Chosun Taekwondo Academy

My husband and I both train at Chosun Tae Kwon Do Academy. We had trained in other schools before moving to Warwick, and we were looking for a school that offered a traditional experience. Master Cook personally teaches many of the classes and we were not obligated to sign any contracts when we joined. We have found the training to be very fulfilling, both mentally and physically. Additionally, we have made many friends, as all of the students and instuctors are approachable, kind and genuinely interested in advancing the school and its purpose. For these reasons, we joined a group of students on a journey to Seoul, Korea last summer, led by Master Cook. It was a wonderful way to connect our training with the Korean origins that are taught in class. We now have a deeper appreciation for the culture and the art. We can't imagine training anywhere else.

We have been studying and training TaeKwonDo with Chosun Academy and Master Doug Cook for the past 3 years, we began as a white belt and we will be testing for my 1st degree Black Belt in two weeks at the age of 53. Both my children train as well, my 11 year old son has earned his 1st degree. You are never to old or young to begin this rewarding path. We love the traditional training and education curriculum at Chosun, I have seen significant improvements in my health both physical and mental and that of my children as well. I would highly recommend Chosun for anyone who is considering pursuing a martial art. Thank You to Master Cook and Chosun

I have studied Yoga since my teen years, had countless instructors, and even taught classes in Hatha Yoga to my fellow college students at New Paltz many moons ago. However, when I stepped into the Yoga Studio of Patty Cook at the Chosun Tae Kwon Do Academy, I felt I had found a teacher the likes of none other I had known. Patty has an uncanny sense of being able to meet each student "where they are" in their practice and to help them grow. She is so knowledgeable with regard to human anatomy and physiology, and because of this, I trust her with my body. There is no "one size fits all" teaching approach. Each individual is "seen" as he or she is, and their practice and spiritual growth is encouraged. I always leave class more energized, more centered and calm, and more sure of myself. I also feel I have gotten a "workout" . Patty is an interesting relation of tremendous knowledge and great humility, light humor and true depth and she transmits that so well in her teaching. Truly one of the most wonderful things that has happened to me since moving to Warwick 6 years ago is finding these amazing classes in an unassuming second floor location at 62 Main Street.

Like a lot of busy, stressed, and pressed- for- time parents, I had decided that it was time to do something positive for myself. Life can be tough at times, and the daily grind can become all consuming. Mental exhaustion replaces the good kind of tired that one feels after physical activity, and this exhaustion seeps into all aspects of our lives. Friends suggested ways of "taking breaks", such as going to a spa, visiting friends, getting a massage. All of those things are nice treats, but I wanted something more. Something solid that would challenge me on all levels. Exercise my body, my mind, my spirit and my memory. I needed to get moving again, gain discipline, and recharge. While watching both of my sons during their classes at Chosun, it soon dawned on me that Tae Kwon Do was what I had to do. It wasn't even a matter of wanting to try it, I just had to do it. I had spoken to several area martial arts instructors, and many people who had children enrolled, before signing my boys up with Master Cook. Everything I had heard was true, and more. Master Cook was amazing with all of the kids, and knew exactly how much to demand of each student. He is serious, yet the kids respect and admire him greatly. The day I signed up was one I will never forget, and less than a year later I traveled to Korea with Master Cook and other students! It was intense and exhilarating. I have never regretted choosing Chosun, and after almost seven years I see no end in sight. I just attained the rank of third dan (degree) black belt, and look forward to all of my new curriculum. My training is challenging, but more rewarding all the time. Tae Kwon Do has given me a rich and varied subject on which to place intense focus, and gain strength, discipline, relaxation, and a sense of accomplishment. Tae Kwon Do is not vague, it is consistent and with committed training, it is a transformative path. I have gained not only tried and true, traditional self- defense skills, but endurance, pride in my own abilities, and a sense of being able to handle all situations with a clearer mind. I find that the busier life gets, the more I cherish my training. It's an oasis, it's my time, my outlet, my sanity, my art, my expression of who I am. It's a work in progress, and we all begin at the beginning.

Chosun Taekwondo Academy is my second home. I began as a white belt at age 45 and have progressed to black belt Instructor at this wonderful school. I have always really appreciated the fact that so many adult students populate our dojang--fully 70% of the student body, the reverse of most martial arts schools. That fact makes training for the adult practitioner a very fulfilling experience by allowing a variety of training partners of similar ability. I also love the full-time schedule, allowing me to train during the day with other adults. The curriculum is rigorous and Master Doug Cook is demanding yet understanding, he gives his students the encouragement and the room to excel.