Gedman's Black Belt Academy of the Westfield Area YMCA
Programs are available for adults, teens and children (beginning at age 5), for beginners through 5th degree black belts. Beginner students are required to attend the Intro class before beginning rank-specific training. No annual commitment or contract is required. All classes are located at the Bauer Branch.
Tae Kwon Do is a martial art that allows individuals to focus on physical and personal development. Benefits include:
| Fitness: Students develop strength, flexibility, confidence and self-esteem while developing overall physical fitness. As you progress, you will learn to coordinate this speed and power, and develop the concentration to focus all of your body’s strength into a small, hard striking surface like the edge of the hand or the heel of the foot. |
| Self Defense: Knowing you can defend yourself, your confidence will grow. Students of all ages can apply the lessons learned to maintaining their personal safety. |
| Self Confidence: As you accomplish new goals, your confidence level increases. It instills a sense of discipline and self-confidence that can carry over to all aspects of your life. |
| Personal Development: Tae Kwon Do instills discipline, honor, self-control, respect, courtesy and perseverance. |
Class Descriptions
In Tae Kwon Do, our belts reflect a student’s proven level of competence and the progression of colors reflects an inner journey that never truly ends. Each belt achieved is truly an accomplishment worthy of respect.
Introduction to TKD
The introduction to TKD class provides foundational training on TKD class structure, basic skills: kicks, stances, blocks and strikes required for participation in the rank level classes.
White-Yellow Belt
Our Beginner classes are the start of an exciting belt progression system that keeps students motivated and helps with the development skills such focus and discipline which can be applied to all aspects of life. In this class students learn the curriculum of ATA Songham TKD through fundamental martial arts movements including: high-energy kicks and punches; improved coordination and athleticism; and social development within a safe and supportive enviornment.
Camouflage (Camo)-Blue Belt
Intermediate rank classes provide students with the skills needed in their progression toward Black Belt and enhance physical skills with the addition of Sparring, and Board Breaking training. The traditional TKD basics increase in difficulty to further develop focus through more complex combinations of basic skills. At this level there is eligibility to participate in optional Weapons classes and Competition team programs.
Brown-Red/Black Belt
Advanced rank classes provide students with the skills needed in their progression toward Black Belt. Development of positive Black Belt attitude is reinforced as Perserverance is strengthened by more demanding fitness drills and exercises. Continued focus on Forms, Sparring, Board Breaking requirements in preparation for rank advancement toward Black Belt. The TKD skills increase in complexity utilizing the basics developed in Basic and Intermediate classes.
Black Belt
Black Belt program is for the most highly trained students. Training requires and further enhances the concepts of focus, perserverance, discipline and respect. Students in this program continue their martial arts development and rank advancement through the black belt curriculum. Students have opportunities to participate in optional Leadership programs, Legacy student teaching programs, and eligibility for advanced competition teams.
Adult Classes
The program teaches martial arts with a focuses on comprehensive skills across a wide range of disciplines. The classes are rooted in real-world practical applications including efficient and effective self-defense.The program is designed to help men and women of all skill levels enjoy the best blend of strength development, speed and agility exercises, cardiovascular workouts while managing stress, gaining mental balance and confidence. The progressive curriculum and rank advancement help students training with a purpose under the guidance of certified TKD coaches.
Questions? Contact: | |
Chief Instuctor of Gedman's Black Belt Academy | Director of Sports Programs Phone: 908-301-9622 ext. 227 |