advanced footwork, eg. angling off.

As the student’s confidence grows during these preliminary exercises, the Defence Drills become more dynamic and move closer towards a ‘real life situation’; a sudden suprise attack.

At this stage the Defence Drills focus on conditioning the student’s reaction to an attack using both defence (blocking, dodging and footwork), and offence (combinations of punching, striking and kicking). Pre emptive striking is also practised.

Visually, certain Drills may bear some resemblance to sparring, but the explanations above hopefully give an indication of how the drills are designed to develop student ability in a structured fashion.

Attempting to develop self defence skills in a highly stressful and competitive environment such as sparring can drastically impair some student’s ability to work with their partner, and the developing student’s opportunity to learn and develop their abilities. Hence, the Defence Drills begin by being cooperative, rather than competitive. However, once foundation skills are in place students work with increased intensity and intent and less cooperation.

Excellence - July/August 2010

2010-07-30T20:40:00.004+01:00

Everything you need to know about Choi Kwang-Do at Ealing this summer can be found in the July/August issue below.

Download Excellence (July/August 2010)

A Closer Look At Belts

2010-07-28T23:15:00.002+01:00

In Choi Kwang-Do, like many other martial arts, the colour of the belt that you have will signify your rank within the system.

Even if you have never taken martial arts before, you'll have some idea that white belt indicates a beginner while black belt indicates someone advanced.

However, aside these two belts, white and black, there is no universal means of ranking within the martial arts world. Different styles (and even different martial art groups teaching the same style) may have a different number of belts and colours of belts in their system. Some martial arts do not use belts at all.

In some styles of martial art a student can earn their black belt within 2 years.
In others it could be as many as 7 years or longer.
In Choi Kwang-Do the is average is around 3½ years.

In my opinion, belts serve 3 main purposes:

1. They tell others how much you know about your specific martial art.
2. They imply one's level of technical expertise.
3. They indicate how long you have been training (bear in mind that this last point can be affected by breaks in training).

In addition, the belt system and our movement through it displays progression of learning; a visual indication to both yourself and others on our improvement over time.

Belts also create strong emotions; we all enjoy the feeling of being rewarded for our achievements, like being presented with a new belt if successful at a grading, especially if we've had to work hard towards that achievement involving lots of planning, preparation and training over a period of time...not to mention sweating in the dojang!

In innovation to martial arts, belts give students something to aim for and a reason to keep learning, practising and improving.

What belt are you...and what do belts mean to you?

Ealing CKD Summer Schedule 2010

2010-07-21T08:59:00.002+01:00

Our schedule for the summer period is now confirmed.

The last class at Ellen Wilkinson School will be on Wednesday 21st July. After this date, classes continue at:

Crowne Plaza London Ealing
Western Avenue
Hanger Lane Gyratory System
Ealing
London W5 1HG
Click here for a map of Crowne Plaza London Ealing

Classes will be held Knightsbridge Suite on the lower ground floor. The class times remain the same: Children 6.00pm – 7.00pm, Teens & Adults 7.15pm – 8.30pm.

The dates for these classes will be:

Monday 26th July & Wednesday 28th July
Monday 2nd August & Wednesday 4th August
Monday 9th August & Wednesday 11th August
Monday 16th August & Wednesday 18th August

NB. The August Coloured Belt Grading will take place in the classes on Monday 16th and Wednesday 18th August.

Classes then close for summer holidays returning to Ellen Wilkinson School on:

Monday 13th September

IMPORTANT: Free parking is available at the hotel on a first come first served basis, but clamping is in operation for unauthorised parking.

When you arrive at the hotel you should park first, then go immediately to the hotel Reception and request a parking permit to attend the martial arts class (Reception staff have been informed). You will then need to return to your car to display the permit.

What Inspires You?

2010-07-10T11:42:00.005+01:00

If you are in any way connected to Choi Kwang-Do, or follow Choi Kwang-Do through the various websites, blogs and social media, you will no doubt have seen many comments about the UK seminar in May (not to mention lots of talk about the landmark Choi Kwang-Do seminar in Korea in October 2010).

Seeing Grandmaster Choi perform, teach and talk about the development and evolution of Choi Kwang-Do is highly inspirational for Choi Kwang-Do students and instructors the world over. Many of the images, videos, reports and conversations convey how inspiring the seminar was...and continues to be.

Maybe you were at the seminar yourself?

Or if you weren't at the seminar, imagine you've watched an excellent film on TV or at the cinema.

Or you've seen your favourite musician perform.

Or you're engrossed in reading a biography of someone you respect or admire.

We all know that feeling; how each of these events can touch us emotionally, dwell in our minds and inspire or motivate us in different ways.

A great way to get motivated is to associate, watch or read about others who either successful, or have made achievements in your field. Whether that be martial arts, your current occupation or your desired one.

Part of the reason for this is that by associating yourself with others who are successful will make their goals and stories seem more real to you.

You can also get a feel for the challenges they faced and overcame, which may help you to see how you could overcome them too.

So what inspires or motivates you?

Or if relevant, what motivated you to begin martial arts?

Excellence - June 2010

2010-06-24T15:25:00.002+01:00

Below is the June issue of Excellence. This issue should answer a number of questions about the grading process and procedures, plus an update on the August grading.

Download Excellence (June 2010)

Coloured Belt Grading - June 2010

2010-06-22T23:49:00.004+01:00

The June Coloured Belt Grading will be held this Saturday 26th.

White 10.00
White Senior 11.00
Yellow 11.00
Yellow Senior 11.00
Gold 11.45
Gold Senior 11.45
Orange 11.45
Orange Senior 11.45
Green 12.30
Green Senior 12.30
Blue 12.30
Blue Senior 12.30
Purple 12.30
Purple Senior 12.30
Red 12.30
Red Senior 12.30
Brown 12.30
Scheduled finish 13.15

Click here to pay Grading Fees online

As always, grading times are an estimate but please aim to arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled grading time, ie. the time beside your current belt rank.

Black Belt Grading - June 2010

2010-06-08T20:52:00.002+01:00

June's Black Belt Grading will be held on Sunday 13th at:

Wembley CKD School
Barham Primary School
Danethorpe Road
Wembley
Middx.
HA0 4RQ

Click here for a map of Wembley CKD School

10:00 Line Up, Promise, Pledge, Principles, Welcome & Introductions.
10:10 Dan Test: Brown Senior, Il Dan Brown & Ee Dan Brown
11:45 Tag Test 1: Il Dan Plain, Il Dan Yellow & Il Dan Orange (Children Only)
12:45 Tag Test 2: Il Dan Orange (Adults Only) through to Sam Dan Blue
13:45 Scheduled Finish

Click here to pay Grading Fees online

Next Black Belt Grading: Sunday 19th September 2010.

Leadership & Black Belt Training - 05/06/2010

2010-06-03T20:16:00.002+01:00

June's Leadership & Black Belt Training session will be this Saturday 5th June:

10.00 - 10:30am Leadership Training (Junior Leadership Team, advanced level AIs, HIs & CIs).
10.30 - 12.30pm Black Belt Training (All Black Belts. Advanced level students upon invitation).

NB. This is the last session before the Black Belt Grading on Sunday 13th June.

Excellence - May 2010

2010-05-17T22:25:00.003+01:00

The May issue of Excellence is below. Includes a brief update on the school resources available online and where to go to access them.

Download Excellence (May 2010)

Choi Kwang-Do UK Seminar - 15/05/2010

2010-05-11T09:57:00.004+01:00

A final reminder about Grandmaster Choi's visit to the UK for the Choi Kwang-Do seminar this weekend.

Woking Leisure Centre
Woking Park
Kingfield Road
Woking
Surrey G22 9BA

9.00am - 4.00pm

If you've not already bought your ticket there will be an option to purchase tickets on the door on the day. NB. Payment on the door will be by cash only.

Bear in mind that students and Instructors will be travelling from all over the UK (and beyond) to attend this event. For your convenience, register and purchase your tickets online at the seminar page.

Class Update: Ealing CKD 03/05/2010 & 31/05/2010

2010-04-30T09:54:00.004+01:00

There are no martial arts classes at Ealing on the two Bank Holidays in May. These are:

Monday 3rd May
Monday 31st May

If you normally attend the Monday class, please try to attend the Wednesday class instead.

If you're planning to attend a different class to continue your training, view the list of UK Choi Kwang-Do schools.

I strongly recommend contacting the Instructor first to confirm class details.

Leadership & Black Belt Training - 01/05/2010

2010-04-30T09:31:00.002+01:00

The Leadership & Black Belt Training session for May will on Saturday 1st at Ealing CKD:

10.00 - 10:30am Leadership Training (Junior Leadership Team, advanced level AIs, HIs & CIs).
10.30 - 12.30pm Black Belt Training (All Black Belts. Advanced level students upon invitation).

Coloured Belt Grading - April 2010

2010-04-21T21:56:00.003+01:00

Our April grading will be this Saturday.

Click here for Grading Times for Saturday 24th April

Click here to pay Grading Fees online

The last few weeks of classes have been spent preparing for the grading, but don't forget you can access the Student Login to review your syllabus. You'll need your Student ID and PIN.

Leadership & Black Belt Training - 10/04/2010

2010-04-08T19:56:00.002+01:00

A reminder that April's Leadership & Black Belt Training session will be this Saturday 10th April.

10.00 - 10:30am Leadership Training (Junior Leadership Team, advanced level AIs, HIs & CIs).
10.30 - 12.30pm Black Belt Training (All Black Belts. Advanced level students upon invitation).

Excellence - April 2010

2010-04-08T14:12:00.001+01:00

Please see below for the April issue of Excellence, our monthly class newsletter.

Includes important information about the UK seminar with Grandmaster Choi on 15th May - not to be missed!

Download Excellence (April 2010)

Class Update: Ealing CKD 05/04/2010

2010-03-29T10:01:00.003+01:00

A reminder that there will be no Choi Kwang-Do class next week Monday 5th April as it's Bank Holiday Monday.

Classes continue on Wednesday 7th April.

Black Belt Grading - March 2010

2010-03-17T22:31:00.004Z

The first Regional Black Belt Grading for 2010 takes place this Sunday at Wembley CKD:

Wembley CKD School
Barham Primary School
Danethorpe Road
Wembley
Middx.
HA0 4RQ

Click here for a map of Wembley CKD School

10:00 Line Up, Promise, Pledge, Principles, Welcome & Introductions.
10:10 Dan Test 1: Brown Senior Ranks (Children Only)
11:15 Dan Test 2: Brown Senior (Adults Only) & Il Dan Brown Ranks
12:45 Tag Test 1: Il Dan Plain & Il Dan Yellow (Children Only)
13:30 Tag Test 2: Il Dan Yellow (Adults Only), Il Dan Gold, Orange, Green & Blue
14:15 Tag Test 3: Il Dan Purple, Red & Ee Dan Tags
15:00 Scheduled Finish

Click here to pay Grading Fees online

Next Black Belt Grading: Sunday 13th June 2010.

Excellence - March 2010

2010-03-08T21:36:00.003Z

The March issue of our monthly class newsletter is below. This issue contains some helpful information for parents of children attending our new Children's Martial Arts Class at Ealing.

Download Excellence (March 2010)

Leadership & Black Belt Training - 06/03/2010

2010-03-03T22:42:00.003Z

The next Leadership & Black Belt Training session will be this Saturday 6th March:

10.00 - 10:30am Leadership Training (Junior Leadership Team, AIs, HIs & CIs)
10.30 - 12.30pm Black Belt Training (All Black Belts. Advanced level students upon invitation).

This is your last chance to review your curriculum in view of the Black Belt Grading on Sunday 21st March.

NB. The Leadership & Black Belt Training session in April has been rescheduled from the 3rd April to the following week, Saturday 10th April (3rd April is Easter weekend). A reminder will be sent closer to the time.

Black Belt Gradings 2010 - Update

2010-03-01T22:59:00.003Z

Please note that the March Black Belt Grading will take place Sunday 21st March, not 14th March as previously communicated. The 14th was a provisional date but is actually Mother's Day.

Apologies for any inconvenience.

The Calendar at the bottom of each page has also been updated to reflect this update.

Coloured Belt Grading - February 2010

2010-02-25T13:14:00.005Z

The first Coloured Belt Grading for 2010 will be this Saturday at Ealing, 27th February:

Ellen Wilkinson School
Queens Drive
North Ealing
London
W5 0HW

Click here for a map of Ealing CKD

Click here for Grading Times for Saturday 27th February

Click here to pay Grading Fees online

Please remember that while gradings times are an estimate it is advisable to arrive 10 - 15 minutes before your scheduled time in order to warm up and prepare.

Leadership & Black Belt Training - 06/02/2010

2010-02-03T22:40:00.003Z

February's Leadership & Black Belt Training class takes place this weekend at Ealing CKD:

Ealing CKD
Ellen Wilkinson School
Queens Drive
North Ealing
London
W5 0HW

Click here for a map of Ealing Choi Kwang-Do School

10.00 - 10:30am Leadership Training (Junior Leadership Team, AIs, HIs & CIs)
10.30 - 12.30pm Black Belt Training (All Black Belts. Advanced level students upon invitation)

First Classes For 2010

2010-01-09T21:01:00.003Z

Welcome to 2010!

A reminder that Choi Kwang-Do classes resume at Ealing on Monday 11th January:

6.00 - 7.00pm New Children's Class for students aged 6 - 12 years.

7.15 - 8.30pm Teens & Adults.

Leadership & Black Belt Training - 09/01/2010

2010-01-08T05:34:00.002Z

Our first Leadership & Black Belt Training session for 2010 will be this Saturday:

Ealing CKD School
Ellen Wilkinson School
Queens Drive
North Ealing
London
W5 0HW

Click here for a map of Ealing Choi Kwang-Do School

10.30 - 12.30pm Black Belt Training (All Black Belts. Advanced level students upon invitation)

NB. There will be no Leadership Training session on this date. The class will start at 10.30am to give students and instructors extra time to travel given the weather conditions.

Excellence - December 2009/January 2010

2009-12-11T15:11:00.003Z

Below is the last issue of Excellence for 2009. This issue includes scheduled dates for the following events during 2010:

- Coloured Belt Gradings
- Black Belt Gradings
- Leadership & Black Belt Training

...plus dates and timings for the last classes for 2009 and the first classes for 2010.

Download Excellence (December 2009/January 2010)

Coloured Belt Grading - December 2009

2009-12-10T05:51:00.004Z

The last Coloured Belt Grading for 2009 takes place this Saturday 12th December at Ealing Choi Kwang-Do School:

Ellen Wilkinson School
Queens Drive
North Ealing
London
W5 0HW

Click here for a map of Ealing CKD

Click here for Grading Times for Saturday 12th December

Click here to pay Grading Fees online

The Grading Times document also includes scheduled grading dates for 2010. These dates will soon be added to the Calendar which appears at the bottom of each page of this website.

Leadership & Black Belt Training - 05/12/2009

2009-12-03T22:44:00.003Z

The last Leadership & Black Belt Training session for 2009 will be this Saturday 5th December at:

Ealing CKD School
Ellen Wilkinson School
Queens Drive
North Ealing
London
W5 0HW

Click here for a map of Ealing Choi Kwang-Do School

10.00 - 10.30am Leadership Training (Junior Leadership Team, AIs, HIs & CIs)
10.30 - 12.30pm Black Belt Training (All Black Belts. Advanced level students upon invitation)

As the December Black Belt Grading is the following day at Wembley Choi Kwang-Do School, this class will be a general review of required syllabus material.

Black Belt Grading - December 2009

2009-12-02T22:39:00.003Z

The last Regional Black Belt Grading for 2009 will be this Sunday 6th December:

Wembley CKD School
Barham Primary School
Danethorpe Road
Wembley
Middx.
HA0 4RQ

Click here for a map of Wembley CKD School

10:00 Line Up, Promise, Pledge, Principles, Welcome & Introductions.
10:10 Dan Testing
11:45 Testing 1: Il Dan Plain, Yellow & Gold
12:30 Testing 2: Il Dan Orange, Green, Blue & Purple
13:15 Testing 3: Il Dan Red - Sam Dan Blue
14:00 Scheduled Finish

Click here to pay Grading Fees online

Click here for Black Belt Grading dates for 2010

Class Update: Hendon CKD - 26/11/2009

2009-11-24T08:21:00.003Z

A note to let you know that the Choi Kwang-Do classes at Hendon on Thursday 26th November will be held at Bell Lane:

Bell Lane Primary School (Sports Hall)
Bell Lane
Hendon
London NW4 2AS

Click here for a map of Bell Lane Primary School

Classes will take place at the usual times:

Children: 6.00 - 7.00pm
Teens & Adults: 7.15 - 8.30pm

Excellence - November 2009

2009-11-17T08:32:00.002Z

Please see below the next issue of Excellence, our monthly class newsletter. Includes information on Master Pereira's Instructor Workshop later this month and an update on Hendon Choi Kwang-Do School.

Download Excellence (November 2009)

Class Update: Hendon CKD - 12/11/2009 & 26/11/2009

2009-11-12T06:56:00.003Z

Please be advised that the following two martial arts classes at our Hendon location will be held at Bell Lane:

Thursday 12th November
Thursday 26th November

Bell Lane Primary School (Sports Hall)
Bell Lane
Hendon
London NW4 2AS

Both classes will take place at the usual times:

Children: 6.00 - 7.00pm
Teens & Adults: 7.15 - 8.30pm

Click here for a map of Bell Lane Primary School

Leadership & Black Belt Training - 07/11/2009

2009-11-06T14:14:00.003Z

The next Leadership & Black Belt Training session for November will take place this Saturday at Ealing:

Ealing CKD School
Ellen Wilkinson School
Queens Drive
North Ealing
London
W5 0HW

Click here for a map of Ealing Choi Kwang-Do School

10.00 - 10:30am Leadership Training (Junior Leadership Team, AIs, HIs & CIs)
10.30 - 12.30pm Black Belt Training (All Black Belts. Advanced level students upon invitation)

Class Update: Hendon CKD - 27/10/2009 & 29/10/2009

2009-10-26T22:26:00.004Z

As announced in the Choi Kwang-Do class last Thursday, Hendon School have cancelled all lettings during the October Half Term, so unfortunately no martial arts classes this week. The following dates are affected:

Tuesday 27th October
Thursday 29th October

The next class will be on Tuesday 3rd November at Hendon School. The belt presentation and results from the October Grading will also be announced on this date.

Apologies for any inconvenience.

Black Belt Gradings 2010

2009-10-21T21:56:00.003+01:00

For all Black Belts (and prospective Black Belts) please see below the proposed grading dates for 2010:

Sunday 14th March 2010
Sunday 13th June 2010
Sunday 19th September 2010
Sunday 5th December 2010

All Black Belt Gradings take place at Wembley Choi Kwang-Do School starting at 10.00am. Full grading times are published in the week preceding the grading.

Coloured Belt Grading - October 2009

2009-10-21T21:44:00.002+01:00

October's Coloured Belt Grading will be held on Saturday 24th at Ealing Choi Kwang-Do School:

Ellen Wilkinson School
Queens Drive
North Ealing
London
W5 0HW

Click here for a map of Ealing CKD

Click here for Grading Times for Saturday 24th October

Click here to pay Grading Fees online

Lastly, advance notice that the last Coloured Belt Grading for 2009 will be on Saturday 12th December.

Class Update: Hendon CKD - 15/10/2009

2009-10-15T15:51:00.003+01:00

Please note that tonight's class, Thursday 15th October, will be held at Bell Lane:

Bell Lane Primary School
Bell Lane
Hendon
London NW4 2AS

Children: 6.00 - 7.00pm
Teens & Adults: 7.15 - 8.30pm

Click here for a map of Bell Lane Primary School