ATI Martial Arts is a system of martial arts that emphasises character development and personal growth, as well as physical training. The system was created by Grandmaster In Sun Seo in the 1970s and is based on the traditional Korean martial art of Taekwondo, as well as other styles such as Hapkido and Kumdo.
ATI stands for “Action, Teamwork, and Integrity,” and these values are central to the philosophy of the system. In addition to learning self-defense techniques, students are also taught to cultivate positive traits such as discipline, respect, and perseverance.
ATI Martial Arts classes typically involve a combination of physical training, including kicks, punches, and blocks, as well as mental and emotional training, such as goal-setting, leadership skills, and teamwork exercises.
The system is popular in many countries around the world and is often taught in schools and community centers.
The history of ATI martial arts
ATI Martial Arts was founded by Grandmaster In Sun Seo, a Korean martial artist who was born in 1941. Seo began training in Taekwondo at a young age and went on to become a black belt in the style. He also studied other martial arts, including Hapkido and Kumdo.
In the 1970s, Seo moved to the United States and began teaching martial arts in California. He founded the American Taekwondo Institute (ATI) in 1974, with the goal of creating a system of martial arts that emphasized character development and personal growth, as well as physical training.
The philosophy of ATI Martial Arts is based on the values of Action, Teamwork, and Integrity, which Seo believed were essential for success in martial arts and in life. He developed a curriculum that included not only physical techniques but also mental and emotional training, such as goal-setting, leadership skills, and teamwork exercises.
Over the years, the ATI system has grown in popularity and is now taught in many countries around the world. Seo continued to teach and develop the system until his death in 2016, and today the organization is led by his son, Grandmaster Yong Seo.
ATI martial arts in Australia
ATI Martial Arts was introduced to Australia in the early 1990s, when Grandmaster In Sun Seo sent his top instructor, Master Hennie Bosman, to establish the first ATI school in the country. Bosman arrived in Sydney in 1992 and began teaching martial arts at a local community center.
The ATI system was well-received in Australia, and soon Bosman was able to open his own school in the suburb of Brookvale. Over the years, the school grew in popularity and became known for its focus on character development and personal growth, as well as physical training.
In 2002, Bosman was appointed as the National Director for ATI Martial Arts in Australia, and he began expanding the organization across the country. Today, there are over 30 ATI schools in Australia, located in New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, and Western Australia.
The schools offer classes for children and adults, with a focus on developing positive traits such as discipline, respect, and perseverance. Students are taught a range of martial arts techniques, including Taekwondo, Hapkido, and Kumdo, as well as mental and emotional skills such as goal-setting, leadership, and teamwork.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is ATI martial arts is different from other martial arts?
ATI Martial Arts is based on Taekwondo, which is a Korean martial art that emphasizes high kicks and fast, powerful strikes. However, there are several ways in which ATI’s approach to Taekwondo differs from other martial arts.
Firstly, ATI places a strong emphasis on character development and personal growth, in addition to physical training. Students are taught to cultivate positive traits such as discipline, respect, and perseverance, and are encouraged to set and work towards personal goals.
Secondly, ATI incorporates elements from other martial arts into its curriculum, including Hapkido and Kumdo. Hapkido is a Korean martial art that focuses on joint locks and throws, while Kumdo is a Korean sword art. By combining techniques from different martial arts, ATI aims to provide a more well-rounded training experience.
Finally, ATI’s approach to Taekwondo is focused on practical self-defense. While traditional Taekwondo often emphasizes flashy kicks and strikes, ATI places greater emphasis on techniques that are effective in real-world self-defense situations. Students are taught to defend themselves against a variety of attacks and are encouraged to develop situational awareness and quick decision-making skills.
Overall, ATI Martial Arts Taekwondo is different from other martial arts in its focus on character development, incorporation of other martial arts techniques, and practical self-defense training.
Why ATI martial arts is good for kids?
ATI Martial Arts can be an excellent activity for kids, as it offers a range of benefits for their physical, mental, and emotional development.
Firstly, ATI classes provide a fun and engaging way for kids to get active and improve their physical fitness. The classes incorporate a variety of exercises and drills that help to develop strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination. Through regular training, kids can develop a strong and healthy body, which can have positive effects on their overall health and well-being.
Secondly, ATI Martial Arts can help to develop important life skills such as discipline, respect, and perseverance. Students are taught to set goals and work hard to achieve them, which can help to instill a sense of determination and self-motivation. They also learn to respect their instructors and fellow students, and to develop a sense of teamwork and community.
Thirdly, ATI classes can help to develop mental and emotional skills such as focus, confidence, and self-control. Students are taught to concentrate on their movements and techniques, which can help to improve their attention span and ability to focus. They also learn to develop confidence in their abilities and to control their emotions in challenging situations.
Finally, ATI Martial Arts can provide a safe and supportive environment for kids to learn and grow. The classes are taught by qualified instructors who have experience working with children, and the atmosphere is one of encouragement and positivity. Kids can develop strong friendships with their fellow students, and feel a sense of accomplishment as they progress through the ranks.
Overall, ATI Martial Arts can be an excellent activity for kids, as it provides a range of physical, mental, and emotional benefits that can help to support their growth and development.
What are the belts in ATI martial arts?
ATI Martial Arts has a ranking system based on colored belts, which represent different levels of achievement and proficiency in the martial arts. The color of the belt signifies the student’s level of expertise and mastery of the techniques, as well as their progress towards becoming a black belt. The belts in ATI Martial Arts, in order from beginner to advanced, are:
- White Belt: This is the starting rank for all new students. It represents a blank slate and a willingness to learn.
- Yellow Belt: This rank signifies the first level of proficiency in the basic techniques of Taekwondo, such as kicks, punches, and blocks.
- Orange Belt: This rank indicates a higher level of proficiency in the basic techniques, as well as the ability to perform more complex combinations.
- Green Belt: This rank represents a solid understanding of the basic techniques and the ability to apply them in sparring and self-defense situations.
- Blue Belt: This rank signifies a deeper understanding of the techniques and the ability to perform them with speed and accuracy.
- Brown Belt: This rank represents a high level of proficiency in the techniques, as well as a deeper understanding of the philosophy and principles of the martial arts.
- Red Belt: This rank signifies an advanced level of proficiency and mastery of the techniques, as well as a strong understanding of the mental and emotional aspects of martial arts training.
- Black Belt: This is the highest rank in ATI Martial Arts and represents a high level of expertise and mastery in the martial arts. Black belt holders are also expected to demonstrate leadership skills and serve as role models for other students.
Within each of these ranks, there may be different degrees or levels of achievement, such as first-degree black belt or third-degree brown belt, depending on the specific requirements and standards of the school.
Where do I find a ATI martial art dojo?
You can find a list of ATI Martial Arts dojos by visiting the official website of ATI Martial Arts. On the website, you can use the “Find a Location” feature to search for dojos near your location.
To find a dojo, simply enter your location (city, state, or zip code) in the search box and click “Search”. The website will then display a list of dojos near your location, along with their address, phone number, and other contact information.
You can also filter your search results by selecting the specific program you are interested in, such as Kids Martial Arts or Adult Martial Arts. This can help you find a dojo that offers the type of training and classes you are looking for.
Additionally, you can reach out to the ATI Martial Arts headquarters for assistance in finding a dojo near you. They can provide you with more information about the programs and locations, as well as answer any questions you may have about training at ATI Martial Arts.