In this episode KJN Master Steve Voelker helps us to understand internal and external forms and types of breath.  Often referred to a Weigun and Neigun these differences are the focus of advanced students of Tang Soo Do and help us find th...

More excerpts from my unfinished book "A few thoughts on Tang Soo Do".  Targeting , footwork, training vs. practice are among the 15 sub topics covered in this episode.

In 2011 I began writing a book of short ruminations on Tang Soo Do.  Writing and editing a book is a huge undertaking, one that I never finished. However the writing of "A few things about Tang Soo Do " was perhaps the genesis of this podc...

Martial arts is a difficult pursuit for many reasons. I took an informal poll of fellow students and collected their responses in this episode. From losing abilities due to age and injury to simply remembering Korean terminology, the following ...

A short thank you for the past year, a look at last year's resolutions and making new goals for the upcoming year.

As a follow up to the the last episode, Nine words for self-defense introduces a simple concept for effectively dealing with an attack.  Move closer, move outside, move forward and move the head sum up an easy to remember idea that puts yo...

It is easy to argue that one of the main reasons why people train in martial arts is for self defense.  There are many ways that the benefits of  Tang Soo Do training can help you to defend yourself.  This episode covers some gen...

Mental health issues has been described as a crisis among our society. Many of the most common problems that ail our population can be reduced or managed by training in Tang Soo Do.  Depression, anxiety, self harm and ADHD sufferers can be...

This episode is a continuation on the topic of board breaking with an emphasis on techniques and tips to improve you success rate when attempting breaks.  Four main areas of practice are highlighted:Commitment, Distance Appreciation, Targe...

Board Breaking is common activity in Tang Soo Do as part of testing or in competition.  Bruce Lee famously said "Boards don't hit back".  However, there are many ways breaking can demonstrate good Tang Soo Do practice.  In order ...

The fundamentals of movement are the same regardless if you are skier, ballerina or a martial artist.  By watching other athletes we can learn things about movement and technique that can reinforce our pursuit of excellence in martial arts...

Viola Tagliatella and Betty Jo Stosse are both second Dan black belts who train regularly.  Both began training later in life and continue to train in their 50s and 60s.  This is my first interview with two guests at the same time who...

Increasing your speed is no secret.  It is simple but not easy. Doing some tedious but useful things can reap increases in your speed.  In this episode I cover four ways to improve your speed without sacrificing technique.

We all know Tang Soo Do is a life long endeavor, but Adam Kaczmarek has demonstrated it by testing for 4th Dan at age 74!  this interview covers his story and attitude toward training in his 7th decade,

One of the hallmarks of Tang Soo Do as a martial arts is the use of kicks in our forms and sparring.  This episode describes 5 sure ways to improve your kicking. 

This episode is dedicated to looking back on my years of training and the important take aways from that experience. I wax nostalgic on the loss of that feeling of beginning training as well as the new emotions that come with years of experienc...

One of the many benefits of martial arts training is developing confidence, but what does that mean?  What exactly is confidence  and how does one develop it.  In this episode we take a deep dive into what it means to be confiden...

Many of the things we are taught in Tang Soo Do seem strange and even wrong on first glance.  Ideas such as moving in toward and attack or going slow to create speed sound like the opposite of what one should do.  There are many ways ...

Master Mike Bogdanski has been practicing Tang Soo Do for over 50 years. A regular on the competition circuit in the 70s and 80s he was widely renowned for his performances.  A school owner for many decades he has promoted scores of Black ...

Episode 20 "Learning Tools" describes many ways to help improve your practice using commonplace items. Instructors may find ideas for helping students to correct their  techniques on their own.Learning tools or teaching hacks, whatever the...

This episode highlights 10 ways to help you prepare better for upcoming competitions.  There are training tips and ideas to help manage scheduling, gear issues, and different locations of tournaments.  How you prepare is almost as...

Tang Soo Do focus is pleased to share an interview with Master Efrain Valentin, founder of Valentin Karate in Meriden , CT.  Master Valentin is a 7th degree Black Belt. He has trained in Tang Soo Do since 1977 and opened his first school i...

This episode explores the experience of  being judged in a testing or competition.  Suggestions are given on how to make a better impression and put your best foot forward in these pressure situations.  Additionally the experienc...

Episode 16 is a continuation of Episode 9 -"5 ways to improve your Tang Soo Do".  We look at five more simple ways to improve your practice and training.  Taking any of these steps is sure to help your progress and working them in or ...

This episode examines the concept of Toughness and what I means as students of Tang Soo Do.  The characteristics of pysical, mental , and spiritual toughness are explored and several exercises are suggested to help increase your toughness ...