West Coast Training Camp

West Coast Training Camp is back!  This special training opportunity usually is held annually, but because of the pandemic, this year is the first time since 2019 that it is taking place.  It is coming up October 14-15 and registration is now open.  Sign up before October 7 to avoid the late fee. What is …

Remembering Grandmaster Quynh

A year ago, we tragically lost our Head of Style to the Covid-19 virus.  Grandmaster Quynh Ngo was the son of Cuong Nhu’s founder, O’Sensei Ngo Dong, and had served as the Head of Style since 1998.  He was a dynamic leader and his sudden and tragic passing rocked the Cuong Nhu community.  In honor …

Costume Kata Challenge

This Halloween students had fun participating in the Costume Kata Challenge. Check out the results below! https://youtu.be/SZoq0GiDQnE

Summer Plans

Special Announcement and Schedule Update This summer, Sensei Lara will be welcoming a new member to her family.  She will be going on maternity leave starting at the end of June, with the new baby expected mid-July.  While Sensei Lara is out, Redwood Dojo classes will continue, taught by other highly capable Cuong Nhu instructors.  …

Dealing with the Unexpected: Training in Place

Nearly two months ago on March 12th, we had our normal Thursday evening classes, with no idea that it would be our last time training in person for two months and counting.  We have not stepped foot in the Recreation Center since then, and we do not yet know when we will be able to …

Steps to Sewing Stripes Securely

In Cuong Nhu, ranks are represented by colored belts and stripes.  When you earn a new stripe, you should sew it onto your belt by your next class.  A well secured stripe will last for years, ensuring that it doesn't fray, come loose, or fall off.  Show respect for your rank and the work that …

Injury 101: Modify to Maintain Momentum

Injury is a part of life.  While our bodies are amazingly adaptable and adept at healing, they all break down on occasion.  When this happens, we may need to adjust our actions to give ourselves time to heal.  As martial artists, this goes against our instinct to push ourselves and test our limits.  We push …

The Secret to Becoming a Black Belt

When we first commit to a new endeavor, motivation surges through us, propelling us forward.  We are inspired by our new undertaking, filled with visions of success and the excitement of the journey ahead.  However, this initial high eventually wanes, and so too does our intense fervor when it becomes clear that our vision will …

The Unspoken Fear: Violence Against Women

January is National Personal Self-Defense Awareness Month and this month's blog gets into the serious, scary, and widespread epidemic of violence against women.  It is a heavy but important read for all adults and mature teens. January is National Personal Self-Defense Awareness Month. Have you ever had that dream where you try to scream, but …

December 2018 Schedule

We have almost reached the end of 2018!  We will have all classes as usual for the week of December 17 to December 22.  The last day of Redwood Dojo classes for 2018 is Saturday, December 22.  Our regular schedule will resume in on Thursday, January 3.  During the holiday week, all students are invited to several …