Those that know me well also know that I was appointed President of a Martial Arts Organization about three years ago. Over the past couple of days, a widespread email was sent out, linking to an article about the topic of McDojo's. And today, one instructor, whose operation might be viewed by some as being a McDojo, lashed out at the article.
A McDojo is a place where anybody with cash may purchase whatever combo they want, including black belt. It is martial arts schools like this that give the entire industry a bad name.
Make no mistake, there are several reasons people practice the martial arts - self-defense, health & fitness, fun, sport, etc. The problem is too many folks have a studio that has its focus, then sell prospective students on these other benefits without providing them.
For example, sport Taekwondo, which my son takes, is very good for fun and sport. There are some self defense aspcts to it, but a seasoned fighter will easily beat most sport taekwondo folks in a real altercation. My son's instructor makes no bones about it, he teaches an Olympic sport first and foremost. More instructors should be like this.
Now if you will excuse me, I must go send some emails and try to unhurt some feelings...
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