Jun Chong Martial Arts

Martial Arts for Adults - What is your goal?

2012-01-11T16:01:00.000-08:00

There are many roads in the martial arts open to adults besides competing inside a cage. Once you decide what you want to do then it is easier to plan a route to get there. Usually, in January we get many new and returning students wanting to initiate some physical activity as a New Year's resolution, but if they are asked what is their goal, many simply say "to do more exercise."

Martial arts for adults is more than exercise
When people say they just want to exercise, in my mind, they should really sign up at a gym and exercise for a lot cheaper than at a martial arts school.

Exercise at a martial arts studio is not just simple exercise:

There is a class structure
There is a lot of repetition whether you like it or not
May get a few bruises along the way
There is a schedule
There are rules to follow
Must wear a uniform
Must show a certain standard of behavior

Yes, there is a whole lot more to it than just exercise. Then there is the human interaction because, after all, in a martial arts studio you are part of a group of like-minded people; it's easy to quickly form a bond of friendship and camaraderie with your fellow martial art students. At a gym you come and go any time you want and nobody cares and you can stand around doing nothing and no one will yell at you.

Attainable goals for adult martial art students
Once you know why you are choosing a martial arts studio instead of a gym, you can have a plan to achieve your specific goal.

Jun Chong Martial Arts studio offers different adult martial arts programs to fit your needs:

Persons looking to control their weight through taekwondo classes should attend 4 to 5 times per week and should choose a 6 to 12 month program.
Those who want to learn self defense can benefit from our hapkido, jiujitsu, stick fighting and taekwondo classes and plan to train for at least two years.
To become a professional in the field of martial arts, we offer a complete black belt curriculum and degrees of black belt with full certification from the World Taekwondo Federation in Seoul, Korea.
Persons interested to be committed to a lifetime career in the martial arts and be owners/operators of their own establishment will find in Jun Chong Tae Kwon Do Studio a business and teaching tradition that has been successfully put in practice by many of Grandmaster Chong's students.

Grandmaster Chong, in his decades of experience, can give many examples of how individuals have been helped through a disciplined approach to martial for health and mental discipline and as a business venue for the truly dedicated.

DECEMBER TESTING RESULTS

2011-12-19T16:26:00.000-08:00

December 2011 Testing Results

YELLOW
Adena Hefner
Benjamin Goodman
Daniel Spivak
Edward Farladanskiy
Ethan Moon
Joseph Knorr
Joshua Lim
Jozy Liftin-Harris
Kenneth Swartz
Linda Drucker
Marcus Yoo
Oscar Knorr
Silas Liftin-Harris
Sky Nahum

YELLOW STRIPE
Aishwarya Aravind
Andrew Kim – OUTSTANDING
Eve Moshay
Gabi Shidlovitsky
Giavanna Samuel
Lila Daoudi
Nathan Gendler

PURPLE
Diego Martinez Juarez
Joshua Hebroni

PURPLE STRIPE
Austin Joo
Evan Szentgyorgyi
Gyula Kangiszer

ORANGE
Alessandro Ipson
Gautam Gupta
Joshua Hernstad
Kristen Sarkisian
Len Moran
Lucas Szentgyorgyi

ORANGE STRIPE
Henry Fried
Jason Mehrdad
Sara Weinberg

BLUE
Sam Varzandeh

BLUE I
Ezra Frain - OUTSTANDING

GREEN
Andrew Chung - OUTSTANDING
David Hazany
Evan Aizenman - OUTSTANDING
Josh Park

GREEN I
Benjamin Simon
Brandon Damico – OUTSTANDING
Hunter Griswold
Jacob Accardo
Jake Damico
Shana Mehrdad
Shima Carroll

GREEN II
Alex Arellano
Alicia Richards
Ethan Esrawi
Isabella Slimp
Ryan Nikravesh

RED
Benjamin Lee
Christina Campisano
Oliver Seid - OUTSTANDING
Renata Lovetman
Shawn Ahdout
Y-thien Lam – OUTSTANDING

RED I
Afsaneh Safavi
Crystal Miles
Jack Lue
Lauren Kim – OUTSTANDING
Layla Chessman
Renee Spei
Shayna Garcia - teaching credits?

RED II
Kiernan Shipka
Dimos Papageorgas - teaching credits?

BLACK I
Anna Gordon
Asuka wiener
Kimberley Sheehan
Nobu Otake
Samantha Rawlins

BLACK STRIPE
Joe Mani
Julian Giancana

BLACK II
Robert Rey

Jun Chong Holiday Special

2011-12-06T15:00:00.000-08:00

SAVE BIG THIS YEAR!
Take advantage of our great deals on our unlimited programs.

Take $200 off our 1 year program
or
$100 off our 6 months program!

Offer expires 12/31/11 and cannot be combined with family discounts or black belt discounts.

October Students of the Month!

2011-10-18T14:57:00.001-07:00

Congratulations Alexander Arellano & Nicolas Smith!

Full name: Alexander Arellano
Education level: 4th grade
Belt Rank, training since: Green I, September 2007.

Q. Describe yourself in 3 words:
A. easy going, funny.

Q. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining TKD:
A. I wish I knew sword fighting and nunchakus.

Q. Your favorite food:
A. Hot dogs and hamburgers

Q. How has TKD changed you?
A. I am more focused than before.

Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in TKD?
A. When I tried to do a back kick and I flipped over and hit my head.

Q. What are your hobbies?
A. Drawing, basketball, videogames.

Q. What made you want to join TKD?
A. My parents signed me up and it looked like a fun thing to do.

Q. What are you best at in TKD?
A. I think I am good at sword fighting and nunchakus.

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. Hopefully being a black belt.

PHOTO COMING SOON!

Full Name: Nicolas Jordan Smith
Education Level: 8th grade
Belt rank, training since: Blue belt, 2010.

Q. Describe yourself in 3 words:
A. Determined, energetic, and reliable.

Q. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining TKD:
A. How to perform a sidekick.

Q. Your biggest vice:
A. Ignorance.

Q. Your favorite food:
A. Burritos

Q. How has TKD changed you?
A. It has given me more focus, determination, and strength.

Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened during TKD?
A. I slipped while performing a sidekick.

Q. What are your hobbies?
A. Video games and reading.

Q. What made you want to join TKD?
A. I wanted to be able to protect myself.

Q. What are you best at in TKD?
A. Roundhouse kicks.

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. A black belt and a Freshman in college.

17th Annual MA Tournament

2011-09-09T18:12:00.000-07:00

17th Invitational Martial Arts Championship
October 9, 2011

Master Chong is proud to host the 17th Annual Martial Arts Tournament! Register to compete in various events against over 20 schools around the US!

Catagories:
Judo Sweep (up to 12 years)
Foam Sword Fighting (up to 12 years)
Traditional Forms
Weapons Forms
Board Breaking
Point Sparring
Black Belt Team Sparring

Pasadena City College Gymnasium
1570 E. Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91106
Doors Open at 8am
Children Events: 9am
Intermission
Adult Events: 12 noon

For registration, volunteer, referee, and other information, please contact (323) 658-7570 or email JunChong411@gmail.com

Congratulations to out Students of the Month!

2011-09-01T15:17:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Alicia Richards and Daniel Yoo!

Full name: Alicia Richards
Occupation or education level: VP Film Music at SONY Music
Belt Rank, Training since: Green white stripe, July 2009

1. Describe yourself in 3 words: Feisty, Honest, Brunette

2. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining Tae Kwon Do: How to fight.

3. Your biggest vice: Either procrastination or indecision.

4. Your favorite food: Fondue in the winter, Gazpacho in the summer

5. How has Tae Kwon Do changed you? I am much stronger and focused than ever.
Taking Tae Kwon Do has made it easier to handle the challenges that happen in my life.
I can do more than I thought I was capable of doing, especially physically.

6. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in Tae Kwon Do? Either
getting to tears of frustration when first learning the spinning heel kick or getting kicked
in the stomach during testing.

7. What are your hobbies? Movies, music, knitting and hanging out with my dog and
husband.

8. What made you want to join Tae Kwon Do? I always wanted to learn a form of Martial
Arts to defend myself, then a few years ago I made a new friend who is really good at
Tae Kwon Do and she convinced me to try a class.

9. What are you best at in Tae Kwon Do? Not giving up.

10. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Winning beauty pageants…or working on my
spinning heel kick. Probably working on my spinning heel kick.

Photo Coming Soon!

Full name: Daniel Yoo
Occupation or education level: 1st Grade
Belt Rank, Training since: Yellow White Stripe

1. Describe yourself in 3 words: Sweet, handsome, and happy

2. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining Tae Kwon Do: I wished to go to the swimming pool everyday.

3. Your biggest vice: basketball

4. Your favorite food: BLT Sandwich at Subway

5. How has Tae Kwon Do changed you? Made me be more polite, I can bow well to adults.

6. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in Tae Kwon Do? When I did a sidekick and fell.

7. What are your hobbies? Watching TV

8. What made you want to join Tae Kwon Do? To exercise and build up my focus skills.

9. What are you best at in Tae Kwon Do? Punching and front kicks.

10. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Wearing the Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do School and helping Master Chong.

SPARRING SEMINAR!

2011-08-19T17:46:00.000-07:00

SPARRING SEMINAR
Sunday, September 11, 2011
With Master Williams

Take this opportunity to improve your sparring technique, learn new drills, build your confidence, and more!

Children Session: 10-11:30am
Adult Session: 11:45am-1:15pm

6340B Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90048
Registration Cost: $45.00
After 9/07/11: $50.00

All participants will receive a free t-shirt and certification!

For questions and information, please contact (323) 658-7570 or email junchong411@gmail.com

August Testing Results

2011-08-12T19:51:00.000-07:00

AUGUST TESTING RESULTS

YELLOW BELT
Adam Benudiz
Daniel Kruglyakov
Diego Martinez
Laura Drdek
Luis Martinez
Savana Hudson
Tyler Strong

YELLOW STRIPE
Ahmet Hussein
Arielle Hatton
Daniel Yoo
Jacques Mani
Jonathon Mani

PURPLE
Alexandra Lee - OUTSTANDING
Boudie Alsadoun
Carlos Perez - OUTSTANDING
Cassie Hero
Ethan Lee
Gustavo Bufalino - OUTSTANDING
Ian Lee
Jacob Ruskin
Miguel Perez

PURPLE STRIPE
Jaxon Tonley
Joshua Hernstad
Kristen Sarkisian
Len Moran
Trainor Kinloch

ORANGE
Henry Fried
Jason Mehrdad
Minki Shin
Natanel Ohana
Sara Weinberg

ORANGE STRIPE
Branden Esrawi
Gabriel McGrade
Sam Varzandeh

BLUE
Anthony Johnson
Ava Hinjosa
Hendrik Koster
Nicolas Smith

BLUE STRIPE
Catherine Denton
Clay Skaggs
David Hazany
David Skaggs
Evan Aizenman
Kaelyn Choi
Michael Rubin
Samuel Rubin
Tanya Vaughn

GREEN
Benjamin Simon
Brandon Damico
Cara Heverly
Hunter Griswold
Jake Damico
Shima Carroll
Xavier Franco

GREEN I
Christina Campisano
Ethan Esrawi - OUTSTANDING
Isabella Slimp
Ryan Nikravesh

GREEN II
Ariella Ahdout
Benjamin Lee
Y-Thien Lam – OUTSTANDING

RED
Chacta Brice - OUTSTANDING

RED I
Brenden Gleeson

RED II
Dan Lavery
Eli Lawrence
Lily Chang

Congratulations to our Students of the Month!

2011-07-26T13:39:00.000-07:00

David Skaggs & Minki Shin!

Full name: David Skaggs
Occupation or education level: Professor and Chief of Orthoapedic Surgery, Childrens Hospital Los Angeles / USC School of Medicine
Belt Rank, Training since: Blue Belt, trained previously in 3 schools in Kung Fu, San Soo, and Tae Kwon Do when I was in my early 30s.

1. Describe yourself in 3 words: Enthusiastic, humorous, loser

2. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining Tae Kwon Do: How to do the splits

3. Your biggest vice: Girly cocktails

4. Your favorite food: Kim chi

5. How has Tae Kwon Do changed you? Spending more time with my son Clay as we work out a lot at home together, and being humbled as he picks up things faster than me and teaches me.

6. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in Tae Kwon Do? Last week I was feeling quite prideful, as it seemed my kicks against the bag were the most powerful in the class, then I realized I was the only student over age 10.

7. What are your hobbies? Meditation, eastern spiritualism, skiing, boogie boarding, writing textbooks

8. What made you want to join Tae Kwon Do? To be with Clay in such a positive environment of physical and mental discipline, hard work, pursuit of excellence and respect for others.

9. What are you best at in Tae Kwon Do? Rather than answer this question, I would like to say that this school is made up of the most welcoming and friendly students and teachers.

10. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Having my butt kicked by my son, Clay when sparring.

PHOTO COMING SOON

Full name: Minki Shin
Belt Rank: Purple with white stripe

Q. Describe yourself in 3 words: Best, Nice, and Kind

Q. Your biggest vice: Lying

Q. Your favorite food: Rice Cake

Q. How has Tae Kwon Do changed you? It made me stronger

Q. What are your hobbies? Reading books and building LEGOS

Q. What made you want to join Tae Kwon Do? My friends wanted to go

Q. What are you best at in Tae Kwon Do? Doing forms

Congratulations to out Students of the Month!

2011-06-29T16:25:00.001-07:00

Congrats to Joshua Hernstad & Xavier Franco for being

Julys Students of the Month!

Full name: Xavier Franco
Occupation or education level: Commercial Broker, MBA
Belt Rank: Blue Belt 1^st Dan

Q. Describe yourself in 3 words:
A. Strong, Focused, Fierce

Q. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining Tae Kwon Do:
A. I wish I knew of JCTKD way before I even contemplated on joining.

Q. Your biggest vice:
A. Work!

Q. Your favorite food:
A. Sea Weed Wrapped Tuna

Q. How has Tae Kwon Do changed you?
A. TKD has been one of the best ongoing experiences of my life. It has taught me how to keep a sound mind & body better enabling me never to fear.

Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in Tae Kwon Do?
A. The most embarrassing moment was a humbling one, so it was well taken. I’d like to say it was falling while attempting an advanced kick.

Q. What are your hobbies?
A. Surfing, Tae Kwon Do, working out.

Q. What made you want to join Tae Kwon Do?
A. It was time to improve my life.

Q. What are you best at in Tae Kwon Do?
A. My Kiap!

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. Having graduated to a black belt from JCTKD and preparing for my long journey in the Martial Arts.

Full name: Joshua Hernstad
Occupation or education level: First grade
Belt Rank, Training since: Purple belt, October 2010

Q. Describe yourself in 3 words:
A. Smart, healthy, strong

Q. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining Tae Kwon Do:
A. I wish I knew how to defend myself

Q. Your biggest vice:
A. Sometimes I don't listen.

Q. Your favorite food:
A. Rice

Q. How has Tae Kwon Do changed you?
A. It has changed me because now I can defend myself.

Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in Tae Kwon Do?
A. I thought I forgot my card at home and I had to do push-ups but my mommy had my card so I never really had to do push-ups

Q. What are your hobbies?
A. Building legos, Tae Kwon do, basketball

Q. What made you want to join Tae Kwon Do?
A. I wanted to be strong and fit.

Q. What are you best at in Tae Kwon Do?
A. My kicks and focusing on tae Kwon do

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. I see myself being a black belt

Knife Fighting Seminar

2011-06-22T14:22:00.000-07:00

A big thanks to Master Willie Laureano who did a GREAT JOB instructing the seminar. We hope all our students enjoyed it!

Master Willie Laureano also teaches Escrima on Sundays at 10am at the JCMA Wilshire location.
If you liked the Knife Fighting Seminar, you will LOVE his Escrima class.

Check out our photos from our Knife Fighting Seminar!

June 2011 Testing Results

2011-06-15T17:24:00.000-07:00

Alejandro Urquiza - Black I
Alex Aizenman - Blue Belt
Alex Arellano-Alas - Green I
Anthony Johnson - Orange Belt
Arya Danesh - Orange Belt
Benjamen Schlange - Red I
Bennet North - Black I
Boudi Alsadoun - Yellow I
Branden Esrawi - Orange Belt
Cameron Ro - Black
Carlos Perez - Yellow Belt
Daniel Weiner - Purple Belt
Daniel Yoo - Yellow Belt
David Zipkin-leed - Black I
Emily Hoy - Black I
Evan Aizenman - Blue Belt
Gabi Shidlovitsky - Yellow Belt
Gautam Gupta - Purple I
Gregory Forston - Purple Belt
Gustavo Bufalino - Yellow Belt
Henry Kraft - Green Belt
Hunter Isaacson - Black I
Jacob Accardo - Green Belt
James Lee - Red Belt
James Schneider - Yellow Belt
Jaxon Tonely - Purple Belt
Jee Hoon Choi - Green Belt
Jeremy Wizman - Yellow I
Josh Park - Blue Belt
Joshua Hernstad - Purple Belt
Julian Schlange - Yellow Belt
Katie Hoy - Black I
Katie Zipkin-Leed - Black I
Kit Halls - Yellow Belt
Lila Doudi - Yellow Belt
Lucas Hron - Orange I
Luke Riley - Purple Belt
Miguel Perez - Yellow Belt
Nicky Grib - Red I
Nicole Wizman - Yellow Belt
Nikolas Papageorgas - Black I
Nima Nikravesh - Red Belt
Oliver Leone-Seid - Green II
Parnya Danesh - Orange Belt
Phil Singleton - Green Belt
Randy Lue - Red Belt
Ryan Abrishani - Red II
Saeyoung Kim - Black I
Sara Sarkisian - Orange Belt
Shawn Ahdout - Green II
Shay Park - Yellow Belt
Shayan Hazany - Green Belt
Shayne Liggins - Blue Belt
Stephan Kim - Black I
Swapnil Dash - Orange I
Taylor Wiemer - Black I
Tristan Ka - Purple Belt
Parker Unger - Yellow Belt
Willow Edwards - Yellow I
Wyatt Edwards - Purple Belt
Xavier Franco - Blue I

Congratulations to all of those who tested! We had a great time at the park as well. To see amazing photos and action shots click here!

JUNE STUDENTS OF THE MONTH

2011-05-31T19:38:00.000-07:00

STUDENTS OF THE MONTH

Congratulations to Josh Park & Elijah Goodwin!

Full Name: Josh Juneho Park
Occupation: Student
Belt Rank, training since: Orange belt stripe, April 12, 2010.

Q. Describe yourself in 3 words:
A. Brave, flexible, and strong

Q. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining TKD:
A. I wish I knew how many months there are when I will become a Black Belt.

Q. Your biggest vice:
A. I am too nice to people.

Q. Your favorite food:
A. Pizza

Q. How has TKD changed you:
A. People hit me at school but I blocked it and hit back.

Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in TKD?
A. When I was a purple belt, I forgot technique #3.

Q. What are your hobbies?
A. Tae Kwon Do, piano, and chess.

Q. What made you want to join TKD?
A. I wanted to learn self defense.

Q. What are you best at in TKD?
A. I am the best at forms.

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. I see myself as a Black Belt, saving my parents, and being brave.

Full name: Elijah Goodwin
Occupation: IT Services Director
Belt Rank, Training since: Blue Belt, April 2010

Q. Describe yourself in 3 words:
A. Persistent, Open-Minded, Diplomatic

Q. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining Tae Kwon Do:
A. That sparring in tournaments would require big, bulky, full body gear!

Q. Your biggest vice:
A. Gadgets and gizmos

Q. Your favorite food:
A. Macaroni & Cheese

Q. How has Tae Kwon Do changed you?
A. My experience at Jun Chong TKD has been a humbling one. Having held a high belt rank at a previous school, I was challenged to start all over as a white belt and accept the curriculum even though portions counter what I’ve previously learned. It has shown me that everyone is a lifelong student and that it is important to keep an open mind and heart in order to allow new lessons and experiences into your life. I am happy to be here.

Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in Tae Kwon Do?
A. I slipped on another student’s sweat while attempting a jumping roundhouse. It was not pretty.

Q. What are your hobbies?
A. Reading (non-fiction), video gaming, movie production, physical fitness

Q. What made you want to join Tae Kwon Do?
A. I specifically joined Jun Chong TKD because Hapkido is taught along with traditional Tae Kwon Do.

Q. What are you best at in Tae Kwon Do?
A. Hand grabs, techniques, locks and rolls

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. A well rounded Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do & Hapkido teaching the next generation of Black Belts to come.

Congratulations to out Students of the Month!

2011-05-03T14:26:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to May's Students of the Month,
Wilfredy Quintanilla & Andrew Chung!

PHOTO COMING SOON!

Full Name: Wilfredy Quintanilla
Education Level: High School Graduate
Belt Rank, Training since: Blue belt, August 20, 2010

Q. Describe yourself in 3 words:
A. Respectful, outgoing, and friendly.

Q. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining TKD:
A. Jujitsu, in order to be a well-rounded fighter both in stand up fighting and grappling.

Q. Your biggest vice:
A. Being lazy at times.

Q. Your favorite food:
A. Thai food

Q. How has TKD changed you?
A. TKD has made me more fit and flexible.

Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in TKD?
A. I tried to do a spinning heel kick and fell.

Q. What are your hobbies?
A. Drawing, playing video games, and TKD.

Q. What made you want to join TKD?
A. Watching youtube videos of the Tornado Kick (360 degree roundhouse).

Q. What are you best at in TKD?
A. Forms

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. As a black belt, maybe even teaching TKD.

Full Name: Andrew Chung
Education Level: 3rd Grade
Belt Rank: Blue

Q. Describe yourself in 3 words:
A. Cool, strong, and awesome.

Q. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining TKD:
A. Know to be a pro and how hard it is to be a black belt.

Q. Your favorite food:
A. Avocado rolls.

Q. How has TKD changed you?
A. I'm more strong and powerful than I ever imagined.

Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in TKD?
A. That I get all kinds of pushups.

Q. What are your hobbies?
A. Violin and Chess.

Q. What made you want to join TKD?
A. Saw someone on TV who knew how to do Tae Kwon Do.

Q. What are you best at in TKD?
A. Sparring

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. In a Tae Kwon Do studio and helping people.

Congratulations to out Students of the Month!

2011-04-05T15:12:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to our Students of the Month
Shayne Liggins & Lars Slind!

PHOTO COMING SOON!

Full Name: Shayne Liggins
Education Level: 2nd Grade
Belt Rank: Orange white stripe

Q. Describe yourself in 3 words:
A. Fun, nice, and kind

Q. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining TKD:
A. How much fun it is. I would have started sooner.

Q. Your biggest vice:
A. Playing video games.

Q. Your favorite food:
A. Hamburgers

Q. How was TKD changed you?
A. It has made my life more fun, I really like TKD.

Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in TKD?
A. Master Williams flipping me around.

Q. What are your hobbies?
A. Playing Dragon Ball Z games & basketball.

Q. What made you want to join TKD?
A. My mom and dad signed me up.

Q. What are you best at in TKD?
A. All the forms

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. A black belt.

PHOTO COMING SOON!

Full Name: Lars Slind
Occupation: Actor
Belt Rank, Training since: Purple, October 2010.

Q. Describe yourself in 3 words:
A. Loyal, competitive, happy.

Q. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining TKD:
A. How much being flexible will help with TKD.

Q. Your biggest vice:
A. Going too fast with techniques.

Q. Your favorite food:
A. BBQ ribs or Baklava

Q. How has TKD changed you?
A. Helped me with focus, full body strength, and added joy to my life.

Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in TKD?
A. I tried to perform a jumping kick and landed on my face, no joke.

Q. What are your hobbies?
A. Language, acting, art, gaming, sports, and TKD of course.

Q. What made you want to join TKD?
A. I researched JCTKD on the internet and it had the best reputation in Los Angeles.

Q. What are you best at in TKD?
A. Sliding Roundhouse Kick

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. Black belt, series regular, and filming a movie.. oh, and still married.

APRIL 2011 TESTING SCHEDULE

2011-03-30T14:49:00.000-07:00

221^ST Promotional Testing

April 2011

Tuesday, April 12
Santa Monica White-Orange belt Children: 5:30pm
Santa Monica White-Orange belt Adults: 7pm
Location: Santa Monica

Wednesday, April 13
Wilshire White belt Children: 4pm
Wilshire Yellow belt Children: 4:40pm
Wilshire Purple-Orange belt Children: 5:30pm
Wilshire White-Orange belt Adults: 7pm
Location: Wilshire

Thursday, April 14
All Blue/Green/Red belts: 6:30pm
Location: Wilshire

Please Note:
1. Your instructor must grant approval to test in addition to checking your attendance record with office prior to registration.
2. You must fill out a test application and pay testing fees according to belt rank (program price does not include testing fee).
3. Red belt applicants: Attach teaching credits to your application.
4. Black belt applicants: Request a black belt application packet at least one month before testing. All materials must be turned in by the day of the test.
5. Arrive early wearing a clean white uniform with a studio patch.
6. Sparring equipment is mandatory (for purple belts and up).
7. Buy your boards and bricks beforehand!!! Studio is not responsible for having boards and bricks on hand during the test.
8. Classes are CANCELLED during testing times at that particular school branch.
9. Photography and videography are allowed, but please consider other viewers and do not disturb the test.
10. A list of promotions will be posted the following Monday after the test. If you passed, a Belt Ceremony will be held the following Friday at the end of your usual class time.
11. The studio reserves the right to refuse testing to students delinquent in payments or whose memberships have expired.

FEBRUARY TESTING RESULTS!

2011-02-16T14:59:00.000-08:00

TESTING RESULTS FOR FEBRUARY 2011

ALESSANDRO IPSON	PURPLE BELT
ALEX AUSTIN	PURPLE BELT
ALEX MUNZON
ALICIA RICHARDS	GREEN BELT
ANDREW CHUNG	ORANGE WHITE STRIPE
AZIZI HAMILTON	GREEN WHITE STRIPE
BELINDA FRANZ	YELLOW BELT
BENNETT NORTH	RED BLACK STRIPE
BRANDON DAMICO	BLUE BELT
CAMDEN LEWIS	ORANGE BELT
CASSIE HERO	YELLOW BELT
CHACTA BRICE	GREEN WHITE STRIPE BELT
CLAY SKAGGS	ORANGE BELT
DAVID SKAGGS	ORANGE BELT
ETHAN ESRAWI
EVAN AIZENMAN
EVAN SZENTGYORGYI	YELLOW WHITE STRIPE
EZRA FRAIN	ORANGE WHITE STRIPE – OUTSTANDING
GABRIEL MCGRADE
GAUTAM GUPTA	PURPLE BELT
GREGORY FORSTON	YELLOW WHITE STRIPE BELT
HENRY KRAFT
JAKE DAMICO	BLUE BELT
JAXSON TONLEY	YELLOW WHITE STRIPE BELT
JOEY AUSTIN	PURPLE BELT – OUTSTANDING
JOSH PARK	ORANGE BELT
JOSHUA HERNSTAD	YELLOW BELT
JULIA WAXMAN	YELLOW BELT
JULIETTE MILLAR	YELLOW BELT
JUSTINE HALLIDAY	GREEN BELT
KRISTEN SARKISIAN	PURPLE – OUTSTANDING
LUCAS HRON	ORANGE BELT
MENACFHEN KORNREICH	YELLOW BELT
MICHELLE YI	YELLOW BELT
MINKI SHIN	YELLOW WHITE STRIPE-OUTSTANDING
NICOLAS SMITH	ORANGE BELT
OLIVER SEID	GREEN WHITE STRIPE BELT
PHIL SINGLETON	BLUE BELT
REFILWE MORAKE	YELLOW BELT
ROBERT SHEEHAN	GREEN BLACK STRIPE
ROSETTA MILLAR	YELLOW BELT
SAMANTHA RAWLINGS	RED BLACK STRIPE
SARA SARKISIAN
SHAYNE LIGGINS	ORANGE WHITE STRIPE
TRAINOR KINLOCH	PURPLE BELT
TRISTEN KA	YELLOW BELT

BELT CEREMONY WILL TAKE PLACE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 18, DURING REGULAR CLASS TIMES!

Students of the Month!

2011-02-02T14:46:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to our Students of the Month Samuel Rubin & Phil Singleton!

Full Name: Samuel Harrison Rubin
Grade: 2nd Grade
Belt rank, training since: Orange stripe, One year.

Q. Describe yourself in 3 words:
A. Kind, playful, and serious

Q. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining TKD:
A. I wish I knew how hard it was.

Q. Your biggest vice:
A. I have a bad temper.

Q. Your favorite food:
A. Sushi

Q. How has TKD changed you?
A. It made me stronger.

Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in TKD?
A. When I fall when I kick.

Q. What are your hobbies?
A. RipStik, basketball, and handball.

Q. What made you want to join TKD?
A. My cousins convinced me.

Q. What are you best at in TKD?
A. Forms.

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. I think I am going to be a black belt.

Full Name: John Phillip Singleton Jr.
Occupation: Math tutor
Belt Rank, Training since: Orange, 1.5 years.

Q. Describe yourself in 3 words:
A. Anything I can

Q. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining TKD:
A. How to relax my shoulders/arms while training.

Q. Your biggest vice:
A. Video games

Q. Your favorite food:
A. Chicken Parmesan

Q. How has TKD changed you?
A. I'm definitely in better shape, but having a daily workout among great company and under skilled masters also helps me clear my mind and focus.

Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in TKD?
A. Losing my balance on a high kick and falling on my back during class.

Q. What are your hobbies?
A. Surfing, playing music, watching movies.

Q. What made you want to join TKD?
A. Memories of high school wrestling and the sense of accomplishment from the sport.

Q. What are you best at in TKD?
A. Forms and sparring.

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. Writing for movies/tv and still doing TKD.

January Students of the Month!

2010-12-28T17:36:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to our Students of the Month

Nima Nikravesh & Farhad Shafa!

Name: Nima Nikravesh
Education Level: 5th Grade
Belt rank: Green II

Q. Describe yourself in 3 words:
A. Strong, smart, funny.

Q. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining TKD:
A. How to defend myself when in a situation.

Q. Your biggest vice:
A. Playing basketball

Q. Your favorite food:
A. My favorite is pizza.

Q. How has TKD changed you?
A. It changed me by learning to work hard and not give up.

Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in TKD?
A. I fell down during a kick.

Q. What are your hobbies?
A. Doing TKD and playing basketball.

Q. What made you want to join TKD?
A. To learn how to defend and steps to become strong.

Q. What are you best at in TKD?
A. I am best at forms.

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. I will be fifteen and I see myself teaching class.

Full Name: Farhad Shafa
Occupation: Dentist
Belt rank, Training since: Blue, January 2010.

Q. Describe yourself in 3 words:
A. Detail oriented, focused, friendly.

Q. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining TKD?
A. I should have started TKD sooner.

Q. Your biggest vice:
A. Don't give up, train hard.

Q. Your favorite food?
A. Steak

Q. How has TKD changed you?
A. Increased my energy level, I do not get tired at work easily although my job is very physical.

Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in TKD?
A. Forgetting my left and right.

Q. What are your hobbies?
A. Movies, movies, and more movies!

Q. What made you want to join TKD?
A. Had some training in martial arts so I missed it and tried to get back.

Q. What are you best at in TKD?
A. Forms.

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. Definitely getting my black belt.

December Testing Results

2010-12-21T17:43:00.000-08:00

DECEMBER 2010 TEST RESULTS

YELLOW BELT

Austin Joo

Boudi AlSadoun

Diego Moyal

Giovanna Samuel

Jacob Perlmutter

Jaxon Tonley

Luca Aiche

Luke Riley

Minki Shin

Nathan Sellam

Parker Unger

Slind Lars

Willow Edwards

YELLOW I

Alessandro Ipson

Alex Austin

Benjamin Ruskin

Gautam Gupta

Jacob Ruskin

Joey Austin OUTSTANDING

Kristen Sarkisian OUTSTANDING

Lukas Roybal

Trainor Kinloch

PURPLE

Arya Danesh OUTSTANDING

Branden Esrawi OUTSTANDING

Clay Skaggs OUTSTANDING

David Skaggs

Delanie Wilson

Henry Fried OUTSTANDING

Kai Moran

Len Moran

Lucas Szentgyorgyi

Nicolas Smith

Parnya Danesh

Sara Sarkisian

Sara Weinberg OUTSTANDING

Wilfredy Quintanilla

PURPLE I

Camden Lewis

Cameron Khosravi

Gabriel McGrade

Josh Park OUTSTANDING

Marcus Ho

Tatiana Guerin

ORANGE

Alex Aizenman

Andrew Chung

Ava Hinojosa

Evan Aizenman

Ezra Frain OUTSTANDING

Hendrick Koster

Michael Rubin

Miles Lin

Phil Singleton

Sam Varzandeh

Samuel Rubin OUTSTANDING

ORANGE I

Brandon Damico OUTSTANDING

Jake Damico

Samuel Rubin

BLUE

Farhad Shafa

Greg Campbell

Jacob Accardo

Kaelyn Choi

Xavier Franco

BLUE I

Alicia Richards

Cara Heverly

Ethan Esrawi

Isabella Samuels (*) see office

Isabella Slim (*) see office

Shana Mehrdad (*) see office

GREEN

Chacta Brice

James Lee

Y-Thien Lam

GREEN II

Nima Nikravesh

Lauren Kim

RED

Brandon Gleeson

RED II

Anna Gordon

BLACK BELT 1^ST DAN

Elaine Sir OUTSTANDING

Mateus Pare

Nicolas Ryu

Ramiro Pare

BLACK BELT 2^ND DAN

Matthew Gooden

Stephanie Texdahl OUTSTANDING

Yong Chong

BLACK BELT 3^RD DAN

Armen Safarian

Jonas Basom

December Students of the Month!

2010-12-02T14:18:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to our Students of the Month!
Evan Aizenman & Randy Lue!

NAME: Evan A. Aizenman
EDUCATION LEVEL: Grade 4
BELT RANK, TRAINING SINCE: Purple white stripe, January 2010.

Q. Describe yourself in 3 words:
A. Fast, strong, kind

Q. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining TKD:
A. That I should've joined TKD sooner!

Q. Your biggest vice:
A. Electronics

Q. Your favorite food:
A. I'm not sure but I like anything spicy.

Q. How has TKD changed you?
A. I focus more now.

Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in TKD?
A. When we were ducking under bostaffs, I knocked one over!

Q. What are your hobbies?
A. Hiking, swimming, electronics, and yes, TKD.

Q. What made you want to join TKD?
A. I thought it would be cool to do a martial art.

Q. What are you best at in TKD?
A. Sparring and sword fighting.

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. A black belt.

RANDY'S PHOTO COMING SOON!

NAME: Randy Lue
OCCUPATION: Quality Assurance Technician
BELT RANK, TRAINING SINCE: Red, Started briefly in 1987, returned in 2009.

Q. Describe yourself in 3 words:
A. Old-fashioned, humble, shy

Q. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining TKD:
A. I wish I started TKD at a really young age.

Q. Your biggest vice:
A. Overeating and making excuses to avoid working out.

Q. Your favorite food:
A. Steak, chinese, fish and chips.

Q. How has TKD changed you?
A. TKD has made me a stronger, healthier person. I am more energized and have gained greater flexibility.

Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in TKD?
A. I was paired with a female student for technique exercises. She looked at my drenched uniform and said, "Randy, you're all sweaty!"

Q. What are your hobbies:
A. Avid anglophile, manchester united football fan, reading, exploring new paces to eat, playing with my dog, Edmund.

Q. What made you want to join TKD?
A. I was advised by my doctor to undergo some form of regular aerobic activity.

Q. What are you best at in TKD?
A. I enjoy forms, practicing forms is moving meditation. I find it relaxing and an opportunity for artistic expression.

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. Attaining the rank of black belt. Training in the martial arts is an endless lifelong journey. I am very proud to be amongst Grandmaster Chong's lineage of practitioners.

Students of the Month!

2010-11-02T17:04:00.000-07:00

November Students of the Month!
Brandon Damico
&
Chacta Brice!

Full Name: Brandon Damico
Education Level: 1st Grade
Belt Rank: Purple Stripe

Q. Describe yourself in 3 words:
A. Fun, loving, and cute.

Q. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining TKD:
A. Nothing, I love everything about TKD.

Q. Your biggest vice:
A. Competitive.
Q. Your favorite food?
A. Chicken nuggets

Q. How has TKD changed you?
A. I'm much stronger and confident.
Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in TKD?
A. I don't know.

Q. What are your hobbies?
A. Soccer, Basketball, driving my mom crazy.

Q. What made you want to join TKD?
A. My mom made me.
Q. What are you best at in TKD?
A. Everything

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. A black belt for sure.

Full Name: Chacta Isaacs Brice
Education Level: 12th Grade
Belt Rank, Training since: Blue Belt, November 2009.

Q. Describe yourself in 3 words:
A. Determined, funny, and powerful.

Q. Name one thing you with you knew before joining TKD:
A. How addicting it could be.

Q. Your biggest vice?
A. Whipped cream.

Q. Your favorite food?
A. sushi, creme brulee, gelato, and crab.

Q. How has TKD changed you?
A. It has made me more aware, reserved, and less fearful of a dangerous or challenging situation.

Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in TKD?
A. I fell throwing a round-house kick.

Q. What are your hobbies?
A. Tae Kwon Do, hanging with friends, and watching movies.

Q. What made you want to join TKD?
A. I wanted to be able to move like the people i saw in Ong Bak and Enter the Dragon.

Q. What are you best at in TKD?
A. I'd say breaking, sparring, forms, and my drop kick. Love a good drop kick...

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. I see myself still training Tae Kwon Do as well as other martial arts. Also owning my own business.

OCTOBER 2010 TESTING RESULTS!

2010-10-25T17:05:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to everyone who tested! The belt ceremony will take place Friday, October 29, during your regular class times.

YELLOW BELT

Alex Austin

Brett-L Strong – OUTSTANDING

Clay Skaggs

David Skaggs

Even Szentgyogyi – OUTSTANDING

Joey Austin

Jonathon Mani

Kristen Sarkisian – OUTSTANDING

Parkertazz Strong

Sara Sarkisian

YELLOW STRIPE

Arya Danesh – OUTSTANDING

Henry Fried

Kai Moran – See Office

Len Moran – See Office

Lucas Szentgyogyi – OUTSTANDING

Parnya Danesh

Sara Weinberg

PURPLE BELT

Astro Halliday – See Office

Elijah Goodwin

Gabriel McGrade

Gyula Kangiszer

John Phillip Singleton - OUTSTANDING

Josh Park – OUTSTANDING

PURPLE STRIPE

Andrew Chung

Ava Hinojosa

Evan Aizenman

Hendrik Koster

Lucas Hron

ORANGE BELT

Brandon Damico – OUTSTANDING

Isaac Amsterdam

Jake Damico – OUTSTANDING

Shayne Liggins

Swapnil Dash

ORANGE STRIPE

Cameron Cooper

Jacob Accardo

BLUE BELT

Advik Paharia

Benjamin Simon

Catherine Denton

Erik Garcia

Ethan Kim

Henry Kraft – OUTSTANDING

Hunter Griswold

Jackson Gross

Xavier Franco – See Office

BLUE STRIPE

Chacta Brice

Shanna Merhdad – See Office

Y-Thien Lam

GREEN BELT

Alex Alas-Arellano

Benjamin Lee

GREEN STRIPE

Ariella Ahdout

Renata Lovetman

Robert Sheehan

Shaun Ahdout

GREEN DOUBLE STRIPE

Afsaneh Safavi

Crystal Miles

Jack Lue

Layla Chessman

Renee Spei

RED

Benjamin Schlange

RED STRIPE

Ryan Abrishami

RED DOUBLE

Brian Weinberg

Kimberly Sheehan

Fun Foto of the Week

2010-10-23T05:35:00.000-07:00

Yong Chong performing a backflip at the WUMAO 2009 Tournament Demonstrations.

If you have any good photos that you'd like to submit, email them to me at junchong411[at]gmail.com. Enjoy!

Fun Foto of the Week!

2010-10-16T05:35:00.000-07:00

Grandmaster Jun Chong, Master Jim Goller, and Mrs. Ada Chong celebrate Hawaiian-style at the Master's Reception 2009 the night before the15th annual WUMAO tournament.

If you have any good photos that you'd like to submit, email them to me at junchong411[at]gmail.com. Enjoy!

Fun Foto of the Week

2010-10-09T05:34:00.000-07:00

This week's fun foto of the week is actually a video of our fabulous Wilshire demo team performing at our June 2010 Open House. If you haven't seen them in action, make sure to attend the 16th annual WUMAO tournament tomorrow at Pasadena City College! Demonstrations start at 1pm!
Check out all our fun videos on our youtube channel!

If you have any good photos that you'd like to submit, email them to me at junchong411[at]gmail.com. Enjoy!

Fun Foto of the Week

2010-10-02T05:34:00.000-07:00

I'm having way too much fun posting videos on our Fun Fotos of the Week now!

Alright. So for those who don't know, Grandmaster Jun Chong's first movie was a starring role in a Korean film back in the late 70's. When it was distributed to the United States, the smart people of them movie industry decided to change the title to "Bruce Lee Fights Back from the Grave" (as Bruce Lee had just passed away), but mind you the movie has nothing to do with Bruce Lee and all they did was add sound effects of all the "aws" and "owowows" that Master Chong did not dub.

In any case, Yong Chong found this fight clip from the film on youtube.com, and although it's a cheesey-sounding clip, the action still shows how talented the young Jun Chong was. If you ever do get to rent the film, you'll see the old Wilshire school featured in the film! Enjoy!

If you have any good photos that you'd like to submit, email them to me at junchong411[at]gmail.com. Enjoy!

Testimonial by Black belt Dexter Parker

2010-10-01T03:25:00.000-07:00

"Principles of TaeKwonDo (1st dan essay)"
by Master Dexter Parker, 4th dan

I feel that the basic principles of Taekwondo is to make a better person out of the practitioner. Through intense study and research of this art, I've noticed a change in many types of people, but always for the better. It is a delicate art form but also a science because, just like science does something to change the environment and its people, so does Taekwondo over a period of time.
Secondly, I feel that Taekwondo is one, if not the most, devastating forms of martial arts today for self defense. It is for this reason we must train a person to use it for good and not for evil. Martial arts is like a weapon, much like a gun or knife, and its outcome is based on the person who uses it. Our job is to train people to handle this weapon correctly through mental training and growth in order to put it in the right hands. This is the deepest principle of the art.

STUDENTS OF THE MONTH!

2010-09-30T19:35:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to our Students of the Month!
Henry Kraft & Crystal Miles

FULL NAME: Henry Kraft

EDUCATION LEVEL: 2nd Grade
TRAINING SINCE, BELT RANK: Fall 2009, Orange Stripe

Q. Describe yourself in 3 words:
A. Skinny, energetic, and enthusiastic

Q. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining TKD:
A. How fun it is so I would join sooner.

Q. Your biggest vice:
A. I drink too much juice.

Q. Your favorite food:
A. Mac n' Cheese

Q. How has TKD changed you?
A. I have become more focused.

Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in TKD?
A. I got caught playing with the string hanging on my uniform.

Q. What are your hobbies?
A. Baseball, Basketball, and Football.

Q. What made you want to join TKD?
A. My friend Hunter recommended it.

Q. What are you best at in TKD?
A. Front kicks.

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. A black belt.

Full Name: Crystal Lee Miles
Occupation: Video & Audio Equipment rental agent. BA in Communications
Belt Rank, Training since: Green white, Sept 2008.

Q. Describe yourself in 3 words:
A. Loyal, adaptable, inner strength

Q. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining TKD:
A. I wish I had started sooner in life. I also wish I could do splits before I started and that I had more patience with myself.

Q. Your biggest vice:
A. Sugar and working too much

Q. Your favorite food:
A. Pizza, Roti, thin mint Girl Scout cookies

Q. How has TKD changed you?
A. It has made me more confident. Also it has made me more disciplined and balanced in all areas of life.

Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in TKD?
A. I've managed to have some pretty embarrassing falls on my butt during class. Other than that I'm usually embarrassed when I leave a big ol' sweat mark on the mat!

Q. What are your hobbies?
A. TKD, Playing with video gear, Video games, and soccer.

Q. What made you want to join TKD?
A. I started when I was younger and had to stop. A friend convinced me to start again.

Q. What are you best at in TKD?
A. I wouldn't say I'm the best at anything but I like sparring.

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. Hopefully happy, healthy, and still studying with Master Chong.

Fun Foto of the Week

2010-09-25T05:34:00.000-07:00

We are very proud of our student Cameron Cooper who showed a lot of strength in breaking his first board at the Parking Testing last June 2010. He didn't hold back and even with his eyes closed broke his board! Congrats!

If you have any good photos that you'd like to submit, email them to me at junchong411[at]gmail.com. Enjoy!

Fun Foto of the Week

2010-09-18T05:33:00.000-07:00

How funny is this picture!?!
Bill "Superfoot" Wallace always knows how to put on a show! He grabs the boom mic from our videographer and starts to sing during the Sparring Seminar 2010! It can't get any better than this!

If you have any good photos that you'd like to submit, email them to me at junchong411[at]gmail.com. Enjoy!

Fun Foto of the Week

2010-09-11T05:33:00.000-07:00

A great big thank you to Bill "Superfoot" Wallace for coming out on August 29th and teaching our annual Sparring Seminar! It was a great success and students were thrilled to learn from such a master and legend. All participants received a free shirt and certificate of completion, and a few students were able to lunch with him as well!

If you have any good photos that you'd like to submit, email them to me at junchong411[at]gmail.com. Enjoy!

STUDENTS OF THE MONTH

2010-09-07T18:01:00.001-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR STUDENTS OF THE MONTH ANNA GORDON & SHAYNA GARCIA!

Photo coming soon!

Full name: Anna Rebecca Gordon

Occupation or education level: 8^th Grade

Belt Rank, Training since: Red I, July 2006

1. Describe yourself in 3 words: Awesome, happy, and persevering

2. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining Tae Kwon Do: I feel like I knew everything that I needed to know before joining Tae Kwon Do.

3. Your biggest vice: I get distracted easily

4. Your favorite food: Baked ziti

5. How has Tae Kwon Do changed you? Tae Kwon Do has made me stronger, more athletic, and perseverant.

6. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in Tae Kwon Do? Once, after cleaning up an area with a lot of duct tape, I had a piece of duct tape stuck to my butt and didn’t realize until halfway through the class!

7. What are your hobbies? Tae Kwon Do of course! I also like to read a lot.

8. What made you want to join Tae Kwon Do? I thought breaking boards sounded really cool

9. What are you best at in Tae Kwon Do? Sparring

10. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Hopefully a black belt

Photo coming soon!

Name: Shayna Garcia

Education Level: High School, 11th Grade

Belt Ranking, Training Since: Red, 2007

1. Describe yourself in 3 words: Outlandish, funny, smart

2. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining TKD: I wish I knew how to do the splits

3. Your biggest vice: Hair dye and school supplies.

4. Your favorite food: Popcorn

5. How has TKD changed you? It has made me less shy and more confident.

6. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in TKD? It's always embarrassing when I mess up on a kick or can't do a combo.

7. What are your hobbies? Tae Kwon Do, swimming, painting, photography, and architecture.

8. What made you want to join TKD? I always wanted to do a martia art and TKD seemed fun, interesting, and educational.

9. What are you best at in TKD? I don't think I'm "best" at anything. Theres always room for improvement, but I think my spinning heel or roundhouse kicks are good.

10. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Doing hair and makeup for runways and magazines.

Fun Foto of the Week

2010-09-04T05:33:00.000-07:00

Look at Isabella go! Our little orange I belt tested in August 2010 and passed with flying colors, just like her flying sidekick!

Thanks to her grandma for submitting this picture!

If you have any good photos that you'd like to submit, email them to me at junchong411[at]gmail.com. Enjoy!

Testimonial from Black Belt Anett Murray

2010-09-01T03:25:00.000-07:00

Master's Corner

by Anett Murray, 4th dan black belt

It almost felt surreal to finally receive the degree of TKD Master in 2008 after all my years of training. It was such a memorable moment, being presented with the new belt and certificate on the last day of the old Wilshire school. I was elated. I hadn't expected that I would encounter so many people surprised by my achievement - was it because I am a woman that I don't look like I could be a Master, or simply the accomplishment itself? I had worked hard, with pride and dedication, and when I look at how far I have come, I can see that 30 years of training have made me a different person. I am stronger, calmer, and more capable of taking things in stride. I have an immense appreciation for the discipline required of every student of TKD, and find that it is very valuable in life outside of the dojang. I also found that the 5 years I spent as program director for the Wilshire branch was a huge learning experience in addition to my training.

Maybe I don't have the typical appearance of a TKD Master, but martial arts is something that grows in your heart, no matter who you are.

Fun Foto of the Week

2010-08-21T05:30:00.000-07:00

Our China 2010 trip consisted of visiting the local temple and pagoda in Huangzhou. It was drizzling but at least it was a little less humid than usual! Next year's trip is Korea/Japan 2011!

If you have any good photos that you'd like to submit, email them to me at junchong411[at]gmail.com. Enjoy!

AUGUST 2010 TESTING RESULTS!

2010-08-16T16:52:00.000-07:00

AUGUST TESTING RESULTS

YELLOW BELT:
Alessandro Ipson
Arya Danesh
Finnegan Atkins
Gautam Gupta – OUTSTANDING
John Phillip Singleton Jr.
Nicholas Smith - OUTSTANDING
Nicolai Feldmen
Parnya Danesh
Theo Burstyn-Paulju
Trainor Kinloch
Wyatt Edwards – see office.
Yehudei Senehi
Yosef Senehi

YELLOW I:
Brandon Esrawi
Josh Park

PURPLE:
Alex Aizenman
Andrew Chung
Ari Alva
Camden Lewis
Evan Aizeman
Hendrick Koster
Marcus Ho

PURPLE I:
Brandon Damico
Jake Damico
Kyle Espinal
Sam Varzendeh
Samuel Rubin – OUTSTANDING
Swapnil Dash

ORANGE:
David Rubin
Farhad Shafa
Greg Campbell
Jacob Accardo
Xavier Franco

ORANGE I:
Benjamin Simon – OUTSTANDING
Ethan Kim
Henry Kraft
Hunter Griswold – OUTSTANDING

BLUE:
Alex Munzon – OUTSTANDING
Chacta Brice – OUTSTANDING
Ethan Esrawi – OUTSTANDING
Isabella Slimp
Oshea Chilton
Y-Thien Lam – OUTSTANDING

BLUE I:
Max Levotman

GREEN:
Benjamin Lee – see office
Ryan Nikravesh
Yael Balakhane

GREEN I:
Ariella Ahdout – see office
Harry Lake
Nima Nikravesh
Shawn Ahdout – see office

RED:
Cameron Pari
Matthew Jefferson
Nicholas Grib

RED I:
Lily Chang

RED II:
Di Wu – see office - OUTSTANDING
Saeyoung Kim - OUTSTANDING

Fun Foto of the Week

2010-08-14T05:31:00.000-07:00

Aw, the good ol' days! Here is Jun Chong with Phillip Blackman in front of the old Wilshire school.
Friendships through martial arts lasts a lifetime!

If you have any good photos that you'd like to submit, email them to me at junchong411[at]gmail.com. Enjoy!

AUGUST STUDENTS OF THE MONTH!

2010-08-09T18:40:00.001-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR STUDENTS OF THE MONTH, OLIVER LEONE-SEID & MATTHEW JEFFERSON!

Name: Oliver Leone Seid
Education Level: 6th grade
Belt rank, training since: Green belt, age 4

Q. Describe yourself in 3 words:
A. Strong, creative, and proficient

Q. Your best advice:
A. No matter what always try hard.

Q. Your favorite food?
A. Sushi
Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in TKD?
A. When I tested for green belt, I was sparring with a red belt and I got kicked in the crotch. I started to cry but got up and finished my test.

Q. What are your hobbies?
A. I like Karate, reading, and soccer.
Q. What made you want to join TKD?
A. When my mom became a black belt, she signed me up.

Q. What are you best at in TKD?
A. I think that I'm best at sparring and my forms.

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. I see myself standing next to Master Chong taking a photo of me and him with my black belt on.

Name: Matthew William Jefferson
Education level: 9th grade
Belt rank: Green II

Q. Describe yourself in 2 words:
A. Strong and tall

Q. Name one thin you with you knew before joining TKD:
A. I wish I knew how to punch correctly
Q. Your biggest vice:
A. Not cleaning up after myself

Q. How has TKD changed you?
A. It has helped me focus, learn discipline, and be more confident.

Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in TKD?
A. I fell doing advanced kicking number 6.

Q. What are your hobbies?
A. I collect old coins.

Q. What made you want to join TKD?
A. I wanted to.

Q. What are you best at in TKD?
A. I am best at handgrabs.

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. I see myself in college with a black belt.

Fun Foto of the Week

2010-08-07T04:22:00.000-07:00

Congratulations Sebastian Casalenuovo on his black belt stripe test last June at the park! He did a stupendous job, as you can easily see in this photo of his "five finger break."

If you have any good photos that you'd like to submit, email them to me at junchong411[at]gmail.com. Enjoy!

Testimonial from Grandmaster Jun Chong

2010-08-01T03:24:00.000-07:00

Master's Corner

by Grandmaster Jun Chong

People think of martial arts mostly in terms of a body's strength, flexibility, and power. Many miss that the mind is just as important as the body. Without your mind, your body is just kicking and punching without focus, energy, or spirit.

A black belt signifies the mastery of uniting mind and body together. This mastery should not only reflect in martial arts, but in your outside life as well, influencing the overall satisfaction of everything you do.
Master Phillip Rhee is a great example of someone who teaches entirely with his mind, body, and spirit. Though he has been an instructor here for many years, his energy is always present at all times and students know the expects nothing less of them.
Remember that everything you do requires the connection of mind and body. You may have a great strong body, but if you have a weak mind you will be defeated, whether it's against opponents on the mat or challenges in life.

Fun Foto of the Week

2010-07-31T04:00:00.000-07:00

This is BY FAR one of my favorite photos EVER!
Master Greg Williams and Grandmaster Jun Chong pose a la Bruce Lee style for this photo.
Look at how young and buff everyone is!!!
circa 1975-6...?

If you have any good photos that you'd like to submit, email them to me at junchong411[at]gmail.com. Enjoy!

Fun Foto of the Week

2010-07-24T04:00:00.000-07:00

Who's this crazy-eyed gal?
It's Kaelyn Choi dressed up for our Halloween event 2009!
For more fun photos from this event, click here.

If you have any good photos that you'd like to submit, email them to me at junchong411[at]gmail.com. Enjoy!

Interview with Instructor Stephanie Texdahl

2010-07-20T11:15:00.000-07:00

Ms. Stephanie Texdahl has been training for a number of years with Jun Chong Martial Arts, receiving her 1st dan black belt in 2006 and teaching the same year.

Her background:
Stephanie is a late comer to the martial arts scene and began training when she was 28. Over the course of nine years her passion has led to a life long dedication to instruction and the hope to eventually promote and develop a broader community of practitioners within the Los Angeles area.

Her devotion has also expanded into other areas of martial arts to include a love of weapons and styles that compliment her Tae Kwon Do training. Stephanie’s weapon of choice is the nunchukas and more recently she has added bo staff and kamas.

Above all, Stephanie ardently believes in the physical, emotional and spiritual growth that ensues when one follows any discipline with passion. “Tae Kwon Do is a way of life. There are many ways to live; this is the way I choose.”

Her Philosophy:
“Discipline with fun. If you aren’t having fun, what’s the point?”

What to expect in her Martial Arts Classes:
Stephanie instructs children and under Grandmaster Chong’s guidance has developed a fast pace, energetic and engaging workout. “Kids have shorter attention spans. You have to keep the class moving and insert material that requires more focus in between drills students like. It's important students leave class on a positive note so they want to come back for more, but you also have to instill the techniques necessary for progression. It’s not always perfectly executed, but feedback from parents is students enjoy my class.”

Interview with Instructor Stephen Howison

2010-07-19T10:41:00.000-07:00

Mr. Stephen Howison has trained with Jun Chong Martial Arts since he was in 1st grade at the North Hollywood school. He received his black belt in Taekwondo and Hapkido in 1994 and began teaching at the Wilshire school in 2009.

His Background:
Stephen comes from a family of black belts including his mother Diane, and his 2 sisters Heather and Caitlin. He was a member of the North Hollywood Demo team and has also trained in weapons including Escrima, Iaido, and various other weapons. Stephen was also involved in the military and trained in the Marine Corp Martial Arts Program.

His Teaching Philosophy:
"I believe that students should learn the intricacies of Tae Kwon Do and Hapkido techniques and have a firm understanding of the basics."

What to Expect in His Classes:
"Students can expect to learn basics and techniques in a consistent environment."

Fun Foto of the Week

2010-07-17T04:00:00.001-07:00

Yummy! Stephen Kim enjoys Rocco's Pizza at our first Movie Night last July 2009.
Our Summer Movie Night starts Friday July 23rd at 8pm. RSVP in the office (323) 658-7570 early so we know how much pizza to get!

If you have any good photos that you'd like to submit, email them to me at junchong411[at]gmail.com. Enjoy!

July Students of the Month!

2010-07-12T16:19:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to

Nikolas Papageorgas & Terry Ayzman
July Students of the Month!

Full Name: Nikolas Papageorgas

Occupation/education level: college
Belt Rank/Training since: Red 2, training since 2003

Q) Describe yourself in 3 words:
A) Good family man

Q) Name one thing you wish you knew before joining TKD:
A) To know TKD before so he can join soon

Q) Your biggest vice:
A) Not consist w/ class and lazy

Q) Your favorite food?
A) Lamb Chops

Q) How has TKD changed you?
A) discipline, balance for every work

Q) What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in TKD?
A) Forgot a form in blue belt & testing in a group of little kids in Santa Monica.

Q) What are your hobbies?
A) Soccer, swimming

Q) What made you want to join TKD?
A) At first it was to encourage my son to continue.

Q) What are you best at in TKD?
A) Sparring

Q) Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A) If I'm healthy, then in TKD.

Full name: Terry Ayzman

Education Level: 5th Grade
Belt rank/training since: Orange belt, about 1 year

Q) Describe yourself in 3 words:
A) funny, cool, and creative.

Q) Name one thing you wish you knew before joining TKD:
A) Knowing how to do a goo split.

Q) Your biggest vice:
A) Having a hard time concentrating.

Q) Your favorite food?
A) French Fries

Q) How has TKD changed you?
A) It made me more disciplined.

Q) What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in TKD?
A) Made a really smelly gas (no one heard it).

Q) What are your hobbies?
A) Studying mythology, TKD.

Q) What made you want to join TKD?
A) The cool nunchakus, swords, and bo staff.

Q) What are you best at in TKD?
A) Splits and kicks.

Q) Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A) The coolest black belt ever!

Fun Foto of the Week!

2010-07-10T04:00:00.000-07:00

Here is black belt instructor Stephanie Trott with her adorable daughter Natalie at our annual Jun Chong TKD Halloween party and "Witch's Cooking Show." The class included obstacle courses, games for kids, showing off their costumes, and a wicked cooking show from the Witch of Wilshire Blvd. herself!

If you have any good photos that you'd like to submit, email them to me at junchong411[at]gmail.com. Enjoy!

Fun Foto of the Week

2010-07-03T04:15:00.000-07:00

Don't Hate!
Yes, some of us are on the annual Korea/China trip right now, and it's FABULOUS!!!
Here's a random but gorgeous photo of a boat in China. The details are amazing!
We'll be back soon so we'll share more photos then!

If you have any good photos that you'd like to submit, email them to me at junchong411[at]gmail.com. Enjoy!

Testimonial from Black Belt Phillip Blackman

2010-07-01T03:24:00.000-07:00

Master's Corner

"Injuries in the Martial Arts" by Master Phillip Blackman (Blackman TKD, New Mexico)

Taekwondo is typically associated with minor injuries: sprains, strains and swelling. On April 20th, I had to have surgery to repair my shock absorber in my right knee. I thought that I would share a 5 step plan to help minimize our exposure to severe injuries.

1: Warm up properly before you begin practice or enter competitions. This includes walking, jogging, jumping rope, or a variety of light aerobic exercises that will increase blood flow and oxygen to your muscles.
2: Cool down after practice. Return your body to a resting state by gradually doing stretching, deep breathing, and other non-aerobic exercises. It's the best way to avoid stiffness and pain and prevent injury brought on by a lack of conditioning.
3: It is our duty and as black belts to teach students proper "form." We must be able to adjust a student's body posture and movements so that they are executed with as little stress to the body as possible, especially when they are learning new techniques.
4: I have worn knee braces, as preventative. I enjoy feeling the added support. If you have any weaknesses, I strongly encourage braces or wraps until you are healed, or if it is chronic.
5: Weight train apart from your Taekwondo training. Your focus should be to help increase your body's natural support of joints and bones to prevent breaks, strains, and sprains.

I wish everyone continued success and good health and be sure to train smart!

Fun Foto of the Week

2010-06-26T05:00:00.000-07:00

Like Father, Like Daughter!
Master Greg Williams with his daughter Shelby Williams at the Park testing June 2005.
Shelby recently had a baby, congratulations!

If you have any good photos that you'd like to submit, email them to me at junchong411[at]gmail.com. Enjoy!

You're Invited to our Summer Open House!

2010-06-21T19:59:00.000-07:00

You're invited to Jun Chong Martial Arts' Summer Open House on Summer Open House this Saturday!Date: Saturday June 26th
Address: Jun Chong Martial Arts, 6340-B Wilshire Blvd. LA 90048
Time: Kids class-Choose 10am, 10:40am, or 11:15am. Adults Class 1pm.

Everyone is welcome to try a martial arts class for free and stay for the festivities afterward!
* Bounce House
* Free Massages
* Food and Drinks
* Face Painting
*Performance by the Jun Chong Demo Team
* Raffles, Prizes, and Giveaways for everyone!

ONE GRAND PRIZE WINNER: To the student who brings the most friends, receive a Grand Prize of your Choice!

And don't forget that for every friend that signs up at Jun Chong Martial Arts, you get ONE FREE MONTH OF CLASSES! And family members get 10% off when they join together!

For flyers, click here or pick them up at the Studio Office.

Hope to see you there!

Thanks from Hancock Park Elementary School!

2010-06-19T16:03:00.000-07:00

Hancock Park Elementary School had their Annual Carnival and Silent Auction on May 22nd in Los Angeles. Jun Chong Martial Arts was happy to offer 3 silent auction items to the school that helped raise over $20,000.00 thanks generous supporters.

Fun Foto of the Week

2010-06-19T04:00:00.000-07:00

Students learned from Kendo instructor Jay Schlauch at our annual WUMAO Weapons Seminar on May 16, 2010.
This year we featured workshops in Kendo, Knife, and the Bo Staff. All attendees received a Certificate of Completion and a commemorative t-shirt. For more photos, check out our gallery.

If you have any good photos that you'd like to submit, email them to me at junchong411[at]gmail.com. Enjoy!

JUNE 2010 TESTING RESULTS

2010-06-14T19:14:00.000-07:00

Congratulations students who tested last week and attended our Park Testing!
The Belt Ceremony is this Friday June 18th during your REGULARLY scheduled class. Don't worry if you can't make it, we'll give you your belt the next time you attend class.
If you did not attend the Park Test or finish your test, please see the Office.

YELLOW:
Alex Aizenman
Branden Esrawi
Erika Rankin – OUTSTANDING
Henry Fried
Ian Lee
Josh Park – OUTSTANDING
Kai Moran – OUTSTANDING
Len Moran
Lucas Thau – OUTSTANDING
Mary Bui – OUSTANDING
Noam Levey

YELLOW STRIPE:
Andrew Chung
Ari Alva
Astro Halliday
Camden Lewis
Evan Aizenman
Gabriel McGrade
Holly Fouche
Marcus Ho

PURPLE:
Ava Hinojosa
Brandon Damico
Cameron Khosravi
David Rubin
Ezra Frain – OUTSTANDING
Farhad Shafa
Francisco Pastore
Greg Campbell – OUTSTANDING
Jacob Damico
Lucas Hron
Michael Rubin
Sam Rubin
Swapnil Dash
Xavier Franco – OUTSTANDING

PURPLE STRIPE:
Isaac Amsterdam
Jacob Accardo
Miles Lin
Shayne Liggins

ORANGE:
Benjamin Simon
Cameron Cooper
Chacta Brice – OUTSTANDING
Ethan Kim
Henry Kraft - OUTSTANDING
Hunter Griswold
Terry Ayzman – OUTSTANDING

ORANGE STRIPE:
Advik Paharia
Alexander Munzon
Jackson Gross
Kaelyn Choi
Y-Thien Lam
Yuval Meron

BLUE:
Alicia Richards – OUTSTANDING
James Lee
Jee Hoon Choi – OUTSTANDING
Maya Lee
Peter Moon

BLUE WHITE STRIPE:
Benjamin Lee
Justine Halliday

GREEN:
Bruce Olsen
Jacob Zeiss
Joseph Lee – OUTSTANDING
Lauren Kim – OUTSTANDING
Renata Levotman
Rocio Rincon - OUTSTANDING

GREEN WHITE STRIPE:
Afsaneh Safavi – OUTSTANDING
Crystal Miles – OUTSTANDING
Jack Lue
Layla Chessman
Renee Spei – OUTSTANDING

GREEN DOUBLE STRIPE:
Alper Ulus

RED:
Randy Lue – OUTSTANDING

RED WHITE STRIPE:
Janette Shew

RED BLACK STRIPE:
Alejandro Urquiza
Asuka Wiener
Cameron Ro
David Zipkin-Leed
Hunter Isaacson – OUTSTANDING
Katie Zipkin-Leed
Nobu Otake
Taylor Wiemer

BLACK BELT:
James Huh

BLACK BELT 1/2 STRIPE:
Matthew Gooden
Sebastian Casalenuovo - OUTSTANDING

Fun Foto of the Week!

2010-06-12T04:28:00.000-07:00

It's about time!
Can you believe it's been a year since Woo Jin Park, a student at the Santa Monica school for over 10 years, finally received his black belt!?
Good luck to all the black belt candidates testing on Saturday, June 11th and 12th!

If you have any good photos that you'd like to submit, email them to me at junchong411[at]gmail.com. Enjoy!

Summer Special: Take 10% off our 1 Year Programs

2010-06-07T04:47:00.000-07:00

Our location features 4500 sq.ft. for all your training needs, including two classroom mats with full length mirrors, central air conditioning and heating, a weight room area, men and women’s locker rooms, and convenient parking lots next door.
Parents can observe classes or relax with free reading material while young children enjoy a children’s entertainment center and homework area.
We also offer free WiFi for your convenience.

Spread the word! Summer's a great time to start training in martial arts.
And with 2 locations for your living and commuting convenience, there's nothing to stop you from becoming the next KARATE KID!

Fun Foto of the Week

2010-06-05T04:00:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Grandmaster Jun Chong!
We celebrated Master Chong's birthday at the beautiful Cicada Restaurant in downtown Los Angeles last month in May. The theme was a 1930's Moonlight Serenade, complete with finger wave hairdo's, fedora hats, and lots of feathers!
Thanks to everyone who could come out and join in the festivities!

If you have any good photos that you'd like to submit, email them to me at junchong411[at]gmail.com. Enjoy!

June's Students of the Month!

2010-06-04T15:32:00.000-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR JUNE STUDENTS OF THE MONTH,

MAYA LEE & LAUREN KIM!

Name: Maya Lee
Education Level: 2nd Grade
Belt level, training since: Orange white stripe, training since age 6

Q. Describe yourself in 3 words:
A. Funny, shy, and kind

Q. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining Tae Kwon Do:
A. I wish I had started Tae Kwon Do earlier.

Q. Your biggest vice:
A. Candy

Q. Your favorite food:
A. Ramen and sushi

Q. How has Tae Kwon Do changed you?
A. It made me more confident

Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in TKD?
A. That I didn't know my techniques and everyone else did!

Q. What are your hobbies?
A. Climbing trees and making comic strips

Q. What made you want to join Tae Kwon Do?
A. My brother

Q. What are you best at in Tae Kwon Do?
A. Forms

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. A black belt

FULL NAME: Lauren Mary Kim
OCCUPATION/EDUCATION LEVEL: Stunts, dancer, actor/BS in business admin.
BELT LEVEL: Blue

Q. Describe yourself in 3 words:
A. Independent, silly, loyal

Q. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining Tae Kwon Do:
A. Just wish I started sooner

Q. You favorite food:
A. Sushi, greek food, calbi truck, sweet potato fries.

Q. How has Tae Kwon Do changed you?
A. Taught me to not be lazy. There are necessary steps to reach an ultimate goal.

Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you at Tae Kwon Do?
A. I didn't have time to wash my uniform and I smelt really bad, good for sparring though; opponents were scared. (eeeewwww dirty girl muchasha sucia)

Q. What are your hobbies?
A. Pole and tissue class, gymnastics, wushu classes @ bodhi tree.

Q. What made you want to join Tae Kwon Do?
A. Discipline and to be a better stunt woman.

Q. What are you best at in Tae Kwon Do?
A. good memory

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. Being a real ninja.

Testimonial from Black Belt Daniel Dvorsky

2010-06-01T05:35:00.000-07:00

"Philosophy of Training"
a Black Belt Essay by Daniel Dvorsky, 5th dan black belt

As a method for training, Taekwondo uses the body to develop the mind and the mind to develop the body. We combine what is physical and what is mental, what is outside and what is within, and unseparate these parts into a natural whole. This practice enables the student to better understand their own nature. We learn completeness and simple satisfaction through Taekwondo and can make it the same in all acts of life.

Through Taekwondo I have realized I may never be as good as Master Chong or Master Rhee or anyone else. I am here, however, to be as good as me, and I can that good if I let myself. What I embark upon is a path to my own perfection and never perfection itself. And yet this involvement, this endless preparation, this sense of duty, this continuous path brings me no further than right here...right now. This is because martial arts is not a destination but a path and those who are truly courageous and "perfect" are the ones who continue to move forward and try.

Fun Foto of the Week

2010-05-29T04:00:00.000-07:00

Intimidating enough for ya??
This is what you would have seen at a belt testing at the old Wilshire school back in the day...and they were as tough as they looked!
People I can recognize at the table: Simon Rhee, Greg Williams, Phillip Rhee, and Master Chong (far right).
Can you see all the students lined up against all the walls for testing?? Testings would last 2-3 hours sometimes!!
If you have any good photos that you'd like to submit, email them to me at junchong411[at]gmail.com. Enjoy!

Fun Foto of the Week

2010-05-22T04:04:00.000-07:00

Black belt James Huang and Master Mason Williams take a break from refereeing students at the 15th annual WUMAO tournament to pose for this photo.
Looking good!
If you have any good photos that you'd like to submit, email them to me at junchong411[at]gmail.com. Enjoy!

Fun Foto of the Week

2010-05-15T04:04:00.000-07:00

OMG are these not the cutest little yellow belts you've ever seen??
Students from the Santa Monica school show off their medals for competing in judo sweep! Congratulations!

If you have any good photos that you'd like to submit, email them to me at junchong411[at]gmail.com. Enjoy!

Jun Chong Martial Arts Center Open House

2010-05-10T13:20:00.000-07:00

Date: Saturday May 15th
Time: 1:00pm
Address: 11870 Santa Monica Blvd. West LA, 90025
Bring your friends and family to come join us in our first annual OPEN HOUSE party featuring:
* FREE Snacks and Refreshments
* The Jun Chong Demo Team performance
* A Jumper for the Kids
* Games and Prizes for all to enjoy!

One free month will be added to any membership when a friend they refer signs up!

Call (310) 979-9222 for more information. Hope to see you there!

Fun Foto of the Week!

2010-05-08T04:03:00.000-07:00

Valentina Maria smiles with Master Chong after she receiver her green belt at the April 2010 belt ceremony. Valentina has been an outstanding recipient several times and is a focused and talented student. Congratulations!!

If you have any good photos that you'd like to submit, email them to me at junchong411[at]gmail.com. Enjoy!

Get 1 Month Free!

2010-05-03T15:46:00.000-07:00

Wanna get a month of free classes at Jun Chong Martial Arts?
Just refer your friends! For every friend that signs up at our school, you'll receive a free month of unlimited classes as a thank you!
And who doesn't want a free month at Jun Chong Martial Arts schools? It's great for children and adults of all ages! Here are just some of its benefits:
• Exercise and Fitness
• Self Defense
• Self Confidence
• Builds Self Esteem and Pride
• Discipline
• Flexibility
• Body Coordination
• Weight Loss
• Better Health
• Mental Endurance
• Positive Leadership
• Focus and Concentration
• Mastering of Ancient Martial Art
• Shape Good Attitudes
• Respect and Courtesy
• Assertiveness
• Reduce Stress
• Increased Awareness of environment
• Weapon use and control
Martial arts is especially beneficial for kids with ADD, ADHD, Autism, lots of energy, shyness.

We have postcards to give your friends, or just refer them to take a free trial class! Just make sure they write your name down when asked "How did you hear about us?"
For more info, call (323) 68-7570 or email junchong411[@]gmail.com.
This special is good at both Santa Monica and Wilshire locations.

May Students of the Month!

2010-05-03T12:58:00.000-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR MAY STUDENTS OF THE MONTH,

JOSEPH LEE & JACOB ACCARDO!

(photo coming soon)

Full name: Joseph Lee
Occupation: Business Owner
Belt Rank: Blue
Training since: September 2009

Q. Describe yourself in 3 words:
A. Ambitious, Competitive, Opinionated

Q. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining Tae Kwon Do:
A. Tae Kwon Do has helped me realize the start of my life-long training in disciplining myself.

Q. Your biggest vice:
A. Pride

Q. Your favorite food:
A. Sushi

Q. How has Tae Kwon Do changed you?
A. Tae Kwon Do has improved my self-confidence.

Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in Tae Kwon Do?
A. I’ve managed to pass some unnecessary gas while stretching.

Q. What are your hobbies?
A. Paintball, People watching, Tae Kwon Do

Q. What made you want to join Tae Kwon Do?
A. I wanted to improve my fitness and flexibility.

Q. What are you best at in Tae Kwon Do?
A. Footwork

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. I will be transitioning into becoming a commercial property landlord while studying construction management to prepare myself for real estate development opportunities.

Full name: Jacob Accardo
Occupation: Student, Kindergarten
Belt Rank: Purple
Training since: September 2009
Q. Describe yourself in 3 words:
A. Strong, Serious, Helpful

Q. Name one thing you wish you knew before joining Tae Kwon Do:
A. How to escape from an arm grab. I was grabbed by a bully (an older kid) when I was in preschool.

Q. Your biggest vice:
A. Cheetos.

Q. Your favorite food:
A. Chicken and Pasta.

Q. How has Tae Kwon Do changed you?
A. I am more confident and disciplined.

Q. What is the most embarrassing thing that happened to you in Tae Kwon Do?
A. Somtimes, in Tae Kwon Do class, when funny things happen, I hold myself back from laughing. I don't think it's appropriate to laugh in class.

Q. What are your hobbies?
A. Legos, Chess, Piano, and video games.

Q. What made you want to join Tae Kwon Do?
A. I was punched by a bully when I was in preschool, and I wanted to be able to protect myself and make sure that it didn't happen again.

Q. What are you best at in Tae Kwon Do?
A. Forms.

Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. Black belt.

Testimonial from Black Belt James Goller

2010-05-03T05:30:00.000-07:00

Testimonial of Martial Arts Mastery
by Master James Goller, 4th dan black belt

In my 35 years of training in Tae Kwon Do, I have seen the most amazing changes in people who commit to the lifestyle of a martial artist. I have seen some rather geeky kids become outstanding athletes and role models to others. When I started as a teenager, I too was a geeky kid who thought Karate classes would help me defend myself from hippie teenage kids. But after becoming a black belt and running my own school for many years, martial arts has become more spiritual, with a more profound meaning.

Given the honor of teaching is a great responsibility, and being able to turn a normal person from the street into a Jun Chong black belt is no easy chore. I feel (it is my) responsibility to always change myself and my students, both physically and mentally. With Grandmaster Chong's system, as with my life, the road never ends. That is the essence of Master Chong's teaching, CHANGE. My training and discipline has guided me through the toughest chapters and near death experiences in my life, and I would not trade my martial arts experience for anything on this earth (not even a full head of hair)!