Season's Greetings, everyone!
Just a quick update today- I will be evaluated/tested for the rank of 2nd Degree Black Belt in Hap Ki Do on Saturday, December 19th... just a few weeks away! Hap Ki Do is the third style that I study and teach, along with Tae Kwon Do and Tang Soo Do, which I am currently a 4th Degree Black Belt in each.
I'll be sure to update on the results of the test. :)
Kevin
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Tae Kwon Do Forms DVDs and Tang Soo Do Forms DVDs
Season's Greetings to All!!!
My DVDs:
Tang Soo Do: A Visual Guide to Forms and Tae Kwon Do: A Visual Guide to Forms
Are currently available at Amazon, Ebay, and Newedgemartialarts.com
They make a great gift and visual resource for any martial arts enthusiast this holiday season.
The DVDs feature all ranking and black belt patterns up to 4th Degree Black Belt (5th Degree Tang Soo Do.) Check the above links or articles below for more details on included forms, features, and bonus material.
As of now, the DVDs are being sold at a low holiday price on ebay... but are always available at a great price at Amazon and Newedgemartialarts.com.
Happy Holidays,
Kevin Nilson
Co-Owner
New Edge Martial Arts, LLC
My DVDs:
Tang Soo Do: A Visual Guide to Forms and Tae Kwon Do: A Visual Guide to Forms
Are currently available at Amazon, Ebay, and Newedgemartialarts.com
They make a great gift and visual resource for any martial arts enthusiast this holiday season.
The DVDs feature all ranking and black belt patterns up to 4th Degree Black Belt (5th Degree Tang Soo Do.) Check the above links or articles below for more details on included forms, features, and bonus material.
As of now, the DVDs are being sold at a low holiday price on ebay... but are always available at a great price at Amazon and Newedgemartialarts.com.
Happy Holidays,
Kevin Nilson
Co-Owner
New Edge Martial Arts, LLC
Test Results for November 20th-
Both tests that were held at New Edge Martial Arts this past Friday night were just incredible. About 35-40 students participated, and did a wonderful job on all of their required skills. The latter test saw three students that I have taught for about four years become promoted to Deputy (Poom) Black Belt. All of the adults and youth students made me very proud--- it is awesome to sit back and see how they have become so talented over the years.
:)
:)
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Test later today-
Several of my students will be testing later in the day (11/20/2009), including beginners as well as advanced practitioners. One of my students, actually the 16th student that signed up at New Edge Martial Arts a little over four years ago, will be testing for his deputy/poom black belt. :)
I am also happy to say that there will be a good number of adults participating in the event-- not only that, but there has been a good influx of new adult students over the past few weeks. It really keeps me motivated and happy to see so many friendly/talented individuals come to my business on a daily basis.
I love it.
:)
I am also happy to say that there will be a good number of adults participating in the event-- not only that, but there has been a good influx of new adult students over the past few weeks. It really keeps me motivated and happy to see so many friendly/talented individuals come to my business on a daily basis.
I love it.
:)
Monday, November 9, 2009
Kickpics.net
How cool! I am currently being featured on Kickpics.net in the resource section of the page-
There are several pictures of me from my photo shoot, plus a bit of info on my DVDs, Tae Kwon Do: A Visual Guide to Forms and Tang Soo Do: A Visual Guide to Forms.
Also, there is a quote from me regarding Kickpics on the main page... basically, if anyone in the martial arts is interested in getting pictures taken- Kickpics.net is the place to go.
Here is the link where I am featured:
Here is the link where I am featured:
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Looking back on martial arts and motivation...
This is something that I have recently been pondering, and felt the need to jot it down. Hopefully it is of some interest.
As a kid I never really accepted the habits that my mom or dad tried to place on me as far as exercise was concerned. I always had to be prompted to go outside and play--- be it basketball, running around, riding my bike--- you name it. My parents even went so far as to purchase a bowflex for the family, which I used MAYBE a good 25 times in my early-mid teens. I just wasn't motivated.
On top of that, I displayed some pretty bad eating rituals- craving McDonalds or some type of fast food several times a week. I was one of the heavy kids, and shied away from just about every team sport (from a combination of being picked last for competitions to me just not caring much about the sport.) This, among other things, led to mild depression in my youth and just general unhappiness.
A positive constant for me, though, was the martial arts. Sure, there were times that I did not want to go to class and practice (just me being lazy,) but I actually did have an overall sense of interest in the hobby/sport/way of life. In my mind, even though there were kids that far exceeded my athleticism in the sport, I was able to learn and study those skills at my own pace- without sitting on the bench or being picked last. Starting with my mom and kid brother when I was eight was probably one of the turning points in my life. Even though I had little to no drive to exercise or eat right in those early years, I gained an increasing love for the skills on the training room floor. Almost 18 years have passed, and I now co-own my own martial arts academy (New Edge Martial Arts, LLC,) alongside my mom.
I fullheartedly believe that the years I have spent practicing Karate, Tae Kwon Do, Tang Soo Do, Hap Ki Do, and other artforms have helped develop me into the man I am today... and I can say with honesty as well as amazement that I am in better shape now as an almost 26 year old than I ever have been. I enjoy being able to push myself by means of exercise--- I find it a fun, healthy way to not only release stress but just gain a better understanding of who I am and what I aspire to become. It has been years since I have had fast food, and I try to eat as healthy as possible- I also have never given into pressure when it comes to smoking, or drugs... and drinking just doesn't do it for me. As far as the confidence level is concerned- owning a school/teaching has developed my people-to-people skills immensely- I like myself and like meeting new individuals. I'm not sure if I could say the same thing if it weren't for the martial arts and the discipline I have developed due to training.
It is my goal to share at least a fraction of these habits with my students- young and old. Children are open to a great many different opinions from peers, adults, and the environment as a whole- I feel that martial arts and exercise in general are great alternatives that can help develop oneself for years to come. Coming from someone who used to be self-conscious, overweight, and unmotivated... it has done wonders for me. As far as adults--- the comradery that can be found in such activities is far worth the price of admission. I have made countless friendships over the years through my training, and it is a joy to witness my adult students experience the same thing. These training partners can push one another to continue their pursuit of a healthy lifestlye... proper exercise, eating right, self confidence, etc. A few of my current students/friends have actually motivated me into running several miles at a time early Sunday mornings. I enjoy the work out and would never have thought of doing such a thing if I had not met them. It is a great way to start the day, and it makes me smile to know that I have done so much in just a few hours after waking up.
For me, my motivation to be active, happy, and healthy... and share it with others is a combination of my faith, friends, students, martial arts, exercise, and experiences... it is all encompassing and goes hand in hand, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
As a kid I never really accepted the habits that my mom or dad tried to place on me as far as exercise was concerned. I always had to be prompted to go outside and play--- be it basketball, running around, riding my bike--- you name it. My parents even went so far as to purchase a bowflex for the family, which I used MAYBE a good 25 times in my early-mid teens. I just wasn't motivated.
On top of that, I displayed some pretty bad eating rituals- craving McDonalds or some type of fast food several times a week. I was one of the heavy kids, and shied away from just about every team sport (from a combination of being picked last for competitions to me just not caring much about the sport.) This, among other things, led to mild depression in my youth and just general unhappiness.
A positive constant for me, though, was the martial arts. Sure, there were times that I did not want to go to class and practice (just me being lazy,) but I actually did have an overall sense of interest in the hobby/sport/way of life. In my mind, even though there were kids that far exceeded my athleticism in the sport, I was able to learn and study those skills at my own pace- without sitting on the bench or being picked last. Starting with my mom and kid brother when I was eight was probably one of the turning points in my life. Even though I had little to no drive to exercise or eat right in those early years, I gained an increasing love for the skills on the training room floor. Almost 18 years have passed, and I now co-own my own martial arts academy (New Edge Martial Arts, LLC,) alongside my mom.
I fullheartedly believe that the years I have spent practicing Karate, Tae Kwon Do, Tang Soo Do, Hap Ki Do, and other artforms have helped develop me into the man I am today... and I can say with honesty as well as amazement that I am in better shape now as an almost 26 year old than I ever have been. I enjoy being able to push myself by means of exercise--- I find it a fun, healthy way to not only release stress but just gain a better understanding of who I am and what I aspire to become. It has been years since I have had fast food, and I try to eat as healthy as possible- I also have never given into pressure when it comes to smoking, or drugs... and drinking just doesn't do it for me. As far as the confidence level is concerned- owning a school/teaching has developed my people-to-people skills immensely- I like myself and like meeting new individuals. I'm not sure if I could say the same thing if it weren't for the martial arts and the discipline I have developed due to training.
It is my goal to share at least a fraction of these habits with my students- young and old. Children are open to a great many different opinions from peers, adults, and the environment as a whole- I feel that martial arts and exercise in general are great alternatives that can help develop oneself for years to come. Coming from someone who used to be self-conscious, overweight, and unmotivated... it has done wonders for me. As far as adults--- the comradery that can be found in such activities is far worth the price of admission. I have made countless friendships over the years through my training, and it is a joy to witness my adult students experience the same thing. These training partners can push one another to continue their pursuit of a healthy lifestlye... proper exercise, eating right, self confidence, etc. A few of my current students/friends have actually motivated me into running several miles at a time early Sunday mornings. I enjoy the work out and would never have thought of doing such a thing if I had not met them. It is a great way to start the day, and it makes me smile to know that I have done so much in just a few hours after waking up.
For me, my motivation to be active, happy, and healthy... and share it with others is a combination of my faith, friends, students, martial arts, exercise, and experiences... it is all encompassing and goes hand in hand, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
Update on this past Friday's tests...
I held two tests at New Edge Martial Arts this past friday for my students... one for beginners and the other for more advanced.
I am proud to say that all of my students did a phenominal job- (all passed their exams,) and the later test was honestly one of the best performances I have seen in my years teaching/training in the arts.
Great job to all participants! :)
I am proud to say that all of my students did a phenominal job- (all passed their exams,) and the later test was honestly one of the best performances I have seen in my years teaching/training in the arts.
Great job to all participants! :)
Friday, November 6, 2009
Testing tonight-
Just as a quick announcement, there will be two tests tonight at New Edge Martial Arts. I am happy to say that in the second exam, several students will be testing for either an advanced ranking belt or deputy black belt status. It is so nice to see students of mine that have started as a white belt make it this far years later.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
A good week for New Edge Martial Arts
Wow. After having a minute to take a step back and break from teaching and office work... I have realized that the past week really has been a blessing for not only New Edge Martial Arts, LLC, but for me in general.
First of all, I would like to just shout out some praise to the Man upstairs... This past year has been rough on my mom (who is also my business partner.) She has had a number of all-too-numbing surgeries that have just lowered her spirits. Last week, however, she was cleared by her doctors to be able to exercise again and participate in the martial arts.
I am pretty happy for her, as she seems to be gleaming with confidence. It also helps in that we have another head instructor on the mat to teach our students. :)
We have also signed up a number of students this week- which is great, since the last part of October/beginning of November at times may seem like an off time for new people to come in.
There will be a test this Friday (tomorrow,) for several students... some testing for yellow belt... and others testing all the way up to deputy black belt! It is refreshing to see so many martial artists stick to their goals and enjoy the learning process.
As far as black belts are concerned- I could not be happier- My first group of adult black belts are now pretty comfortable with their current patterns and techniques--- and they have also, from what I have witnessed, grown so much in terms of being able to help out newer students. All of this has just really helped me recognize that the school is doing well- that I do love my job- and that others enjoy the exercise and experience they are partaking in.
First of all, I would like to just shout out some praise to the Man upstairs... This past year has been rough on my mom (who is also my business partner.) She has had a number of all-too-numbing surgeries that have just lowered her spirits. Last week, however, she was cleared by her doctors to be able to exercise again and participate in the martial arts.
I am pretty happy for her, as she seems to be gleaming with confidence. It also helps in that we have another head instructor on the mat to teach our students. :)
We have also signed up a number of students this week- which is great, since the last part of October/beginning of November at times may seem like an off time for new people to come in.
There will be a test this Friday (tomorrow,) for several students... some testing for yellow belt... and others testing all the way up to deputy black belt! It is refreshing to see so many martial artists stick to their goals and enjoy the learning process.
As far as black belts are concerned- I could not be happier- My first group of adult black belts are now pretty comfortable with their current patterns and techniques--- and they have also, from what I have witnessed, grown so much in terms of being able to help out newer students. All of this has just really helped me recognize that the school is doing well- that I do love my job- and that others enjoy the exercise and experience they are partaking in.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Tae Kwon Do: A Visual Guide to Forms
Here is a more descriptive summary of my DVD, Tae Kwon Do: A Visual Guide to Forms -
- Contains all 8 Taegeuk patterns, in addition to Koryo, Keumgang, Taebaek, and Pyongwon.
- Each pattern can be viewed in demonstrational (rotating camera) or slow speed selections.
- Most forms listed above also have front-view and rear-view selections, so practitioners can better see and study the patterns as if in a classroom.
Bonus material includes 12 patterns created by Senior Grand Master James Sun Hwan Chung, from white to black belt in his style known as Moo Sool Do.
The menus are both easy to navigate as well as beautiful. Music accompanies each menu.
The DVD is currently available at:
http://www.newedgemartialarts.com/
Tang Soo Do: A Visual Guide to Forms
Here is a more descriptive summary of my DVD, Tang Soo Do: A Visual Guide to Forms-
- Contains ALL Kicho Hyung patterns, Pyung Ahn patterns, Bassai, all three Naihanchi forms, Sip Soo, Chin Do, Kong Sang Koon, and Ro Hai.
- Each form can be viewed in a demonstrational (rotating camera) selection, as well as a slow speed option.
- Most forms listed above can be viewed in a front-only or rear-only camera view, in addition to the demonstrational and slow options. The rear view is beneficial, as it shows the pattern as you would see an instructor perform it in class.
The DVD also contains 12 forms created by Senior Grand Master James Sun Hwan Chung, unique to his style of martial art known as Moo Sool Do.
The beautifully designed menus are easy to navigate and are broken down into Ranking, Black Belt, and Bonus patterns. Music accompanies each menu screen.
The DVDs are available at:
http://www.newedgemartialarts.com/
Friday, October 9, 2009
New Videos-
Just as a quick update-
I have posted three new videos up on youtube (flying sidekicks, hurricane kicks, and speed kicks.) Check them out- comment/rate/etc. :)
http://www.youtube.com/newedgemartialarts
Also as a reminder, my DVDs- Tang Soo Do: A Visual Guide to Forms ... and Tae Kwon Do: A Visual Guide to Forms ... are available on ebay, amazon, and newedgemartialarts.com
- Kevin
I have posted three new videos up on youtube (flying sidekicks, hurricane kicks, and speed kicks.) Check them out- comment/rate/etc. :)
http://www.youtube.com/newedgemartialarts
Also as a reminder, my DVDs- Tang Soo Do: A Visual Guide to Forms ... and Tae Kwon Do: A Visual Guide to Forms ... are available on ebay, amazon, and newedgemartialarts.com
- Kevin
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Michigan Cup Tournament 2009
- Just as a quick update to last weekends big events...
I had one student test and successfully become promoted to 1st poom junior black belt, as well as five adults pretest for their different black belt ranks. :) They all did very well.
Also, the 2009 Michigan Cup tournament for Tae Kwon Do and Tang Soo Do was held in Kalamazoo- New Edge Martial Arts represented with 25 competing students--- which I believe was the biggest, if not one of the biggest schools as far as turnout :)
All of my students did a phenominal job and had a great deal of fun. I had the job of being a referree and judge for the event- but did get to watch as well as judge some of my students.
On an interesting note, a few people recognized me by face/name and mentioned how they love and appreciate my DVDs- Tang Soo Do: A Visual Guide to Forms, and Tae Kwon Do: A Visual Guide to Forms. I was pretty flattered at the thought
I had one student test and successfully become promoted to 1st poom junior black belt, as well as five adults pretest for their different black belt ranks. :) They all did very well.
Also, the 2009 Michigan Cup tournament for Tae Kwon Do and Tang Soo Do was held in Kalamazoo- New Edge Martial Arts represented with 25 competing students--- which I believe was the biggest, if not one of the biggest schools as far as turnout :)
All of my students did a phenominal job and had a great deal of fun. I had the job of being a referree and judge for the event- but did get to watch as well as judge some of my students.
On an interesting note, a few people recognized me by face/name and mentioned how they love and appreciate my DVDs- Tang Soo Do: A Visual Guide to Forms, and Tae Kwon Do: A Visual Guide to Forms. I was pretty flattered at the thought
Sunday, September 13, 2009
KICKPICS Photo Shoot
On Saturday, September 12th, New Edge Martial Arts had the wonderful opportunity to have a photo shoot... taken by Stace Sanchez of KICKPICS.NET
Let me just say that it was an incredible experience for all of my students, as well as my mom (Master Cindie,) and I.
The students had a lot of fun posing with various stances, kicks, jumping techniques, and even weapons- they loved it! Stace is very talented, and made sure that each person had equal posing time and were comfortable.
He also devoted over an hour of his time taking pictures of me for my personal use in websites, videos, advertising, etc... it was just great all-around. I would recommend his photography business to anyone. (he also does portfolio shots, senior pictures, etc.)
For more information on KICKPICS, visit http://www.kickpics.net
Also- please check out my new youtube video that highlights my favorite poses, kicks, and techniques from the shoot.
Thanks,
Kevin-
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Master Mom
My mom, a kick-butt 4th Degree black belt in both Tae Kwon Do and Tang Soo Do, underwent neck surgery today (from a 15-year old neck problem.)
Just wanted to say that she pulled through and was already up and walking about... as well as talking and eating today!
She'll be out of the hospital come friday (September 4th,) and should be back to work next week.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
I am now officially listed as an actor on AMAZON.COM !!! :)
My Tae Kwon Do and Tang Soo Do forms DVDs are now available at
http://www.amazon.com/
^^(me being happy)
Monday, August 24, 2009
Tang Soo Do DVD now available-
My DVD, Tang Soo Do: A Visual Guide to Forms, is now available on createspace
at the following link-
https://www.createspace.com/266597
:) both DVDs will also be on Amazon.com within 15 days from now as well! YES!
Kev
at the following link-
https://www.createspace.com/266597
:) both DVDs will also be on Amazon.com within 15 days from now as well! YES!
Kev
Friday, August 21, 2009
Tae Kwon Do forms DVD now available!!!
My DVD, Tae Kwon Do: A Visual Guide to Forms, is now available on createspace.com
https://www.createspace.com/Customer/EStore.do?id=271131
Spread the word :)
-Kevin
https://www.createspace.com/Customer/EStore.do?id=271131
Spread the word :)
-Kevin
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
sweet energy boosts
WOW-
This week definately shows that August is a good month for martial arts business and energy!
(for those wondering, the picture is of my friend Jeff and I from years ago just being goofy with boxing gloves.)
I have had SO MANY phone calls of people that are interested in classes- young and old alike! During the summer we may get a few calls a week- but this week we have consistently been getting a good 4-8 calls from prospective students.
Monday night I was teaching the adult class at 8pm- doing a very basic but extremely fun boxing class- and a couple came into the school and got information since they were just so excited with what they watched from the windows outside.
Tonight I have at least five or six new people coming to try out self defense class!!!
Several of my students that were on vacation for the summer have started to come back to training within the last week... all great for my teaching energy, as well as seeing friendly faces! :)
-----------
As I was sitting here typing this tidbit of info, a guy maybe a few years older than me knocked on my door to let me know that he trains in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Hawaii. He gave me a nice bow and a handshake and let me know how cool it was to see a fellow martial artist as he walked down the street- awesome!
Last of all, I am driving to Kalamazoo on Saturday morning for a black belt meeting and to go over changes for referee skills- I get to see both of my instructors, so that is always a plus.
Fun times indeed!
This week definately shows that August is a good month for martial arts business and energy!
(for those wondering, the picture is of my friend Jeff and I from years ago just being goofy with boxing gloves.)
I have had SO MANY phone calls of people that are interested in classes- young and old alike! During the summer we may get a few calls a week- but this week we have consistently been getting a good 4-8 calls from prospective students.
Monday night I was teaching the adult class at 8pm- doing a very basic but extremely fun boxing class- and a couple came into the school and got information since they were just so excited with what they watched from the windows outside.
Tonight I have at least five or six new people coming to try out self defense class!!!
Several of my students that were on vacation for the summer have started to come back to training within the last week... all great for my teaching energy, as well as seeing friendly faces! :)
-----------
As I was sitting here typing this tidbit of info, a guy maybe a few years older than me knocked on my door to let me know that he trains in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Hawaii. He gave me a nice bow and a handshake and let me know how cool it was to see a fellow martial artist as he walked down the street- awesome!
Last of all, I am driving to Kalamazoo on Saturday morning for a black belt meeting and to go over changes for referee skills- I get to see both of my instructors, so that is always a plus.
Fun times indeed!
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
DVDs and Film-
Just an update on my happenings over the past year or so- I am branching out into film and media.
I currently have two DVDs for sale-
Tae Kwon Do: A Visual Guide to Forms - featuring Taegeuk 1-8, Koryo, Keumgang, Taebaek, and Pyongwon
Tang Soo Do: A Visual Guide to Forms - featuring Kicho Hyung 1-4, Pyung Ahn 1-5, Bassai, Naihanchi 1-3, Sip Soo, Chin Do, Kong Sang Koon, and Ro Hai
Both DVDs showcase the respective patterns in either Demonstrational or Slow Speed selections, and most forms have selectable viewing angles. Also, each DVD has 12 bonus Moo Sool Do patterns created by my Grand Master, James Sun Hwan Chung, that are specifically for his students or anyone desiring to try something new.
they are available at:
http://www.newedgemartialarts.com
-------------
Also, I recently was cast and filmed as an extra for the Michigan movie, 'Revenge of the Black Eagle,' that is still in production. I was a bodyguard in all black dress clothes during a fight scene in a bar. I may also be used for other fight scenes in the movie.
I will keep you updated on more news as it happens :)
-Masterkev-
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