Mission Statement
Master Purnell’s mission is to help all students reach their full potential by:
- Personally teaching each class
- Keeping Class challenging
- Assisting students to set goals necessary to achieve success
- Promoting confidence and self-esteem through learning self-defense
- Creating a family environment
Tang Soo Do Meaning
Tang Soo Do Karate is a traditional Korean Martial Art. Literally translated, the word “Tang” means the T’ang Dynasty of China and Korea 617-907AD. “Soo” means hand, but implies fist, punch, strike, or defense, “Do” means way of life or art.
Physically, Tang Soo Do is based on the principles of yielding circular motion and penetration. As an art, it combines all aspects, such as effort to live with developmental principles, defensive and offensive skills handling weapons, developing power and living a healthy and harmonious life, physically and mentally. Conceptually, it is a defensive martial art and should never be used violently or excessively.
A practitioner’s ultimate goal is not only to possess excellent technique but more importantly, to develop and perfect one’s character as well. It is not a sport and is much more than self-defense – it is an art. Its most important aspect is a way to enter total tranquility – Moo Shim – which is the most powerful and peaceful state of being.
To learn more about the history and origin of Tang Soo Do, visit the World Tang Soo Do Association.
5 Codes of Tang Soo Do
The Five Codes apply to all members and are meant to guide the practitioner. All members are required to memorize them and fully understand the meaning of the codes.
- 1. Loyalty to country
- 2. Obedience to parents
- 3. Honor friendship
- 4. No retreat in battle
- 5. In fighting, choose with sense and honor
Seven Tenets of Tang Soo Do
All practitioners are required to memorize the Seven Tenets and fully understand their meaning. As a result, practitioners are often asked to recite the following tenets.
- 1. Integrity
- 2. Concentration
- 3. Perseverance
- 4. Respect & Obedience
- 5. Self-control
- 6. Humility
- 7. Indomitable spirit
