Doug Cook's Blog, page 27
April 8, 2014
Weekly Thoughts from Chosun Yoga April 2, 2014
"How we do anything is how we do everything"
Sensation is the voice of the body and the practice of yoga can teach us how to understand that language. Whether we like it or not, when an unpleasant sensation comes up on the mat, we face ourselves. How do we react? Do we meet the challenge head on or do we retreat? This week in the reflective pose of Kurmasana (Tortoise) we will be in perfect place for an encounter with ourselves.
Join us for personal discoveries...
Chosun Taekwondo Academy & Hatha Yoga Center
62 Main Street Warwick, NY
Class Schedule:
Tuesdays 9:30am
Wednesdays 6:30pm
Saturdays 9:30am
First Class is Free
$15 per class / $130 for 10 classes
Sensation is the voice of the body and the practice of yoga can teach us how to understand that language. Whether we like it or not, when an unpleasant sensation comes up on the mat, we face ourselves. How do we react? Do we meet the challenge head on or do we retreat? This week in the reflective pose of Kurmasana (Tortoise) we will be in perfect place for an encounter with ourselves.
Join us for personal discoveries...
Chosun Taekwondo Academy & Hatha Yoga Center
62 Main Street Warwick, NY
Class Schedule:
Tuesdays 9:30am
Wednesdays 6:30pm
Saturdays 9:30am
First Class is Free
$15 per class / $130 for 10 classes
Weekly Thoughts from Chosun Yoga March 26, 2014
"Transitions"
The calendar says...Spring is here! But the temperature says "Wait a minute...not so fast! Like any transition period, patience, balance and trust are required to bridge the gap and make for a smooth landing on the other side. On the yoga mat this week, we will practice vinyasas (consecutive poses using breath) as a way to navigate the sometimes uncertain steps from point A
to point B.
Join us for smooth landings...
Chosun Taekwondo Academy & Hatha Yoga Center
62 Main Street Warwick, NYClass Schedule:
Tuesdays 9:30am
Wednesdays 6:30pm
Saturdays 9:30am
First Class is Free
$15 per class / $130 for 10 classes
The calendar says...Spring is here! But the temperature says "Wait a minute...not so fast! Like any transition period, patience, balance and trust are required to bridge the gap and make for a smooth landing on the other side. On the yoga mat this week, we will practice vinyasas (consecutive poses using breath) as a way to navigate the sometimes uncertain steps from point A
to point B.
Join us for smooth landings...
Chosun Taekwondo Academy & Hatha Yoga Center
62 Main Street Warwick, NYClass Schedule:
Tuesdays 9:30am
Wednesdays 6:30pm
Saturdays 9:30am
First Class is Free
$15 per class / $130 for 10 classes
March 21, 2014
Weekly Thoughts from Chosun Yoga - March 19, 2014
"Stop, Breathe, Re-organize and Surrender"
Many of us are drawn to the practice of yoga seeking a change. Sometimes we can get stuck in our habitual way of doing things and the change we want eludes us. Yoga teaches us to step back, look at our mind set, discern what is truly "good for us" (not just what feels good), let go and breathe through the process. Then we experience change that is true to who we are. This week, we will sit in Vajrasana and become witnesses of our own unfolding.
Join us and surrender...
Chosun Taekwondo Academy & Hatha Yoga Center 62 Main Street Warwick, NY
Class Schedule: Tuesdays 9:30am Wednesdays 6:30pm Saturdays 9:30am
First Class is Free
$15 per class / $130 for 10 classes
Many of us are drawn to the practice of yoga seeking a change. Sometimes we can get stuck in our habitual way of doing things and the change we want eludes us. Yoga teaches us to step back, look at our mind set, discern what is truly "good for us" (not just what feels good), let go and breathe through the process. Then we experience change that is true to who we are. This week, we will sit in Vajrasana and become witnesses of our own unfolding.
Join us and surrender...
Chosun Taekwondo Academy & Hatha Yoga Center 62 Main Street Warwick, NY
Class Schedule: Tuesdays 9:30am Wednesdays 6:30pm Saturdays 9:30am
First Class is Free
$15 per class / $130 for 10 classes
March 4, 2014
Chosun e-newsletter Archive Volumn 5 #3 March, 2014
Dojang News and Events
Belt Promotion Test
February 9, 2014
Be sure to view the photos and video from the first belt promotion examination of 2014. From white to black belt, Chosun students displayed tremendous skill and technique. Congratulations to all students on your achievements.
Click image for more photos
View a video montage of the test
Read entire newsletter...
February 27, 2014
Holistically Embracing Traditional Taekwondo by Master Doug Cook
Article appeared in Totally Taekwondo Magazine June, 2013 issue#52
Over the years, after teaching over 18,000 taekwondo classes, I have found that some practitioners approach the principles of the martial arts as they would a menu from a restaurant, making one selection from column “A”, and another from column “B”. This outlook is particularly common among newcomers and those who have not been exposed to, or genuinely embrace, the philosophical underpinnings of traditional taekwondo. In everyday life this habit is called “cherry-picking” and while it may work in food, fashion and farming, it does not work in the sincere study of taekwondo. Korean martial arts doctrine can be viewed as a complex mosaic composed of many ideas foreign to the Western mind. Selectively removing or ignoring any of these concepts for whatever reason, significantly reduces the value of traditional taekwondo training.
As I have written about previously, the martial arts are intrinsically tied to the three Asian philosophical paradigms of Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism. Each of these in their own rite has contributed greatly to the fertile ground that nurtures the seeds of discovery and enlightenment exclusive to takwondo. Consequently, the training process, physically, spiritually and mentally, will bear fruit only if the practitioner permits nature, and the wisdom inherent in these ancient ideals, to run their course. Just as an apple will not ripen properly if picked too early or, at worse, die on the tree if exposed to pollutants in the soil, so the taekwondoist will suffer if the principles that separate the martial arts from a common life style are conveniently discounted or overlooked altogether.
Let us take, for example, something as deceptively simple as the bow of courtesy so ubiquitous in taekwondo. I say “deceptively simple” due to the fact that, on the surface, an uninitiated onlooker merely sees two individuals inclining their upper bodies at a precise angle towards one another. Undoubtedly, the bow, which replaces the handshake in many parts of the world, holds obvious salutary value. However, we as martial artists realize that there is much more to this action than meets the eye. Aside from a demonstration of respect, the bow, or kyungye in Korean, represents a myriad of implied principles; principles that must be upheld if taekwondo is ever to survive in a classical form. Bowing to a fellow student represents an acknowledgement that the techniques we practice can be lethal if abused and therefore must be wielded with self-control and governed by nobility. Likewise, bowing to a master instructor is not only an expression of respect and humility, but an essential sign of loyalty unhindered by outside influences and personalities regardless of their apparent short term benefit. Moreover, in reciprocity, the master instructor is silently annunciating to his student that he will watch over them and do his best in helping to navigate the often confusing journey through taekwondo however demanding he may seem. Likewise, an instructor bowing to a fellow instructor not only implies mutual respect, but that they will treat one another with honor in their relationship. Lastly, bowing at the threshold of the dojang before entering is yet another manifestation of the student’s appreciation for the holistic practice of traditional taekwondo. This simple gesture recognizes the spiritual boundary that separates the routine of everyday life from the supercharged atmosphere of the dojang; the sacred place where we come to study the Way. Given the depth of this gesture, how could anyone fail to formally acknowledge the virtues portrayed therein?
Vocal cues, too, hold special significance to those who practice taekwondo in its fullness. In an effort to minimize the loss of students due to an overt demand for discipline, some schools have eliminated the required reply of “Yes, Sir” or “Yes, Ma’am” that is spoken by a junior when addressing a senior student or instructor. Moreover, the spirit yell, or kihop, that is so vitally required to amplify a strike, block or kick, is often overlooked and rendered unnecessary.
Similarly, the exclusion of meditation, ki (internal energy) development exercises, basic technique practice, self-defense drills, and most urgently, forms or poomsae, from the standard curriculum due to a strong emphasis on sport competition, has a devastating effect on the student’s overall maturity as a complete martial artist. All of these omissions eat at the very foundation of traditional taekwondo leaving less and less to transmit to future generations as an inheritance.
For the most part, the ideology of taekwondo when practiced as a classical martial art, is forged in the fires of Asian culture. Naturally, we in the West often find this world view difficult to conceptualize. For instance, once, while training in Korea, I recall seeing an instructor strike a student with a kicking target simply because he felt the student was not performing up to par. In that setting the teacher’s punitive action was not construed as being unusual or cruel. Try the same action here, however, and the instructor could be facing a potential law suit. Moreover, training for eight hours at a time, as we did, in a dojang with interior temperatures of ninety degrees or more, is commonplace in Korea and elicits not a word of criticism. I provide these experiences for the reader’s consideration not because I support them, but because they unmistakably drive home the point that there are fundamental differences in the way we approach our training locally as opposed to the manner in which it is practiced in Korea, taekwondo’s country of origin. To complain about an instructor there is unthinkable. To question his authority is worse. Yet, behavior of this nature is not unique to taekwondo in and of itself, but represents a microcosm of Korean society at large. It is neither right nor wrong; it simply is and tends to stem from the hierarchal societal structure embedded in Confucian thought.
Metaphorically speaking, if one wishes to truly absorb the culture of a nation, they must attempt to speak the language, eat the food, dress accordingly and conform to the local customs. While a dilution of tradition by a small component of the martial arts community must be taken into account, the same guidelines hold true for traditional taekwondo; one must accept its physical component, mental requirements and cultural principles as a whole without condition.
Clearly, the complete and sincere practice of taekwondo is not for everyone. In order to achieve excellence in our training, we must subjugate ego, bend to seniority, practice diligently and without complaint, remain loyal to style and school, and finally, act with honor in establishing trust between teacher and student. Remaining steadfast to these seemingly superhuman ideals does not require a character of messianic proportions; rather, it demands a noble heart and an unswerving love for the martial arts that only those willing to accept traditional taekwondo in its cultural entirety will be able to develop.
Master Doug Cook , a 6thdan black belt, is head instructor of the Chosun Taekwondo Academy located in Warwick, New York, a senior student of Grandmaster Richard Chun, and author of three best-selling books entitled: Taekwondo…Ancient Wisdom for the Modern Warrior, Traditional Taekwondo - Core Techniques, History and Philosophy, and Taekwondo–A Path to Excellence, all published by YMAA of Boston. Master Cook and Grandmaster Chun have recently completed a new book, Taekwondo Black Belt Poomsae: Original Koryo and Koryo, targeted for publication in July of 2013. Master Cook can be reached for lectures, workshops or questions at www.chosuntkd.com or info@chosuntkd.com.
Over the years, after teaching over 18,000 taekwondo classes, I have found that some practitioners approach the principles of the martial arts as they would a menu from a restaurant, making one selection from column “A”, and another from column “B”. This outlook is particularly common among newcomers and those who have not been exposed to, or genuinely embrace, the philosophical underpinnings of traditional taekwondo. In everyday life this habit is called “cherry-picking” and while it may work in food, fashion and farming, it does not work in the sincere study of taekwondo. Korean martial arts doctrine can be viewed as a complex mosaic composed of many ideas foreign to the Western mind. Selectively removing or ignoring any of these concepts for whatever reason, significantly reduces the value of traditional taekwondo training.
As I have written about previously, the martial arts are intrinsically tied to the three Asian philosophical paradigms of Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism. Each of these in their own rite has contributed greatly to the fertile ground that nurtures the seeds of discovery and enlightenment exclusive to takwondo. Consequently, the training process, physically, spiritually and mentally, will bear fruit only if the practitioner permits nature, and the wisdom inherent in these ancient ideals, to run their course. Just as an apple will not ripen properly if picked too early or, at worse, die on the tree if exposed to pollutants in the soil, so the taekwondoist will suffer if the principles that separate the martial arts from a common life style are conveniently discounted or overlooked altogether.
Let us take, for example, something as deceptively simple as the bow of courtesy so ubiquitous in taekwondo. I say “deceptively simple” due to the fact that, on the surface, an uninitiated onlooker merely sees two individuals inclining their upper bodies at a precise angle towards one another. Undoubtedly, the bow, which replaces the handshake in many parts of the world, holds obvious salutary value. However, we as martial artists realize that there is much more to this action than meets the eye. Aside from a demonstration of respect, the bow, or kyungye in Korean, represents a myriad of implied principles; principles that must be upheld if taekwondo is ever to survive in a classical form. Bowing to a fellow student represents an acknowledgement that the techniques we practice can be lethal if abused and therefore must be wielded with self-control and governed by nobility. Likewise, bowing to a master instructor is not only an expression of respect and humility, but an essential sign of loyalty unhindered by outside influences and personalities regardless of their apparent short term benefit. Moreover, in reciprocity, the master instructor is silently annunciating to his student that he will watch over them and do his best in helping to navigate the often confusing journey through taekwondo however demanding he may seem. Likewise, an instructor bowing to a fellow instructor not only implies mutual respect, but that they will treat one another with honor in their relationship. Lastly, bowing at the threshold of the dojang before entering is yet another manifestation of the student’s appreciation for the holistic practice of traditional taekwondo. This simple gesture recognizes the spiritual boundary that separates the routine of everyday life from the supercharged atmosphere of the dojang; the sacred place where we come to study the Way. Given the depth of this gesture, how could anyone fail to formally acknowledge the virtues portrayed therein?
Vocal cues, too, hold special significance to those who practice taekwondo in its fullness. In an effort to minimize the loss of students due to an overt demand for discipline, some schools have eliminated the required reply of “Yes, Sir” or “Yes, Ma’am” that is spoken by a junior when addressing a senior student or instructor. Moreover, the spirit yell, or kihop, that is so vitally required to amplify a strike, block or kick, is often overlooked and rendered unnecessary.
Similarly, the exclusion of meditation, ki (internal energy) development exercises, basic technique practice, self-defense drills, and most urgently, forms or poomsae, from the standard curriculum due to a strong emphasis on sport competition, has a devastating effect on the student’s overall maturity as a complete martial artist. All of these omissions eat at the very foundation of traditional taekwondo leaving less and less to transmit to future generations as an inheritance.
For the most part, the ideology of taekwondo when practiced as a classical martial art, is forged in the fires of Asian culture. Naturally, we in the West often find this world view difficult to conceptualize. For instance, once, while training in Korea, I recall seeing an instructor strike a student with a kicking target simply because he felt the student was not performing up to par. In that setting the teacher’s punitive action was not construed as being unusual or cruel. Try the same action here, however, and the instructor could be facing a potential law suit. Moreover, training for eight hours at a time, as we did, in a dojang with interior temperatures of ninety degrees or more, is commonplace in Korea and elicits not a word of criticism. I provide these experiences for the reader’s consideration not because I support them, but because they unmistakably drive home the point that there are fundamental differences in the way we approach our training locally as opposed to the manner in which it is practiced in Korea, taekwondo’s country of origin. To complain about an instructor there is unthinkable. To question his authority is worse. Yet, behavior of this nature is not unique to taekwondo in and of itself, but represents a microcosm of Korean society at large. It is neither right nor wrong; it simply is and tends to stem from the hierarchal societal structure embedded in Confucian thought.
Metaphorically speaking, if one wishes to truly absorb the culture of a nation, they must attempt to speak the language, eat the food, dress accordingly and conform to the local customs. While a dilution of tradition by a small component of the martial arts community must be taken into account, the same guidelines hold true for traditional taekwondo; one must accept its physical component, mental requirements and cultural principles as a whole without condition.
Clearly, the complete and sincere practice of taekwondo is not for everyone. In order to achieve excellence in our training, we must subjugate ego, bend to seniority, practice diligently and without complaint, remain loyal to style and school, and finally, act with honor in establishing trust between teacher and student. Remaining steadfast to these seemingly superhuman ideals does not require a character of messianic proportions; rather, it demands a noble heart and an unswerving love for the martial arts that only those willing to accept traditional taekwondo in its cultural entirety will be able to develop.
Master Doug Cook , a 6thdan black belt, is head instructor of the Chosun Taekwondo Academy located in Warwick, New York, a senior student of Grandmaster Richard Chun, and author of three best-selling books entitled: Taekwondo…Ancient Wisdom for the Modern Warrior, Traditional Taekwondo - Core Techniques, History and Philosophy, and Taekwondo–A Path to Excellence, all published by YMAA of Boston. Master Cook and Grandmaster Chun have recently completed a new book, Taekwondo Black Belt Poomsae: Original Koryo and Koryo, targeted for publication in July of 2013. Master Cook can be reached for lectures, workshops or questions at www.chosuntkd.com or info@chosuntkd.com.
February 25, 2014
Discipleship by Master Doug Cook
This article appeared in Totally Taekwondo Magazine January, 2014 issue #59
Disciple. To most, the word conjures up vivid images of religious devotion or a pious commitment to a spiritual icon or canon. And well it should since the concept defines a symbolic marriage between novice and mentor, a spark of intention to an ideal. But, most importantly, as it applies to taekwondo, this connection can be construed as an unimpeachable union between loyal student and venerable master.
When we think of the term disciple, many Westerners visualize the Twelve Apostles of Christ, also known as disciples. Yet, viewed from the standpoint of the practicing martial artist, this comparison is not too distant from its sacred use.
Taekwondo, or foot-fist-way, is first and foremost a traditional martial art and world sport. It is not in any way, shape or form a religion even though it has been influenced by the three Asian philosophical paradigms of Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism. Nevertheless, several of the almost superhuman individuals responsible for founding the discipline – men, in this case, who sacrificed almost everything to promote the Korean martial arts in their formative years - clearly deserve dutiful fidelity just as in the context of a religion. Equally deserving, are the remaining, living legends who continue to carry the torch of tradition forward.
Why is this? Why would anyone in this day and age sublimate themselves and, in some cases, even forfeit, their own energies in the service of another? And, having done this, what are the benefits, if any.
In its current iteration, traditional taekwondo can be thought of as a direct reflection of modern society’s quest for a ritualized entity, devoid of religious dogma, but complete with a physically and spiritually enhanced set of ethical principles by which to live. It satisfies an innate desire for a clear path to achievement while softening the competitive impediments imposed by the workplace, scholastic institutions or the gaming fields. Moreover, as one travels through the belt ranks, the profits revealed by focused training almost certainly alters the student’s life in a profoundly positive, yet frequently surprising, manner: practice mimics a mirror - on the one hand highlighting strengths, while on the other, reflecting weaknesses that beg correction. Intense introspection of this nature never fails to arouse passions and emotions that have been buried by age, self-imposed isolation or cynicism compounded by an egocentric worldview. The notion that martial arts training, particularly when experienced by adults, can have a significantly restorative effect on the individual is not uncommon.
So it stands to reason that almost any system catering to the cultivation of the physical and spiritual self, will spin off personalities that embody the ideological foundation of the whole; those who symbolize the human incarnation of doctrine and exemplary physical practice. Consequently, the purveyor leading one on this transformative path can, for better or ill, assume almost messianic proportions. To the sincere martial artist whose desire for excellence is pure, this presence is manifested in the form of a master or grandmaster and it is to this person that a pronounced, yet appropriate, homage is paid.
While, as a rule, monthly tuition is paid in return for instruction, this often meager fee can never truly compensate a master adequately who earnestly and selflessly wishes to pass on a genuine martial inheritance. Subsequently, it is not unusual for the master to remain vigilant for a student who stands out, prepared to receive direct transmission of skill. Those that exhibit the elevated standards that satisfy the expectations of the senior, at some point, may come to be considered a disciple. It is clear that these individuals are few and far between. While the undeserving grasp desperately for a position of singular recognition and advanced transfer of often hidden knowledge, sometimes stepping on the backs of others to do so, it can only be those possessed of pure intention, extraordinary patience, unblemished humility and unshakeable devotion, who will reach the summit.
The disciple is differentiated from the average student in that they seek the deep philosophy, customs, etiquette and history associated with the art, in conjunction with physical technique. The implied code of honor governing unprovoked use of lethal skill is intricately woven into their moral fabric. With nothing whatsoever casual about their practice, the disciple develops a laser-like focus, undiminished by the rigors and challenges of training. In short, rather than coming to taekwondo, they become taekwondo.
Furthermore, discipleship often exceeds the boundaries of loyalty, bordering instead on obsequiousness. To outsiders, a close aid to the standard bearer can appear to obviate his or her own identity in the support of their senior. Friction and criticism may arise meted out by those less worthy of the station. This situation, supported by historical precedence, is to be expected and, ultimately, endured.
So, given the almost divine characteristics that flirts with the impossible associated with discipleship, what are the benefits of this noble, yet subservient, condition?
Notably, the disciple is assured of instruction uncorrupted by misinterpretation. That is to say that the individual is not learning technique from a string of instructors originally taught by the master. Instead, they are benefiting, as mentioned earlier, from direct transmission of skill, sometimes taking on even the most trivial of the master’s idiosyncrasies. Metaphorically speaking, just as a document losses integrity over the course of successive copies, so frequently will technique. This first-hand communication of knowledge - physical, spiritual and intellectual - is perhaps the most important advantage of discipleship. Through total immersion in the art, the disciple becomes a sturdy link in the great chain of martial arts knowledge. They share in a legacy by association and through martial action. The disciple virtually becomes a vessel containing the original essence of the master’s teachings and, through osmosis, will be expected to carry this legacy forward in perpetuity.
Nonetheless, there is an additional variable in this equation: is the master eminently deserving of and justified in receiving disciples? Is the leader, not being possessed of sainthood and still capable of misjudgments, worthy of unquestionable loyalty and respect by an apprentice?
While this is murky territory to trample in, and since the Western mind is a questioning mind, there are several signifiers that can be utilized in identifying a master truly worthy of an egoless devotion on behalf of the journeyman. First, examine past actions. Look closely at the deeds and not merely the words of the one in which years of devotion will be invested. Average these out, however, underscoring significant triumphs while down playing benign human traits or frailties. Personally speaking, I recall my astonishment when I discovered, while training in Korea, that our masters smoked excessively and drank alcohol in the evening with abandon. I was young and immature then and did not fully appreciate the Eum and Yang of life as I do now, being advanced in years. These men - great masters - reflecting a generation of hardship and war, were simply living their lives as was customary within the parameters of their society. Yet, from morning till night, each day, they had every intention of teaching traditional taekwondo with total conviction and accuracy. And, they did. In these investigations, do not confuse mundane behavior with pathology.
Additionally, interrogate intentions. Martial arts institutes and masters are not regulated as are other professions with the exception of guidelines suggested by various, legitimate organizations including the Kukkiwon, WTF, ITF, ATA, USTA, WTA, TAGB and the GBTF. Therefore, in an effort to ferret out unbridled greed, If invited, the serious student of taekwondo must ask: Do dollars trump tradition in this potentially honorable relationship? Is the aim of the master’s instruction to teach taekwondo, or is to manipulate and perpetrate odious sales tactics in the practice of take-my-dough? And finally, is the senior demanding minions and serfs, or are they earnestly searching for a few elite students on whom they may imprint a lasting stamp of authenticity?
Today, when we consider the concept of discipleship, we reflect on fusions of individuals such as General Choi Hong Hi and Tae Hi Nam, Dr. Un Yong Kim and Rhin Moon Chun, Gichen Funakoshi and Osamu Ozawa, Jigoro Kano and the Four Kings, and perhaps most prominently, Ip Man and Bruce Lee, just to name a few. Considering the long standing relationships between these men, discipleship may at first appear to be a long, lonely and arduous road. Yet, in truth, it is a two-way street; for example, Jigoro Kano, during the early years of the Kodokan, provided room, board and care for his disciples, all with funds from his own pocket. So, regardless of the effort sustained, trust in the master and his or her ultimate desire for the student’s well being is crucial. It must be realized beforehand that not every training session or personal interaction will result in contentment. Discipleship will demand a pledge to a long and lasting relationship that will range across the peaks and valleys of progress and disappointment. No patch will ever be embroidered with the term disciple. In fact, the phrase may never even cross the lips of the teacher and student involved. Nevertheless, when this special bond develops, cemented by a mutual desire for technical and philosophical preservation, it will become obvious. To serve when called insures continuity; tradition is in need of worthy vehicles in order to advance and there are praiseworthy mentors waiting to shift them into drive.
Master Doug Cook , 6th dan black belt, is head instructor of the Chosun Taekwondo Academy located in Warwick, New York, a senior student of Grandmaster Richard Chun, and author of four best-selling books entitled: Taekwondo…Ancient Wisdom for the Modern Warrior, Traditional Taekwondo - Core Techniques, History and Philosophy, Taekwondo–A Path to Excellence, and Taekwondo Black Belt Poomsae: Original Koryo and Koryo, co-authored with Grandmaster Chun along with its companion DVD. Master Cook can be reached for seminars, workshops or questions at www.chosuntkd.com or info@chosuntkd.com.
February 4, 2014
Chosun e-newsletter Archive Volumn 4 #2 February, 2014
Chosun Taekwondo Academy presents:
A Day for Women Celebrating Character, Courage and Commitment
Sunday March 16, 2014
9:30am - 3:30pm
Chosun Taekwondo Academy
62 Main Street Warwick, NY
Join guest Master Yoga Instructor Paula Heitzner RYT, Chosun Instructor Jake Garrett, Master Doug Cook and the Chosun instructors for a day that celebrates your character, courage and commitment.
Read entire newsletter...
A Day for Women Celebrating Character, Courage and Commitment
Sunday March 16, 2014
9:30am - 3:30pm
Chosun Taekwondo Academy
62 Main Street Warwick, NY
Join guest Master Yoga Instructor Paula Heitzner RYT, Chosun Instructor Jake Garrett, Master Doug Cook and the Chosun instructors for a day that celebrates your character, courage and commitment.
Read entire newsletter...
January 2, 2014
The Complementary Paths of Hatha Yoga and the Martial Arts by Patty Cook
This article appeared in Warwick Valley Living and Warwick Valley Life Magazine (2013)
If you ask anyone what the most popular fitness activities are in America today, hatha yoga and the martial arts will probably rank high on the list. Rather than adversarial pursuits, these two mainstream ideologies have much in common. According to recent studies, both disciplines engage roughly 20 million practicioners in the United States and the evidence suggests that the trends are growing. From small towns to large cities, yoga studios and martial arts schools are familiar fixtures on both street corners and strip malls. Doctors recommend yoga for stress relief and workplaces offer classes to their employees while the study of martial arts is seen as a way to learn self-defense and boost confidence for both children and adults.
How did these two ancient yet complementary disciplines with roots in Asian culture become mainstream physical and spiritual enrichment activities in modern American life? Not surprisingly, if you study the historic progress of both disciplines, you will find that they had their beginnings largely at the same time, and their paths of development are intertwined. The third son of a Brahman Indian king, Zen patriarch, Bodhidharma is credited with initiating a program of exercises and drills that he taught to the shaolin monks. These techniques were imparted with the hope of strengthening the monks’ ability to concentrate during meditation while preserving the spiritual harmony required in monastic life. Considered the Father of yoga, another mystical figure, Sri Patanjali Maharishi, is believed to be the author of the famous treatise, The Yoga Sutras, which remain one of the most influential spiritual writings in yogic practice today. Consisting of 195 aphorisms or sayings, the work lays out a clear and practical path to gaining spiritual insight and self-realization. Through the subsequent years and up until the 20thcentury both philosophies became strong cultural components in their lands of origin but only marginally penetrated the western way of life. Then, during the middle of the last century, interest in yogic philosophy and martial arts found its way into the American psyche mainly through popular culture. The current outlook that yoga and martial arts study has become a “way of life” for so many Americans is a testament to the popularity and accessibility of these two ancient disciplines.Even though both traditions have evolved from similar roots, they are vastly different in their applications. The fast paced and forceful movements of a martial artist are in stark contrast to the strong but deliberate yogic postures called asanas. Even so, certain parallels become apparent. The atmosphere in both a yoga and martial arts class is one of reverence and decorum with practicioners bowing to each other to show mutual respect. The beginning of both classes might consist of seated meditation and breath-work exercises. A yoga class will then progress to various yogic positions led by an instructor and a martial arts class will move through basic motions and vigorous defensive skills. For many practicioners, what may have started out as a desire to improve physical fitness and “get in shape” is augmented and even supplanted by a desire to develop a deeper connection to the inner self and a thirst for a more esoteric study. The yoga student and the martial artist begin to realize that they are on a “path” and the practice is a vehicle for their own transformation. How does this happen? Again we can look at what is at the core of both yoga and the martial arts and see very strong likenesses. Both disciplines adhere to a code of moral conduct. In martial arts study it is called, The Five Tenets. They are Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control and Indomitable Spirit. These words are recited at the end of each class and reinforced through mutual respect and sublimation of the ego. Yoga education also ascribes to an Eight Limbed Path which is a series of steps that act a guideline on how to live a purposeful and meaningful life. As the student trains more deeply, she becomes more self-observant and begins to practice detachment which helps to slow the never ending cycle of action, reaction and judgment. It is becoming common for martial arts academies to offer yoga instruction in addition to their training classes because of the balance that is gained from their complementary qualities. Here in the west, far from their birthplaces, the ideologies of hatha yoga and the martial arts may also be undergoing a transformation. As anyone who has delved deeply into either or both disciplines will tell you, change is the constant force that is at the root of both practices. And it is here in America, where innovation and reinvention are the norm that many believe lies the future of these two extraordinary paths.
Patty Cook received her yoga certification from the New Age Center in Nyack, New York, under the direction of Paula Heitzner, RYT. She is a member of Yoga Alliance and has been teaching and directing the Hatha Yoga program at the Chosun Taekwondo Academy in Warwick, New York for 16 years. She can be reached at: info@chosuntkd.com website: www.chosuntkd.com
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If you ask anyone what the most popular fitness activities are in America today, hatha yoga and the martial arts will probably rank high on the list. Rather than adversarial pursuits, these two mainstream ideologies have much in common. According to recent studies, both disciplines engage roughly 20 million practicioners in the United States and the evidence suggests that the trends are growing. From small towns to large cities, yoga studios and martial arts schools are familiar fixtures on both street corners and strip malls. Doctors recommend yoga for stress relief and workplaces offer classes to their employees while the study of martial arts is seen as a way to learn self-defense and boost confidence for both children and adults.
How did these two ancient yet complementary disciplines with roots in Asian culture become mainstream physical and spiritual enrichment activities in modern American life? Not surprisingly, if you study the historic progress of both disciplines, you will find that they had their beginnings largely at the same time, and their paths of development are intertwined. The third son of a Brahman Indian king, Zen patriarch, Bodhidharma is credited with initiating a program of exercises and drills that he taught to the shaolin monks. These techniques were imparted with the hope of strengthening the monks’ ability to concentrate during meditation while preserving the spiritual harmony required in monastic life. Considered the Father of yoga, another mystical figure, Sri Patanjali Maharishi, is believed to be the author of the famous treatise, The Yoga Sutras, which remain one of the most influential spiritual writings in yogic practice today. Consisting of 195 aphorisms or sayings, the work lays out a clear and practical path to gaining spiritual insight and self-realization. Through the subsequent years and up until the 20thcentury both philosophies became strong cultural components in their lands of origin but only marginally penetrated the western way of life. Then, during the middle of the last century, interest in yogic philosophy and martial arts found its way into the American psyche mainly through popular culture. The current outlook that yoga and martial arts study has become a “way of life” for so many Americans is a testament to the popularity and accessibility of these two ancient disciplines.Even though both traditions have evolved from similar roots, they are vastly different in their applications. The fast paced and forceful movements of a martial artist are in stark contrast to the strong but deliberate yogic postures called asanas. Even so, certain parallels become apparent. The atmosphere in both a yoga and martial arts class is one of reverence and decorum with practicioners bowing to each other to show mutual respect. The beginning of both classes might consist of seated meditation and breath-work exercises. A yoga class will then progress to various yogic positions led by an instructor and a martial arts class will move through basic motions and vigorous defensive skills. For many practicioners, what may have started out as a desire to improve physical fitness and “get in shape” is augmented and even supplanted by a desire to develop a deeper connection to the inner self and a thirst for a more esoteric study. The yoga student and the martial artist begin to realize that they are on a “path” and the practice is a vehicle for their own transformation. How does this happen? Again we can look at what is at the core of both yoga and the martial arts and see very strong likenesses. Both disciplines adhere to a code of moral conduct. In martial arts study it is called, The Five Tenets. They are Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control and Indomitable Spirit. These words are recited at the end of each class and reinforced through mutual respect and sublimation of the ego. Yoga education also ascribes to an Eight Limbed Path which is a series of steps that act a guideline on how to live a purposeful and meaningful life. As the student trains more deeply, she becomes more self-observant and begins to practice detachment which helps to slow the never ending cycle of action, reaction and judgment. It is becoming common for martial arts academies to offer yoga instruction in addition to their training classes because of the balance that is gained from their complementary qualities. Here in the west, far from their birthplaces, the ideologies of hatha yoga and the martial arts may also be undergoing a transformation. As anyone who has delved deeply into either or both disciplines will tell you, change is the constant force that is at the root of both practices. And it is here in America, where innovation and reinvention are the norm that many believe lies the future of these two extraordinary paths.Patty Cook received her yoga certification from the New Age Center in Nyack, New York, under the direction of Paula Heitzner, RYT. She is a member of Yoga Alliance and has been teaching and directing the Hatha Yoga program at the Chosun Taekwondo Academy in Warwick, New York for 16 years. She can be reached at: info@chosuntkd.com website: www.chosuntkd.com
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Interview with Master Doug Cook - Instructor, Author and Supporter of Traditional Taekwondo
This interview appeared in Totally Taekwondo Magazine issue # 32 October, 2011
The I Ching, or Book of Changes, is an ancient Taoist classic. From it we learn that “everything happens in its appointed time.” Master Doug Cook, 6thdan black belt, school owner, author, and regular contributor to Totally TaeKwonDo, couldn’t agree more. Where most practitioners begin their journey through the martial arts during their adolescent years, Master Cook began his taekwondo training in his late thirties; and, if you ask him, he will confirm that the time was right.
Not being deterred by age, he trained diligently under the direction of several masters, eventually earning his 1stdan black belt in traditional taekwondo. His thirst for a thorough understanding of the philosophy and advanced techniques unique to the art, however, ultimately lead him to the door of martial arts legend, Grandmaster Richard Chun. After receiving his 2nd dan, Master Cook established the Chosun Taekwondo Academy, a school dedicated to traditional taekwondo instruction and Ki, or internal energy, development. Later, in an expression of his passion for writing, Master Cook decided to share his knowledge of taekwondo through the printed word, composing many articles for leading martial arts publications. In doing research for these articles, Master Cook discovered that there was little material available concerning the philosophical doctrines of traditional taekwondo. Seizing an opportunity to help remedy this situation, and to follow in the footsteps of his grandmaster, he began work on his first book, Taekwondo…Ancient Wisdom for the Modern Warrior. Destined to become an international best-seller, this work was followed in 2006 by Traditional Taekwondo: Core Techniques, History and Philosophy, and in 2009 by his most popular work to date, Taekwondo – A Path to Excellence. All three are currently available through international online suppliers and major booksellers worldwide. Today, Master Doug Cook teaches as many as five classes a day, six days a week at his dojang located in upstate New York, and travels to New York City to train under Grandmaster Chun and his instructors on a weekly basis. He was a six-time gold medalist in the New York State Championships and the New York State Governor’s Cup Competitions. He holds a D3 status as a US Referee and has received high honors from Korea in the form of a “Letter of Appreciation” signed by World Taekwondo Federation past-president, Dr. Un Yong Kim. In 2003 Master Cook was awarded the Medal of Special Recognition from the Moo Duk Kwan in Seoul, South Korea. In 2004, while attending a training camp in Korea, Master Cook received a Special Citation from the Korean government for forging a stronger relationship between Korea and the United States through the martial arts. In June 2006, he was inducted into the Budo International Martial Arts Hall of Fame as “Taekwondo Master of the Year”. In 2007, Master Cook was invited on several occasions to speak as a guest lecturer at the University of Bridgeport in Connecticut, at the time, the only institution of higher learning in the country to offer a major in the martial arts. Master Cook was recently listed in Black Belt magazine as one of the Top Twenty masters of the Korean martial arts in America. In 2009 he was invited to speak at the prestigious Korea Society in New York City and will appear in Legacy, an upcoming television documentary on taekwondo scheduled for release in 2013. In this Totally TaeKwonDo exclusive interview, Master Cook shares with our readers what it is like to train under a true martial arts pioneer, thoughts on his literary contributions to taekwondo, and his formula for maintaining a successful taekwondo school. He also spoke of his frequent experiences while training in Korea, and his vision of taekwondo in the future.
TOTALLY TAEKWONDO: Thank you for taking the time to speak with us.MASTER COOK: The honor is mine. Let me say that I am blessed to live a life filled with taekwondo and to be a regular contributor to Totally TaeKwonDo online magazine.
TT: How did you first become associated with Grandmaster Richard Chun?
MASTER COOK: As you know, Grandmaster Chun enjoys a high profile in the martial arts community by virtue of his writings, his experience as an international master instructor, and his position as president of the United States Taekwondo Association. As a yellow belt, I recall reading a description of poomsae philosophy in one of his many books. I knew then that there was much more to taekwondo than kicking and punching and that someday I would seek his instruction. My opportunity came in 1997, when I met with him, demonstrated my skill, and was subsequently accepted as a student. It was the realization of a dream.
TT: How has your relationship with Grandmaster Chun affected your training?MASTER COOK: Aside from the fact that Grandmaster Chun is one of the five original masters to emigrate from Koreawith the intention of spreading knowledge of taekwondo in America, he sincerely personifies the spirit and beauty of the art. To see him train is to appreciate the awesome power hidden within each technique. To speak with him is to learn humility and respect for tradition. Frequently, I have gone to him for advice and he has given it freely, often by answering my question with a question in the Socratic Method, causing me to think the problem through for myself. Furthermore, he and his instructors, Masters Pablo Alejandro, Samuel Mizrahi and Maurice Elmalem have patiently taught me the importance of detail and relaxation in self-defense, poomsae and sparring. Training at the Richard Chun Taekwondo Center prior to its closure, significantly improved my abilities as a martial artist both mentally and physically. Fortunately, I am able to continue this brand of training with his instructors at Haddock Taekwondo in New York City.
TT: Tell us about your school, the Chosun Taekwondo Academy, and how you arrived at the name.MASTER COOK: In doing research for my book, the term “Chosun” continuously surfaced throughout Korean history, first as Ko-Chosun in ancient times, and then again when referring to the Yi or Chosun Dynasty that existed between 1392 and 1910. Literally translated, it means “land of the morning calm”. Flying at thirty-thousand feet, about to make our final descent into Incheon International Airport during one of my many training trips to Korea, I recall seeing the peninsula shrouded in mist. In that moment, all the political turmoil that existed below evaporated and truly all appeared calm. I knew then, if and when I established a school, it would be called “Chosun”.
TT: Do you import the lessons you learn at the Richard Chun Taekwondo Center to your school for the benefit of your students? MASTER COOK: For the most part, yes; certainly the self-defense drills and advanced Moo Duk Kwan poomsae. However, at Chosun we adhere to a stringent curriculum composed of a repeating template that increases in complexity throughout the various belt levels; for instance, promotion from one rank to the next is predicated on proficiency in an escalating series of basics, one, two and three-step sparring, self-defense, poomsae, sparring and breaking skills. Students are also expected familiarize themselves with Korean terminology and the philosophy associated with their forms. There is nothing haphazard about our program; every student knows exactly what is expected of them in order to achieve advancement. Everything is clearly written out to avoid confusion and preserved as downloads on our web site to be included in the training journal our students are required to maintain.
TT: Do you emphasize some aspects of taekwondo over others in your teaching methodology?MASTER COOK: My instructors and I highlight the self-defense, physical fitness, and self-enrichment components of taekwondo; this is in keeping with taekwondo as a martial way or a path to enlightenment. In addition, we amplify our practice with meditation and Ki development exercises. While our school attends several tournaments a year, I do not view the classical martial arts simply as sport and subsequently do not focus on competition. Instead, we offer a series of technical seminars and self-defense courses to dojangs and civic groups at little or no charge or, in some cases, as a community service. Not long ago, a U.S. Army medical unit requested that we instruct them in taekwondo self-defense skills. This was a great privilege. It was an honor to serve our country in this manner, doing what we do best.
TT: What forms do you practice?MASTER COOK: As a United States Taekwondo Association affiliate school, we perform the eight Taegeuk and Palgwe set of poomsae, in conjunction with the traditional Moo Duk Kwan and required Kukkiwon black belt Yudanja series. We also practice the Pyung-Ahn hyung and several of the ITF tuls, although these are not required for promotion.
TT: Tell our readers about your experience of training in Korea.MASTER COOK: Almost indescribable! We have traveled to the “land of the morning calm” on five separate occasions now and are in the throes of planning our next training tour for July 2012. Clearly, I feel one must experience Korean culture firsthand in order to fully understand the roots of taekwondo. In doing so, the practitioner makes a geographical and historical connection with their physical training. Visiting the Kukkiwon, the various dojangs and universities; meeting the many gifted masters and students of the art, adds color and meaning to one’s practice that can only be appreciated by traveling to the homeland of taekwondo. We attempt to go every three years and are fortunate beyond measure to be accompanied by Grandmaster Chun since doors that typically remain closed to Westerners, open wide in his presence. We welcome practitioners from all styles of taekwondo. Parties interested in joining us can contact me at info@chsountkd.com.
TT: How would you characterize the training in Korea versus here in the West?MASTER COOK: We train very hard for extended periods of time during our visits. After all, that is why we go and we choose to take advantage of every educational opportunity available. We balance the intense kicking and self-defense drills found at the university level, we travel to outlying dojangs and to Kyongju, the ancient capitol of Silla, where we visit and train at ancient Buddhist temples located in the training grounds of the Hwarang. There, we practice basics, poomsae and meditation. During our last excursion in 2010, we were exceedingly fortunate to train at Kukkiwon, Kumgang Taekwondo Center, Gulgosa Temple and, as always, with Grandmaster Gyoo hyun-Lee at his dojang in the suburbs of Seoul. Naturally, we reserve time for cultural pursuits and sightseeing as well.
TT: Aside from being a professional martial arts instructor, you are an author, columnist and frequent contributor to this magazine with three best-selling books to your credit. How did that come about?
MASTER COOK: Clearly, it is not enough to address the physical portion of our art; one must contribute academically as well. The inspiration for all three of my books, was drawn from great masters such as Dr. Richard Chun and Sang Kyu Shim, who have demonstrated their devotion to taekwondo through their literary skills. In reading their work, it quickly became evident to me that taekwondo is not merely a series of physical techniques, but a road to enlightenment, a path to excellence. Realizing this, I too felt a desire to express my love for the martial arts through the written word. Following in the footsteps of my mentor was not difficult once I began research for my books. As odd as it may sound, I almost felt I was being guided by an external force that was using me as a conduit to disseminate this knowledge. Writing my books was one of the most profoundly rewarding experiences of my life. Presently, I am working on my fourth book with Grandmaster Chun, a work that will focus on the original iteration of Poomsae Koryo in conjunction with the current version we refer to as Kukki Koryo. The response to this body of work has been favorable, indeed, based on the many letters and emails I receive weekly from around the world inquiring about the differences in these two poomsae. Release is planned for 2013.
TT: What expectations do you have for your school and how do they coincide with your prediction of how taekwondo will evolve in the future?MASTER COOK: This is an interesting question, the second part of which I can only voice an opinion. As I see it, taekwondo currently sits at a crossroads. On the one hand, we have an element dedicated primarily to the practice of WTF Olympic-style taekwondo. Schools of this nature are clearly in the majority and mirror the approach taken in Korea. Conversely, there exists a minority of institutions and associations, here and abroad, that focus largely on the self-defense and life enrichment aspects of the art with little or no emphasis on sport competition. I, and other like-minded instructors, refer to this alternative style as traditional taekwondo. Nevertheless, this nomenclature may appear to be somewhat of a misnomer since the history or “tradition” of taekwondo as it exists today, is relatively short with much of it being devoted to its promotion as a world sport. Like it or not, the answer to this paradox lies in the fact that taekwondo owes much of its pedigree to foreign influences, some of which are rooted in Funakoshi’s Shotokan karate-do and, to a lesser degree, Chinese gungfu. Consequently, in its early developmental stage, prior to its promotion as an Olympic sport, taekwondo contained a complete palate of offensive and defensive techniques including hand strikes, blocks, throws and sweeps. Sadly, at least in its sportive form, these techniques have been forfeited altogether in favor of those certain to score in the ring. With this in mind, the notion of taekwondo having a “traditional” component based on self-defense, predating the WTF, materializes. It is my belief that we must maintain this traditional approach to training if the defensive art of taekwondo is to survive in its fullness. Subsequently, the primary mission of the Chosun Taekwondo Academy, in unison with establishing satellite schools, is to, first and foremost, promote the complete art of taekwondo while recognizing and appreciating its sportive mate for the catalyst it has been in promoting Korea’s national martial art and Olympic sport, worldwide. In the end, however, I think all practitioners will agree that both martial art and combat sport, in union with their diverse administrative arms, must learn to coexist harmoniously if taekwondo is to advance successfully into the future.
TT: In closing, are there any final thoughts you would like to leave us with? MASTER COOK: Yes. I feel extremely privileged to teach taekwondo professionally. As an instructor, it is gratifying to know that you are instrumental in helping students of all ages develop confidence, defensive capabilities and improved health. Taoists metaphorically claim that one can achieve immortality by sharing their knowledge; if this is the case, then every taekwondo instructor should strive to live forever!
Master Doug Cook , a 6th dan black belt, is head instructor of the Chosun Taekwondo Academy located in Warwick, New York, a senior student of Grandmaster Richard Chun, and author of three best-selling books entitled: Taekwondo…Ancient Wisdom for the Modern Warrior, Traditional Taekwondo - Core Techniques, History and Philosophy, and his most recent contribution, Taekwondo–A Path to Excellence, focusing on the rewards and virtues of taekwondo. Master Cook and Grandmaster Chun are planning their next training and cultural tour of Korea for July of 2012. Those interested in joining this excursion can contact Master Cook at www.chosuntkd.com or info@chosuntkd.com. Subscribe to Totally Taekwondo Magazine
The I Ching, or Book of Changes, is an ancient Taoist classic. From it we learn that “everything happens in its appointed time.” Master Doug Cook, 6thdan black belt, school owner, author, and regular contributor to Totally TaeKwonDo, couldn’t agree more. Where most practitioners begin their journey through the martial arts during their adolescent years, Master Cook began his taekwondo training in his late thirties; and, if you ask him, he will confirm that the time was right.
Not being deterred by age, he trained diligently under the direction of several masters, eventually earning his 1stdan black belt in traditional taekwondo. His thirst for a thorough understanding of the philosophy and advanced techniques unique to the art, however, ultimately lead him to the door of martial arts legend, Grandmaster Richard Chun. After receiving his 2nd dan, Master Cook established the Chosun Taekwondo Academy, a school dedicated to traditional taekwondo instruction and Ki, or internal energy, development. Later, in an expression of his passion for writing, Master Cook decided to share his knowledge of taekwondo through the printed word, composing many articles for leading martial arts publications. In doing research for these articles, Master Cook discovered that there was little material available concerning the philosophical doctrines of traditional taekwondo. Seizing an opportunity to help remedy this situation, and to follow in the footsteps of his grandmaster, he began work on his first book, Taekwondo…Ancient Wisdom for the Modern Warrior. Destined to become an international best-seller, this work was followed in 2006 by Traditional Taekwondo: Core Techniques, History and Philosophy, and in 2009 by his most popular work to date, Taekwondo – A Path to Excellence. All three are currently available through international online suppliers and major booksellers worldwide. Today, Master Doug Cook teaches as many as five classes a day, six days a week at his dojang located in upstate New York, and travels to New York City to train under Grandmaster Chun and his instructors on a weekly basis. He was a six-time gold medalist in the New York State Championships and the New York State Governor’s Cup Competitions. He holds a D3 status as a US Referee and has received high honors from Korea in the form of a “Letter of Appreciation” signed by World Taekwondo Federation past-president, Dr. Un Yong Kim. In 2003 Master Cook was awarded the Medal of Special Recognition from the Moo Duk Kwan in Seoul, South Korea. In 2004, while attending a training camp in Korea, Master Cook received a Special Citation from the Korean government for forging a stronger relationship between Korea and the United States through the martial arts. In June 2006, he was inducted into the Budo International Martial Arts Hall of Fame as “Taekwondo Master of the Year”. In 2007, Master Cook was invited on several occasions to speak as a guest lecturer at the University of Bridgeport in Connecticut, at the time, the only institution of higher learning in the country to offer a major in the martial arts. Master Cook was recently listed in Black Belt magazine as one of the Top Twenty masters of the Korean martial arts in America. In 2009 he was invited to speak at the prestigious Korea Society in New York City and will appear in Legacy, an upcoming television documentary on taekwondo scheduled for release in 2013. In this Totally TaeKwonDo exclusive interview, Master Cook shares with our readers what it is like to train under a true martial arts pioneer, thoughts on his literary contributions to taekwondo, and his formula for maintaining a successful taekwondo school. He also spoke of his frequent experiences while training in Korea, and his vision of taekwondo in the future.
TOTALLY TAEKWONDO: Thank you for taking the time to speak with us.MASTER COOK: The honor is mine. Let me say that I am blessed to live a life filled with taekwondo and to be a regular contributor to Totally TaeKwonDo online magazine.
TT: How did you first become associated with Grandmaster Richard Chun?
MASTER COOK: As you know, Grandmaster Chun enjoys a high profile in the martial arts community by virtue of his writings, his experience as an international master instructor, and his position as president of the United States Taekwondo Association. As a yellow belt, I recall reading a description of poomsae philosophy in one of his many books. I knew then that there was much more to taekwondo than kicking and punching and that someday I would seek his instruction. My opportunity came in 1997, when I met with him, demonstrated my skill, and was subsequently accepted as a student. It was the realization of a dream.
TT: How has your relationship with Grandmaster Chun affected your training?MASTER COOK: Aside from the fact that Grandmaster Chun is one of the five original masters to emigrate from Koreawith the intention of spreading knowledge of taekwondo in America, he sincerely personifies the spirit and beauty of the art. To see him train is to appreciate the awesome power hidden within each technique. To speak with him is to learn humility and respect for tradition. Frequently, I have gone to him for advice and he has given it freely, often by answering my question with a question in the Socratic Method, causing me to think the problem through for myself. Furthermore, he and his instructors, Masters Pablo Alejandro, Samuel Mizrahi and Maurice Elmalem have patiently taught me the importance of detail and relaxation in self-defense, poomsae and sparring. Training at the Richard Chun Taekwondo Center prior to its closure, significantly improved my abilities as a martial artist both mentally and physically. Fortunately, I am able to continue this brand of training with his instructors at Haddock Taekwondo in New York City.
TT: Tell us about your school, the Chosun Taekwondo Academy, and how you arrived at the name.MASTER COOK: In doing research for my book, the term “Chosun” continuously surfaced throughout Korean history, first as Ko-Chosun in ancient times, and then again when referring to the Yi or Chosun Dynasty that existed between 1392 and 1910. Literally translated, it means “land of the morning calm”. Flying at thirty-thousand feet, about to make our final descent into Incheon International Airport during one of my many training trips to Korea, I recall seeing the peninsula shrouded in mist. In that moment, all the political turmoil that existed below evaporated and truly all appeared calm. I knew then, if and when I established a school, it would be called “Chosun”.
TT: Do you import the lessons you learn at the Richard Chun Taekwondo Center to your school for the benefit of your students? MASTER COOK: For the most part, yes; certainly the self-defense drills and advanced Moo Duk Kwan poomsae. However, at Chosun we adhere to a stringent curriculum composed of a repeating template that increases in complexity throughout the various belt levels; for instance, promotion from one rank to the next is predicated on proficiency in an escalating series of basics, one, two and three-step sparring, self-defense, poomsae, sparring and breaking skills. Students are also expected familiarize themselves with Korean terminology and the philosophy associated with their forms. There is nothing haphazard about our program; every student knows exactly what is expected of them in order to achieve advancement. Everything is clearly written out to avoid confusion and preserved as downloads on our web site to be included in the training journal our students are required to maintain.
TT: Do you emphasize some aspects of taekwondo over others in your teaching methodology?MASTER COOK: My instructors and I highlight the self-defense, physical fitness, and self-enrichment components of taekwondo; this is in keeping with taekwondo as a martial way or a path to enlightenment. In addition, we amplify our practice with meditation and Ki development exercises. While our school attends several tournaments a year, I do not view the classical martial arts simply as sport and subsequently do not focus on competition. Instead, we offer a series of technical seminars and self-defense courses to dojangs and civic groups at little or no charge or, in some cases, as a community service. Not long ago, a U.S. Army medical unit requested that we instruct them in taekwondo self-defense skills. This was a great privilege. It was an honor to serve our country in this manner, doing what we do best.
TT: What forms do you practice?MASTER COOK: As a United States Taekwondo Association affiliate school, we perform the eight Taegeuk and Palgwe set of poomsae, in conjunction with the traditional Moo Duk Kwan and required Kukkiwon black belt Yudanja series. We also practice the Pyung-Ahn hyung and several of the ITF tuls, although these are not required for promotion.
TT: Tell our readers about your experience of training in Korea.MASTER COOK: Almost indescribable! We have traveled to the “land of the morning calm” on five separate occasions now and are in the throes of planning our next training tour for July 2012. Clearly, I feel one must experience Korean culture firsthand in order to fully understand the roots of taekwondo. In doing so, the practitioner makes a geographical and historical connection with their physical training. Visiting the Kukkiwon, the various dojangs and universities; meeting the many gifted masters and students of the art, adds color and meaning to one’s practice that can only be appreciated by traveling to the homeland of taekwondo. We attempt to go every three years and are fortunate beyond measure to be accompanied by Grandmaster Chun since doors that typically remain closed to Westerners, open wide in his presence. We welcome practitioners from all styles of taekwondo. Parties interested in joining us can contact me at info@chsountkd.com.
TT: How would you characterize the training in Korea versus here in the West?MASTER COOK: We train very hard for extended periods of time during our visits. After all, that is why we go and we choose to take advantage of every educational opportunity available. We balance the intense kicking and self-defense drills found at the university level, we travel to outlying dojangs and to Kyongju, the ancient capitol of Silla, where we visit and train at ancient Buddhist temples located in the training grounds of the Hwarang. There, we practice basics, poomsae and meditation. During our last excursion in 2010, we were exceedingly fortunate to train at Kukkiwon, Kumgang Taekwondo Center, Gulgosa Temple and, as always, with Grandmaster Gyoo hyun-Lee at his dojang in the suburbs of Seoul. Naturally, we reserve time for cultural pursuits and sightseeing as well.
TT: Aside from being a professional martial arts instructor, you are an author, columnist and frequent contributor to this magazine with three best-selling books to your credit. How did that come about?
MASTER COOK: Clearly, it is not enough to address the physical portion of our art; one must contribute academically as well. The inspiration for all three of my books, was drawn from great masters such as Dr. Richard Chun and Sang Kyu Shim, who have demonstrated their devotion to taekwondo through their literary skills. In reading their work, it quickly became evident to me that taekwondo is not merely a series of physical techniques, but a road to enlightenment, a path to excellence. Realizing this, I too felt a desire to express my love for the martial arts through the written word. Following in the footsteps of my mentor was not difficult once I began research for my books. As odd as it may sound, I almost felt I was being guided by an external force that was using me as a conduit to disseminate this knowledge. Writing my books was one of the most profoundly rewarding experiences of my life. Presently, I am working on my fourth book with Grandmaster Chun, a work that will focus on the original iteration of Poomsae Koryo in conjunction with the current version we refer to as Kukki Koryo. The response to this body of work has been favorable, indeed, based on the many letters and emails I receive weekly from around the world inquiring about the differences in these two poomsae. Release is planned for 2013.
TT: What expectations do you have for your school and how do they coincide with your prediction of how taekwondo will evolve in the future?MASTER COOK: This is an interesting question, the second part of which I can only voice an opinion. As I see it, taekwondo currently sits at a crossroads. On the one hand, we have an element dedicated primarily to the practice of WTF Olympic-style taekwondo. Schools of this nature are clearly in the majority and mirror the approach taken in Korea. Conversely, there exists a minority of institutions and associations, here and abroad, that focus largely on the self-defense and life enrichment aspects of the art with little or no emphasis on sport competition. I, and other like-minded instructors, refer to this alternative style as traditional taekwondo. Nevertheless, this nomenclature may appear to be somewhat of a misnomer since the history or “tradition” of taekwondo as it exists today, is relatively short with much of it being devoted to its promotion as a world sport. Like it or not, the answer to this paradox lies in the fact that taekwondo owes much of its pedigree to foreign influences, some of which are rooted in Funakoshi’s Shotokan karate-do and, to a lesser degree, Chinese gungfu. Consequently, in its early developmental stage, prior to its promotion as an Olympic sport, taekwondo contained a complete palate of offensive and defensive techniques including hand strikes, blocks, throws and sweeps. Sadly, at least in its sportive form, these techniques have been forfeited altogether in favor of those certain to score in the ring. With this in mind, the notion of taekwondo having a “traditional” component based on self-defense, predating the WTF, materializes. It is my belief that we must maintain this traditional approach to training if the defensive art of taekwondo is to survive in its fullness. Subsequently, the primary mission of the Chosun Taekwondo Academy, in unison with establishing satellite schools, is to, first and foremost, promote the complete art of taekwondo while recognizing and appreciating its sportive mate for the catalyst it has been in promoting Korea’s national martial art and Olympic sport, worldwide. In the end, however, I think all practitioners will agree that both martial art and combat sport, in union with their diverse administrative arms, must learn to coexist harmoniously if taekwondo is to advance successfully into the future.
TT: In closing, are there any final thoughts you would like to leave us with? MASTER COOK: Yes. I feel extremely privileged to teach taekwondo professionally. As an instructor, it is gratifying to know that you are instrumental in helping students of all ages develop confidence, defensive capabilities and improved health. Taoists metaphorically claim that one can achieve immortality by sharing their knowledge; if this is the case, then every taekwondo instructor should strive to live forever!
Master Doug Cook , a 6th dan black belt, is head instructor of the Chosun Taekwondo Academy located in Warwick, New York, a senior student of Grandmaster Richard Chun, and author of three best-selling books entitled: Taekwondo…Ancient Wisdom for the Modern Warrior, Traditional Taekwondo - Core Techniques, History and Philosophy, and his most recent contribution, Taekwondo–A Path to Excellence, focusing on the rewards and virtues of taekwondo. Master Cook and Grandmaster Chun are planning their next training and cultural tour of Korea for July of 2012. Those interested in joining this excursion can contact Master Cook at www.chosuntkd.com or info@chosuntkd.com. Subscribe to Totally Taekwondo Magazine
The Eum/Yang: Symbol of Harmony, Balance and Acceptance of Constant Change by Master Doug Cook
This article was published in Taekwondo Times Magazine issue #67 August, 2013
Taoism and its reliance on the Way or path of natural order, remains a cornerstone of Asian thought to this day and has given rise to what is perhaps one of the most recognized icons of all time: the Yin/Yang. This eternal symbol, rooted in the ancient Chinese Book of Changes, or I Ching (Korean: Juyeok), is composed of two tear-shaped elements circling one another. Nestled in the lobe of each is a representative sample of its mate. On a three dimensional level, this elementary circle can be extrapolated into two, discreet orbiting polarities thus giving rise to a spiral, satisfying both the cyclical and linear nature of life as we travel through time.
Yet, how does this timeless icon apply to the Korean discipline of tae kwon do? The answer to this question lies in how deeply the practitioner wishes to probe the metaphysical aspects of the martial arts. Taking a utilitarian approach to the basic theme underscoring the Eum/Yang can have a significant impact on the practical application of tae kwon do technique in general. For example, poomsae, hyungor tul, the choreographed formal exercises that stand as a central pillar of traditional tae kwon do, borrow heavily from the philosophical principles surrounding the I Ching. Each of the Kukkiwon gup or color belt poomsae draw their philosophical individualism from the Palgwe whose eight sets of trigrams surrounding the Eum/Yang represent nature in its fullness. The natural elements of heaven, thunder, wind, water, fire and earth, are all in evidence as the practitioner learns to overcome the physical limitations of the body, instead experiencing the spiritual aspects supported by these components while performing this brand of moving meditation.The Ying/Yang furthermore acts as a metaphor for the duality of opposites; the struggle between two opposing forces to exist in a state of equilibrium. Moreover, it embraces a belief in constant change as a central dynamic of daily life. Even though certain characteristics of this time-honored symbol are altered somewhat in the Korean Eum/Yang and the Japanese In/Yo, the underlying principles inherent in its design remain fixed. Depicted in its elegance is the never-ending harmony that exists between two unlike forces; forces such as light and dark, soft and hard, right and left, good and evil, and night and day. This harmonic resolution rests on the fact that, rather than negating one another, these contradictions are supportive in their oneness. Eum is considered the passive, receptive polarity, while Yang can be thought of as the assertive or active partner. Dividing them is a high-energy, sine-curve boundary line. Rather than remaining in a static state, this division vibrates kinetically with Ki, the vital life force.Meditating on the Eum/Yang, one ultimately concludes that almost everything we do in tae kwon do returns to this elegant symbol. From the give and take of self-defense drills, where one practitioner lends their body to another under the shadow of potential injury, to the relaxed state of the muscles as a prelude to the penetrating power of a kick or a strike, harmony between opposites abound. A healthy, balanced juxtaposition between competition and practical self-defense must be maintained as well if the art and sport of the discipline are to coexist in concordance with one another, ultimately benefiting both sides of the equation. Finally, if we hope to realize a substantive gain from our practice, we must cultivate a deep appreciation for the breath containing Ki, the universal life force. Therefore, if the Eum/Yang exhibits anything in its extreme simplicity, it is the smooth transfer of breath - inhalation and exhalation particularly during meditation - as it mindfully enters and leaves the body. This action clearly provides potential energy coupled with an amplification of technique so vital to the martial artist. Unquestionably, tae kwon do is about kicking, striking and self-defense. Moreover, it has clearly blossomed into a world sport with full recognition by the International Olympic Committee. Yet, as in the past, it remains a vehicle for developing a strong character and a sharp mind. One is constantly reminded of this dichotomy by the universal symbol of the Eum/Yang.
Master Doug Cook , a 6th dan black belt, is head instructor of the Chosun Taekwondo Academy located in Warwick, New York, a senior student of Grandmaster Richard Chun, and author of four best-selling books focusing on taekwondo. He can be reached for lectures, workshops or questions at www.chosuntkd.com or info@chosuntkd.com.
Subscribe to Taekwondo Times Magazine
Taoism and its reliance on the Way or path of natural order, remains a cornerstone of Asian thought to this day and has given rise to what is perhaps one of the most recognized icons of all time: the Yin/Yang. This eternal symbol, rooted in the ancient Chinese Book of Changes, or I Ching (Korean: Juyeok), is composed of two tear-shaped elements circling one another. Nestled in the lobe of each is a representative sample of its mate. On a three dimensional level, this elementary circle can be extrapolated into two, discreet orbiting polarities thus giving rise to a spiral, satisfying both the cyclical and linear nature of life as we travel through time.
Yet, how does this timeless icon apply to the Korean discipline of tae kwon do? The answer to this question lies in how deeply the practitioner wishes to probe the metaphysical aspects of the martial arts. Taking a utilitarian approach to the basic theme underscoring the Eum/Yang can have a significant impact on the practical application of tae kwon do technique in general. For example, poomsae, hyungor tul, the choreographed formal exercises that stand as a central pillar of traditional tae kwon do, borrow heavily from the philosophical principles surrounding the I Ching. Each of the Kukkiwon gup or color belt poomsae draw their philosophical individualism from the Palgwe whose eight sets of trigrams surrounding the Eum/Yang represent nature in its fullness. The natural elements of heaven, thunder, wind, water, fire and earth, are all in evidence as the practitioner learns to overcome the physical limitations of the body, instead experiencing the spiritual aspects supported by these components while performing this brand of moving meditation.The Ying/Yang furthermore acts as a metaphor for the duality of opposites; the struggle between two opposing forces to exist in a state of equilibrium. Moreover, it embraces a belief in constant change as a central dynamic of daily life. Even though certain characteristics of this time-honored symbol are altered somewhat in the Korean Eum/Yang and the Japanese In/Yo, the underlying principles inherent in its design remain fixed. Depicted in its elegance is the never-ending harmony that exists between two unlike forces; forces such as light and dark, soft and hard, right and left, good and evil, and night and day. This harmonic resolution rests on the fact that, rather than negating one another, these contradictions are supportive in their oneness. Eum is considered the passive, receptive polarity, while Yang can be thought of as the assertive or active partner. Dividing them is a high-energy, sine-curve boundary line. Rather than remaining in a static state, this division vibrates kinetically with Ki, the vital life force.Meditating on the Eum/Yang, one ultimately concludes that almost everything we do in tae kwon do returns to this elegant symbol. From the give and take of self-defense drills, where one practitioner lends their body to another under the shadow of potential injury, to the relaxed state of the muscles as a prelude to the penetrating power of a kick or a strike, harmony between opposites abound. A healthy, balanced juxtaposition between competition and practical self-defense must be maintained as well if the art and sport of the discipline are to coexist in concordance with one another, ultimately benefiting both sides of the equation. Finally, if we hope to realize a substantive gain from our practice, we must cultivate a deep appreciation for the breath containing Ki, the universal life force. Therefore, if the Eum/Yang exhibits anything in its extreme simplicity, it is the smooth transfer of breath - inhalation and exhalation particularly during meditation - as it mindfully enters and leaves the body. This action clearly provides potential energy coupled with an amplification of technique so vital to the martial artist. Unquestionably, tae kwon do is about kicking, striking and self-defense. Moreover, it has clearly blossomed into a world sport with full recognition by the International Olympic Committee. Yet, as in the past, it remains a vehicle for developing a strong character and a sharp mind. One is constantly reminded of this dichotomy by the universal symbol of the Eum/Yang.
Master Doug Cook , a 6th dan black belt, is head instructor of the Chosun Taekwondo Academy located in Warwick, New York, a senior student of Grandmaster Richard Chun, and author of four best-selling books focusing on taekwondo. He can be reached for lectures, workshops or questions at www.chosuntkd.com or info@chosuntkd.com.
Subscribe to Taekwondo Times Magazine
