“My wife and I joined FMAC a year ago and we have enjoyed every minute of our membership. We looked around for an interest we could do together and a martial art seemed a good option which would keep us fit and engaged.
The location is great with plenty of parking and is easy to find. Based on a light industrial estate the dojang is a light airy space with changing faciliities and seating in addition to the large matted area where we do our lessons and training. Something that appealed to us was the flexible lesson times with us having 5 different days a week that we could attend. With work and family commitments that flexibility is fantastic.
Three things have really stood out for us though. Firstly, Tang Soo Do itself. I expected to learn discipline, but there is a lot more. On the positive start and leadership programmes a large part of what you learn relates to life skills. I only came to this self development stuff quite late in my career and wish I had learned it sooner. Being open to learning is a massive part of TSD.
Secondly, the teaching staff. Master Salter is a fantastic Sa Bom Nim, he is friendly, patient, constantly supportive and encouraging and teaches without you know you are learning. You feel the welcome at FMAC.
The third thing is the other members. It is always intimidating to start a new interest, particularly in classes with people a lot more experienced than you. This is managed in part through the beginners positive start programme which takes you through the first few graduations before you start the leadership programme where you join the red and black belts. I have to say though that all the members from white belt through to black are so friendly, willing to help and follow the example set by Master Salter.
Classes are mixed age and ability but i have never been left feeling out of it, there is always someone to smile, offer advice and help.
Throw in that you can do instructor training as well (not limited to black belts) and that you learn about South Korean language (well a little anyway!), culture and the history of Tang Soo Do, you get a really well rounded session.
There are regular graduations so you always get a marker that you are progressing, although if you just pause and look back, even a few weeks, you will be surprised at how you have improved. Master Salter is really flexible with you to do a make up graduation session if you are not available for any reason.
At the end of the sessions I always feel better, physically and mentally. Come and try it out, I don’t think you will be disappointed.”
Chris Moister – May 2024