MacDermott's Tang Soo Do Association
What style do you teach?
We teach the Korean Art of Moo Duk Kwan Tang Soo Do(tongue-sue-doe)
What is Tang Soo Do?
Read more about The Art of Tang Soo Do on our History page.
Can I try out Tang Soo Do and see if it is for me?
Of course! Your first two lessons are free. Come on in and see what we do. Spectators are welcome - we're the ones in the pajamas.
How much does it cost?
Please see the instructors at each individual studio. Cost varies from studio to studio but it ranges from about $40 to $55. We have some of the lowest tuition prices in the area, and we pride ourselves on quality instruction for a reasonable price.
How long does the class last?
The classes officially last one hour at most locations (Middleboro has 2 classes back-back for a total of 2 hr,15 minutes). Members are always willing to stay and work later. It is good etiquette to arrive and warm up and stretch about ten minutes before a class, so please be prompt! We want to get as much out of instructor's time as we can!
What are Tang Soo Do classes like?
Our classes start off with 10-15 minutes of stretching. Stretching is crucial part of class. After stretching, the Instructor will call to begin class and the highest student will formerly open the class. Class usually starts off with basic drills consisting of punching and kicking techniques, and combinations for advanced students. After that class usually varies between forms(Hyungs), pad work, One-Steps(Il soo sek dae ryun), free fighting(Jae Yu Dae Ryun), self defense(Ho Sin Sul), or various drills and then the Instructor will make closing announcements and the highest ranking student will then formally close the class. Spectators are welcome to stop by and check it out.
Are there any female members?
Yes. We have two female Certified Instructors: Kyo Sa Nim Hopgood and Kyo Sa Nim Chuilli, and we also have four female 1st Degree Black Belts. We also have many gup(under black belt) female students.
Do you need to be strong or big to do Tang Soo Do?
No. Tang Soo Do teaches you not to rely on brute force but to tactfully and precisely off balance your opponent with quick strikes, sweeps, and locks. Being short will not hinder your abilities in Tang Soo Do.
Do you offer anything other than Traditional Tang Soo Do classes?
Yes. We offer a cardio kickboxing class that incorporates certain basic techniques from Tang Soo Do. This class is led by Master MacDermott and is quite a workout. Come by and try your first class for free. Visit the High Energy TSD page for more information.
We also offer a women’s self defense course annually. Check the news page for more details.
Yes, free sparring is apart of our curriculum but, you will not start free sparring right away. There are certain skills and concepts we’ll teach you before you spar to ensure your safety and others.
While we cannot guarantee you won’t get a bump or bruise along the way we take your safety very seriously here at MTSDA. All of our Certified Instructors are very safety conscious and during any contact activity the appropriate protective gear will be worn. We have had no past experience with any serious injuries, just your common bump, cut, or bruise.
Do I
need any previous experience?
No you don’t need any previous experience. You will start out at
a beginner level and work your way up according to your abilities and
how well you learn. During your beginning days and weeks you will be put
with an experienced black belt who will teach you beginner techniques.
How do I get started?
Just show up 10-15 minutes early at the location you wish to begin your classes at. You can view our locations here, on our locations page, also there is a picture of the Instructors so you know who to address about starting up classes. Speak to the Instructor and they’ll set you up with some information and you can then start your first trial class!
What equipment will I need?
To start you’ll just need to be in comfortable clothing that you can move athletically in. Later on, you can purchase a Uniform as well as other materials such as, a Training Manual.
Do you split up children and adults?
Yes, most locations have separate Youth and Adult programs that run at different times. See our Locations page for more details.
Do you split up children and adult ranks?
No we don’t split up the ranks because regardless of age everyone is responsible for the same material. So for example, and orange belt adult, knows the same material as an orange belt kid.
Can I keep my current rank from another style/school?
Every Martial Art is different, but some skills and concepts are universal. We also can’t guarantee that our ranking systems will match up. So, we’d like to have you come to a few classes so our Certified Staff can evaluate and determine where you should start out.
How quickly will I progress through the ranks?
There are certain requirements that must be met before one can test for their next rank. For example, adequate attendance must be attained, you must be in good standing with a Certified Instructor, a time requirement must be met, and your required materials must be learned. The minimum time requirement between each under Black Belt(Gup) rank is 3 months. See our Rank Requirements Page for more details.
What are the ranks?
You can view our system’s Traditional Ranking System
here, on the Ranking System page.
How physically demanding is Tang Soo Do?
It’s as physically demanding as you make it. Some techniques require more power and physical exertion than others, but we will never push you to a point you can’t go to. You go the speed you need to go to accommodate your needs and your level. Slowly but surely moves will become easier and you will become more flexible.
Do I have to be “In-Shape” to do Tang Soo Do?
No. That’s the beauty of Martial Arts, you control your speed, power, and how much you exert your body. We encourage everyone to do their best, but only do what you can. Many Upper Belts can attest to increased flexibility and cardio vascular abilities.
Will Tang Soo Do improve my shape?
Yes. Tang Soo Do offers something for everyone. It will improve your mental health, physical health, coordination, and especially your flexibility!
How long does it take to get a black belt?
If you are truly dedicated to Tang Soo Do you can earn your Black Belt in roughly 4 years. For certain individuals, it may take longer. We do not “hand out” Black Belts and a sufficient amount of time must be spent in this system along with a certain level of dedication to this Art must be exemplified before anyone will be considered for Black Belt. See our Ranking System Page and Rank Requirements Page for more details. Remember, Black Belt is not a stopping point, it’s often noted as the beginning of the Journey of a true Martial Artist.
Do I have to wear a karate uniform (Dobahk)?
To start out, no you don’t have to wear a uniform. In fact, we don’t want you to spend the money on a uniform before you’re sure you’re hooked. To start, wear comfortable, athletic clothing that you can move in. But, once you sign up we’d like you to purchase a uniform as soon as possible to maintain comfort, uniformity, safety, and tradition.
How can I get more information about MacDermott's Tang Soo Do?
Please browse this site to gather as much information as you need! But, if you wish to speak to someone personally or have any further questions please contact (508)-326-3154 or email mdktangsoodoksn@verizon.net. You can also stop by any class location to speak to any of the Instructors.
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