Martial Arts

Martial arts are studied for various reasons including combat skills, fitness, self-defense, sport self-cultivation (meditation), mental discipline, character development and building self-confidence. A practitioner of martial arts is referred to as a martial artist.

Practical and Reality Based Self-Defense

Students will learn to defend against standup aggression, the most common type of attack on the streets. Students will learn defense against knife, gun, sticks and multiple attackers. Students will also learn fundamental ground techniques and submissions.

Jujitsu, Jiu-Jitsu – Gentle art, technique or method.

Students will learn the art of weaponless fighting employing grappling holds, throws and strikes to subdue or disable an opponent while maximizing use of technique and minimizing use of force.

Tang Soo Do/Karate

Tang Soo Do is a traditional Korean martial arts. Translating the word "Tang Soo Do" is difficult. The word "Soo" means "hand"; the word "Do" means way; however, the word "Tang" has many meanings, such as "Worthiness", "Skillful", and "Strong". Since the hanja used for Tang Soo Do is the same as the symbols used in Japan for Karate-Do, it directly translates as "Way of the empty hand (Karate)" or "Way of the Tang (Dynasty) hand". One reason for the difficulty in direct translation is the historical-cultural meanings associated with the Tang Dynasty.

Students will learn the techniques of fighting with the body’s natural weapons. The ultimate aim of the art of karate lies neither in victory or defeat, but in the perfection of the character of its participants. We will promote self growth in the individual by teaching traditional values of self discipline, respect, confidence, focus, control and perseverance that will carry over into daily life.

Katas, Hyungs (Forms) of Karate - the art of self-defense without weapons.

Kata is a Japanese word and Hyung is a Korean word describing detailed patterns of movements practiced either solo or in pairs. Kata are used by most traditional Japanese and Okinawan martial arts, such as Aikido, Iaido, Jodo, Judo, Jujitsu, Kendo and Karate. Other arts such as Tang Soo Do and Tae Kwon Do feature the same kind of training, but use the respective Korean words instead.

Students will learn the art of weaponless fighting employing grappling holds, throws and strikes to subdue or disable an opponent while maximizing use of technique and minimizing use of force.

Weapons

Students will learn how to use Bo staff, sword, knives that are required at certain belt levels. In addition we will teach Sais, tonfas, bokken and Iaido during special weapon classes.

Classes - Kids and Adult classes are separate.

In order to assure that each student receives the proper instruction at their level we have broken the classes down by belt level. All techniques that are required will be taught during classes.

There are no special memberships or programs that are required for additional training. Students are promoted based on merit and effort.

Beginner classes’ concentrate on basic techniques and self-defense that create the foundation of Martial Arts program.

Intermediate/Advance classes’ concentrate on all the basic techniques along with more difficult techniques. Students will also be introduced to sparring (fighting) and grappling.

Advance classes’ concentrate on preparing the students for higher expectations to reach Black Belt. The students will be introduced to weapons training.

Friday night adult classes are special with certain memberships. It’s extra training that has no affect on belt level advancement. Each month we will post a schedule outlining what will be taught a particular Friday. The classes could be either of the following:

• Jujitsu/Grappling
• Self-Defense
• Iaido
• Tonfas
• Sais
• Sparring (fighting).

Private Lessons are available to members or non-members who request instruction on any part of the programs offered at Mercer Academy of Martial Arts. Fee is required.

Birthday Parties – Come have your birthday with us. You be given a 20-30 minute karate class. Twenty to thirty minutes of games and then kicking and striking bags along with breaking boards which everyone will be able to do. It’s a lot of fun.

Little Dragons - We provide the opportunity for the child to learn basic karate drills, follow instructions, work in small groups, take turns and most of all have fun! Our goal is to help the child develop gross motor skills, including balance and coordination, improve listening skills, build confidence, discipline and the self-esteem necessary to succeed!

Seminars - Mercer Academy of Martial Arts recognizes that all styles of Martial Arts offer valuable techniques and insight into martial arts training. To this end, Mercer Academy of Martial Arts is committed to a well-rounded approach to martial arts. Our unique style is enhanced through exposure to other styles.