What is Soo Bahk Do - Moo Duk Kwan?
There are two parts to understanding the Martial Art that we teach our Adult students at MASA.
The physical Art we practice in the Soo Bahk Do while Moo Duk Kwan is really the philosophy in which we teach by! Soo Bahk Do is the Ancient Martial Art of Korea which dates back some 2700 years! This makes the Soo Bahk Do the oldest known Martial Art of Korean and as World Moo Duk Kwan members, we are really the modern day guardians of the Art!
If we translate the terms literally, Moo Duk Kwan means "Institute of Martial Virtue". Our Founder, Kwan Jang Nim (Grand Master) Hwang Kee established the Moo Duk Kwan on the 9th of November in 1945 (his birthday - Cool hey!) This made it the very first Martial Arts Organisation in the day in Korea!
The Culture all Moo Duk Kwan schools continue to create are rich in Respect (for self and others), with the goals to avoid or end conflict. It is the scientific approach to the way we use our body in methods of self defence, together with a strict philosophy that guides us all with the goal of reaching our full potential.
Soo Bahk Do
Soo Bahk Do is a unique traditional Korean martial arts style translated means (reversed) the way of the striking hand and as a strong "striking art" it is the means we use to strengthen our selves through intense physical and mental training. I believe it is the "intellectual" Art of learning to challenge ourself, push ourselves and allow ourselves to be pushed (by our instructor) out of our comfort zone where we can grow as a person both physically and mentally. We can discard our negative and strengthen our positive self vision!
This is where I could ask you the question, "Do you have what it takes?" However, I also believe that everyone has what it takes to grow and improve but the real question is do we have the humility to accept who we are and use that as a starting point. We can't all be Bruce Lee or be perfect in anyway if we aren't truthful and accepting of ourselves. I believe that everyone can gain physically and mentally through Soo Bahk Do if you give it a chance!
Call us today on 8351 3444 to check availablity as classes do fill up at MASA!
Soo Bahk Do History
Soo Bahk Do today is progressive Art based on the ancient Korean system of Soo Bahk Ki, which was passed down from the Ku Ko Ryu Dynasty over 2000 years ago. Soo Bahk Do is the oldest known Korean martial art form. Soo Bahk Do (手搏道 - "Hand Strike Way") is a defensive style that employs the hands and feet prodominantly but also incorporates many other weapon on the body such as elbows, knees. It is a well balanced hard and soft style which uses both fast striking techniques and slow flowing motion. With emphasis on intensive physical and mental training serves to achieve optimum use of the body together with strengthening in spirit.
Moo Do Philosophy
Soo Bahk Do Moo Duk Kwan has a strong philosophical center stemming from the teachings of both Lao Tzu and Confucius. "Moo Do" (武道 - "Martial Way") is the central concept which promotes the importance of discipline, honor, and respect between martial arts peers and beyond the training room floor. This is an extremely important part of training because it equips practitioners not only with solid martial arts skills, but the humility and the discipline to treat others with dignity, compassion, and respect. The intent of Moo Do as spiritual training aims to serve a greater purpose in building a stronger martial arts community (among Soo Bahk Do practitioners and others alike), and a stronger, more peaceful community between people throughout the world.
In addition, the Moo symbol (or Character) translates to the understanding of preventing conflict, both internal and external. As a result, the practitioner becomes self disciplined to prevent conflict against others, but more importantly, become self consious to avoid conflict within. To respect ourselves, accept ourselves and allow ourselves to grow as a person is not always a common self belief! As a Moo Do practitioner, we learn to grow in all areas!