PHYSICAL FITNESS
In martial arts every part of the body is used. A person learns many ways to kick, block, punch, bend and move. In this way, all muscles are toned while one practices. Proper breathing techniques are stressed as part of form or poomsae practice. Forms involve the smooth transition from one position to another, from defense to offense and back.

Forms are a demonstration of understanding of technique which reflects overall martial arts knowledge and training. Balance, stances, breathing, power and control are all key factors in performing forms well. The end product should be graceful yet powerful and should have a natural flow and feel. Mastery can only be achieved through constant practice which particular emphasis on the technical details of each movement as well as understanding how and why each technique is used.

SELF-DEFENSE
Every person has the power and ability to fight in self-defense but few truly understand how to use it. People think of themselves as weak because they do not know how to use their strength.

The goal of martial arts is to make the individual aware of natural strengths and how to apply them to the greatest advantage. The many powerful and graceful movements of martial arts will enable a person to develop self-confidence because of the power and ability that has been mastered. This self-confidence can be carried over to all aspects of life.

 

 

CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT
For over thousands of years, martial arts has been used to teach respect toward oneself and toward others. This respect can be a keynote in the development of a child's discipline and character. The mind rules the body and before a child or adult in martial arts can perform, he or she must learn to control the mind. Self-respect and parental respect are natural outgrowths of martial arts training.

PHYSICAL & MENTAL CONDITIONING
Your commitment to martial arts carries with it the important responsibility of maintaining a lifestyle of physical fitness and mental tenacity. When obligations make it difficult or impossible to attend class, the importance of making the time to train cannot be overstressed.

Daily stretching exercises with mental concentration prepares you mentally and physically for challenges and responsibilities of the day ahead. Practicing forms vigorously keeps your level of concentration, cardiovascular fitness and spirit in peak condition.

Proper nutrition plays a part just as important in your role in martial arts as does your physical and mental training. A well-balanced diet keeps your energy levels high for your training, and wards off illness and fatigue. Supplementing your diet with health building nutrients and avoiding junk food is essential to your success in developing your mind and body and in reaching your goals in martial arts.



WHY DO WE BOW?
In martial arts, bowing is very important because it reminds us of the importance of what we are doing and the need to always be aware and in control.

When a student bows when entering or exiting the dojang, he is saying he has respect for the dojang. He is also saying that he is willing to be as good as he can be.

When students bow to his instructor at the beginning of class, they are showing respect for the instructor's years of training, his knowledge and skill. They are also affirming that they will do their best to learn what the instructor has to teach and to use that knowledge wisely and well.

When the instructor bows back, he is doing more than acknowledging the student's bow; he is also showing respect for the student.

Remember, that an instructor was once a student himself and knows full well how tough it is to be a beginner and to struggle up through the ranks. He has sweated just as much and he will do the best of his ability and to be honest and straightforward with his students as can be.

When the class bows to the flag, they are showing respect for the countries which bore them and their martial art. At this institute, we bow to two flags: 1) the United States flag because we are loyal citizens of this country and patriotism has always been the cornerstone of martial arts; and 2) the Korean flag because our primary art is Tae Kwon Do which developed in Korea.

When students bow out of a sparring match, this is to honor the opponent and to thank him for being a good opponent and to hope he has learned from the sparring experience.

In many institutes, when one student accidentally injures another or strikes too hard, the student who inflicts the injury steps back and bows, offering an apology as he does so. The injured student must return the bow because he is acknowledging that this was an accident and is forgiving his fellow student. It may seem like there shouldn't be any need to continue bows after the first time, but since martial arts are potentially deadly and always dangerous, you can never be too concerned with safety, good manners and good sportsmanship.

The next time you bow, remember this is the key to understanding the respect and etiquette of the martial arts.



VAMAI RULES & REGULATIONS
1.When you enter and leave the dojang bow at the entrance toward flags and to all Black Belts.

2. Whenever you arrive during a class, enter the dojang and ask the Instructor for permission to enter the class. Do not leave the class without permission from Instructor.

3. Always wear a clean uniform & clean gear. Do not wash your belt or leave it on the floor.

4. Do not face the flags or any Black Belt while tying your belt or fixing your uniform.

5. Personal hygiene is important. Keep nails on hands and feet trimmed to protect both yourself and others.

6. Please address all Black Belts as either "sir" or "ma'am," according to their sex to show respect to their rank.

7. Whenever you approach a Black Belt - bow first and then ask to speak to him/her politely.

8. You must have permission from the Master before you participate in any tournament or martial art activity.

9. Stop by, call or email us to let us know if you're ill - We care.

10. All students are responsible for keeping the dojang clean. Take care of your water bottles.

11. No food, beverage, smoking, or chewing gum will be allowed in the dojang unless for medical purposes.

12. No profanity, loud talking and no horse playing on Virginia Martial Arts Institute property.

13. No sparring or contact allowed without an Instructor supervising.

14. Do not attempt to practice techniques that have not been shown directly to you by your Instructor.

15. Do not teach without the Instructor's permission.

16. Report all injuries to the Instructor.

17. You are responsible for your own belongings - take care of it.

18. Arrive on time to class with the proper Virginia Martial Arts Institute approved uniform, belt and equipment.

19. Show respect to your seniors and each other and take it upon yourself to help and encourage your juniors. Disrespect of any kind toward anyone will not be tolerated.

20. Maintain discipline and know the tenets of the art and the student pledge. Always be a good leader.

21. Learn and have fun.



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