Some common misconceptions and comments about training in a martial art:

1. I am not limber enough or I can't do all that twisting in those funny stances.

2. My religious beliefs prohibit me from bowing to anyone other than our deity.

3. I don't want to learn how to fight, but I do want to learn self-defense.

4. I feel nervous and self-conscious. Can I overcome this?

5. I don't want to compete in tournaments.

6. I have seen "Karate" before and they look silly in their outfits.

7. My family thinks I am wasting my time.

8. Is this like kickboxing or that "bo" thing I see all over the TV?

9. I am just not sure. What can you tell me that might help?

• In the beginning, you won't be. With a little practice, you will be amazed at what you can accomplish. Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day.

• We only bow to demonstrate respect for our country and to our instructors. Bowing shows discipline and respect like saluting does in the military.

• Fighting is not what we teach: we teach empty-handed self-defense. Fighting your way out of a defensive situation is a last resort.

• Nervous energy is important. We will help you channel that energy into power.

• Tournaments only show winning and losing. We only offer 2 events per year that are within our style. Participation is encouraged to show solidarity and brotherhood, but is not mandatory. After you see how supportive your Soo Bahk Do Family is, you may think otherwise about competition.

• While "Karate" is a generic term, you have never seen or experienced anything close to Soo Bahk Do Moo Duk Kwan. The do-bok (pronounced "doe boke") is an important piece of tradition and culture. We are proud of our do-boks (uniforms), and you will be too.

• While many may tell you negative things when it comes to training in a martial art, they usually do so because of a lack of information or a fear of the unknown. Make up your own mind after taking the time to meet with your potential instructor and classmates.

• Kickboxing and that other "bo" thing are geared toward people in gyms and other fitness- related areas. Kickboxing is also a sport. We are an art form like painting or sculpting. That is in a sense what we do. We help you paint and sculpt a new you that is more in tune with your natural world and yourself.

• If we may leave you with some final thoughts: Soo Bahk Do Moo Duk Kwan is a Korean traditional martial art. Its principles and philosophies have been around since the first humans on the earth. We practice empty-handed self-defense. We practice discipline, self-control, humility, honesty, and reverence for nature. We take these ideals to our communities, cities, towns and neighborhoods. We are a brotherhood; we participate in clinics, events, and camps to build friendships that can last a lifetime. We help one another learn. Beginners have as much and even more to give than even the most senior student. We enjoy what we do because of the personal benefits we gain-physical conditioning, self-discipline, and respect. Come by our school any time to speak with Sa Bom Nim Tracy Phillips about taking the first step on a lifetime journey of learning and fun.

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