Tae Kwon Do is a Korean martial art which incorporates self-defense moves, hand techniques, and a variety of kicks. At Tamarack TKD our focus is on traditional training.  This means we work on gaining discipline through formal practice in a non-contact format. In a formal class, students wear a uniform, bow to show respect, and follow instructors' directions. Students progress at their own pace. When they are ready, they participate in promotional tests to increase their rank and qualify to learn advanced techniques.

Tae Kwon Do is about more than kicking and punching. Students are expected to be good role models in the community. They are encouraged to find ways to show respect to others outside of class. Martial artists are never encouraged to use their skills to take advantage of others. Instructors stress that Tae Kwon Do training is to be used to improve oneself and any techniques outside of class are used only in self-defense.

In addition to what is learned physically, students also increase their self-confidence and self-esteem, learn patience, practice goal setting, experience teamwork, obtain leadership skills, acquire a degree of assertiveness, gain self-control, and enhance their concentration and coordination. Martial artists learn discipline and respect while they are exercising, having fun and making new friends.

Students have the option of training with other children, other adults, or in combination classes where families practice together. With commitment and a positive attitude, anyone can become a martial artist.

Pee Wee TKD - Mary Pennucci
 
Pee Wee TKD is a fun, energetic and active introduction to Tae Kwon Do.  This class is geared toward boys and girls ages 3 - 5.  The children will be given the chance to tumble, work on balance, kick and punch into pads, and learn a few basic blocking techniques.  During all of these activities a great deal of emphasis will be placed on the importance of turn-taking, patience, discipline, courtesy and respect.  There will be no pressure and the students will work at their own pace.  This class provides an opportunity to have fun, get some exercise, and be exposed to martial arts in a safe and comfortable atmosphere.

 Zumba  -  Carolyn Strayer 

I have been teaching dance (ballet, tap, tumbling & jazz) for 20 years.  I usually teach children 3 years to 5 years old.  Fifteen years ago I started my own business where I would go into Pre-school/Kindergarten facilities and teach during their school hours.  This has been a wonderful experience working with children, teaching them something that I love.  It has also been great for my family in that I am not gone for more than a couple of hours in the morning.  A couple of years ago I realized that I wanted to teach something that would benefit women and their health.  I noticed that so many women & men alike are not able to stay fit.  When I heard about Zumba I really wanted to try it.  After finding a class here in Columbus I quickly realized that...

...this was a wonderful way to exercise.  You could dance the hour away and not feel like you were exercising at all!  Anyone can do Zumba....you don't have to know a bit about dance.  The music is exciting and gets everyone moving. You can move at your own level and make it your own.  There is always something new and fun to try, so week after week people are learning new songs & dance moves.  It makes me feel young again!!  Zumba incorporates Latin dance with fitness moves to get you in shape.  Ditch the workout, join the party!  We wear comfortable work out clothes and no shoes.

 Yoga  -  Joy Lawrence

Yoga helps a person create space in their body, freedom in their breath and peace in their mind.  Vinyasa yoga helps develop strength as well as create a graceful flow as you move from one pose to another.  The true essence of a yogic practice is to synchronize movements with our breath.  The intent is to allow the mind to closely follow our breathing so mind and body connect through the breath.

This class is designed for those who are seeking to enrich their yoga practice by joining and sharing with others.  Each person develops their own space within the energy of a group.  There is no competition, just creating and expanding your individual world.

We start with warm ups, then yoga postures, and end with relaxation/meditation.  It is helpful to have some background in the poses, but modifications will be given to those who like options.

Please bring a mat if you have one.  Bolsters will be provided.  Loose fitting, comfortable clothes allow for easier movement and it is best not to eat a large meal for at least several hours prior to taking this class.

Joy is a registered yoga teacher with the Yoga Alliance and has been practicing yoga for over 12 years.  She uses an interesting blend of techniques from courses she has attended by Cindi Lee, David Swenson and Erich Schiffmann.  Her background as a massage therapist and training in Ayurvedic massage helps to deepen this class and create a safe environment to work in while challenging boundaries.

Ground fighting 

This class will help you become comfortable protecting yourself if a fight goes to the ground.  You will learn grappling skills such as takedowns, choke holds and joint locks including ankles, legs, arms and shoulders.  Each class will start with warm up rolls, move on to techniques and end with live controlled grappling.  Each student will progress at their own pace based on attendance and ability.  All skill levels are invited.  Participants should be at least 15 years old.  It’s not just for men, women are welcome too.

Ladies night

This class will be an opportunity for women to gather for an hour of release and support.  It might include a physical outlet like hitting and kicking pads, self-defense skills from grabs or ground positions and meditation.  It will be different each week depending on what is needed.                                                              

Weapons - Karsten Look

This weapons class will include training in knife, escrima, tonfa, sword and staff.
It will begin with basics of offensive and defensive movement.  You must be at least 16 years old to participate.  Private lessons are available upon request for $30/hour.

Karsten has over 30 years of martial arts training and 20 years of teaching experience.  His family has a 15 generation history of training in various hybrid martial art forms and weapons.