Testimonials of Parents, Students & Instructors Worldwide!

Foreword by Sabumnim Ralph Allison - Chief Instructor of our CKD schools in Sutton and Mitcham
"I have seen many people from other styles suffer from their unhealthy lock-out and semi-lockout techniques. I found our system to be the only one being not only totally safe for the student but also health-enhancing. No other style has the same health benefits as Choi Kwang Do at the same time giving you street self defence: See below what other people have to say about our art , how it helped them , gave them more confidence - even positively changed their lives! Read on and be amazed at those very personal testimonials."

Mrs Mo Cox practised Traditional Karate before doing the switch to CKD; she writes:
“When I was in my early twenties I did Japanese Karate but realised this was not for me . It was too regimental and I received SEVERE bruises and sprains. Thanks to a friend I discovered another martial art : Mr Allison`s Choi Kwang Do classes in 2005 . I attended the training on an average of 3 times a week.

I am most impressed with our Chief Instructor Ralph Allison and his Assistant Instructors. CKD is really enjoyable with a wonderful and friendly atmosphere.

Mr. Karl Green - 1st Degree Black belt in traditional Karate - Now training in our schools
Because I have trained in Karate for 10 years, achieving 1st Dan black belt in 1998, a friend asked my opinion of a club she was interested in joining. I arrived at Sutton CKD intending to "check it out" by attending
one or two classes, but I was so impressed by the powerful martial arts techniques used in CKD, which I could see were practical and highly effective, combined with health considerations and a modern scientific
approach, that I have been enjoying regular training at Sutton CKD ever since.

Dr. S. Mohiud-Din is a medical doctor, whose daughter trains with us, writes:
"Since ( my daughter’s) attendance to your classes her concentration, self-esteem, and confidence has improved TREMENDOUSLY. She feels extremely happy as a result of this. As parents we are grateful to you, Mr Allison, for providing an excellent service to the residents of South London and the surrounding area “.

4th Dan TKD Mr Martignetti who changed over to our system because of its health aspects writes:
“ Although I can see various similar points between TKD and CKD , I found training in Choi Kwang Do put a lot less strain on my knees which was a concern I had when I trained in my former martial art. I can certify that – from a training point of view – Choi Kwang Do is a far more healthy art . Furthermore I find Mr. Ralph Allison`s schools have a friendly spirit and a great atmosphere as well. “

Mr Gordon Watson who joined with his family writes:
After a chance meeting with Mr and Mrs Allison my son Ben and my wife Sue joined the CKD Mitcham class in September 2004.

Initially we had intended my son`s Ben’s classes to run in conjunction with his other Korean martial art “ Won Hwa Do”which he practised for 4 years, but soon found that the powerful techniques of CKD were so much more “ street orientated “ ,coupled with health conscious aspects , so that all three of us have been enjoying regular training in Mr Allison`s schools ever since.

The Stanek family gave THREE testimonials.

Joe Stanek (12 yrs old ) who was bullied in school writes:
“In year 5 and 6 I was bullied and found it hard to feel positive or strong.  I begged my parents to send me to `Karate` or `Judo` but they did not feel it was right for me.  Finally when my grandma came over from Australia she asked us to come to CKD (she was a brown belt!) to try it out.  I loved it and my mum and I have been coming ever since!  I feel stronger, more aware and confident now that I am in secondary school.  My parents are happier knowing I am more able to handle myself in everyday life.  I can’t wait to be Black Belt and am determined to succeed.”

Susie Stanek ( mother ) and Zoe Stanek 6 yrs old write:
“CKD has proved to be everything our family needs; it ticks all the right boxes!  We are getting fitter, we are exercising together, we are having fun, we are welcomed into all classes regardless of our ability or fitness, we feel more confident and aware in this aggressive world we live in, we enjoy being together and meeting people with equal values of respect, friendliness and harmony.”

Steve Stanek ( father ) who joined with his family writes:
"As a family we have benefited greatly from joining our Choi Kwang Do classes. Not only are we fitter and more flexible in our bodies but it has enabled us to make the time to all do something very constructive together as a family – something which in this day and age is difficult to achieve. The Choi philosophies of “ Courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit “ are good values which will help any family or individual grow and prosper in many ways. It has created family goals to set our sights on and enabled us to communicate at another level at home. One of the important features is that we focus on it and are determined to learn but we also have fun and a laugh too. We will continue to support our local group and you should too”.

Another parent, Mrs F. Sharif living in the area writes:
"My daughter very much enjoys your classes and loves to practise her martial arts skills at home. Her confidence has improved and she is not as shy as she used to be and I believe that … this change is because of the martial arts classes which have improved her self awareness and determination to go further. “

Michelle Nolan - Training in our schools
I decided to join CKD about 2 months after my husband had joined as I could see how his confidence and levels of fitness had improved. Since joining myself, I have not a missed a class. I feel more motivated and have a sense of real self satisfaction. I really enjoy class, and Ralph Allison is a great teacher!

Master Eddy Baron - Former Shaolin Kung Fu Master - Now teaching CKD exclusively
"I was impressed by CKD and changed over to CKD after listening to the explanations and demonstrations of Grandmaster Choi after only 20 minutes."

Martin Charnock - A parent who became a Head-Instructor
7 years ago, my son James was bullied, quite severely, at his primary school. My wife and I decided to enrol him in a self defence class, to boost his confidence, and hopefully, equip him with skills that would ensure he would never suffer again.

After extensive research into all types of martial arts, we decided upon Choi Kwang Do (CKD), as its strong family values, high moral code and non contact policy appealed to us greatly.

After much prodding from my wife, I also enrolled. I thought I was fit, confident, (if somewhat shy) and to be honest, didn't expect to gain much from the experience. I couldn't have been more wrong! My fitness has improved dramatically, my muscle mass has been refined, my stamina is twice what it was, and my confidence now knows no bounds!

My son James has also changed beyond recognition. He is now a confident, considerate, helpful, strong 17 year old. He too, is now a black belt and an Assistant Instructor. His physical appearance has also undergone a positive transformation, without any real effort on his part. The drills are so enjoyable; you forget that you are in fact having a stimulating, cardio-vascular workout.

My youngest son Connor, who's 8, has also joined this friendly "CKD family". He is currently a purple-senior belt, and hopes to achieve black belt status soon. He loves CKD and practises at every opportunity without any nagging on my part.

I am 40years old and now a black belt Head Instructor; I could write reams and reams about how beneficial Choi Kwang Do is to people of all shapes and sizes, (and ages!) The best thing though, is to come by and try it out at Sutton & Mitcham CKD, and find out for yourself!

Vanessa Graves - 1st Degree Black Belt Ishinryu Karate - Now a member of our schools
I trained in Ishinryu Karate ; after achieving 1st Dan Black Belt, I took time out to have twins but soon missed the training and searched for a suitable alternative club close to home. After a few lessons with Ralph Allison at his Sutton CKD Club, I knew I had found what I was looking for, particularly the skill, speed and health benefits involved. Because there are no deep stances, lock-outs or direct contact, I no longer get the back problems and injuries I experienced in my former training. I have found the Sutton CKD Club to be extremely welcoming and enjoy training with such dedicated students.

G. Nolan - A parent and practitioner at Sutton & Mitcham CKD
CKD has helped me to get fit, whilst having fun, and learning self defence. Since my wife and son have joined it has given the whole family a common interest and a chance to make some new friends. It has also given me a goal to aim for, as one day I hope to be an Assistant Instructor and of course one day black belt.

Tyler Nolan - 9 years old and making excellent progress in his training
"CKD is WICKED!! My friends say I look like Jackie Chan in my Dobok."

Mr. Simon Beauchamp - Assistant Instructor in our schools
"In June 2001 I was brutally attacked by 3 youths and left with broken bones and shattered confidence, which never returned. I joined Sutton CKD because I did not feel safe on the street at night anymore. Since then I have been welcomed by a "second family" of other CKD students and instructors. Now I have my confidence back; not just on the street but also in every aspect of my daily life. This year I will grade for my black belt and hopefully try to open my own school soon after to help those who were in my position."

Master Chris Rangel - Former Tae Kwon Do Master - Now teaching CKD exclusively
My health has improved about 200% since I have incorporated CKD as an everyday workout, I'm used to run 4-5 miles a day and i am finding better CV health, less joint pain, and a greater over all health from CKD. I have shared this info with my physician and a chiropractor here in Kansas and they endorse our CKD program to their patients, I would encourage other instructors to link arms with health professionals as they will help generate students for you and prescribe exercise as a healthy alternative to unhealthy drugs, for obesity, aches and pains, sleeplessness, tension, and hyperactivity, our school is flourishing all due to CKD (C. Rangel , Kansas , USA )

Mr Liam Davies - Trained in Muay Thai & Tae Kwon Do - Now training in our Mitcham & Sutton CKD schools
I used to train in a mixed martial arts club until university work forced me to focus all my spare time studying. Since I graduated, I have been looking for an alternative to get back into the scene, until I stumbled across CKD on the web, and was surprised to see a local class in my area. After dabbling in TKD and Muay Thai kick boxing, I found CKD to use a lot more natural stances and moves which suited my previous training. Thus I personally feel CKD is more suited to me and more practical to use on the street than traditional martial arts.

Tammy Stamps - Tae Kwon Do & CKD Master - From Wichita, USA
CKD is a non-competitive, bio-mechanical approach to the way martial arts was intended. The power you gain from the sequential motion of CKD is absolutely amazing. CKD is practical self-defence and was developed by Grandmaster Choi to build self-esteem in students and confidence in their skills as martial artists, along with giving the individual street smart self-defence techniques. CKD does NOT have the "lock out" motions of traditional Taekwondo, therefore the abuse to the body over the years is just not there. This is a martial art you can do throughout your lifetime and reap the benefits from the practical movements that will enhance your abilities and improve your physical being.

Mr. William Anang - Father of Francis (6 yrs old) & Christian (5 yrs old) - All 3 joined our Mitcham school (and all making excellent progress)
Francis is 6 years old , very shy and timid (and was) always laughing as his defence strategy when (the boys from school) attacked him. Joining CKD has given him self belief and he was able to block one of the boys blows for the first time. (My other son) Christian aged 5 believes he would be able now to defend himself against bullies!!

Sam Holman - A young talented student (age 5)
"I like Chol Kwang Do because it is fun. And I want to be like Jakie Chan."

Mr. Richard Ludlow - Assistant Instructor in Sutton
Initially Choi Kwang Do helped me to keep fit and I enjoyed a new leisure activity. In time it has made me more aware of my surroundings and given me the confidence to defend myself, and others, if ever the need were to arise. It has also strengthened old and developed new friendships as our Choi "family" grows. With my wife, Jeorgia, also joining Choi we now enjoy another shared interest. It has taught us both not to give up, to keep going, step by step, to achieving the goal of reaching black belt - and that everyone can attain it with dedication, humility, a little effort and lots of practice. It is also an honour to be an Assistant Instructor and very rewarding to see other students progress and grow.. in this completely unique and health enhancing martial art.

Holly Mitchel - 11 years old - Started with us before we introduced kids classes
"I am on yellow belt. I have gone for some months now; yellow belt is the 3rd belt*. I like Choi Kwang Do. I think it is so cool. My best friend went to Choi Kwang Do and she told me and I decided to go to Choi Kwang Do. I am happy now ……I am hoping to be a black belt.

( * it`s white belt ; white belt senior then yellow belt )

Vanessa Cadrecha - Trained in traditional styles for almost 4 years before joining our Sutton school - she is an assistant instructor
CKD, has given me more courage, confidence, and determination to make positive successful changes, Eleven weeks ago I took a break from my job and decided to train to become a Personal Fitness Trainer, It has been a very tough intensive course, but with the perseverance that CKD teaches us, I am happy to say that I am one week away from Qualifying and receiving my Diploma in Personal Training.

Mrs. Nerza - Prior trained in Tae Kwon Do before joining Choi Kwang Do in Sutton
"A friend introduced me to Tae Kwon Do at Tooting. Due to work my commitment I could not arrive at the start of class; despite explaining this each time I was disciplined on arrival. Responses to requests for technical explanations were unhelpful , making me reluctant to ask . Often I was paired with higher belts who used full contact on me (editors note : In our Choi Kwang Do school we NEVER use contact but stop our punches before contact). I was booked for yellow belt grading but became so disillusioned, I cancelled my class. Nobody questioned why . THANK YOU RALPH AND SUTTON CKD FOR SUCH A HELPFUL TRAINING PROGRAMME and all the belts I have achieved .

(editors note: we never try to slur any other martial art - in the above case Tae Kwon Do - but we thought we include this because of Mrs. Priors personal experience at another school in comparison with ours)

Mr. P. Patel - Presently Red Belt senior at our school
I chose choi kwang do to keep fit, lose that xtra tyre, as a hobby & learn self defence. Due to back problems, I took a break of 3 years. Ive joined sutton ckd & enjoying every moment in class. Since then ive become fitter, my back`s improved and i feel good with myself . Pil-Sung to Mr Allison for helping me. Also a big Pil Suhng (VERY LOUD) to all students at sutton ckd.

James Muir - Aged 23 - Training in our Sutton and Mitcham schools
" Ever since I started in 'Choi Kwang Do' I have been a much more confident person. Not only does it make me feel safer about being on the street with all the danger that is around these days, it has also made me feel 100 times fitter. It is a great way to meet new people, learn a wonderful new skill and stay in shape. "

Hayley Foran - Aged 21 - Traing in our schools
"Since practicing 'Choi Kwang Do', I have gained a new sense of self awareness which I never though I would have. Being a victim of both mental and physical bullying as a child, I find a great sense of relief in knowing that I would now be able to defend myself - if the worst were to happen. Choi is not only about being able to defend yourself physically, it gives you the inner strength to be able to warn people off without even saying a word - Self Confidence. I consider my knowledge of this wonderful martial art, a gift and would not want to lose it for the world. I feel I must thank Grand Master Choi for this gift."

As you can see from the above: This is like no other Martial Art. The above are real-life testimonials of real people. The majority of these you can meet person-to-person in our Sutton or Mitcham Choi Kwang Do Schools. So why not make the first step today with a FREE introductory class. We will not ask you to join us for a second class if you do not want to. We believe in our Martial Art - and we believe you might just like it as much as we do! Call 020 8646 5551 for more information or just come along to one of our classes whenever you like!