Dragon Martial Arts Academy - Creston
Dragon Martial Arts Academy - Creston
Dragon Martial Arts Academy - Creston
Self-Defense and Fitness Through Traditional Taekwon-Do
Taekwon-Do is a martial art that originated in Korea (with influences from Japanese Karate). At Dragon Martial Arts Academy - Creston, our primary curriculum is the original style of Taekwon-Do as it was introduced to North America in the early 1970s. We are proud to be closely affiliated with one of the original pioneers of the martial art, 9th Degree Black Belt Grandmaster Chang Keun (C.K.) Choi (pictured). We also maintain close relationships with several other Western Canadian martial arts schools (such as the Dragon Martial Arts Academies on Vancouver Island, Quest Martial Arts Academy in Kelowna, Trail Martial Arts, and the chain of schools which make up the United Traditional Taekwon-Do Canada organization in Southern Alberta.
In order to provide the most well-rounded experience possible; cross training is encouraged and provided. Students focus on learning a full black belt curriculum in Taekwon-Do. Training is then supplemented with basic skills in other arts such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Aikido. Our motto is “Self Defense and fitness through traditional Taekwon-Do”; and this is the focus of our classes. A strong body and mind is better prepared to respond should there be a need for self defense. To accomplish these ends, students don’t just get a great work out. Every class of our structured curriculum is designed to build upon previous lessons and experience... improving physical skills while increasing self confidence.
Who Are We?
Who Are We?
School Etiquette:
School Etiquette:
There are 5 main character traits that we hope to foster and develop in all students at DMA Creston. They are referred to as the “Tenets of Taekwon-Do” and are Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control, and Indominable Spirit. Right from the beginning, students will practice courtesy (respect) in every interaction both within and outside the school. Since Tae kwon-Do originated in Korea, we observe the practice of bowing out of respect while interacting with each other. This is often done in similar situations to where people born in North America would shake hands.
The following is a basic list of ways that each student practices courtesy while attending classes at DMA Creston:
-Your uniform is to be worn completely for every class and needs to be clean.
-Please maintain clean personal hygiene (trimmed toe and fingernails) and remove all jewelry before training.
-Be on time for classes (arriving 5-10 minutes early is ideal).
-Shoes should be removed as soon as you enter the school.
-When stepping onto or off the training floor, execute a bow of respect facing the displayed national flags (Canada and Korea).
-While waiting for your class to begin, take the opportunity to warm up and practice.
-There should be no loud talking, running around or climbing, or other ‘horseplay’ before class.
-Proper respect needs to be shown to every person.
-While the instructor is speaking or during group drills, there should be no talking between students.
-During class, never leave the floor without first speaking with the instructor.
-When asking a question of an instructor, it is appropriate to bow in greeting and again afterward to thank them for the answer.
-When speaking to an instructor (regardless of their belt rank) they should be addressed as Mr., Ms., or Mrs., followed by their last name. (If you do not know their name, then Sir or Ma’am should be used). This courtesy should be practiced both in and outside of class.
Curriculum and Testing:
Curriculum and Testing:
The belt system used in our style of Taekwon-Do consists of 10 levels between White Belt (where we all start) to Black Belt. This journey is a marathon, not a sprint. There is no average time frame for a student to progress from White Belt to Black Belt (often taking anywhere from 5 to 12 years). This is because every person is unique and progresses at their own pace. Of course, a Black Belt is not the end of the journey... but more like graduating from high school. There is still so much that can continue to be learned.
Between each belt level, students undergo testing. A belt test is a great tool for building confidence (both in their techniques, and personally... performing in front of their peers and family).
At White Belt (once the decision has been made to pursue ongoing training); a martial arts uniform is required to be worn during every class. All students are required to have an all white traditional uniform. This uniform is mandatory for all belt exams, and tournaments. Students then have the option of purchasing a black uniform to supplement their white one, and may chose which to wear for regular classes. Any loose jewelry must be removed during classes; and finger/toe nails need to be trimmed.
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At Yellow Belt, students begin to move into ‘light contact free-sparring’ during class. This sparring is a large part of every student’s curriculum at all levels moving forward. At this time, a basic level of Safety Gear is required (Mouth Guard, Gloves, and Shin/Instep protection). Students are of course welcome to purchase and use optional gear which exceeds the minimum standard at any time (such as Head padding, athletic cup, and chest protector). Once purchased, sparring gear should be brought with the student to each class.
Uniforms and Safety Gear:
Uniforms and Safety Gear:
Hopefully this information is helpful as you begin the exciting first steps into the world of martial arts. Please bookmark this website (dmacreston.com) and like us on Facebook to stay up to date on everything happening around the school. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss.
Thank you