Tkd Uniform
What’s the deal with ATA?
I see people bash ATA all the time, and I am not sure as to why. I know that they have ridiculous rules regarding gear logos and stuff, but is it really that bad? Some people say it is a big reason for people hating on TKD. Are they the organization that has no contact sparring, trophies for loudest kihop and nicest uniform? Just trying to understand the hate, so be honest! Thanks.
As for the youtube video listed, that shows me nothing that would justify bashing ATA, or any TKD fighter for that matter. It shows a fighter who:
1 – Cannot let go of traditional rules associated with sparring.
2 – Cannot adapt to change during a fight. How many times did he stick his leg out, and not even to kick?
Sometimes people have to concede that it is the fighter, not the art. That doesn’t absolve TKD of it’s flaws, but dedicated fighters deserve more credit than what that video shows.
I think most people’s experience of the ATA will significantly vary depending upon the indiviudual instructor they train with.
In principle I’ve had a few former ATA students come to me as the result of a work or school move. All seemed perfectly happy with their former training and experience. I’ve always been of the opinion that the instructor make the most sigificant difference, beyond organization or discipline.
ATA does become a little pedantic and exclusive in certain areas of their operation, but show me any organization that does not have any idiocyncracies?
I think a lot of the time, people in forums such as this forget some of the most important lessons of the martial arts in my opinion – courtesy, humility, compassion. Many are quick to put down other disciplines, other people, other concepts. Instead we should all be looking for similarities, good features, and positive aspects.
I personally think if you find a great ATA instructor, that is fantastic. If you find a great WTF instructor, that is fantastic. If you find a great ITF instructor, that is fantastic. What is important is what you learn, how you grow as a person, and you knowledge of the art over time. We all move beyond the organization we begin with in time, to seek out further refinement and expansion, so the initial organization is not that vital – but the lessons and skills the instructor imparts are.
Ken C
9th Dan HapMoosaKi-Do
8th Dan TaeKwon-Do
7th Dan YongChul-Do
How to Fold Your Karate Uniform