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Koo Self Defense: Cartersville Studio - Comments from KSD Students
From Ron Mooney, Cartersville, GA Copy from ksdi.net's guestbook dated Tuesday 11/21/2006 9:19:49pm
Comments: I have been attending training at KSDI since April 2006 at the rate of about 8 classes per week. To date I have lost 28 pounds and my resting heart rate has dropped to 56 bpm. I am 49 years old but these workouts keep me feeling much younger. I have learned to jump rope and my flexibility is improving.
But let me tell you what I like best about the training. It is the power that I have developed. When I first started I could not break a single board with a punch and I could only break 1 board with a kick. Now I am breaking 3 boards at once with a single straight punch and my goal is to break 4 by Christmas 2006. I am not a real big guy I am breaking the boards by apply the principles of focused power and proper technique.
While in the US Army I attended and graduated from the Master Fitness School and the Exercise To Music Course. This is the equivalent to being a Certified Personal Trainer and Aerobics Instructor in the civilian world. The same fitness principles the military teaches are used in every workout at Master Koo's school. The workouts are challenging and tough, they are diverse and will provide you with aerobic as well as anaerobic conditioning. Together with a balanced diet you will lose weight, I am proof of that, 28 pounds in 6 months ain't bad.
I encourage everyone, men and women, and of course children, to come by and observe a class. Don't be scared off by the martial arts theme, it is a no pressure environment where you can learn at your pace, it is just important that you make attending classes a habit and stick to it consistently. Families can do it together. TV, video games, and other distractions won't seem so important as you become fitter and your family works together to accomplish goals and stay healthy. Now days, families go out to dinner (very expensive) or go shopping (really expensive) as a form of entertainment, I challenge you to break that routine and bring the family to workout, live like no one else and you will live like no one else...healthier and fitter. No more excuses, let's workout. I'll see you there!
From Ron Mooney, Cartersville, GA Copy from ksdi.net's guestbook dated Tuesday 5/09/2006 10:40:58pm
The bottom line up front is that someone seeking self defense instruction and fitness training can't do better than Koo Self Defense. Instead of harping about technique and exactly where to place your feet or how to move your hands, the emphasis is on punching and kicking hard. And I mean hard. You don't punch or kick into the air; you punch and kick as hard as "you" can into a target. And the more "you" put into your punches and kicks the faster your power will increase. I firmly believe that should the need arise to defend yourself the attacker would not be able to endure the barrage of powerful punches and kicks that a student of Koo Self Defense would submit the attacker too.
I am a retired master parachutist having spent 24 years in the US Army. I have spent time in Charlie Rangers, the 509th ABCT, and the 82d Airborne Division and the workouts at Koo Self Defense rival the most demanding PT sessions in the military. But the power punching and kicking stands out as the element that the military workouts are missing.
I look forward to the training sessions at KSD each day, the workouts are diverse and challenging and I always leave with a sense of accomplishment.
Let me finish by acknowledging I have very limited knowledge of other forms of martial arts but I am confident that the sheer power of the Koo Self Defense methods will prove superior in a physical altercation. As they teach in the military the goal of any conflict is to win, and how do you win, by any means possible. Koo Self Defense gives you the means and the confidence to be a winner.
From Josh Cochran, Cartersville, GA Copy from ksdi.net's guestbook dated Sunday 10/03/2004 5:52:41pm
I started class at KSDI a little over two months ago. Before joining KSD i trained in Boxing, I had many demanding drills in boxing but few match the intensity of those in KSD. I work harder than i ever thought i could, just when you think you're going to be able to handle class Master Koo throws in his infamous "Special Classes". Truly an unmatched intensity! Master Koo's knowledge of, and love for what he teaches shows in every class I've attended. He teaches with a gentle disciplines that allows you to look with in yourself and find what it takes to continue, thus making every student more aware and conscious of their own abilities. Master Koo is a wonderful teacher, every aspect of my life has benefited from Master Koo and his KSD classes. I encourage all to stop by and watch KSD in action, you wont be disappointed. Thank you Master Koo, for all you do.
From Jamie, Cartersville, GA Copy from ksdi.net's guestbook dated Monday 09/27/2004 6:54:37pm
Hi Master Koo, my son Jacob is in your children classes. I wanted to tell you that he is enjoying and looking forward to going to class every day. I can tell that he has learned a lot in the month he has been coming and is starting to tone up some from all the exercise. When he says his prayers at night lately one of the first things he says is Thank you for Master Koo and how he teaches me all the kicks and punches! haha, I thought that was really cute. :)
Anyway, I also wanted to tell you that I enjoyed reading your website, it is very informative and interesting. I think it's awful what you had to deal with for speaking out against Choi Kwang Do but I'm sure there are a lot of people thankful that someone was brave enough to do it.
From Todd Harper, Cartersville, GA
I have been doing Master Koo's workout for two months (started April 7, 2004) and after 39 classes am already feeling the benefits. I began the workouts to lose weight (I have dropped 10 pounds and am starting to lose weight quickly) and to get in shape. As someone who suffers from high blood pressure, Master Koo's workouts have lowered my rates considerably.
The thing that I have noticed most, though, is what I have learned. When I was 15, I took Shotokan Karate in Topeka, Ks. The "dojo" was really for sport karate, and in the two years that I was there, I advanced little and learned even less. (I was only taught what my instructors felt would be useful in competition, e.g. sidekicks, roundhouse kicks, two or three different punches, and two or three different blocks.) In the two months that I have attended Koo's classes, I have learned twice as many kicks and punches, and my stamina level is at a level much higher than it was when I was 15.
One final thing: Master Koo is simply a good person and a lot of fun to work with in the classroom. He challenges me without pushing me too far beyond what I can do at that point. He also encourages his students to attend as many classes as they could in order to achieve the maximum benefit from Koo Self Defense workouts.
From Lawrence Craig, Cartersville, GA
I was born January 15, 1943 in Bartow County, Georgia. During the time I was born babies were delivered at home and the doctor would only come out as needed. When I was sixteen years old, I began to drink, chase girls and drive my car like a nut.
In November 1965 I went to work at Lockheed Aircraft in Marietta and soon after joined the Georgia Lockheed Employee Recreation Club for Karate. It was held on Sunday evening in the gym under Haverty furniture company in Smyrna. I wanted more practice time each week and joined the Marietta YMCA. If I worked evenings, several of us students would meet and practice in this gym before work. If I worked days then I would take Karate at the Marietta YMCA on Tuesday night. I practiced doing my forms and techniques in my back yard in the trailer park.
In 1969 I developed a lung condition and went from 169 lbs. to 129 lbs. in six weeks. I got so thin I probably looked like a skeleton with skin on it. I ran a high fever and pus ran from my mouth. I was out for six and a half month, and all of my sickness benefits were gone. The lord fixed it so that I could return to Lockheed in a different area that I usually worked.
As the next few years went by I could do normal things as long as I do not push myself much. I raised and fought chickens for 19 years in Tennessee, Alabama and Georgia. I ran a drag car for three years. The lord took drag racing out of my life and I started pastoring a church.
Arthritis started as I remembered in 1984, I had my first heart attack in December 26, 1999. In May 2001, I had my third stint put in, the next year I made my third trip to Piedmont Hospital but the blocked or nearly blocked arteries weren't big enough to put a stint in. The next year I went to Kenestone Medical Center and they ran thallium in me and found some blocked arteries on the back side of my heart. A few months before I came to joined Koo Self Defense's studio (April 12, 2004) I had chest pains without doing any exercises except for some walking.
I was in downtown Cartersville with my two-year-old grand daughter and the Lord moved me to visit Master Koo's studio. As I mentioned to Master Koo on my first visit I did not know why I was there. A couple of weeks or so later, the Lord once again sent me there and this time with my eight years old grand daughter. I inquired about the requirements for joining your studio and my plan to start my training at Koo Self Defense.
Before I joined the Koo Self Defense studio my hands were so sore that if I accidently bumped them on a chair or table the pain was so bad that I nearly got sick. I also recently finished physical therapy which was costing me $300.00 per month for my back and pain down my right leg into the heel. I was in pain in different parts of my body and did not think that I would get any better. The doctor told me that I wouldn't get any better but gradually get worse. He recommended exercise in water to ease the impact.
The following are some of the other medical conditions that I have; artery blockage, advanced arthritis, diabetes, reflux disease, stomach hernia, seborrhea dermatitis, a thyroid gland which is in a semi solid tumor and does not work any more.
Evidently, the Lord decided to send me to train at Master Koo's studio. I do not understand why he sent me to Koo Self Defense I fully believe that he is smarter than I. Since I work for him preaching at a local church in Cartersville I went where he sent me.
On my first class being in my current physical condition, I had to stop several times to rest but with some perseverance, I managed to finish the class. As each class went by, my stamina grew and managed to finish every class and do more of the drills that the other students were doing. I would do four classes per week except for every Wednesday when I have to pastor for my local church.
Within a couple of weeks of training at Koo Self Defense, I have lost 10 lbs. and sleep better at night. On a recent visit to my doctor, three weeks after I began training at Koo Self Defense, my good cholesterol has gone up and my bad cholesterol has gone down. My stamina has greatly improved, doing more things in my daily life than before and I am getting a greater range in my joints with the yoga stretching at Koo Self Defense. I also do some of the physical exercises that I learned from the physical therapist before joining Koo Self Defense.
In comparison to the traditional karate that I have done many years ago, we used slow or medium speed punches in one, two and three step sparring. It was mostly to put into our minds what to do under certain circumstances. In free sparring on the mat in our club, when we delivered a kick or punch we were expected to show some snap to our blows but stop about an inch or so before reaching the target. We had to still have some bend in our leg or arm so if we wanted to hit we still had potential. During warm ups we did punches and kicks in the air. Our training were focus more on the precision of all techniques than power or its effectiveness.
We practiced boards breaking at home by laying two straw mats on a five hundred-gallon gas tank and hit them over and over. At first we hit them easily and slowly built up the power. Board breaking was practiced by going to the lumber yard and buying some boards and cutting them up to length. We broke the boards with our fist one board at a time. We stood two eight-inch cement blocks upon their end and laid the boards on them, usually breaking one at a time. As our faith in our board breaking increased we added another board or two. We had someone to hold the boards up in front of us to hit them with a fist.
Most of what we did was like ballet and not in a realistic manner. Our forms (katas) were with finesse and some snap but no real power. The theories behind what we did and how we did them made sense at that time of doing traditional martial arts.
Whereas in Koo Self Defense, the way we execute our punches which are similar to boxing against focus mitts are the way, we would use in street fights. It requires more strength and stamina to deliver these punches and kicks. I am beginning to understand why Koo Self Defense emphasizes extreme fitness in all of its workouts from kick boxing aerobics which focus on different parts of the body to the high intensity drills of punching and kicking focus mitts and shields which build up our power, stamina, reflexes and he many health benefits derived from this unique workout. It is more likely to cause us to dominate and walk away from a street confrontation in one piece without injuries. If you do not hit hard and have the fitness to go with it, it does not matter who you are and how many techniques you know to come out f a street confrontation. We may never come across that situation in real life but it is sure a good insurance. The students at Koo Self Defense use plastic re-breakable boards in preparaton for their black belt test unlike wooden boards which are easier to break.
I visit my doctor every month for a full check up. May 24, 2004 was my most recent one, my good cholesterol continue to go up and my bad cholesterol continue to gone down. My resting pulse rate were in the mid 80's before I joined Koo Self Defense and after 5 weeks and 23 classes later, my resting pulse rate is now 60.
From Dustin Ballew, Texas. Copy from ksdi.net signed Guestbook, April 14, 2004
Hi Master Koo,
This is Dustn Ballew from 2 years ago when my mom and I used to train with you..As you know we have moved to Texas. I was just reading up on your site all of things about traditional martial arts and thought that all of it very interesting. I wish I could find another place like Koo Self Defense down here in Texas but of course I can't. I have started training in a different martial art studio. It is not anything close to the intense work out that I used to get at your studio but it's something to do for fun not so much for self defense (can be fun if I want to show off for friends, but that's about it). In our class I have the most powerful punches and kicks and I am definitely one of the best breakers because they mostly use the wooden boards that break so easily. We were using the hard plastic boards like at your school and I was the only on that could break all of them on the first hit, even one of our higher brown belts couldn't do it. I thought it was funny and that it proves Koo Self Defense movements are more effective. I like the points you present on why the punches from the hips don't work as well I have to do them over here but don't really like them and the katas of course we have to know our katas which I think it's a waste of time to do them but we have to do them, so I do them for fun of it. We also have to know the Japanese terms for everything we do in class and I don't see any purpose to that either.
Dustin
From Chris, Washington, DC
I live in the DC area and read about Koo Self Defense after doing a search on the web a couple of years ago. Master Koo's philosophy of self defense and training made a lot of sense to me--really opened my eyes--and ever since, I've been eager to see what it was like. So when I took a short vacation to Atlanta recently, I was anxious to drop by the studio and meet Master Koo in person and, hopefully, to give his method a try while there. Master Koo was very welcoming and encouraging and offered to let me train with his classes for the week that I was in town. It was every bit as rigorous as I had imagined. I've never worked so hard in any kind of workout. Each day, I left sweating and feeling exhilarated (and sore at the beginning too, which is a good thing!) The environment was dignified and respectful at all times, and I really felt as though I was in very good hands. Also, having been a smoker, I'd like to add that immediately after my first class, any desire to pull out another cigarette vanished. I know that I'd never smoke again if could keep on attending. If only Master Koo and his school were 15 hours farther north! There was nothing like it: I felt healthier, stronger, prouder of myself, and more confident in my ability to defend myself and those around me. And the small price--compared to the sums that I pay for gym membership...it doesn't even compare. I really am glad to have met the civilized and independent-minded Master Koo. It's my hope that I'll be able to train like that again, on a permanent basis, though I may have to settle for reading his upcoming book and working on my own. Thank you, Master Koo, very much.
From Joe Webb, Kingston, GA
To start, I want to Thank Master Koo for allowing me to Train with him. I am Proud to be a Student of such a Renowned and Respected Master! I am 51 years old and have never worked out a day in my Life! I have Arthritis and have had back problems most of my life, but after 26 classes with Master Koo, my back feels great and I have thrown my Arthritis medicine out the window. The Highlight of my day is when I arrive at the Studio to start my workout with Master Koo. Master Koo and his Specialized Training has definitely changed my outlook on life (even at 51yrs.). I plan (with Master Koo's help) on being an Old but Awesome Black Belt. Thanks Master Koo, you made my Life!
From Virginia Yockey, Cartersville, GA
I've been taking Koo Self Defense for 2 and a half months now since April 23, 2003. I have a very physically demanding job and also an hour commute each way (with no traffic). Before starting here, by the time that I got home I could barely drag myself out of the car and suffered from severe back pain. After one week at Koo Self Defense I noticed a significant difference - no more back pain, more energy, and self confidence. I've quit smoking and started eating better. Master Koo has an incredible program and is changing my life. Thank you Master Koo!!
From Lea Burns, Cartersville, GA
I have been with Master Koo for Only a month now and I can see a significant difference in my hitting power my stamina, and my self confidence. I love going to class it's fun, a GREAT workout,and a very constructive way to release stress. I love Master Koo!!!!! I will be training there for a long time to come!!
From Eric Omar Harris, Cartersville, GA
I'm a 19 year old martial artist with a disability called Cerebral Palsy which leaves me wheelchair-bound. I've studied several martial arts since I was five years old. Some of the styles I've learned are Kenpo, Jeet Kune Do, and Wing Chun Gung Fu. I began training with Master Koo on 03-31-2003 and I can truly say I've learned more from KSDI in 2 lessons than all my time of training ! Koo Self Defense is AWESOME!
From Elaine B., Woodstock, Georgia
I am living proof that one can train at their own pace at KSD. I have only been going to KSD for 2 months, but in that time I have noticed a great deal of improvement in my stress level, upper body strength, and weight loss (lost 18 pounds so far and am looking forward to more :).
When I began KSD, my first class was one where "Jump Rope" was the aerobic. I could barely do 10 jumps in the 15 minute time frame, partly due to lack of coordination but also due to the fact that I had not jumped rope in 20+ years and was not very active physically! I am quite out of shape and had to force myself to begin an exercise program in the first place.
Master Koo was always very supportive of training at one's own pace, and I started doing some crunches with some jump rope, and after 2 months I can do much more on this aerobic than I could just 2 months ago.
When I first surfed the KSD web site, I read 2 entries to the guestbook that have stuck with me: "When the student is ready, the teacher will appear", and "One always hopes for a Bruce Lee or Mr. Miyagi mentor to train under but one rarely gets that wish".
Those 2 items really struck me, because I had just recently made a decision to get back into a martial arts/self defense program before I first visited KSD, and going there *is* like having your own Mr. Miyagi or Bruce Lee training you. I was used to other martial arts schools where it was pot luck with the instruction - depending on the day you attended, you might have 4-5 different instructors in a week. Since Master Koo is the main instructor at KSD, it helps to have someone who knows where I started, knows how far I've come, and knows where I can go from here.
Even in a full class of people, and me being the out-of-shape, klutzy beginner, I always felt like I was part of something when I went to KSD. No matter how busy Master Koo was in leading the class, he always found time to get to know each student and teach them pointers on kicks, punches, etc.
I have been out of shape most of my life and this is the first "work out" that I have enjoyed, looked forward to, and loved being a part of. I still have a long way to go, and I still can't do all the yoga stretches fully yet, but I can definitely see improvement :)
Thank you Master Koo for all your help, support, and instruction. I look forward to continuing to train with you.
From Clay Worley
Overall, visiting your school was a great and invigorating experience last July 2001. I enjoyed getting the chance to participate in such a time efficient and thorough work-out routine. Through your methods, your students get more physical fitness in one hour than most schools get in a month! Subsequently, I have modified my class format to be more in synch' with your own, and my adult students love it. The new hand combinations you taught me are a real hit with the kids too.
Everyone should take the Koo Self Defense challenge: try just one class, and see how your stamina and power compare to what they could be.
Thank you so very much, Master Koo. I look forward to my next visit and work-out.
From Jay Platt
Wow! Awesome! Powerful! Incredible! Just four words to describe how I feel about my experience thus far with Master Koo and his self defense system. Yesterday, I completed my eighth class and can't say enough how truly impressed I am with the unique system Master Koo has put together. I am a retired U.S. Marine Gunnery Sergeant who has had quite a bit of experience with tough physical training and various martial arts programs over the years. But nothing compares to this. You have my attention and respect Master Koo. I look forward to many years of training with you.
From Dana Henson
After four weeks with Master Koo I can tell a big difference in the way I feel. I have a high stress job and these classes help clear my mind. My son Todd is also training and has had great results. He has flat feet and problems with the muscles in his legs. The stretching exercises have really helped him. Thanks to Master Koo, we both feel better physically and mentally.
From Anne Rapp and Ben McMurray
My son and I are celebrating a year of classes with Master Koo. We originally started because of some problems my son was having with other kids at school. It looked like fun, so I thought I would try for a month or so. I have scoliosis, and have never been able to stay with any aerobics or exercise program. After a year with Master Koo, I am still at it. The yoga stretches and strength building have made the difference for me. My son enjoys the class too, and has much more confidence in his physical abilities. It has been very good for both of us, and is without a doubt the best workout I've ever come across.
UPDATE JUNE 2003:
I joined in May of 1999, fifty pounds overweight, limited in my physical activity by severe scoliosis, with concerns about osteoporosis that runs in my family. It was not the first time I had tried fitness classes.
I had been unsuccessful with several aerobics classes because of the scoliosis. My son was interested in the class and we decided to join together. He has since gotten involved with other things and no longer attends the class. However, amazingly to me, I am still very active in the classes. On average, I participate in six to eight classes a week. Each class involves; warm-up stretching, aerobic workout, yoga stretching, and then anaerobic workout.
It can be an intense hour workout if you put your all in to it. I particularly enjoy the punching workouts. But I usually try to attend two classes so I get a complete (punching and kicking workout) I love it!
To go from being physically inactive to being able to participate in this many classes a week is wonderful. The classes are very challenging to help build strength, stamina and speed.
Master Koo is an excellent instructor, willing to work with each person at their level of fitness encouraging them to always stretch and improve. Over the years he has worked with me to set realistic goals that have enabled me to reach a level of fitness I never thought possible.
I have lost that 50 pounds, gained strength and confidence in my physical abilities and have more energy than I ever had in my teens, twenties or thirties and am able to face my forties with more confidence. Master Koo continually adds new routines to challenge us and keep us motivated.
I have an understanding and acceptance of the importance of fitness in my life now that makes this a gift I give to myself, not a chore. I am grateful for the physical and emotional benefits gained from this class, and the opportunity to meet many people with similar goals in a supportive positive environment. KSDI is the BEST!
From Bruce Mock, Kennesaw, GA.Read his Koo Self Defense training diary!
KSD offers great exercise and self defense programs. After working through the first week (which was tough), I have seen improvements in my health. I am now in my 7th week and have experienced great improvements in my flexibility, strength, balance, sleep habits, and self confidence. I have elected to make KSD a permanent part of my exercise regimen and highly recommend it for others looking for the same. Work at your own pace. Get in shape. Feel better physically and mentally. Age does not matter; I am proving that as a beginner at 53 years young! I live in Woodstock, GA and work in Cartersville.
From Douglas Brooks
There is an oriental proverb that states, "When the student is ready the teacher will appear." That saying epitomizes my experience with Master Roger Koo.
Training six days a week for seven years in the martial arts Shotokan, I became very disgruntled in the traditional approach to self-defense and fitness. Even though the Shotokan system did equip me with a mental discipline to be consistent with daily training, it did not provide the self-defense readiness I was expecting. After a close examination of this type of training, and serious introspection of my fitness requirements, I refrained from self-defense training. With a void still unfulfilled, I resorted to various sporting activities in search of higher fitness demands. Personally, I had reached a level where I knew there must be more.
A number of years later I met Master Roger Koo. Attending a career day seminar with my eighth grade students, I listened as he explained his program of untraditional self-defense combined with high intensity aerobic and fitness training. Having my curiosity sparked, I attended one of his classes. I was extremely impressed with the power and physical fitness I saw from his students. The emphasis of cardio training and the hitting and kicking of mitts and shields seemed to develop a personal power I had never observed from the traditional approach of Shotokan. It was quite refreshing to see that there were no oriental uniforms, ridiculous forms, worthless air punching and kicking, and the heavy emphasis of belt advancement.
Thinking that I was physically fit, I soon found out that my present level of fitness was getting taxed severely. I was particularly impressed in the three-part workout that is done daily. The cardio, stretching, and self-defense workout gives a real balanced approach to exercise.
The consistent mentoring of Master Koo develops the total person. After working out for over twenty-five years, I know unequivocally, that this is the ultimate fitness workout to develop a person into being a real champion.
From: Mr. Lance Clements Lance & Kimberly Clements Koo Self Defense Page
Most of us in the "martial arts" world became interested for similar reasons. We all hoped to meet a real life Bruce Lee or Mr. Miyagi, only to find that life really doesn't imitate art. It is sad that many people never have the opportunity to learn real self defense or physical fitness. The instructors and "arts" are oriented towards FALSE ACHIEVEMENT...that is to say, comparing yourself to the "GRANDMASTER" or the dojo bully. You don't learn how to prepare yourself for the once-in-a-lifetime survival event, and worse yet, there is no emphasis on real exercise and health (within class time). My entire family (my five year old daughter now trains) is very fortunate to benefit from your instruction and friendship.
Thanks Master Koo, Lance Clements
From: Bridgette Bowen, Roswell, Metro Atlanta, GA.
I learned of your school through one of my best friends, who has been a student of yours since late winter. I could see the progress he was making, and was intrigued by the way your classes incorporate cardiovascular activity and stretching as well as drills. Within a few weeks of graduating from college, I finally had the luxury of the time I needed to be able to become one of your students. It has now been nine weeks since I started, and I am thrilled with the changes that have taken place. I have more energy and stamina, and no longer become fatigued by daily physical tasks (stair climbing, etc.). Although I was 30 pounds overweight when I joined, my original goal was more one of increasing my strength and learning self-defense techniques than of weight loss. It has been an added bonus, then, that I have lost 16 pounds, 5 3/4 inches, and two sizes along the way. After seeing these results, a number of family members and friends have expressed interest in becoming students of KSDI, as well. There are many other studios I could have chosen since KSDI is 41 miles from work and 31 miles from home, but the drive is well worth it. I look forward to continued improvements in my health, appearance, and power.
From Amy Trifilo
I've been to several step aerobic, kickboxing, Tae-Bo, and other similar classes - but never received the type of workout that I do from Master Koo's self defense class. From the minute you walk in until the hour is through, he challenges you to get a true WORK OUT. When you leave soaking wet with sweat, and sore muscles, you can give yourself a pat on the back knowing that you made it through another class. I feel the most complimented when I show my husband what new "moves" I've learned and he says "you got me good". Thanks Master Koo.
From Dina Donato
I started taking kickboxing from Master Koo in December of 1999. I have NEVER enjoyed any workout as much as i do this one. The workout is challenging and different everyday. Master Koo is an expert at what he teaches and he is a lot of fun. Kickboxing is an important part of my daily routine!!
From Dan Doherty, Alpharetta, GA
I was so impressed with the message contained in your web site, that I began attending your classes about 4 months ago. It is the most intensive workout that I've ever had. And, because there are so many different drills and exercises, it never gets boring. I like the fact that I am getting an intense cardiovascular workout and immediate self-defense skills at the same time. I don't have the patience to study martial arts for years before I acquire any useful self-defense skills. You have design the most efficient and effective 1-hour workout! Thank you.
From Joshua Sparrow
I was surprised by the intensity of the workout. Two days after I attended the class, my legs and upper body are still sore. The experience was different from any self-defense class that I've ever attended. The laid-back atmosphere in the class setting, combined with the lack of forms and other traditional crap was really refreshing. I didn't think that self-defense class was supposed to be fun... this actually was.
From Carolyn Seritt
It is Monday morning and I have just started my day at the office. Can you believe any person in her right mind would be crazy enough to arise at 3:30am to go to a job? Money makes us do funny things, huh? By the time I exercise with your 5:00pm class, my day is spent. I have really enjoyed the classes at Koo Self Defense. Not only have I noticed a difference in my stamina, I can see a toning of the muscles all over my body. My waist, legs, arms look better than they have in years. My coworkers comment on it daily. I couldn't climb the 3 flights of stairs at work without huffing and puffing, but now I find myself trying to run up them. I have always been active and aware of the need for physical fitness, I just fell into a rut of the lazies. I had heard of your workout from my neighbor, Paul (58 years old) who has been a student for a year or so. I saw the changes in him and decided I would go to your class and give it a try. The first few classes were very hard for me as I "THOUGHT" I was in a fair physical condition. I can remember those first weeks as being the hardest. I still have not quite mastered the set of 'hands combination', and some days I am washed out from a hard day at work, but the class seems to refresh me and gives me a release. I am most impressed at the stress release from the workout. I drive a 62 mile commute and the Atlanta traffic can be somewhat stressful, not to mention my job once I get through the traffic. The workout lets me work off the stress and channel my frustration in a positive way. I truely love the workout. Master Koo, Thankyou for putting up with all our whining and grumpiness. You always seem so cool and consistent. I really appreciate all you do for each of us.
From Tina Lynn White
Working out with Master Koo was great!! It truly was the best exercise I have ever done, and trust me, I have tried them all, aerobics, kickboxing, taebo, cardio, step aerobics, low/high impact aerobics and more!! The class not only helped me physically, but it gave me self confidence as well!! I had to move away due to illness, and could not attend classes anymore, but now that I know Master Koo has videos, it makes my stay in West Virginia, a little more sweeter. I miss you Master Koo, and the great people whom I had the privileged to workout with everyday!!
From John Edwards
Master Koo is great. You get your total workout in just one hour. Its amazing! Master Koo teaches you to knock out your opponent before they can do anything. It also helps you in your mind and your spirit. Also all the people at koo self defense are very nice to you. Master Koo does not tell people that they can't do a move. He tells them that they can do it if they believe they can. It not only helps you learn moves for self defense, but it also helps you in school. Koo self defense is the most amazing workout I have ever participated in. If you were to ask me if KSD is fun, I would say absolutely fantastic. Thanks Master Koo for all I have learned so far !!!
From: Linda Montani (48 years old)
As of this date 24th September 1998, I am very proud to announce that with the help of one of the most dedicated people I have ever met in my entire life, I have lost 40 lbs. so far training at Master Koo's unique kick-boxing workout. Master Koo has now allowed me to train in his regular street self defense program as well.
Master Koo deserves the title of "Master" and all the respect that goes with it. He is without doubt a true Master.
My name is Linda Faye Thacker Montani. I had the fortune of meeting Master Koo approximately four months ago. By trade I am a professional Clown. I am 48 years old and never felt better or had more confidence about myself until now, 85% of this wonderful new found confidence and believing in me go to Master Koo.
He has enriched my life in so many ways. I fully believe that Master Koo is into teaching to help his students to reach new heights they never imagined they could achieve and above all to learn patience and perseverance. He is always there to answer any questions and give you all the support you need.
He dedicates himself to make all of his students improve themselves, but Master Koo can't do it all for you. You have to work hard and do not give up yourself. Anything in life is worth having, and one has to work hard for, and nothing is given to you. One has to believe to make it happen.
If a change so wonderful can come to me, it can happen to you. Don't let your goal and dreams die, work hard and make them happen. Believe in yourself. If you ever have a chance to meet or train with Master Koo, by all means go for it!
Thank-you Master Koo for helping me change my life for the best, never giving up on me and is always there for me. I feel honored to know you and have you teach me.
Sincerely, Linda Faye Thacker Montani.
From: Tony and Tonya Collum, Cartersville regarding their 7 years old son who has been training with Master Koo since February 25, 1999.
To Master Koo, 10-26-1999
In January of 1998, Tonya and I were contacted by Cory's School. Cory was having behavioral problems. Cory's problems consisted of not being able to stay seated, whistling in class, not paying attention, disrupting the class and not finishing his work.
This was very disturbing to Toyna and myself. The teacher suggested that we have Cory evaluated for "attention-deficit/hyperactive disorder" - Attention-deficit/hyperactive disorder, A.D.H.D. is highlighted by the persistent inability of a person to pay attention to what is considered important. There may be the additional characteristics of hyperactive motor movements and/or impulsivity. and placed on Ritalin (methylphenidate).
We did not want to put Cory on any drug that would alter our son, so we chose an alternative. We chose to place Cory in Koo Self Defense under Master Koo and ever since Cory has replace all of his "N" and "U" with all "S" and "E" on his school reports.
Thanks Master Koo. Tony and Toyna Collum
From Clay Worley
Master Koo has the key to complete success in the martial arts. During my last year or so in college I got the opportunity to train along side of my father for the first time, a period I will never forget, in Master Koo's dojang. In my 16 years of martial arts experience, no one has taught me more about absolute power in the execution of technique as Master Roger Koo. This knowledge was especially helpful in maintaining cool confidence during critical missions in Bosnia towards the end of my time in the active military. I shared my Koo Self Defense training with fellow officers during my tour and many troops after my return. Even today, I still continue to share his methods. It has changed the way I think and train in the martial arts forever.
From Mr. Cliff Vaughan, Black Belt, K.S.D, U.S. Army, Fort Riley, Kansas, USA.
Master Koo, I have reviewed your web page and I am impressed with the way you are keeping with the cutting edge programs recently introduced on the American market. As always, I continue to train with Koo Self Defense techniques. I am now serving in the U.S Army at Fort Riley, Kansas. I have routinely taught your techniques to my soldiers as a primary means of hand to hand combat. Needless to say they are very impressed with the practical aspect of Koo Self Defense. I will continue to keep you updated on more specifics of how Koo Self Defense is being taught to some of America's combat forces as time progresses. Once again, I can't thank you enough for an invaluable tool that can be used for a lifetime.
Your Student, Cliff Vaughan, Black Belt (#48 - 11/29/95)