Duvall's Academy of Martial Arts

Hapkido Family - It's been way too long since I've been able to share with you. I was hoping that by now we would be back in class, but things have not gone according to plan. With the academy shut down, I took advantage of the time to address some health issues. It was determined that I needed a procedure, but the procedure didn't go as well as was planned. That made it necessary for a second procedure, but it was totally unsuccessful. So now I am facing a third procedu...re (more radical than the first two). This procedure is the one that is going to delay reopening even longer. I wish I could tell you how long the recovery will be, and when we can get classes going, but I won't know that until after this third procedure is completed. There is no way to know how extensive the process will be until they get in and find out what is going on. I'll keep you posted as I know more. In the meantime, I'm asking for your thoughts, prayers and whatever energy you can spare. I look forward to time together. Stay safe and well. See more

Hello again. It has been over two weeks since we have had a class, but it seems more like two months. Unfortunately the situation has not improved. If anything, it has gotten worse. Under current guidelines(local, state, and federal) we will continue to suspend classes to protect ourselves, our families, and our communities. We will remain closed for the month of April, and hope for a decline in the spread of the virus. This means that we will not be holding our May 9 te...sting. My apologies to those of you who have waited months and years for the opportunity to test (yes, as long as 7 years). Please continue to exercise and keep your skills as sharp as you can until we can once again train together. Classes will resume just as soon as we can safely do so. In the meantime, find effective ways to strengthen your body, mind and spirit. Pick up your shield of faith and your sword of love and fight against the fear and anger that has consumed so many. Never give up. Always AIMHI.

Hello all. The current health crisis that faces our nation has hit a level that none of us should ignore. That being said, Duvall's Academy will be suspending classes for at least the next two weeks (March 23 - April 6). At that time we will reevaluate the situation based on the information that will be released between now and then. For those of you who were planning on being rewarded your new rank on Tuesday (24th), that is going to have to be postponed as well. Howev...er, if you have not received a call from me telling you your scores were too low to pass, then feel free to assume that you did indeed pass. For the two of you that tested for a level of Black Belt, I am so sorry that you will have to wait on your new rank and the pizza party celebration that goes with it. We will award and celebrate as soon as the situation allows. Please know that this has been a difficult decision. In 41 years of teaching Hapkido, I have never missed 4 days of classes in a row (or even two), but the health of many is at risk and it is for those people that this decision has been made. Please do everything you can to protect yourself and those who are at risk in our communities. Self-defense is our focus. The best way to do that right now is to wait until we can safely train again. Stay well . . . stay safe . . . and always AIMHI.

Stay safe! Self-defense is more than a physical activity. It is a mindset that we want all of our students to develop and use everyday in their walk through life. There are physical, mental, and spiritual skills that can be developed and shared. Unfortunately much of our training does not allow a great deal of "social distancing". Largely because an attack is often up close and personal. Whether the attack is from another person or from illnesses, we all must work to ke...ep ourselves safe. At this time we will continue to provide our normal class schedule (Tues/Thurs - noon, 5 & 6p). Our classes are normally small and the facility is cleaned before each day of classes. It has always been that way, but extra measures are being implemented during these times. Whether you are a beginner or a high ranking Black Belt, you still need to use your best judgement when it comes to being at class. If what we do is too invasive for you, your family, and others for whom you feel responsible . . . then feel free to wait for better days. If you have paid in advance for classes, don't worry. Those classes will be waiting for you when you return. The clock stops when you say and starts back up when you return. Our instructors and Black Belts should follow the same guideline. If you would rather not risk exposure to others, then please wait for better times. It is difficult to weigh the benefits of exercise against the threat of illness. Decide what is best for you and all whom you cherish. Always defend yourself. Whether or not you can see the attacker, prepare yourself the best way you know how. I'm proud of all of my students and want each of you to do what is best for you. Whatever you decide has my full support. Again, stay safe!

Hello everyone. Our next testing is March 14 (in uniform, on the mat by 9:30a) and the registrations for that test are due on Thursday, March 5. If you are not sure you are eligible to test, please ask. Otherwise please get your form(s) and fees submitted by the 5th. This is also a reminder that all of the plants in the academy are alive (there are no artificial plants). Some of them are over 20 years old and require special care. Please do not water or attempt to care for these plants. We recently have had someone digging in the soil and playing with the plants. One of them is still recovering. These plants cannot defend themselves (like you are learning to do), but deserve the same respect as any living thing. Thank you for your help in this matter.

Good testing morning to all. The roads are open, but far from clear. Please allow plenty of time and if you are running late, just be late. Today's test may be a bit non-traditional, but we will test everyone that is safely able to get here. The parking lot is ice covered, so do the best you can to not bump into each other. Also please reserve your falling practice to the mat. The judges won't get a chance to watch any extra falling that goes on outside, and there are no bonus points for ice falls. Make good choices. Stay safe.