Discipline and Respect
No matter our reasons for beginning kung fu, the art can only guarantee two things: discipline and respect. When you think about it you will come to realize that with those two things anything and everything is possible.
There are always provisos that come with guarantees. Logically we all understand that a guarantee is only as good as our common sense and our engagement. Your car’s warranty is void if you drive the car off a cliff. Likewise the guarantee of discipline and respect is void if you are not putting in true, consistent effort. You do not benefit from lessons unless you are present for those lessons. Nor do you benefit from lessons if you are not actively applying them.
Our uniform, like most things in kung fu, serves a purpose. Our uniform helps ground us by being a constant reminder of what we are a part of. It clarifies our perspective and reinforces our commitment while reminding us that no matter our background, we are all equal in the kwoon with the same goals of improvement.
If the uniform is to be a useful tool to help us develop discipline and respect, we must keep our uniform clean and well-maintained. You can’t expect a saw to do its job if you do not keep it sharp and clean. Your uniform should be treated the same.
Students who continually show up to class with dirty or torn uniforms, are not progressing as quickly as students who respect their uniform. They are not progressing to their full potential not because their uniform is dirty but because they are not applying discipline and respect to their training and their lives.
The biggest statement a student can make about discipline and respect is how and when they arrive at class. Clearly you are not applying those concepts if you are constantly arriving late for your classes. Consistent tardiness is one of the most disrespectful actions toward your fellow students and your instructors. The second biggest statement a student can make about discipline and respect is the condition of the uniform they are wearing to class.
The bottom line:
If you want to learn kung fu, you must be taking your training outside the kwoon and into the world by consistently applying the concepts of kung fu in all aspects of your life. That starts by taking care of when you arrive at class and taking care of your uniform.
The Value of 1 On 1's
Whether you are a parent, a student or an instructor, the 1-on-1 resource is probably the single most valuable tool at our disposal.
As a parent, we want our children to develop essential skills that will aid them to succeed in whatever they decide to pursue. The majority of kids, at a young age, are not self motivators. They cannot yet understand the value of hard work…the value of putting in effort today for a goal they won’t reach until tomorrow…or next week…or next year. By utilizing the 1-on-1's, you can help your child reach their goals, thereby showing them that with a little bit of effort on a consistent basis, anything is possible. I can guarantee you that once they recognize their hard work breeds results, they will start to take these steps towards success on their own because you have shown them how.
As a student, the 1-on-1's provide a platform to ask questions or cover topics specific to the individual. Whether it be to improve a skill, or to get ideas of what to focus on, the opportunity for 1-on-1 instruction is incredibly beneficial. Many students have utilized the 1-on-1's to obtain knowledge above and beyond their current class level. Some learning entire forms exclusively through 1-on-1's and propelling their personal progress to incredible heights. Having said that, the need to have a topic or question in mind is not a prerequisite for the 1-on-1 to be successful. Oftentimes, the meetings that begin without a specific plan end up being the most fun and engaging. If the student and instructor can connect in a more personal way, the time has been well spent.
As an instructor, making those connections is the main objective for the 1-on-1's. If Kung Fu enters the equation, that is simply a bonus. Everyone learns differently. Everyone thinks a bit differently. Everyone has different skills and capabilities. This type of interaction creates an opportunity to connect with our students on a personal level that is not always possible in a classroom setting. Once that relationship is established, both teaching and learning become effortless.
Whether you are a parent, or a student, I encourage you to take advantage of this amazing tool. And I am confident that with regular use, you will see the tremendous value.
Who can utilize the 1-on-1s?
Any student or parent/guardian can utilize the 1-on-1's.
How do I book?
On the main home page of KwoonTalk, you will find a link along the left called “One on One Appointments”. Simply click on that and follow the instructions to choose and book an appointment. Should you have any issues with booking, please reach out.
Who should I book with?
Although any of the instructors will be able to answer most questions, you’ll likely want to book with an instructor that you, or your child would be the most familiar with. If you are unsure, the following indicates which instructors are involved with the various classes.
Lil’ Leopards/Tiny Tigers
Sifu Brinker
Sifu Rybak
Sihing Vantuil
Sidai Bjorkquist
Todai Ferris
Young Dragons 1/2
Sifu Brinker
Sifu Rybak
Sihing Vantuil
Sihing Ward
Sidai Bjorkquist
Todai Ferris
Teen/Adults
Sifu Brinker
Sifu Rybak
Sihing Vantuil
Sihing Csillag
Sihing Lindstrom
Sihing Ward
Sidai Bjorkquist
How often should I book?
As a parent with questions regarding the program or your child's progress, feel free to book as needed. For students, we have seen the most success with those that book regular weekly or bi-weekly appointments. All students are eligible for a 1-on-1 every week as part of their tuition.
What if my child has nothing to ask or talk about?
A predetermined topic is not necessary to book a 1-on-1. The instructor’s main objective with the 1-on-1's is to make connections with the students, not necessarily to practice Kung Fu. If talking about Minecraft or having a game of virtual hide-n-seek is how the child wants to connect during this time, the 1-on-1 has been a success. And although the topics of conversation may differ, this applies to our teen/adult students as well. The better we know our students, the easier it is to teach them. Do not let the lack of a question or topic hold you back.
What if I can’t find a day/time that works?
In the event none of the posted days and times work for your schedule, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Instructors have posted the days and times that are most convenient for them, but that does not mean other arrangements can’t be made.
If it’s been a while since your last 1-on-1, or if you’ve never had one before, I encourage you to book one today. I promise it will be one of the most beneficial additions you can make to your (or your child’s) Kung Fu.
Malinda Ferris