Classes Offered
Aikido
Aikido is among the modern disciplines of self-defense derived from the various forms of jujitsu (armed and unarmed) practiced in Feudal Japan. It’s principal aim is to avoid clashing directly with an opponent’s strength and force by blending and redirecting their energy with flowing spherical movements. At all levels of training, Aikido provides an effective means for personal development and growth. Instruction in the use of the Japanese sword (bokken) and Jo (staff) are a part of training.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Brazilian jiu jitsu is a grappling-based martial art whose central theme is the skill of controlling a resisting opponent in ways that force them to submit, most commonly through a choke or a joint lock. Having originally evolved from judo, Brazilian jiu jitsu places a much greater emphasis on newaza, or groundwork. Much of the technique of Brazilian jiu jitsu is centered around the skill of taking an opponent down to the ground and wrestling for dominant control positions from where the opponent can be rendered harmless.
Brazilian jiu jitsu is an ideal martial art for individuals an of all stature, as using superior technique and leverage to control and overcome opponents of greater size, strength, and aggression is the keynote of the sport.
Kung Fu
Hung Ga Kuen is a hard style of Kung Fu. Hung Ga is the Tiger-Crane style. Students undergo arduous training to develop speed, balance, and stamina. The style utilizes powerful blocks, punches, and kicks. Hung Ga is an excellent means of developing a strong, healthy body as well as an efficient form of self-defense.
Self-Defense
Join UW Rec, in partnership with ASUW, for a Self-Defense class which is designed for all individuals, including women, men, trans, and nonbinary folks, with a focus on creating a safe and inclusive environment.
The class will cover a range of topics, including statistics and legalities of self-defense, strategies for avoiding and de-escalating risky situations, and practical techniques like fall recovery, mobility drills, and defending against grabs and strikes.
Participants will engage in both discussions and physical drills, with the goal of increasing personal safety and confidence. The class will also address emotional and physical aspects of self-defense, including dealing with intimate partner violence and using tools for personal protection.
Shotokan Karate
Shotokan Karate is a traditional Japanese martial art practiced by men and women of all ages and abilities. Students are introduced to the fundamentals of blocking, punching and kicking through basic drills, special forms called Kata and controlled engagement practice. While stamina and body toning are natural results of karate training, many beginners quickly notice increased levels of self-confidence, discipline and determination.
Taekwondo
Taekwondo is a modern Korean martial art and combat sport characterized by its emphasis on kicking, footwork, and speed. It is a collegiate rec club and an Olympic sport popular around the world. Taekwondo at UW focuses on fundamentals of sparring, kicking technique, and strategy for all levels of practice. Classes are beginner-friendly and a great way to be introduced to taekwondo fundamentals while improving your flexibility, strength, and overall fitness.
Tai Chi
Tai Chi Chuan students practice smooth, graceful movements to strengthen, stretch and relax the muscles and increase circulation. T’ai Chi is a calming exercise, sometimes referred to as the “flowing meditation” which releases stress and promotes health, vitality and longevity. Through these movements, students develop the speed and agility necessary to turn an opponent’s own energy against them.