Goal Setting and New Year's Resolutions

By Ed Stanton, red belt

As the world gets ready to ring in a new year, people from all walks of life will reflect back on the previous year and write lists of resolutions to change themselves.  These promises come from a desire to start fresh as we enter the next year of life.  Unfortunately, only between 8 and 12 percent of these resolutions are successful.  How can we make promises to ourselves that we are more likely to keep?

At the Colorado Taekwondo Institute we are setting and achieving goals as a continual part of our martial arts training.  Part of the second Aim of Moo Sul Kwan Martial Arts is to help students set and achieve appropriate goals.  Using the techniques that are taught to us in during our martial arts training we can set goals and resolutions that are achievable and will help us get to our bigger goals; black belt, weight loss, healthy eating, becoming better at an instrument.

One of the best ways to achieve our resolutions it to setup smaller goals and milestones that we know with a little extra effort we can achieve.  Breaking up big challenges into smaller manageable chunks we are more likely to achieve them, or if we miss, know that we can get back on track without monumental effort.  You can see this reflected in the way we learn poomse in our Taekwondo classes.  We learn only short sections of a poomse at a time.  Our small goal should always be to learn those new sections with the ultimate aim of learning the whole thing in time.  Break up any resolution you make into smaller achievable goals that can be planned and focused on.  This will make it much easier for us to effect bigger changes.

In our Taekwondo classes there is a relentless focus on basics to achieve success.  If we are struggling with doing a spinning hook kick, one of the best things to do is to work on our basic side kick.  Focus on the basics is a recognition of the importance of proper foundational support systems to become good at anything we are doing. 

This focus on basics can be carried to any goal or resolution we may have in life.   If we are trying to get better grades in school, or get a promotion at work as a resolution we should look to the basics of our study, or look at what makes us good at what we do and focus some energy on things that we already know and do well.

Whether a New Year’s resolution is to lose weight, get a promotion or get in better shape, some of the fundamental learnings from our MSK martial arts training can be used to have a better success rate than the typical 8 to 12 percent.  Breaking things into small manageable pieces, holding yourself accountable and putting energy into our goals by focusing on the basics are fundamental to successful change.

Good luck on your resolutions and Happy New Year!

CTI Christmas Party Wins Over Grinch!

It was so nice to spend time with each other at our annual Christmas event!  The party was a unique chance to talk among ourselves about all of the competitions and events that happened during the last year.  The record-breaking tournaments, the incredible Expo and Camp MSK summer events, the trip to Missouri, CTI Picnic and so on.  The party was also a fun opportunity for our parents, family members and friends to interact with the students and instructors at a CTI social setting - without uniforms on!

Hundreds of CTI students, instructors, family members and friends of all ages attended the annual CTI Christmas Party on December 21st!  The farthest traveled this year was Mr. Brian Steward, 4th dan, who came all the way from New York City to be at the party.

Everyone brought delicious food, in addition to some fantastic homemade cakes handcrafted by some of our CTI friends!  Among the many things that happened at the CTI Christmas Party, a special booth was set up and run by red belts, and  CTI Elves in charge of Photography, Vivi Brown and Adam Harkins. 

Moo Sul Rock, our own black belt band, performed for everyone with special guests Alice Meyung, Katie Dahle, Mindy Sautel and the CTI Ukulele Band.  The CTI Ukulele Band was composed of CTI 4th, dans and higher.  They performed two numbers to the delight of the crowd, one accompanying singer Katie Dahle, 1st dan.

Santa couldn't make the party being so close to Christmas, so the Grinch filled in as the CTI Christmas Party special guest!  Throughout the evening, the Grinch was his old self, stealing gifts, causing bedlam and  staying one step ahead of the crowd.  But by the time the evening ended, the Grinch was happy, dancing and part of the festive CTI crowd.  He was overcome with holiday cheer and returned the many Christmas gifts he took without permission, well, most of them anyway.

Special thanks to everyone who helped stage this year's CTI Christmas Party!

20th Lee H. Park Team Championships

THE LARGEST EVENT IN MOO SUL KWAN HISTORY!

Students and instructors from the Colorado Taekwondo Institute came together to celebrate the founder of Moo Sul Kwan and the American Martial Arts Sports and Education Association at the 20th Lee H. Park Team Championships.  Great Grandmaster Park brought the unique gift of Moo Sul Kwan martial arts in 1969, to the United States.  Since then, thousands and thousands of people have benefited from someone in their family who trained in Moo Sul Kwan and the AMASEA.

Presented by the Grandmaster and Master instructors of the CTI, the 20th Lee H. Park Team Championships was dedicated to all of the parents, family members and friends of the CTI,MSK and the AMASEA.

Taking place at Alameda International Junior / Senior High School in Lakewood, Colorado, 374 Moo Sul Kwan martial artists competed in team events like; poomse, breaking, kicking, one-step sparring / self-defense and creative basics.

The action began at 7:00 AM with black belt competitions in staff sparring, black belt poomse, team kicking and one-steps / self defense.  Click here to see some photos from the day.

Students of all ages and belt levels followed the black belts with their own dynamic team competitions! Besides poomse, there were also the Basics Challenge and Most Kicks in a Minute events for the younger students.

The exciting day ended with some special promotions for some of the students.  Receiving their black belts were; 3rd dan -Jason Walker from Craig, CO, 2nd dans - Kenny Brancio (Westminster) and Makayla Trapp (Green Mountain) and 1st dans - Deb Denny (Conifer), Elizabeth Hawkins (Littleton), Cody Jacobson (Conifer), Phillip Hoenmans (Golden) and Lydia Willis (Westminster).

Martial Arts for Family

By Nethika Suraweera, blue belt

Growing up in Sri Lanka and having moved to United States 10 years ago, I’ve heard good things about martial arts: How it helps people to stay in control with body, spirit and mind; How it helps kids to grow up with discipline and so many invaluable qualities; How it teaches any human to face challenges in life.  3 years ago, as me and my family moved to Denver, I was looking for a martial arts class for my 5 years old son. I inquired about Karate institutes and Taekwondo institutes in Littleton, Lakewood area.

My son was about to start Kindergarten, and we met some black belts from Colorado Taekwondo Institute (CTI) at the information session before starting the school year. When looked up for more information, and asked from other parents, I figured out that CTI was a great martial arts school. They had 5 campuses around Denver including Littleton, that is very closer to where we live. They had before and after school programs at several elementary schools and middle schools.

We enrolled our son for the Taekwondo class done by CTI, conveniently at his school.  Three months after he started Taekwondo, we were at his very first tournament, and I saw that people of every age participating in Taekwondo events, and I was fascinated by the demo done by the black belts. That’s the day I decided that I myself will join the classes at CTI. As of today, I am a blue belt, my son is a about to be a Junior blue belt and my 4 years old daughter is a Tiger green belt. We enjoy practicing in martial arts at CTI as a family. My husband continuously helps for our Taekwondo events and activities.

Within these few years we’ve built a good relationship with CTI. We have a great community of nice people. We have picnics, Christmas parties, food drives and many more activities. CTI even do ‘Lock-In’s that they take care of kids on some Friday nights, and parents can go out for a date night! CTI does an awesome job organizing martial arts events. Each year there are several tournaments, a summer expo, summer camps for kids and adults, a black belt symposium, master seminars and a black belt world tour every few years.

CTI follows rules and techniques of an ancient Taekwondo style: ’Moo Sul Kwan’. They make sure to preserve traditional values of Moo Sul Kwan, while teaching it to today’s students in a way that they can master in both physical and psychological excellence. To ensure high standards, CTI works in association with Moo Sul Kwan Martial Arts Institute and American Martial Arts Sports and Education Association.

The martial arts instructors at CTI are excellent. They’ve being very well trained for teaching and it is a continues learning and training process and a life-long commitment for them. The belt promotion process is very organized and strict in a good way, that every student must work hard at their best to earn credits. The kids and adults complete an assignment every month, and in my opinion that is a great activity. The assignment is usually about 5 tenants of Taekwondo: Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control and Indomitable Spirit, or other valuable concepts to improve our lives. It is a good chance for adults to revise and refresh their values. For the kids, a great way of growing up incorporating good habits and skills. CTI lives up to its mission statement: "To encourage world-class leadership through educational excellence and Moo Sul Kwan martial arts traditions”.

Recommended by Parents!

By Lindsey Boswell, brown belt

If you are looking into Karate, Taekwondo, or any type of martial arts lessons, I would highly recommend the Colorado Taekwondo Institute.

My daughter began taking classes when she was about 6 years old, and participated for about a year before I decided to join her.  She was having so much fun that I wanted to be a part of it.  It was such a good decision for us!  Participating in an activity that teaches us how to have fun and work hard, while encouraging us to develop and grow into leaders, has been an invaluable part of our family routine.

The Colorado Taekwondo Institute is a great way for the family to be active together, learn healthy competition, and gain leadership skills.  My daughter and I both have the opportunity to learn together, practice with each other, and compete in the same events.  This is an art that the entire family can be a part of because it allows for each individual to learn at their own pace while being part of a team.

A proud moment, as a mother, is to see my daughter teach younger students.  While it is so special to watch her improve on her own technique and skill, it is magical to watch her step into the role of a teacher at such a young age.  She is learning patience and discipline, while enjoying the activity and challenge of martial arts.  The more comfortable she becomes with her skills in martial arts, the more confident she becomes in other areas in life.

If you are thinking of trying out martial arts lessons, come to the Colorado Taekwondo Institute. We have locations in Conifer/Bailey/Aspen Park, Lakewood/Green Mountain, Littleton/Morrison, Golden/Wheat Ridge, and Westminster/North Arvada. Come see what they have to offer. Bring the family and try out a class. It is a great workout and family friendly. We would love to have you!

Colorado Taekwondo Institute - Winter 2018 Website Intro

Physical Benefits of Training in MSK Taekwondo

By Khristin Paisley, blue belt

Most often when people not associated with martial arts think about martial arts or martial artists they automatically think of pop culture icons from the Karate Kid movies, Kung Fu Panda, Bruce Lee, and Chuck Norris to name a few.  Their perception of martial artists is based on these things and there is an almost automatic connection with board breaking,and yelling like a banshee while we go about kicking and punching.  It is hard to see beyond the Hollywood construct to the benefits that are inherent to our art, and the unique benefits that adults experience as a martial arts student.

Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo is a one of many different kinds of martial arts when looking for karate lessons, and has its own inherent benefits that are unique unto itself.  We learn poomse, we learn kicks, punches and blocks all while improving our physical fitness.  MSK Taekwondo is amazing at helping to improve adult fitness, however, the benefits aren’t just physical and to say that it is the primary benefit of our art would be painting it with a broad paintbrush with too little paint.  The physical benefits are impossible to deny because we ask our bodies to perform feats that many would balk at and without proper training aren’t possible or safe for the average person to perform. Taekwondo takes a person from average to something more and like any artist, the more of ourselves we give over to it, the better we and it becomes.  The physical benefits are not the whole picture. We learn to do things we couldn’t do before, we benefit from the practice inside and outside the dojang.

In Taekwondo or karate lessons, nothing ever is just one sided.  When we kick with the left leg, our right leg is also involved as well as our hands. Through this we learn balance and gain an understanding that this also includes and requires balanced movements; not just the physical balance required to perform these tasks.  We gain a real life understanding of for every action there is an opposite and equal reaction, this is apparent through a balance of movement. Otherwise we would all be on the ground much of the time as we wouldn’t be able to keep our feet.  A good block doesn’t just begin and end with your arm and requires whole body and whole brain involvement.  This is why physical fitness is a secondary benefit and comes naturally with everything else we do.

Much of what we do involves cross body movements which has been linked to things such as improved cognition.  In learning poomse we make our brains work in incredible ways that they likely have never had to before.  Keeping one part of your body still, while moving another independently and with intention, requires a great deal of heightened cognition, focus, and determination well as mastery of the aspects of moving and breath.  Without such control over the physical we would pass out constantly and therefore lack the physical and mental control and endurance to keep mastery of our body. It is just the surface of it because once you have the basics of the what, you learn the nuances that make it better. It is a mental workout.

Eventually we realize that if and when we apply these lessons to whole body and whole brain involvement, we see that we gain a better understanding of ourselves and achieve a greater mastery of our whole self.  We learn that no matter how good we are, we have the ability to achieve more, to learn and improve more, and to become more.  We never lose the sense of awe either, it goes from I could never do that, to I just did that, and wow you want me to do what?  It is cyclical. 

The secret is our goal is never fully reached.  It is close enough to keep us going, to keep us pushing and determined yet just far enough ahead that we are hungry and determined to reach for it. The benefits are vast, varied and nearly limitless. This is perhaps the greatest benefit of all, because we learn to keep pushing .  We learn to give respect and live respectfully and balanced.  Through karate lessons at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute you become part of a team and part of a family, a benefit unto itself.

Why CTI Taekwondo is Great for Kids!

By Jonah Elstad, red belt, 13 yrs old

Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo is not just good for kids- it is great for kids!  I started attending the Colorado Taekwondo Institute when I was 8 years old.  Over the last five years I have noticed many positive changes in my life because of Taekwondo.  I have also noticed the positive effects of Taekwondo in my fellow classmates.

While there are several great aspects of Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo, the three major ones are physical health, emotional health, and improved behavior.

First, Taekwondo improves the student’s physical health. Taekwondo has improved my heath tremendously.  Before Taekwondo I got sick a lot.  Because of the exercise the I get in class my body is stronger and I get sick less.  I have more energy now and my endurance has improved.  In the CTI class we learn how to eat healthy.  We learn the importance of eating fruits and vegetables instead of junk food.  When we eat healthy we get sick less and feel better.   Kids of all ages can get healthier by going to the CTI!

Second, Taekwondo improves the student`s emotional heath. During class and through our monthly homework, students develop a strong self-confidence.  The black belt instructors also point out our positive characteristics and help us feel good about ourselves.  This is very important to a person’s emotional health.  Since we go to class twice a week and do other actives regularly, we spend a lot of time with each other.  We become like a family.  My CTI Taekwondo family has helped me through difficult times in my life and I am very thankful for them.   All kids benefit from the emotional health benefits Taekwondo provides. Sometimes just being able to punch, kick, and yell helps to release one`s emotions and feel better.

Third, Taekwondo helps improves the student’s behavior.  I have seen kid’s behavior change for the better in my years at Taekwondo.  Students become more respectful, obedient and develop self-control while attending the Colorado Taekwondo Institute. When kids feel better physically and emotionally they are happier and act-out less.  I have watched kids attitude improve as their self-confidence grew.  It is truly amazing how Taekwondo changes the student’s behavior in appositive way.

It is obvious that Taekwondo is great for kids!  These past five years of being a student at CTI with black belt instructors have been the best years of my life.  I feel better physically, my emotional health is stronger, and I have more self-control.  I have also loved watching the transformation in all these areas of my fellow classmates.

Exercising on a Regular Basis

By Lydia Willis, red belt, age 12

Do you exercise on a regular basis? If not you should. There are many different benefits of exercising daily. For example it can make you happier, exercise can help increase your energy levels, and it can also help with relaxation and sleep quality.

Exercise can make you feel a lot happier on a day to day life. It helps with depression and anxiety. When you exercise it produces many changes in the part of your brain that regulates your stress and anxiety. By exercising you increase your brain’s sensitivity and produces serotonin and norepinephrine hormones which relieve feelings of depression. Endorphins produce many happy and positive feelings. They are also produced when you exercise and they help to reduce the perception of pain. Exercising not only helps with feelings of depression, but also with feelings of anxiety.
It can help you be aware of your mental state and practice distraction from your fears. One of the most interesting parts of this is that it doesn’t matter how intense your workout is to get the benefits of extra happiness. One study had several people who were diagnosed with depression worked out daily and it showed their happiness levels increased and their depression spells decreased.

Another benefit of exercise is that it is able to increase your energy levels. Exercising can be a serious energy boost for those who do exercise daily and are healthier and for people suffering from various medical conditions. One study even found that after only six weeks of regular exercising feelings of fatigue in thirty-six healthy people who had reported persistent fatigue reduced significantly. To go even further exercise can seriously increase the energy levels of people suffering with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and other serious fatigue illnesses. Exercise is one of the best ways to counter attack CFS and his more effective than most other treatments. Even passive treatments like stretching are better than many other kinds of treatments. Finally, exercise is also really good for people with diagnosed with progressive illnesses including cancer and multiple sclerosis. The more you workout the easier it becomes to go about your daily life

The final benefit of exercise that I have is that exercising can help with relaxation and sleep. There is an energy depletion you get when exercising that stimulates a recuperative process when you’re asleep. If you workout at night the high temperature rise you experience while working out helps to cool your temperature while you sleep. One study was able to find that one hundred and fifty minutes of vigorous exercise made an improvement of sixty-five percent in sleep quality for those who participated. A different study that lasted a little bit longer explained that after sixteen weeks of physical activity increased sleep quality by a serious amount and even helped seventeen different people suffering with insomnia to sleep much better than the control group.

Exercise is important to your well being and everyone should exercise more. It helps with anxiety and depression, being wide awake during the day, and staying fast asleep at night.

Becoming CTI Family

By Amy Krupp, purple belt

My daughter and I joined the Colorado Taekwondo Institute a little over two years ago.  Our main motivation for joining was to learn self-defense skills.  In the two years that have followed, Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo has evolved into a major part of our lives.  Our family is in the four walls of our dojang 5 out of the 7 days of the week.  A large portion of my yearly vacation time from work is spent traveling with my school, and attending  Taekwondo events, and I love every moment of it.

One of my daughter’s favorite memories from this past summer is attending the Moo Sul Kwan Summer Expo in Keystone, Colorado with me.  MSK Taekwondo has evolved for us from a way to learn self-defense to a way of life.

My daughter was three when she first tied her white belt around her waist.  She learned how to count to ten in Korean not too long after she learned how to do it in English. To this day, she can’t do jumping jacks without counting in Korean while she does it.  The CTI has been instrumental in everything from improving her gross motor skills, to increasing her self-confidence, to instilling in her a love of exercise.  She does well under pressure, due in part to her participation in CTI tournaments.  It has been amazing to watch her grow and mature due to her martial arts training.

My son is two years old and will be joining the CTI family very soon. Although he’s not yet a student, MSK Taekwondo has always been a part of his life.  He was just 6 months old when he came to watch his first CTI tournament.  His big sister has been teaching him poomse in our living room since he could walk.  He learned how to say “Taekwondo” before he could speak in complete sentences.  I can’t wait to see him bow into class for the first time, and officially join the Moo Sul Kwan ranks.

Taekwondo training with my children is an incredibly rewarding experience that is difficult to put into words.  MSK Taekwondo has become one of my greatest passions in life, and having my children take part in it with me is incredible.  They will grow up understanding what it means to be a martial arts student.  They will know the pride that comes with tying a belt around your waist and wearing the Moo Sul Kwan emblem on your back.  They will understand what it feels like to walk into class and have all of your stress melt away.

As a parent, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed with shaping your children into good people, and to wonder if the decisions you made while raising your children were the right ones.  I can say without a shadow of a doubt that joining the Colorado Taekwondo Institute will always be one of those decisions that I know we did right.  Our family is, and always will be, a proud Moo Sul Kwan family. 

Courage!

By Shekina DeTienne, 2nd dan

Everyday takes courage.  After repetitive action, the courage, faith and comfort follows until it becomes normal.  Walking as a toddler, going to school as a kid, driving a car as a teen, starting a new job, the list goes on.  Everything takes some level of courage.

For some, the motivation and discipline is strong enough that they may not even consider taking action as courageous.  For others like myself, courage is not a strong suit.  I have always wanted to hide inside my shell, not leave a well-established comfort zone and just hang out.  I'm thankful everyday for parents that kicked me out of that bubble and demanded that I fight to become more.  There is not a single successful person who woke up one day and said, "Wow, success! How did that happen?"  They had to fight and push every day to make their dream a reality.  I'm learning that courage is one of the defining factors of success.  Risking failure for their dream is not even a question, it is payment.  The bigger the price, the bigger the prize.

But what is your prize?  What is your goal?  Why do you wake up and what do you work for?  These are questions that my mentors asked me and questions that I had to take a hard look at.  What drives someone with the spirit animal of a chicken to get out of their bubble and bust out of their comfort zone?  The realization that I can have everything and be everything that I only dreamed.  I can become a master instructor.  I can have a booming business and become debt and time free.  I can be the coolest sister and auntie on the planet.  I can be a multi-millionaire and use that to better everything around me.  I can be a leader.  And I will be.  But those results take action and courage.  With the prize in mine, those goals consistently in front of my face, courage to risk failure is a small payment.

Twenty seconds of courage is what it takes to make the first actions to push out and work to making the uncomfortable comfortable.  But the main key is action.  For most, fear is natural and courage is not.  Defeating apprehension with action is how courage is reinforced.  After repeated action, the new normal is established and the meaning of courage is redefined.  And then the next challenge is put in sight.  Long story short; fear is not real, it is a smoke screen and the best cure is courage and repetitive action to overcome.  Just pay attention, try your best and keep pushing forward.  Doing just a few simple things everyday will bring you goals and dreams into reality.

Taekwondo for Adults

By Tyler Murphy, 3rd dan

There are not very many activities that are good for exercise, fun, and encourage self directed learning.  Especially as an adult it is difficult to find a good way to exercise other than going to the gym and exercising aimlessly.  In Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo it is always easy to stay motivated and to have a direction in the way that we exercise.  Our adult martial arts classes consist of aerobic and anaerobic exercises, which contributes to our students being more rounded physically and mentally.   Every class is exciting, and we are always working toward the same goal as a class, while working toward our own individual goals.  The instructor is able to motivate and maintain a direction for the entire class, while giving each individual something to work and improve on.  Everybody is different, and in order to improve this individual attention to detail is essential for each student in the class.

Our classes are well organized and are centered around the Moo Sul Kwan basic routine. This means that every class will be a good work out, and that all campuses are on the same page regarding their training.  Since we are united as an organization, our events are more organized, and all students are able to learn effectively together since they are at similar points in their training. 

Another benefit of our basic routine is that, even though we are working as a class, each student is able to focus only on themselves for that period of time.  This is especially beneficial for adults.  After working all day and dealing with other concerns in life, students can focus on only themselves and what we are working on in class while letting everything else fade away for the class.  Our instructors are able to direct class in such a way that no other student we have to be concerned with anybody or anything else, which will lead to better improvement as a martial arts school, and as an individual as part of Taekwondo for Adults.  Every student is different so it is excellent that the instructors can focus on individual students and give them what they need.

Another great thing about classes at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute is the continuous learning that occurs every class. We learn poomse, which stands for patterned movement. Every student is able to learn poomse at a pace that is right for them.  This constant learning is part of what helps our students to stay motivated, since there is always something more to learn, and work on.

Adult martial arts classes at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute take exercising to the next level with the many benefits that come from our curriculum and basic routine.

Anger is Natural

By Deb Denny, red belt

Anger is a natural and powerful human emotion, one that needs to be channeled in positive ways to remain healthy. Pent up or out of control anger can result in problems – problems at work, school, home that can affect the overall quality of your life. Explosive anger can affect personal relationships as well as your health and wellbeing. Physiologic changes accompany anger states that can cause health problems if a person is continually agitated without a healthy release for the emotion. Like a pressure cooker without a relief valve, pressure builds up within until the pot explodes.

In nature, anger triggers aggressive responses necessary for our survival. In modern society where jungle survival is not the general rule, anger needs a healthy outlet to release the built-up pressure. Physiologically, anger is accompanied by a rise in blood pressure, blood sugar and release of chemicals such as epinephrine and cortisol. Continued exposure to these hormones can lead to decreased ability to fight disease, stroke, diabetes, insomnia, heart attacks and depression.

Anger management can be accomplished in a number of different ways. Relaxation, restructuring your thoughts, better communication, avoidance of triggers, and removing yourself from the stressful situation. However, exercise is the best way to change your outlook and increase the release of happiness chemicals such as endorphins into your system. MSK Taekwondo is inherently setup to help you manage anger in a number of ways.

The structure of MSK Taekwondo is designed to minimize injury and maximize exercise benefits. A robust stretching and warmup followed by intense interval workout will elevate calming endorphin levels in your bloodstream. The focus and intensity required will help to forget your problems and melt away all the stresses of our busy lives. Achieving this post-workout release will open your mind to solutions that you might not see in an agitated state.  As soon as you enter the dojang, you leave all your cares outside to focus intently on the techniques to be learned. The workouts instill a sense of well-being, and induce a deep, restful sleep that in itself will help in minimizing the need for angry outbursts in our daily lives.

The principles of MSK Taekwondo teach us the value of “HoShin” in life. Self-control is stressed and taught on all levels through the aims, objectives and tenets of the school. Training the body, mind and spirit ingrains these concepts so they reflect in our everyday lives. Every movement we learn from self-defense, sparring and poomse has a level of control to the technique. In class we learn to use power with the ability to stop before causing harm. This correlates with using self-control techniques in anger situations and will help you to diffuse anger.Teamwork and acceptance of our fellow students in classes, tournaments and symposia teaches tolerance and patience, necessary skills for dealing with other in daily relationships.

In conclusion, MSK Taekwondo teaches us to manage anger through the model concept in the psychomotor, cognitive, and affective domains. By training the body, mind and spirit we learn to alter our behavior in life through one’s journey in the Moo Sul Kwan Colorado Taekwondo Institute.

Overcoming Dyslexia through the Tenets of Taekwondo

By Jonah Elstad, red belt, 13 yrs old

Dyslexia is a reading and spelling disorder that I struggle with every day.  Being a student at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute has helped me overcome dyslexia.  I have applied the five tenants of Taekwondo to my difficulties with dyslexia. The five tents of Taekwondo are; courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit . I have had to learn how to deal with my dyslexia and this is how the tenants of Taekwondo have helped.

First, courtesy has helped me to be polite to my teachers when I need extra help. Being polite to my teacher instead of getting frustrated helps both of us. If I was not nice to my teachers, then they would not be as eager to help me.  Showing courtesy to those who help me helps the process go smoother.

Second, integrity is super important to have.  Since I am not a good speller I often want to cheat.  I do not want to be a cheater or a liar and being at CTI reminds me of the importance of integrity.   I have never cheated before but sometimes I have wanted to because I have struggled, and it seems so easy to cheat.  I would rather be known as a bad speller than a cheater and I appreciate how Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo constantly reinforces that.

Third, perseverance means not giving up.  If I just give up I will be a horrible speller.  I do not want to be a horrible speller, I want to be a great speller.  I use the perseverance I learn at CTI and I strive to get better.  I will never give up no matter how difficult it is.  I want to be a good example to others who struggle to not give up.

Fourth, self-control is very important when having a learning disability.  Having good self-control helps me to focus better. If I didn’t have good self-control I would get distracted easily. So, I need to stay focused and not get side tracked.  Self-control also helps me in the other tenants of Taekwondo!

Fifth, having an indomitable spirit means being brave.  I show courage when I am scared to ask a question. If I am not brave enough to ask a question, then how will I ever know the answer?  Sometimes it is embarrassing to admit that I have dyslexia and need extra help.  However, learning to have an indomitable spirit has helped me overcome this.

In conclusion, Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute has been a great help to me to overcome the daily struggles of having dyslexia. I will always have dyslexia, but I have learned to cooperate.  The five tenants of Taekwondo can help you with your difficulties too!

Potential for Greatness

By Sarah Luper, 1st dan

Everyone has potential.  Potential is a hight that every person can strive for.  Potential is being successful in what you want to accomplish for yourself.  Each person has a different potential for greatness, but that does not mean that there are lesser potentials.  Each person must also unlock their own individual potential and overcome their obstacles to reach their potential.  Sometimes a person’s potential can lie hidden and unknown, but everyone’s potential can be realized if they pay attention and give it their all. 

For example, everyone has the potential to become a knowledgeable and well trained black belt. It could be you or me, or the kid sitting across from you at lunch or even someone nice you met at the library last Tuesday.  If anyone worked hard for it and payed attention, they could live up to their potential to be an awesome future black belt.

Realizing our potential for greatness does not always come easy.  One cannot expect to become their bettered selves simply overnight.  Sometimes, improvement can take quite a lot of dedication and hard work.  Just like an Olympic athlete is at the very top of their skill, they did not wake up one morning to find themselves with a gold medal around their neck.  They had to put years of work and effort to realize their potential to become the best. One must have a lot of perseverance and integrity and indomitable spirit to build their potential. 

It also must be understood that having weaknesses does not limit your potential in any way.  Not a single person is without weakness. Even though weakness might be difficult to overcome sometimes, they cannot prevent us from attaining our individual potentials.  We can work on improving our weaknesses so we can successfully work on achieving our potentials. Those who never try in spite of their weaknesses will never move forward to achieve anything.

Personal potential is what everyone should strive for in their lives.  Everyone has different potentials and everyone is special in their goals and abilities.  The difference in everyone’s potential is what makes each of us unique. We should all be on the journey to unlocking our potential for greatness. 

20th Lee H. Park Team Championships

Our 20th Lee H. Park Team Championships takes place on December 1st at Alameda International Junior/Senior High School!

This is a very special annual event celebrating the memory of Great Grandmaster Lee H. Park, founder of Moo Sul Kwan and the American Martial Arts Sports and Education Association (AMASEA). To make this a special day a CTI Hanmadang - most of the competitions are team events and demonstrations.

Our 10th CTI Hanmadang event includes:  Team Poomse, Team One-Step Sparring / Self Defense, Team Breaking, Team Creative Basics and Quinto Team Kicking.  Individual events include  CTI Basicis Challenge and Staff Sparring.

Usually CTI Championship Tournaments last two days, usually a  Friday and a Saturday.  But this event in on Saturday only.  The action begins at 7:00 AM with black belts.  Check your schedule for times.

Register now if you haven't already!

See what's happening at the CTI during September!

The 29th Denver Martial Arts Championships was fantastic!

The 29th Denver Martial Arts Championships was fantastic!

Beginning on Friday, September 7, at Alameda International High School, the annual fall event had students, instructors, family members and friends coming from all across the CTI.  Moo Sul Kwan Black Belts began the DMAC with poomse competitions.  There were many divisions of black belts of all ages performing intricate techniques in different patterns for the judging panels.  

After poomse, black belt sparring followed.  Black Belt competitors sparred well under the 1, 2, 3 and 4 point rules.  First Point Wins! was immediately after the regular free sparring.  In this event, whichever black belt scored first won.  

Then came black belt breaking! To accentuate the CTI's current mission of getting ready for the MSK's 50th Anniversary this year, special breaking rules were laid down for the 29th DMAC.  The breaking competitions for the black belt divisions were called, "The Quickest Breaking Combo in the West!"   Competitors had to successfully break all three targets to qualify for the quickest time.   At the end of the day, Eric Evans, 3rd dan from Westminster, broke his three targets in  .59 seconds!  Michael Sandusky, from Golden, was second quickest at 1.12 seconds and Andy McDaniel, from Littleton, was third quickest of the day at 1.31 seconds! Under 2 seconds on the day also were: Tyler Murphy, Natasha McKernan, Zach Greaves, Ethan Trapp, and Hope Morgan!

The DMAC action began the next day, September 8, at 7 AM with black belt Staff Poomse competitions.  After the exciting staff poomses, the purple, brown and red belts competed in poomse, sparring and breaking.  Younger students and older students from white through red belt competed the rest of the day in each of the 206 different divisions.

Congratulations to Kenny Brancio and Ethan Trapp for capturing the 29th DMAC Black Belt Grand Champion Awards.  

Special thanks goes to each of the scorekeepers and time keepers who helped during the day!  

See you at the 20th Lee H. Park Team Championships in December!

Here are the results:

POOMSE 

1st placeZach Greaves, Kenny Brancio, Peyton Brauch, Stephen SautelKonner Evans, Ethan Trapp , Eric Evans , Jennifer McKernanEvelyn LaMorgese, Lauren Smith, Ed Stanton , Deb DennyEva Carreon, Alexis Chavez, Mariah Cordova, Coco DaileyKnox Den Hartog, Lars Den Hartog, Zoe Economou, Philip HoenmansCody Jacobson, Logan Kecklyer, Gillian Boswell, Emily GreenHank Haubner, Lily Laird, Nate Larson, Christian LloydLindy Mandelbaum, Julian Marine, Katelyn Minden , Da Minh TranThomas Misiak-Kacsh, Courtney Moen, Tegan Moore, Liam MulliganMicah Nelson, Magdalynn Nelson, Kylee Odom, Caleb PortMarley Powers, Malachai Romero, India Ross, Justin RuizMason Rutz, Isabella Sandoval, Alex Schwartz, Grant ShirleyAlex Tan, Sam Wolfe, Aksel Schow, Paxton BarnettAbby Booten

2nd placeAnnie Abbink, Abby Artman, Lucas Brown, Chris CardellaJonathan Castro, Debra Chandler, Averie Chavez, Katie DahleSarah Dahle, Amy Daly, Roland Dander, Kim FreemanLogan Gill, Finnegan Handlin, Calvin Haubner, Jameson HealyJacob Hoenmans, Isaac Jensen, Nathaniel Keckler, Irene KimBella Lasater, Rowan Lasater, Sabrina Liu, Ryan MarineAdny McDaniel, Nathaniel McKernan, Tyler Murphy, Caiden MurphyTheryn Ochsner, Merrick Oleszek, Mitchell Oleszek, Brian O’ReillyColin Palminteri, Erick Rodriguez, Caleb Romero, Kayla RomeroCarter Schucker, Mark Scott, Gregory Smagala, Aiden SouleAllan Stanton, Jason Stencel, Sr., Lydia Tan, Makayla TrappJuan Verni, Bradley Wangberg, Jude Weaver, Maxwell WeaverAhas Weerapura, Andrew Wilcox, Kaddie Williams, Jackson BabcockColton Shirley, Payton Dahm, Grant Erickson

3rd placeMax Babcock, Avery Barden, Devon Bilyeu, Charlie BootenLindsey Boswell, Mattox Bubenik, Susan Burgstiner, Adrianna CarreonCandice Chandler, Leo Clair, Tyler Cobb, Benjamin CrowleyWillam Crowley, Nate Florence, Liam Gilmore, T.J. GutierrezThomas Hurst, Miette Jandreau, Adina Johnson, Zoey KruppSam LaMorgese, Deb Larson, Eileen Lindner, Brecken LuskNina Madayag, Elsie McDonald, Warren McDonald, Hope MorganLeto Ochsner, Rick Orton, Bennett Parks, Sammy PowersEthan Price, Kylee Ruhser, Henry Rumph, Jordan RutzKathleen Sautel, Dylan Soule, Patrick Stolle, Aidan SturmNethika Suraweera, Taylor Tipton, Lee Tomjack, Judson Ver BeekEvan Weber, Lizzie Wilcox, Lydia Willis, Mia WolfeBrooks Wood, Colston Yoder, Sigourney Zager, Matthew JewettConnor Rhoden

4th placeTaneli Alahuhta, Dalton Cole, Lynne Dean, Evelyn FleetwoodTristan Garcia, David Gilsson, Alex Glisson, Anna GroseGwen Gutierrez, Dante Hulin, Sean Huntley, Sabrina JensenDon Johnson, Zane Kaulbach, Collin Kreutz, Amy KruppEverett Lasater, Kaylyn McEwan, Evan McEwan, Natasha McKernanMary Moen, Toby Palminteri, Jackie Penrod, Mateo PizaMaryn Probasco, Kayla Roberts, Bill Schwartz, Lance SchwartzEleanor Smagala, Ellie Stanton, Joshua Stencel, Atom TaylorDylan Wellensiek, Beth Wolfe, Ali Wolfe, Chase WyngardenBraden Zack, Evan Zdechlik, Liam Jewett, Julia ParrinelloCorrin Egan, Brecken Schubert

TIGER POOMSE

1st placeMaryn Rolfing, Alexander Newman, Rue Weerapura, Ava AlvaradoKora Wilcox, Dylan Perozzi, Kellan Barnett, Eddie GarnerJacob Mayberry, Roxy Codalbu, Seth McCallin, Nathaniel PierceGrace Bubenik, Oliver Garner, Rylan Wolfe, Keira HaubnerRay Clair, Chase Gentry, Hadley Wilkins

BREAKING (Black Belt)

1st placeEric Evans, Dante Hulin, Evelyn LaMorgese, Naatasha McKernan

Hope Morgan, Michael Sandusky, Ryan Wyngarden, Ethan Trapp

BREAKING (Under black belt)

1st placeLindsey Boswell, Mariah Cordova, Lars Den Hartog, Knox Den HartogTritan Garcia, Jacob Hoenmans, Cody Jacobson, Zane KaulbachBella Lasater, Brecken Lusk, Erick Rodriguez, Caleb RomeroHenry Rumph, Isabella Sandoval, Lauren Smith, Jason Stencel, Sr.Patrick Stolle, Nethika Suraweera, Layla Tran, Sam WolfeAdriana Carreon

STAFF POOMSE

1st placeNina Madayag, Stephen Sautel, Kenny Brancio, Michael SanduskyKatie Dahle, Ryan Wyngarden, Kathleen Sautel

2nd placeEthan Trapp, Merrick Oleszek, Andy McDaniel, Natasha McKernanCollin Kreutz, Devon Bilyeu, Nathanie McKernan

3rd placeDante Hulin, Kyle Feagans, Chase Wyngarden, Peyton BrauchJennifer McKernan, Makayla Trapp

SPARRING 

1st placeMichael Sandusky, Bridget Sautel, Josh Miller, Gwen GutierrezChase Wyngarden, Lynne Dean, T. J Gutierrez, Chris CardellaJonathan Castro, Zoe Economou, Sabrina Jensen, Cody JacobsonSam LaMorgese, Lindy Mandelbaum, Tegan Moore, Toby PalminteriCaleb Port, Kayla Roberts, Atom Taylor, Layla TranJude Weaver, Lydia Willis, Susan Burgstiner, Gwen GutierrezFinnegan Handlin, Philip Hoenmans, Adina Johnson, Debra LarsonBrian O’Reilly, Marley Powers, Caleb Romero, Kylee RuhserLauren Smith, Ed Stanton, Darcy Stanton, Shaydon TuttleMaxwell Weaver, Evan Weber, Colston Yoder, Taneli AlahuhtaAbby Artman, Eva Carreon, Sarah Dahle, Isaac JensenLogan Keckler, Julia Parrinello, Sammy Powers, India Ross|Henry Rumph, Brecken Schubert, Dylan Soule, Allan StantonJohua Stencel, Bradley Wangberg, Ahas Weerapura, Weston Wolfe

2nd placeKenny Brancio, Mattox Bubenik, William Crowley, Kyle FeagansNate Florence, Calvin Haubner, Zoey Krupp, Mary MoenHope Morgan, Tyler Murphy, Erick Rodriguez, Colton ShirleyMax Babcock, Paxton Barnett, Charlie Booten, Averie ChavezTyler Cobb, Shekina Detienne, David Glisson, Lily LairNate Larson, Ryan Marine, Bennett Parks, Jackie PenrodMateo Piza, Taylor Tipton, Sam Wolfe, Kirun AgarwaAndrei Amihalachio, Vivi Brown, Amy Daly, Evelyn LaMorgeseKim Freeman, Tristan Garcia, Logan Gill, Liam GilmoreDante Hulin, Irene Kim, Bella Lasater, Rowan LasaterSabrina Liu, Dean Loux, Brecken Lusk, Elsie McDonaldTim McNamara, Courtney Moen,  Theryn Ochsner, Kylee OdomMeryn Probasco, Malachai Romero, Aiden Soule, Jason Stencel, JrDa Minh Tran, Makayla Trapp, Andrew Wilcox, Brooks Wood

3rd placeAnnie Abbink, Dalton Cole, Roland Dander, Deb DennyAlex Glisson, Everett Lasater, Nina Madayag, Liam MulliganMerrick Oleszek, Justin Ruiz, Isabella Sandoval, Carter SchuckerEleanor Smagala, Ellie Statnton, Jason Stencel, Alex TanEthan Trapp, Judson Ver Beek, Lizzie Wilcox, Kaddie WilliamsBeth Wolfe, Debra Chandler, Alexis Chavez, Benjamin CrowleyPayton Dahm, Jacob Hoenmans, Katelyn Minden, Leto OchsnerMitchell Oleszek, Rick Orton, Rylan Wolfe, Ryan WyngardenKeira Haubner, Lindsey Boswell, Gillian Boswell, Peyton BrauchLars Den Hartog, Corrin Egan, Hank Haubner, Sean HuntleyChristian Jezek, Christian Lloyd, Warren McDonald, Jennifer McKernanCaiden Murphy, Micah Nelson, Kathleen Sautel, Aksel SchowAlex Schwartz, Nethika Suraweera, Soren Vanderstek, Dyan WellensiekMia Wolfe

4th placeAvery Barden, Katie Dahle, Amy Krupp, Julian MarineColin Palminteri, Knox Den Hartog, Konner Evans, Nathaniel KecklerGregory Smagala, Devon Bilyeu, Abby Booten, Thomas BurdenAdriana Carreon, Coco Dailey, Eric Evans, Kameron EvansOliver Garner, Zach Greaves, Emily Green, Miette JandreauLiam Jewett, Zane Kaubach, Jennifer Kautz, Evelyn LaMorgeseKaylyn McEwan, Natasha McKernan, Thomas Misiak-Kacsh, Donovan PenrodConnor Rhoden, Kaya Romero, Mason Rutz, Jordan RutzLance Schwartz, Patrick Stolle, Andra Vieru, Rue WeerapuraAli Wolfe, Evan Zdechlik

FIRST POINT WINS!

1st placeKenny Brancio, Ethan Trapp, Nina Madayag, Kyle FeagansHope Morgan, Tyler Murphy, Merrick Oleszek, Katie DahleChris Cardella, Jonathan Castro, Zoe Economou, Cody JacobsonSabrina Jensen, Sam LaMorgese, Lindy Mandelbaum, Tegan MooreToby Palminteri, Caleb Port, Kayla Roberts, Atom TaylorLayla Tran, Jude Weaver, Lydia Willis, Mattox BubenikWilliam Crowley, Nate Florence, Calvin Haubner, Zoey KruppMary Moen, Erick Rodriguez, Colton Shirley, Annie AbbinkDalton Cole, Roland Dander, Deb Denny, Alex GlissonEverett Lasater, Liam Mulligan, Justin Ruiz, Isabella SandovalCarter Schucker, Eleanor Smagala, Ellie Stanton, Jason StencelAlex Tan, Judson Ver Beek, Lizzie Wilcox, Kaddie WilliamsBeth Wolfe, Avery Barden, Katie Dahle, Amy KruppJulian Marine, Colin Palminteri, Lucas Brown, Aidan SturmLydia Tan

2nd placeSusan Burgstiner, Gwen Gutierrez, Finnegan Handlin, Philip HoenmansAdina Johnson, Deb Larson, Brian O’Reilly, Marley PowersCaleb Romero, Kylee Ruhser, Lauren Smith, Ed StantonDarcy Stanton, Shaydon Tuttle, Maxwell Weaver, Evan WeberChase Wyngarden, Colston Yoder, Max Babcock, Paxton BarnettCharlie Booten, Averie Chavez, Tyler Cobb, Shekina DetienneDavid Glisson, Lily Laird, Nate Larson, Ryan MarineBennett Parks, Jackie Penrod, Mateo Piza, Taylor TiptonSam Wolfe, Debra Chandler, Alexis Chavez, Benjamin CrowleyPayton Dahm, Jacob Hoenmans, Katelyn Minden, Leto OchsnerMitchell Oleszek, Rick Orton, Rylan Wolfe, Ryan WyngardenKeria Haubner, Knox Den Hartog, Konner Evans, Nathaniel KecklerGregory Smagala, Candice Chandler, Jameson Healy, Collin KreutzEileen Lindner, Evan McEwan, Tina Vo, Sigourney Zager

Black Belt Grand Champions: Kenny Brancio and Ethan Trapp

Martial Arts for Every Generation

By Katie Dahle, 1st dan

TRY IT, YOU'LL LIKE IT!

Being active is an important ingredient in life, regardless of age. When we’re young, we have energy to burn and need an outlet. As we get older, it’s more important to continue to learn and move, training our minds and bodies to be happy and healthy. Practicing martial arts is a great activity for anyone looking for a way to be active. Finding somewhere to train that is local, inexpensive, and high quality can be hard to do.

When looking for Martial Arts schools, one that stands ahead is the Colorado Taekwondo Institute. Toddler martial arts (2-5 years old) help develop motor skills, following directions and communication skills, all valuable for students to learn before starting school. Junior martial arts classes (5-10 years old) will get the students more active and involved in their martial arts training. These students learn important life skills like respect, paying attention, self-confidence, and perseverance.

Teenagers even have their own dedicated classes at this Martial Arts school. These classes, on top of all the benefits of being active teach self-directed learning, integrity and courtesy, while keeping the students active and training their bodies. For adults martial arts, the benefits are even greater, building on everything taught in the other age classes, adults see the benefits to their health and attitude. Classes provide a refuge from stressful lives and a reliable place to get time tested workouts.

No matter your age, this the Colorado Taekwondo Institutes Martial Arts schools (locations in Westminster/Arvada, Golden/Applewood, Lakewood/Green Mountain, Littleton/Morrison, and Conifer/Aspen Park) will train your body, mind and spirit for a healthier and happier life. Sign up today!

Your Local, Friendly Martial Arts School: Conifer Campus

The Conifer corridor, including Conifer, Aspen Park, Morrison, Pine, and Bailey, is a unique foothills location southwest of Denver. Residents here enjoy hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, four wheeling, camping, cross country skiing, snow shoeing, sledding, and of course, TAEKWONDO. We are fortunate to have the Conifer campus of the Colorado Taekwondo Institute located in the Staples shopping center on Highway 285 at Pleasant Park Rd teaching the best in Conifer karate. 

Mountain folk are family and community oriented, which is seen in the many families who study together at this campus. It is common to see tigers, juniors and adults all taking classes at all times of the day. There is a deep sense of community and pride seen as all students help each other to succeed in belt promotions, demonstrations, and competitions.

The Conifer martial arts location of CTI was founded in 2007 by Grandmaster James. Morning and evening classes are taught by CTI President James M. Sautel, 8th dan, Stephen Sautel, 3rd dan and Eileen Lindner, 2nd dan.

What makes the Conifer martial arts Campus unique? Is it the warm brown eyes of the elk, deer, bear, and fox who gaze longingly through the windows at our custom-built suspension floor with the cushiest carpet ever? Or is it the overwhelming sense of cooperation and unity among the students? Perhaps it is just the amazingly skilled, caring instructors we have. 

Martial Arts Classes for Beginners

By Natasha McKernan

Martial arts entail a great deal of fun and rewarding training.  To ensure the best martial arts for beginners, the Colorado Taekwondo Institute uses teaches a consistent curriculum between all six of their locations. This method allows students to maintain constant growth. Any student within this program can bring themselves up to their full potential. Instructors at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute workout every single class with their students. They aim to bring the students to peak condition and learning. The Colorado Taekwondo Institute is a wonderful martial arts program for any willing participant for beginning martial arts classes. 

As a general rule, basic techniques are always taught first. A gradual increase in difficulty is necessary for healthy growth. Within large classes of many martial arts schools, usually the difficulty of the class is not adjusted well enough to suit all students.  It is difficult to create routines necessary for both beginner and advanced students. The Colorado Taekwondo Institute solution is a routine that benefits everyone - consistency.

The Colorado Taekwondo institute pushes it’s students through the consistency of the training routine -- if the routine is not regularly repeated, even basic techniques will never reach their full potential.  As the student learns how to execute the technique perfectly, the technique become more taxing.  Repetition of the correct technique allows the body to get stronger.  As the technique continues to improve, so does the physical strength of the student.  This is an endless pattern that reaps constant improvement.  Martial arts also rely on consistency to not lose their distinct traits.

The beauty of it is that anyone can learn martial arts. When a martial art holds true to itself, it becomes a formula for people to follow.  Anyone who is dedicated to their fighting art will undoubtedly be rewarded with visible improvement.  When time and effort and put into a good curriculum there will be unrivaled success.

The martial arts instructors are always working with the students to bring them to their full potential.  The focus on improvement particularly intensifies before the school-wide tournaments.  In these tournaments students compete angainst others their same skill level and age.  Based on how they do, their instructor gives them a few things to improve on.  

Unlike some martial arts schools, the Colorado Taekwondo Institute is a very family friendly school.  This has become an essential part of this school; an element that ties together many things.  Family encouragement and competitiveness are good motivators especially for young children.

The Colorado Taekwondo Institute is a wonderful martial arts program for any willing participant.  With its steady curriculum, the martial art is learned thoroughly. With consistent teaching and guidance from the Colorado Taekwondo Institute’s instructors, the student will become the best they can be. 

Teens and Taekwondo

By Scott & Alex Hancey, blue belts (father and son)

Taekwondo Lessons as a Teen

Being a teenager while doing Taekwondo is important now and later in life. Being a teenager, I have learned in class to use self control before self defense, we call this "Ho Shin". It means not to hurt anybody outside or inside of class unless you are being threatened. It means not to hurt them if they are being rude but always ask what the problem is first and don’t go straight to punching and kicking. If they were about to start hurting you a lot that is the time to start using what you learned in Taekwondo to protect yourself. Defending yourself is important. Parents want their kids to be safe and not be scared. Taekwondo is a way to defend yourself in dangerous situations. 

Taekwondo has helped me stretch my body to kick higher, punch harder, and to have a good stance which requires lots of practice. In Taekwondo, practice is important, both mentally and physically. If your goal is to become a better kicker practice at home, outside, or in class because practicing makes you better at doing it. 

A martial arts school for teens teaches student how to better deal with pain and struggle. In class pain and struggling is temporary but has a big impact on you later in life, and sometimes necessary in order to reach your life goals. 

Taekwondo Lessons with a Teen

Everyone has a problem that you know nothing about, this is especially true when you are a teen. Who are your friends, what crowd to fit in with, which grades are more important, why am I in trouble again? Issues that seem trivial as adults take center stage as a teen, yet chances are you had the same issues growing up. 

How easy it is to forget the challenges of adolescence, I certainly have either forgotten or suppressed most of mine. Often while watching my teenage son struggle I find myself poking around in the dusty corners of my brain looking for remnants of my young feelings. All parents do this at some time, wanting and hoping to give their child some kernel of information that they did not have. One piece that I had as a teen was Taekwondo, I am hoping to pass along some of my my growth and experiences through this training to my son. 

School and the pressures that go along with it can be hard, especially in the middle school years, nothing seems to make sense. Friends change, teachers can be good or bad depending on the day and don't get me started on parents. There is no consistency at a time when a sane and simple, predictable routine should exist. CTI provides our family this stable platform. 

Everyone is equal, at least in the teens martial arts school. It doesn't matter the color of your hair, eyes or your belt. Your uniform is the same, your basic training is the same and so is your sweat. The most difficult challenger you will encounter is the one you see in the mirror, this reflection will also become your biggest critic and your most steadfast ally. There are no subgroups based on fashion, looks or intelligence, we are all working to better ourselves. 

Advancement in rank is set by your instructor, it is up to you to set your own individual goals. You may choose advancement to the next belt, breaking more boards, learning to protect yourself or becoming fit. It doesn't matter what you choose as your assignment so long as you are true to yourself. 

What you learn in addition to your training may not be initially seem important. It is the side lessons that when planted require time to take root. Listening, timing, self confidence, spacial awareness are some of these skills. You and your teen may not see the benefits of this alternate training initially but they do show up in your attitude, which ultimately enhances your personal and family skills. The Colroado Taekwondo Institute is an awesome martial arts school for teens.

Your Local, Friendly Martial Arts School: Golden Campus

The Colorado Taekwondo Institute, Golden location, is a Martial Arts school that instructs the art of Taekwondo to students of all ages and levels. The Golden martial arts school is located on the northwest corner of Youngfield and 20th, next to Tafolino's Mexican restaurant. This campus was founded in 2005, by Grandmaster James M. Sautel, 8th degree black belt. This is one of six locations that are a part of Colorado Taekwondo Institute (CTI). 

 

The Golden Taekwondo school is very spacious, and consists of a spacious workout area where students can participate in class. As described below, the classes are separated by age and also belt level in order for the instructor to teach according to each class and fulfill the students specific needs. There are also one-on-one lessons available with any of the instructors of this campus, to instill more practice and direction. There’s watching areas for each classroom, and family and friends are always welcome to watch their loved ones do class and see the curriculum that they are being taught.

 

The Golden karate location teaches a numerous number of lessons to each and every one student. Taekwondo is a great way to get into shape and learn how to defend yourself. A few key factors this martial art teaches include: self-confidence, self-directed learning, and respect. On top of these, there is so much more that this Martial Arts school has to offer. Some of the big ideas taught to every one of our students are self-control, integrity, and perseverance. All of these qualities are also taught how to be transferred over to everyday life and school.

 

This Golden martial arts school teaches students as young as two years old. It is great for students of any age and is also a great activity to do with your whole family, and even your friends. There are classes available Monday through Thursday for all ages. Families are able to work out together in most of these classes and it is an art that can bring the family closer together. 

 

Not only does CTI hold a variety of class times for all ages, they also hold tournaments, expos, symposiums, camps, and many other events. At these events students from each of our campuses, within our organization, get together to learn and grow with one another and become a family. At each of these, the students get to put all the work they have put in at class into these events. 

At the Golden Taekwondo Institute campus, we see each and every one of our students as our family, and make sure to always put them first for martial arts in Golden. 

MSK Summer Expo XXXIV

"CHARGING INTO THE FUTURE!"

Students, instructors, family members and friends from all over met at the Keystone Ski Resort in Colorado, for the  34th Moo Sul Kwan Summer Expo.

Taking place from June 1-3, the theme of Expo XXXIV was "Charging into the Future!"  Each  CTI / MSK / AMASEA event during the past year was bigger and stronger than ever because of the constant charge of our students and instructors.  This year's dynamic Expo Teaching Staff wanted to ride this dynamic wave and help Expo participants experience the idea of what charging into the future is all about.

There were classes in sparring, poomse, one-step sparring, self-defense, judo, MSK Hapkido, target kicking and more.  Featured master instructors at this year's Summer Expo were:  Great Grandmaster Bong Yul Shin, 9th dan, Grandmaster Charles Hildebrand, 8th dan, Grandmaster Jim Sautel, 8th dan, Grandmaster Merinda Sautel, 7th dan, Grandmaster John Sautel, 7th dan, Master Erik Albrechtson, 6th dan, Master Fred Sautel, 5th dan, Master Clayton Garner, 5th dan, Master Alice Meyung, 5th dan and Master Tom Hunter, 5th dan.

Classes began on Friday evening and continued the next morning.  Special classes for black and red belts began at 6:00 AM and 7:00 AM respectively.  All other belts had their first class at 8:00 AM and worked hard to lunch time.  There were also special classes for our parents and friends of Moo Sul Kwan.

The Broken Knuckle Challenge III started after lunch.  Divisions of students performed many different tasks and took on hard challenges that pushed their limits at the over 9,000 ft. elevation of Keystone!   On Saturday evening, everyone got together for the annual Expo Banquet and Party!  Music was provided by the black belt band, Moo Sul Rock, with some special guest performers including MSK and AMASEA President Hildebrand.  During the evening, each CTI Campus presented a video of an original television commercial for a TV show.  Some of the video-shorts were Gilligan's Taekwondo Island, Kicking with the Stars, Family Feud, The Intense and the Powerful and The Black Belt Apprentice.

Sunday began early for the upper belts with some advanced training, followed by classes for everyone until the closing ceremonies.

Broken Knuckle Challenge III results:

Parents      1st-Debbie Eichelberger   2nd-Miha Vieru   3rd-Amy Chavez

Black Belt Men I    1st-Mark Scott   2nd-Andy McDaniel and Rick Orton   3rd-Kyle Feagans

Black Belt Men II    1st-Brian Steward   2nd-Peyton Brauch   3rd-Caleb Feagans

Advanced Women    1st- Jennifer McKernan   2nd-Irene Kim   3rd-Eileen Lindner

Adult Women    1st-Kaddie Willians   2nd-Kirun Agarwal   3rd-Lauren Smith

Adult Men    1st-Brian Jense   2nd-Brian O'Reilly   3rd-Diego Quezada

Intermediate Women    1st-Kayla Roberts   2nd-Annie Jensen and Vi Vu   3rd-Courtney Moen

Teen 1    1st-Chase Wyngarden   2nd-Jameson Healy   3rd-Josh Miller

Teen 2    1st-India Ross   2nd-Mateo Piza   3rd-Robbie Crandell and Sean Huntley

Teen 3     1st-Jacob Bloom   2nd-Zoie Anglin   3rd-Hannah Meadows

Junior Adv 1     1st-Julian Marine   2nd-Bella Lasater   3rd-Turner Jensen

Junior Int 1    1st- Katelyn Minden   2nd- Colton Anglin   3rd- Lorainna Shultz

Junior Adv 2     1st-Caiden Murphy   2nd-Nathaniel McKernan   3rd-Ryann Beaver

Junior Int 2    1st-Lily Strickland   2nd-Marley Powers   3rd- Kylee Odom and Ali Wolfe