Torakan is an unrivaled place to train in all facets of itself. From the balancing of the traditional art forms and the constant exploration and integration of what is most effective today, there is a raw integrity and a humble excellence that lives in the spirit of Torakan.
Respectfully,
Although I have since moved states away from the Torakan Dojo, it will always be my home, a place I will always return to. I carry their spirit with me and owe them my success.
I discovered and was accepted as a student of Torakan when I was 16yrs old, and since then they have become my family and I can't thank them enough for how much they have helped me grow as a person. At Torakan, you not only learn to grow into an accomplished martial artist, but you are equipped with the tools to become a successful person, a confident and humble leader, a perpetual student that will never stop challenging and questioning "why?", and a beneficial asset to society.
Torakan is the real deal, a place that focuses on actually training you, and not giving you a false sense of confidence that so many commercialized martial arts places do through their corrupt belt systems. But if you still need convincing, my two younger brothers trained at Torakan for only a short while before moving away, they were white belts. They still grapple together in the living room and when kids from school come over boasting about their black belts, my brothers (Torakan white belts) tap them out every time. My first year in college, I attended a party. A young man refused to leave me alone. The next time he reached for me I went in for a judo throw and had him on the ground and tapped out. He left the party embarrassed.
Forever, a Torakan Student
Torakan will challenge you physically, mentally and spiritually. You will find yourself learning to find a new balance as you discover a discipline and work ethic to better yourself in all areas of your life. Torakan is not an exercise or recreational activity that you leave at the doors of the dojo when you leave, it is a way of life, that might just save your life.
Our son has been at Torakan for almost five years now. If you are looking for a martial arts experience that is the real deal, Torakan is for you. Our son has learned so much more than just karate. He is learning to be a leader and is given opportunities to teach and help others. Torakan is like family to us and I can't imagine sending our kids anywhere else.
My two kids have grown up at this dojo and it has become a second home for them. There are no dojos in the Cincinnati area that can come close to the level of instruction you will find at Torakan. We looked. This is the best.
I have been training at Torakan Dojo since 1997 and this school is the real deal when it comes to martial arts. I have also sent my kids to this school, as I fully trust that they are being taught by the best. Shihan Young was trained in the old tradition and the new tradition, and passes the best of both to his students. Shihan truly cares about his art and he cares about the students he teaches. The training develops spirit and character like no other. The atmosphere is humble and hardworking, allowing the students to focus on perfection of their art without meaningless distraction. This is a true jewel hidden in Northern KY.
I have shared only two of many stories, but I know all Torakan students have their own of how training here has helped them. I encourage everyone to train in martial arts at Torakan, but especially women. In my experiences as a woman, I find it crucial for all women to train in martial arts, and Torakan is the best (I have trained at other places in four different states and none compare.) A woman should not live in the crippling fear of walking alone, going out alone, going for a run alone, attending a party alone, or whatever it may be. Investing in equipping herself and training herself with the tools of self defense will give her the freedom to live freely, confidently and with a calmness of mind. Torakan is an excellent place for your daughters and wives. The atmosphere is supportive, non-intimidating, and conducive to self-growth. The instructors are knowledgable, accomplished, and kind, and truly care for your success.
I have been training at Torakan Dojo for over 4 years now. Shihan Young usually asks every student in their first couple of classes "What do you want to achieve here?". He then takes it upon himself to personalize each student's lesson as much as he can so that he can make each individual student the best he or she can be. He is realistic and honest in all his expectations. He will make you work for every rank though. It generally takes around 8 years to achieve black belt, but I can guarantee that you will deserve it in the end. Other than that, belt colors and ranks do not mean as much here. We are all students just trying to better ourselves and the art we practice.
Torakan Dojo is a US Gym based in Crescent Springs, Kentucky. Torakan Dojo is located at 2551 Schmidt Ln, Crescent Springs, KY 41017, USA.
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