Saturday, February 20, 2010

The Truth About USA Martial Arts

Attention Phoenix Paradise Valley, Scottsdale Arizona Parents
Can You Find Your Son 
or Daughter in this Video?

“If So, Read On…You Might Just Find
the Big  Breakthrough You’ve Been
Seeking for Your Child!”



We get reports like these, literally everyday, from parents whose kids train at "USA Martial Arts".

My name is John Nottingham. I've been helping kids (just like yours) develop confidence, character and leadership skills for over 25 years (over 10,000 students).  You may recognize me from our many community appearances in schools, companies, News Channels 3, 5, 10, 12 with the Korean Eagle Team, or teaching Self-Defense. Our schools have won lots of awards and also been featured internationally in magazines, movies, on ESPN2, and on TV in Korea and China.

But enough about me- here's some great news for you.

My team and I are opening up a new school in Paradise Valley Phoenix /Scottsdale Arizona.  If you want results like you saw in the video for your kids contact us now for a Free Introductory Program.

Just call 480.443.0088
http://USA-MartialArts.com

John Nottingham
Founder

P.S.  Remember, there is absolutely no obligation in trying the FREE Introductory Program.  If you do the Introductory Program and love it (as most people do), you are welcome to register your child as a regular student.  If, however, you feel that the “USA Martial Arts” program is not what you are looking for, there is absolutely no obligation to continue.  Plus we'll give you a valuable free gift thats yours to keep, whatever you decide.

Disguised Gifts: How Difficulty Learning as a Child Made Me a Better Teacher



Gifts Sometimes Come in Disguise
How difficulty learning as a child made me a better teacher

“You’re stupid!” she exclaimed.  The seven year old freckle faced girl’s words cut like a sharp knife and reinforced what I had already believed about myself.  Kids can be cruel but we can be much crueler to ourselves.  I couldn’t explain why I couldn’t catch on like the other kids in my class.  I was never formally diagnosed with a learning disability but by the time I was an adult, it was a clear to me as day. 

Shame accompanied other feelings of inadequacy and lack of acceptance back then.  I tried and tried but it got really frustrating and took so much longer for me to do things than the many of the other children.  Doing what I could to hide it, trying to be funny or flying under the radar I would cope by deflecting attention and learned to make excuses.

But something amazing happened.  I started martial arts classes.  Never had I worked so hard at something.  My Black Belt teachers didn’t accept excuses and merit was the only currency in the TaeKwonDo Dojang (Korean for traditional Martial Arts training hall). 

I was awful at first, but in time I discovered that I could improve if I did what I was told and just kept at it.  Progress seemed painfully slow but I noticed that I got better.  Over time I started feeling really different about myself, better, empowered with a different attitude of “I can” rather than “I can’t”.  Feeling stupid takes your dignity but belt by belt, martial arts helped me earn it back.

Feeling stupid takes your dignity but belt by belt, 
martial arts helped me earn it back.

That struggle, to learn how I learned, and overcome the mismatch of how education is often delivered and how I process and learn, was infinitely valuable.  The more I applied the lessons of “find a way” from martial arts to other areas of my life the more I saw positive things happen.  I developed my own learning techniques and habits.  It served me in my first semester of college when as I earned a place on the Deans list.  It benefited me again in the Army as a Military Intelligence Analyst when I was trained to record classified information and brief high ranking officers. 

More importantly I recognize my challenges in learning today as a gift.  I have a level of empathy for my students, more patience to find their learning channels and timing.  I also see that part of my job is to find the good in each student, to uncover and develop his or her strengths.  Part of that stems from my yearning to have a teacher rescue me from that darkness and help me feel some value, discover some gift, besides my academic performance. 

That’s why my teaching method we use at all my USA Martial Arts includes using mentors and peer teaching to enhance the speed and joy of learning.  Less emphasis is placed on wrote memorization and more on functionalizing, creating and applying skills.  A student’s confidence, ability to act and adapt is more important than recalling a specific number of moves from a ridged sequence.  Besides, nobody is going to ask for self defense move #24 on the street; you either respond appropriately to an attack or become another victim statistic.

Besides, nobody is going to ask for self 
defense move #24 on the street; you either 
respond appropriately to an attack or 
become another victim statistic.

Repeatedly I have seen boys and girls grades improve, their confidence soar and them adopt a new vision for their life.  I know that I wouldn't have reached some of them without the tools I developed from my own personal struggles.  

My goal is to have my students possess the self-esteem to know they are worth defending and if forced, will apply their skills with confidence and conviction without freezing under stress.  Of greater importance is how my martial arts students view themselves in daily life and face challenges stress, health, mental and emotional challenges as the attacks of modern living.

Although I’ve earned my share of medals and trophies and accomplished some wonderful things in my career, I know that I’m not the best martial artist in the world.  I’m striving to learn all the time and remain a student who tries daily to lead by example.  What I can offer is from my life experience of overcoming obstacles, facing fears and helping others succeed (over 10,000 students and hundreds of Black Belts now). Ad that to the passion I have for sharing that knowledge with others to help men, women and children achieve things they never thought possible with this amazing tool called martial arts.


**********



You can follow my blog and find out about my adventures at the Shaolin Temple, Olympic Training Center, training with Masters in Korea, being in movies, sparring with legends like UFC Champ Jiu-jitsu Master Royce Gracie, and some unique and interesting lessons along the way (including some about Chuck Norris).  Plus, I’ll share some secrets to realistic self-defense, personal security, and character and leadership development.  You might even get inspired too!  http://usamartialartshq.blogspot.com
TaeKwonDo / TKD Times Magazine Article & Asthma Tips http://johnnottingham.com/  Find out how a karate kid overcame asthma with this true inspiring story.


http://usa-martialarts.com/ Martial Arts for Kids and Families in Phoenix Paradise Valley, Scottsdale, Cave Creek Arizona 

Thursday, February 18, 2010

Who is a Mighty Person?

Who is a mighty person? 
One who can make friends of his enemies.

This is one of the early lessons I learned from my Martial Arts teaching mentor Shihan Dave Kovar.  It is fundamental to many of us classically trained martial artists whom had the benefit of an ethical honor code education. 

As kid in martial arts my enemies weren’t always bad guys, bullies and strangers as would-be abductors.  My enemies, as with most of us, were much more insidious because they were disguised in a one might not expect.  The enemy of asthma took oxygen from my body and mind so I could not function or recover well. 

Ask any fighter or MMA athlete whose stepped into a UFC Octagon what having handcuffs on your lungs from a lack of cardio conditioning will do.  Even the best pro athletes from Olympic Champs to NFL linebackers can be made into mice in high altitude training when you take their air.  When you are ‘gassed out’ it saps your will.

Another problem that made that enemy bigger is that it also leads to a greater issue of self doubt.  My poor self image was based on a belief of limitations and what I couldn’t do.  It is a filter from which you begin to form all beliefs and make decisions.  It can start with one thing and have a domino effect.  

But this isn’t a sad story.  In fact, it’s the opposite.  Through my training in martial arts I learned to be mindful, set goals, work for improvement.  I learned to apply its principles and strategies to my life in ways I hadn’t anticipated. Asthma is just one example of a challenge to deal with.  It could have been stress, being overweight and undisciplined or a variety of other obstacles.

My struggle with asthma and health gave me the opportunity to learn things I might not have.  With the help of martial arts, I developed depth of character, determination and the ability to work patiently, methodically and in a disciplined way towards goals.  I learned to not give up, despite what I was feeling at an emotional level.  Working to overcome asthma also helped me get more in tune with my body.  Just like muscle is built through resistance, asthma and allergies provided me the resistance to build emotional and mental muscle. 

It wasn’t easy and I sure had lots of setbacks, but those are good reference points for me in times of struggle.  It helped me learn to move forward on faith with optimism and seek out the help I needed to get to my goals.

On numerous occasions in the Army, in competition or other difficult endeavors, while I saw others give up, I knew how to dig down deep into myself and find new levels of strength through my martial arts indomitable spirit.  Asthma, while I would never wish it on anyone else, was a blessing in disguise.  Perhaps difficulties and struggles are someitmes an opportunity to bring out our inner strength and beauty.


You can follow my blog and find out about my adventures at the Shaolin Temple, Olympic Training Center, training with Masters in Korea, being in movies, sparring with legends like UFC Champ Jiu-jitsu Master Royce Gracie, and some unique and interesting lessons along the way.  Plus, I’ll share some secrets to realistic self-defense, personal security, and character and leadership development.  You might even get inspired too!  http://usamartialartshq.blogspot.com
TaeKwonDo / TKD Times Magazine Article & Asthma Tips http://johnnottingham.com/  Find out how a karate kid overcame asthma with this true inspiring story.


http://usa-martialarts.com/ Martial Arts for Kids and Families in Phoenix Paradise Valley, Scottsdale, Cave Creek Arizona 


Wednesday, February 17, 2010

The Story of a Sick Kid

Sitting at home looking out the window at other kids playing in the neighborhood always made him feel left out.  Asthma is a thief that takes opportunities from kids whose lungs don’t want to play as much as their childhood spirit does.  His brother used to punch him in the arm and pick on him because he thought he was faking it to get out of going to school.  Probably the worst part for kids with asthma is the fear that set in when you start wheezing.  It feels like you're suffocating to death with gunk in your lungs.  But that all changed. 

One day he got a gift from his parents.  It was a nicely wrapped box which he expected to hold a new shirt or sweater from Grandma.  But this was different.  To his surprise, when he tore off the wrapping, he saw a brand new martial arts uniform; patch and a kids Karate white belt just his size.  Off to Song’s Martial Arts Institute of Korean Taekwondo and Chinese Kung Fu he went.  In time his body, mind and determination got stronger.  Learning how to control his breathing, he even competed in tournaments and rose through the ranks.  That little boy would go on to earn Black Belt. 

That karate kid was me over 25 years ago.  My name is John Nottingham and martial arts changed my life as a child and things have never been the same.  My transformation was so magical that I got bit by the bug and had the dream of one day teaching martial arts in my own school.  I wanted other men, women and children to experience that transformation of mind, body and spirit just like I did.  I had this dream to help people discover that they had far more inside of them than they ever imagined, and it didn’t matter what limitations they or others told them that they have.  Martial Arts taught by a passionate, qualified instructor is the most powerful tool I’ve ever seen for positive life change.

My dream came true!  Since then lots has happened to me from earning Eagle Scout, serving in a Special Forces Army Unit, becoming a Bodyguard, training with top masters and champions around the world, and earning the Master of the Year Hall of Fame award.  I know that if I can do it (and I’ve helped thousands of others change), that you can too. 

You can follow my blog and find out about my adventures at the Shaolin Temple, training with Masters in Korea, being in movies, sparring with legends like UFC Champ Jiu-jitsu Master Royce Gracie, and some unique and interesting lessons along the way.  Plus, I’ll share some secrets to realistic self-defense, personal security, and character and leadership development.  You might even get inspired too!  http://usamartialartshq.blogspot.com
TaeKwonDo / TKD Times Magazine Article & Asthma Tips http://johnnottingham.com/  Find out how a karate kid overcame asthma with this true inspiring story.

http://usa-martialarts.com/ Martial Arts for Kids and Families in Phoenix Paradise Valley, Scottsdale, Cave Creek Arizona

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Attention Arizona Parents... Arm Your Child With Self-Esteem



Attention Arizona Parents...
Arm Your Child With Self Esteem



Paradise Valley Martial Arts Instruction Near Scottsdale & Cave Creek 
Our belief is...
With Confidence, nothing is impossible...
Martial Arts made FUN,
Builds CONFIDENCE and SELF ESTEEM,
That leads to a BRIGHTER FUTURE.
  
Imagine your child's potential...
Self Esteem to stand tall.
Persistence to never quit.
Discipline to stay on track.
Imagination to make dreams a reality,
USA Martial Arts...
Imagine the possibilities!
Please visit our main blog at http://usamartialartshq.blogspot.com/
480.443.0088
SE Corner Tatum & Greenway by Albertsons
 ASK ABOUT OUR AFTER SCHOOL MARTIAL ARTS in Phoenix Paradise Valley Scottsdale Arizona!
 We offer special rates to Paradise Valley Christian Preparatory (PVCP), military, law enforcement and firefighters.
Martial Arts Instruction serving Cave Creek, Desert Ridge, Arizona

Monday, February 15, 2010

"Martial Arts is the best thing you can do for your child." -Chuck Norris



What Does Chuck Norris Say About Martial Arts for Kids?

"Martial Arts is the Best thing you can do for your child. In my 30 years of teaching Martial Arts I have seen the dramatic positive impact that Martial Arts can have on a child's development. I believe so deeply that Martial Arts instruction develops discipline, self esteem, self respect and character that I founded ' Kick Drugs Out of America ‘ to teach Martial Arts to at risk kids. "  -Chuck Norris, Grandmaster, World Champion and Action Film Star




USA Martial Arts in Paradise Valley / Phoenix Arizona specializes in teaching self-defense to children our traditional character building Integrative MARTIAL ARTS curriculum in a beginner-friendly training environment.   Our Integrative Martial Arts method includes a traditional values curriculum emphasizing character development and non-violence with practical self defense and martial arts weapons.  Conversely UFC style Mixed Martial Arts is usually limited to mere sport and emphasizes fighting.


USA Martial Arts founder started in TANG SOO DO Moo Duk Kwan, the same system as  Chuck Norris.Tang Soo Do is a Korean martial art often refereed to as Korean Karate due to its similarities and influence of Japanese/Okinawan Karate.  Tang Soo Do, sometimes referred to as Moo Duk Kwan, provides a balance of hands and feet in a practical self defense and personal development method.  It is unique in instilling character traits like integrity, honor, self-discipline and a strong work ethic.  Those traditional values are fundamental to the USA Martial Arts curriculum along with encouraging high academic standards and developing physical fitness.  


USA Martial Arts integrative blend also draws on the strengths of other styles and arts like Hapkido, Jujitsu, Kickboxing, Krav Maga to develop legendary self defense capabilities that will be available to students even under high stress.  


Integrating the best of TAEKWONDO and HAPKIDO, USA Martial Arts traditional MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) program for children can help your child get into better shape, become more focused and confident. Our pre-planned KIDS KARATE classes are fun, dynamic and change often so they'll never get bored with our training.


And, our 30 day money back guarantee at our Paradise Valley Arizona martial arts school gives you the freedom to train here risk-free for 30 days to help you determine if we are the best martial arts school for you.

Not only that, you can receive more personal attention in our limited class sizes that you just can't get anywhere else. We even have multiple certified Black Belts Instructors in each class, ensuring you learn from qualified martial arts teachers.


******************************

Get A Smart Start In The Martial Arts!
Pre-Grand Opening Special
Get two weeks for $19.99 plus a FREE uniform! Contact us to receive FREE information about upcoming trial programs right to your inbox. There is no obligation so get started now!

email: info@usa-martialarts.com or call 480.443.0088
 We offer special rates to Paradise Valley Christian Preparatory (PVCP), military, law enforcement and firefighters.

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Discover the Proven Formula to Build Your Child’s CONFIDENCE, FOCUS, and SELF-ESTEEM to Prepare Them for School and for Life!



USA Martial Arts in Paradise Valley / Phoenix Arizona specializes in teaching self-defense to children our traditional character building MIXED MARTIAL ARTS curriculum in a beginner-friendly training environment.

Integrating the best of TAEKWONDO and HAPKIDO, our traditional MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) program for children can help your child get into better shape, become more focused and confident. Our pre-planned KIDS KARATE classes are fun, dynamic and change often so they’ll never get bored with our training.

And, our 30 day money back guarantee at our Paradise Valley Arizona martial arts school gives you the freedom to train here risk-free for 30 days to help you determine if we are the best martial arts school for you.

Not only that, you can receive more personal attention in our limited class sizes that you just can’t get anywhere else. We even have multiple certified Black Belts Instructors in each class, ensuring you learn from qualified martial arts teachers.

******************************
Get A Smart Start In The Martial Arts!
Pre-Grand Opening Special
Get two weeks for $19.99 plus a FREE uniform! Contact us to receive FREE information about upcoming trial programs right to your inbox. There is no obligation so get started now!
email: info@usa-martialarts.com or call 480.443.0088
 We offer special rates to Paradise Valley Christian Preparatory (PVCP), military, law enforcement and firefighters.

Tags: ,, Cave Creek, Desert Ridge, Tatum, Greenway