Hoping to get healthy for the new year? Or want to learn a new skill? If you’re interested in practicing self-defense at a local fitness center, you might want to know more about Kuk Sool Won. This form of traditional Korean martial arts training has a fascinating history and offers a variety of physical and mental benefits, as described below.

Background

Kool Sool Won combines SahDoh MuSool, BoolKyo MuSool, and KoongJoong MuSool, which are the three branches of Korean martial arts. 

It developed in response to the Japanese occupation of the Korean Royal Court from 1910 to 1944, during which time traditional Korean martial arts were prohibited. However, Master Instructor Suh Myung-Duk secretly taught the techniques to close friends and family members. Eventually, he passed down all of his knowledge to his grandson, In-Hyuk Suh, who founded Kuk Sool Won and traveled the world teaching it.  

Techniques 

Kuk Sool Won encompasses the full spectrum of body conditioning practices, such as stretching, muscle toning, cardiovascular stamina, and flexibility training. It also includes throwing, grappling, acrobatics, and animal-style techniques common to most of the Asian martial arts. 

Additionally, Kuk Sool Won involves training with traditional weapons, such as the sword, spear, staff, and cane. Healing, meditation, and breathing are also integral to this form of martial arts.

Benefits

Kuk Sool Won teaches its practitioners valuable offensive and defensive skills that promote the health of the body and increase personal safety. It also helps its practitioners cultivate mental strength and a deeper spiritual connection. As you master these practices, you’ll feel more confident, disciplined, self-assured, and at peace, both during fights at the fitness center and in your everyday life.

When you’re ready to learn Korean martial arts, attend classes at the Martin Street Youth Center. This youth center, located in Jacksonville, AR, offers training in Kuk Sool Won on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to noon. Call (501) 982-0818 to ask about upcoming events and visit the website to learn more about the Jacksonville Community Center, indoor swimming pool, and shooting sports complex.