Q:  How is Taekwondo different from Karate?

A:  Both martial arts are considered "hard styles" - focusing on punches, blocks, and kicks to defend yourself.  Where Karate focuses more on upper body strength and standing one's ground, Taekwondo focuses more on mobility:  moving out of the way using footwork to evade an attack.  Added, Taekwondo emphasizes on a wide range of kicks to use on an adversary - keeping a safer distance away and using greater force.

 

Q:  What is Sparring?  Is it safe?

A:  Sparring is where you face an opponent and test your skills, scoring points using various punches and kicks.  In the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, Taekwondo sparring was one of the various, competitive gold-medal events.  Sparring is very safe, as we wear full protective gear and adhere to strict competition rules.  Contrary to what others may say, WTF (World Taekwondo Federation)-style sparring is much safer than ITF "non-contact" sparring.  (Contact or not, when a student is still learning, but not using any protective gear...there's nothing safe about it...)

 

Q:  I'm not very flexible.  Would I still be able to take class?

A:  Absolutely!  With every class you participate in, you become more flexible!  Taekwondo is a sport and a martial art that focuses on you and your success.  You don't have to be as flexible as the person next to you.  If you see results in yourself, then you are well on your way in becoming a better you!

 

Q:  Why should I choose US World Class Taekwondo over the other schools in the area?

A:  USWC Tualatin is a family-owned, family-friendly martial arts school - led by Master Brandon Oliveira, who has been training for well over 20 years in the martial arts.  Having competed at the local, state, and regional level, Master Brandon trained rigorously under both Grandmaster & Chief Master Shin since 1994.  His teaching method brings traditional structure and discipline, but adds a modern approach to learning and fun!  With over 20+ schools in the Pacific Northwest, US World Class Taekwondo Association is the premier martial arts school dedicated to helping you reach your goals!

 

Q:  What else does your school offer?

A:  USWC Tualatin offers more than traditional taekwondo classes.  We extend into all branches of training:  conditioning classes, women's self-defense classes, weapons, sparring, board breaking nights, and even seminars & special workshops!  We also make it a point to extend into the community offering demonstrations and other special events.  Family-oriented venues like camping in the summertime and trekking up to Mt. Hood in the winter are always fun to do as a group.  Why not learn in a comfortable environment with a well-trained & traditional instructor that keeps it fun?  Stop in today and see the difference!

 

Q:  Wait...shouldn't I be learning from an ancient Korean master!?

A:   Great question.  The simple truth is that the teachings of Taekwondo are handed down from generation-to-generation.  Our staff has been trained by the very Korean masters you're thinking of!  Learning from Master Brandon is merely that of an extension of Grand Master & Chief Master Shins' knowledge and experience.  Not to mention, having given the opportunity to teach in some of the top schools of the nation - Master Brandon is a superb coach and teacher for young and older students alike.

 

Q:  Do I get to learn how to use weapons?

A:  Once accepted into our Award-Winning "Black Belt Club" Program, you are given the opportunity to beginning learning the fundamentals of ancient martial arts weapons. (Bo, Sai, Nunchaku, Tonfa, Kama, Escrima, Sword, etc)

 

Q:  I hear you also teach Hapkido.  What's that?

A:  Hapkido is Korean martial art based on self defense.  Arm locks, take-downs, getting out of chokes & collar grabs -- even learning to defend against knife & gun attacks.  We implement Hapkido into our core curriculum.  Essentially, you are learning two martial arts at once!  Be sure to stop in and visit to learn more about our Hapkido training!