Brighton's Choi Kwang Do Centre is now Open

Choi Kwang Do is a unique "Wellness Martial Art" which allows us to help and support a very diverse group in terms of their health and fitness, needs and abilities. Our members currently range in age from age 4 to age 86.

Oceans Wellbeing is the 1st Choi Kwang Do Wellness Centre of it's kind in the UK devoted to developing your health, fitness, wellbeing.If you have not seen the new centre come back soon for a virtual online tour.

Friday, June 27, 2008

Come and take the Tour test

 
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Oceans Choi Kwang Do, Brighton. Testimonial: Mick, Age 64

"My name is Mick Bensley, I'm a 64 year old artist, and until recently I was leading a fairly sedentary lifestyle.

I began training approximately two months ago and feel fitter and more alive than I have in many years. The age of my fellow students varies from 14 to 86 and I find them a very sociable and humerous group.

Plus I'm losing weight which is an added bonus.

Pil Suhng!

Mick Bensley"

Oceans Choi Kwang Do, Brighton. Testimonial: Cheryl, Age 23

"My name is Cheryl Hughes, I am 23 years old and I am a trainee Solicitor.
I joined Choi Kwang Do under the strict instructions of my partner, who is a head instructor. To be quite honest, I was very nervous about joining a martial arts class which I knew was then dominated by male members. The closest I had ever come to martial arts was in the movies, so I did not expect to stick with it.

However, I was quickly made to feel like a valued member of Choi Kwang Do by the whole class. I noticed very early on that all the Instructors and Assistant Instructors were just as concerned with their classmates progress, as their own and would donate their own training time to help others improve their techniques. I found this to be very inspiring, in all other hobbies I had taken part in, the members were only concerned with their own progress or enjoyment.

Before joining Choi I was a very quiet, nervous person and I had little or no self confidence. Over the time that I have spent training at Choi Kwang Do, I have developed a sense of self confidence that I never believed possible. In the past I would approach situations with a negative outlook, however I now approach the same situations with a positive, determined attitude. I have developed confidence not just in my ability to defend myself, but in my abilities generally, I now have faith and confidence in myself.

I am now physically fitter than I have ever been before, I partake in other forms of exercise, which before joining Choi was unheard of! This is actively encouraged by the instructors at Oceans Choi Kwang Do. The Instructors actively encourage us to become healthier and they provided with advice on how to do so. Our instructors regularly attend health seminars and conferences in order to provide us with the most accurate and specific information that they can, they are genuinely concerned with our welfare, which is a very comforting feeling, knowing that someone cares for your wellbeing as much as you should.

I joined Choi Kwang Do because my partner bullied me into it! The reasons I have stayed are all of the above and more, however the main reason is because of the friendships I have formed. The members of Choi Kwang Do span all ages and backgrounds, and I can honestly say that each and every member has become a friend. We socialise at Choi and also outside of Choi, attending weddings, birthdays and other various social occasions. I have formed friendships that I know will last.
I genuinely believe that since joining Choi Kwang Do I have become a happier and healthier person, Choi Kwang Do gives you the platform to become the person that you want to be."

Regards

Cheryl

Oceans Choi Kwang Do, Brighton. Testimonial: Linda, Age 41

Karen Catt
Publisher - Village Brighton

"I first heard about Choi Kwang Do when Mr Butcher approached me to advertise in Village Brighton. He has always supplied informative editorial alongside the ad which explains how learning to train in Choi can benefit your health. I've always enjoyed reading them so along with my daughter, decided to give it a try and we're both so glad we did.

The classes are filled with a variety of different people, different ages and abilities but the beauty of Choi is that you all learn at your own pace, the instructors are very knowledgeable, helpful and most importantly very patient!!

They explain & demonstrate everything to you. (as many times as you need).
What I enjoy most of all is there is no pressure on you to learn everything at once, the classes are very friendly and encouraging which makes you feel positive.
I've been attending for over 4 months and have already achieved my senior white belt which is a huge accomplishment for someone who has not exercised for many years!!

My daughter is now on her yellow belt and it's been great to see her grow in confidence since she has been learning Choi.

My advice to anybody considering this different form of exercise is to "GO FOR IT!!"

You won't be disappointed, it's great fun, an experience you definitely benefit from."

Regards

Karen

Oceans Choi Kwang Do, Brighton. Testimonial: Graham, Age 56

Graham McCormack
Age 56
Taxi driver

"My exercise regime consists of golf and occasional swimming, I found that it was not enough to compensate for the job I do.I do not enjoy gym type solitary exercising. I explored other martial arts but found they were too violent for me personally.

Choi Kwang Do has given me the perfect balance of exercise, defence skills and mental stimulation. As I work nights, the option of daily classes suits me perfectly. The instructors at Oceans Choi Kwang Do and other pupils are interesting and very supportive.

Side effects:
In my swimming I always have been a lazy kicker, since taking up Choi Kwang Do I now naturally kick strongly. My body shape is changing, for the better my girl friend tells me.

Thank you Oceans Choi Kwang Do."

Graham 22/6/08

Oceans Choi Kwang Do, Brighton. Testimonial: Ben, Age 35

"I joined Choi Kwang Do about two years ago after a good ten years of doing pretty much no exercise , apart from a couple of attempts at the gym and some martial arts , both of which I soon lost interest in.

Another reason I stopped these was ongoing problems with flexibility and back problems so I was on a quest to find something that got me fit, but did it in a way which wouldn't cause more damage. I was looking at some sort of Yoga or Tai-Chi though I was concerned I would lose interest in these as I wanted something a bit more engaging and active.

So when my friend told me about Choi Kwang Do it sounded exactly what I was looking for . On joining I found it ticked all the boxes and many more. I have barely any problems with my back anymore and my flexibility is so much better and with both continuing to improve.

On top of all this I am learning to defend myself and will hopefully get my black belt within the next year which I have alway's wanted, but never would have thought possible a few years back!

I hope to continue with Choi for many years, not only for it's physical benefits but for it's psychological benefits and healthy philosophy which have been a huge help in my everyday life."

Thanks

Ben Muffett

Oceans Choi Kwang Do, Brighton. Testimonial: Nick, Age 50

Oceans Choi Kwang Do, Brighton. Testimonial: Nick, Age 50

Some years ago I did a fair amount of Shotokan karate but became disillusioned with the teaching methods, undue strictness and actual usefulness in a real life situation. As a result I laid off for several years but at the delicate age of 53 I realised I needed to start something again to help me get fit and to have an enjoyable past-time.

I work in an environment where I am making all sorts of decisions daily, but, without doubt, the best decision I have made for years was to pick up the phone and speak to Eugene about Choi--after seeing an advert in my local post-office.

Everyone will have a certain amount of apprehension in starting something new, meeting new people for the first time and actually making the first visit to a new club. All I can say is not to worry.

I can reassure anyone thinking of starting that they will receive a fantastic welcome in a friendly and non competitive environment where there is a real concern and focus on you as an individual with individual needs, different aspirations and goals.

This applies equally to those who may have trained in other styles of martial arts in the past and those who are completely new to it.

I am now totally hooked and convinced it is the most practical, useful and enjoyable forms of martial arts around. I am also, almost one year after starting, fitter than previously -- as demonstrated skiing in March where my legs and knees survived much longer into the day than the year before -- and have become a total Choi bore at parties because I simply want to convince everyone to give it a go because I truly think they will never look back."

Thank you

Nick Gorvett

Oceans Choi Kwang Do, Brighton. Testimonial: Leigh, Age 38

Leigh Brookes - Age 38
Occupation - Office Manager
Choi Kwang Do Assitant Instructor (May 2006 - present)

"After running up 2 flights of stairs and struggling for breath, I realised I had a fitness problem.

I had always had an active life and played for teams in various sports but finally hung my football boots up when I reached 30. At 36 I needed something to keep me fit and therefore looked into Martial Arts for a more exciting way to maintain my fitness level. I had studied traditional Martial Arts from being a child until late teens so really wanted to find something similar.

I came across a leaflet advertising Choi Kwang Do and realised this newer Martial Art could be the answer. After the induction and the excellent teachings of the instructors and assistant instructors I realised I had found the answer to my problem. After a short time I found an increase in my fitness, my flexibility/ability, I felt challenged and most importantly I felt and still feel healthier."

Regards
Leigh

Oceans Choi Kwang Do, Brighton. Testimonial: Irina, Age 32

"Having done various forms of body work before: yoga, tai chi and chi gung, I was looking for something more dynamic but not too aggressive and macho, Choi Kwang Do has filled that gap perfectly well.

In the five months since I first started training I have noticed an increase in my body strength and flexibility. My co-ordination and reaction has also improved greatly. I feel more confident in my day to day life and find many tasks easier to do.

For example I’m learning to drive and have noticed that my reaction to the hazards on the road and overall confidence in my own abilities have really improved. I am more assertive with people. I find it easier to stand up for myself. I know that this is largely down to my regular Choi Kwang Do practice. I’m very grateful to Eugene and Sharmila Butcher and the fantastic instructors at Oceans for giving me this opportunity to develop and for their continued guidance."

Pil Suhng!

Irina Blosse

Oceans Choi Kwang Do - Brighton. Testimonial - John, Age 37

"I have had a stammer since childhood. Eight years ago I started ongoing training to learn key skills to cope in speaking situations. These skills have helped me but over the years I began to realise that I felt strong only when I spoke well – thus my stammer was me!

I wanted to change this limiting belief and to do this I had to become stronger in more areas of my life. Choi Kwang Do has really filled this void for me. I have become more confident in myself through the training I’ve received – I really can’t say enough about the instructors, I’ve not only experienced an amazing transformation on a personal level but have seen so much positive change in my classmates. Choi Kwang Do certainly brings out the very best in me!!"

Pil Suhng!

John Blosse

Testimonial - Sue, Age 62. Oceans Choi Kwang Do - Brighton

"I joined Choi Kwan Do because a 'flyer' had dropped through my door offering new classes and I thought I would have a go. I had looked at another class elsewhere in Brighton the year before but at that time did not pursue it. How glad I am that I did not......

Since joining Choi Kwan Do in August 2007, which at that time for me was in the Crypt of St George's Church, I have enjoyed every minute of my training. As a then new member, who won't see 60 again, I was made to feel welcome and capable of joining in classes composed mainly of students much younger than I.

At that time I had problems with my joints, hips especially and found sleeping at night a problem, however, now I never think about them. The exercise also helped with depression.

Each member is welcomed as an individual with individual strengths and weaknesses who, as the classes progress, become a unit helping and supporting each other. The classes are FUN too. I am now an Assistant Instructor with the aim of helping others get as much fun and benefit from the classes as I do. By the way, my name is Sue and I work as a PA/Secretary at the Royal Sussex County Hospital."

Sue Stubbings

Oceans Choi Kwang Do - Brighton Testimonial - Ross, Age 28

"Like so many others I had joined many gyms where the enthusiasm only lasted a few weeks, so I was looking for something more engaging to start to improve my fitness levels and get into shape. I have now been attending Choi Kwang Do classes at Oceans for about 4 months and am still loving every minute of it.

What's more, since joining I have lost 1 1/2 stone and seen improvement in a long standing knee condition. I would certainly recommend Choi Kwang Do to anyone, and at Oceans there is more of a family atmosphere to make you feel welcome and encourage you to develop at your own pace."

Ross Davenport

Oceans Choi Kwang Do, Brighton Testimonial - Jay, Age 25

"Why did I start doing Choi Kwang do?

It was basically to regain what I once was, confident, healthy and I had a positive outlook on life. This was unfortunately taken from me when I almost died from a mishap in an operation.

After this devastating blow, I soon became to my family and friends an unregonisable man, depressed and scared of my own shadow. As a last ditched attempt to regain my self esteem and physical well being it was by chance I found Choi Kwang do.

What can I say that Choi Kwang do has done for me? Well if you told me 3 years ago I would be healthier not just physically but mentally and more confident then I ever was, that I would become an Assistant Instructor, almost a Black Belt and having ideas of openeing my own Choi Kwang do Academy, in an activity I honestly love doing, which is rare for anyone to find, I would of said to them IMPOSSIBLE!

Its given me belief! Belief in myself and a belief in my poetential to be whatever I set my heart on. I have done other Martial arts before hand i.e. Kung Fu , but Choi Kwang do, unlike most martial arts, is taught in a friendly environement that promote not competion but true self satisfaction and presevation in every sense.

I can honestly say that Choi Kwang do is not just another martial art but a way lf life."

Brighton Choi Kwang Do Testimonial - Dave, Age 54

"My name is Dave and at age 54 I am currently enjoying a renewed interest in martial arts by training in Choi Kwang Do. Over the years I have tried and trained in various styles of Korean and Japanese martial arts most recently(8 years ago) gaining a brown belt in Wado Ryu and purple/white belt in Shotokan. I decided to stop all training for two reasons.

1. I was diagnosed with coronary artery problems.
2. I felt that most martial arts training were centred on sparring with competition being the main aim.

For me personally, I am finding that the syllabus in Choi Kwang Do, with its realistic approach to self defence, its yoga based stretching and all round approach to fitness and self development the ideal choice."

Brighton Choi Kwang Do Testimonial - Childrens class

" I was a little sceptical when I initially read the literature on the merits of Choi Kwan Do. However after 6 weeks of classes I have noticed a number of changes in my son, some more subtle than others. Noteable changes of improvement are to be seen in his attitude and respect towards others. His concentration span has become more focused and his improved physical agility was noted and commented on by his Tennis coach. All positive attributes attained whilst having fun."

Regards
Caraline.

Brighton's Choi Kwang Do Centre

 
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