People can say what they will about Tiger Schulmann. It is not perfect and I do have some criticisms with their policies.
I can say from experience that it had prepared and conditioned me to continue on to other martial arts. I originally started out with a traditional art and was looking for something along the same lines. After taking a partial class, I decided to join even though it was non-traditional. The workouts were some of the best that I have ever been through. Coupled with regular workouts at the gym, my conditioning improved a lot.
I guess depending on the Sensei, some schools were run a little differently than others. They told me that there were no weapons trainings at this particular school which was fine.
Drilling me with basics in the beginning, I was able to improve my punches. This was a big help for later on. And one of the more interesting aspects of the curriculum is their course on Submission Grappling. If you are a UFC fan or watch the Ultimate Fighter ever now and then, you know that ground techniques are part of the equation. I learned a lot and when i watch matches, I can understand some of the terminology like passing the guard or side control. The exposure was very educational and I learned a few moves that have worked elsewhere. Having gone up against people bigger and stronger than myself, I was able to improve and see the things that needed improvement in my game.
Due to some issues, I have not been there to train in a while. (has nothing to do with the proceeding critiques).
Some criticisms I have (based on what I remember about their policies when I was still training);
The payment plan was not very flexible and it took a considerable chunk out of my wallet initially. Having not much money to begin with, it hit me hard.
The commercials, even though entertaining, are a bit misleading. All the participants are black belts.
It is not nor ever really was "karate". It is, and I've heard it advertised (occasionally) as a MMA. Parents would ask what style of "karate" and there would be no answer to that.
The "gear" could be very costly if bought all at once.
Other than those and some that I decided to leave out, I think it is a good starting point for people who are trying to stay in shape, meet new people and learn striking and ground techniques. I wonder if the payment policy has changed.
When I hear people criticize, I can agree with some comments and at others, I just shake my head.
Cordially yours,
冠木侍 (KS)
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"Jiu mo gwai gwaai faai dei zau" (妖魔鬼怪快哋走) -- The venerable Uncle Chan
"A fool with a sword is more dangerous than any weapon..."
“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.”--John Quincy Adams
"If you have an unconquerable calmness, you can overcome the enemy without force" -Bushi Matsumura