Oriental Martial Art Training is a total training of the body, mind and spirit (not religious). Most martial art has a "DO" letter at the end of its name. "DO" means a way of life, not a way of fighting or a way of self-defense.

Students can have great benefits utilizing the right instruction, along with proper, diligent martial art training. The physical benefits include: increased strength, more speed, flexibility, increased coordination, more balance, endurance, self-defense strategies, breathing control, good posture, better manners, along with a positive attitude. The mental benefits include concentration, relaxation, discipline, respect and patience.

Martial arts students can participate in various tournaments. There are many tournaments throughout the year all over the country. There are a few quality tournaments I can recommend.

At the tournament I frequently see groups of unusual competitors. They are only competing to win medals or trophies without the accompanying respect and control necessary.

There are many students who are learning martial art just for competition or fighting without the mental training. They lack the philosophy, and this includes a number of martial arts movies. In real Oriental Martial Arts, inner body training is extremely important. This part of the training cannot be measured in a competition or tournament. Oriental martial art training is a way of life, not for medals and trophies.

Taekwondo and Judo are Olympic Sports. Even in the Olympics the martial art competition is different from real oriental martial arts training. It is not easy to win medals. But that is not the goal of all martial art training. Many martial art masters are wary about the future of oriental martial arts training in the states because many students train just to win medals and trophies. This is considered American martial art, not Oriental Martial art. Maybe it should be called Rambo, Power Ranger, and Ninja Turtle Martial Art.

We have a quality annual Oriental Martial Championship. It is an all day educational event. You can watch different kinds of martial arts competitions - forms, sparring, breaking, self-defense, weapons, and exciting Masters' demonstrations.

Competitors come from various cities, states and even other countries. You can reserve your tickets and support this event by placing your business or personal name in the program book.

National magazines cover this event. For further information contact Master Park's Martial Arts International (330-965-9000).