Kicking it Kuk Sool style

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Anthony Jennings
  • Team Eglin Public Affairs
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Kuk Sool Won was created to integrate and explore Korean martial arts, body conditioning techniques, mental development, and weapons training, but for one Airman, it's been a way to strengthen the bond between him and his son.

Master Sgt. Kevin Schweitzer, 1st Special Operations Maintenance Squadron, and his son Ryan, 11, have been honing their martial arts skills together for more than a year. They do so through Kuk Sool Won, a mixed martial art taught once a week in the fitness center here. 

"I began studying martial arts when I was stationed in Korea six years ago," said Sergeant Schweitzer, a blue belt. "I just recently got back into the arts and began Kuk Sool about a year ago. I've been attending classes with my son ever since." 

His son, a three-year student, has a brown belt and is already testing for his black belt. He began his training in martial arts in Great Britain and pursued Kuk Sool soon after his family moved to Eglin. 

There are two separate sets of criteria based on age of the student. Children 12 and under are required to learn a fewer amount of techniques than those 13 and above. 

Ryan it seems, though only 11, has a knack for the more complex techniques. 

Ryan has been placed on the adult syllabus in his class due to his ability to quickly pick up and apply the new materials, according to Robert Ross, KSW instructor. 

"I believe what Ryan has is a true interest in the art and a desire to get everything out of it he can," said Mr. Ross. "Most people can achieve the same thing if the desire is there and they have the confidence to believe in themselves."

Kuk Sool encompasses many different "styles" of traditional martial arts, yet yields some discernible characteristics that set it apart from the rest. 
It combines kicking, punching, throwing, falling, and joint-locking as well as a myriad of weapons techniques into a dynamic 'hard-soft' style, emphasizing speed and fluidity. 

"It feels good knowing I can defend myself when I have to," said Ryan. 

Before students begin applying those techniques into defensive posturing, they must be physically conditioned to perform them. During class, Mr. Ross employs tough physical training, meditation and breathing as ways to improve overall health and develop internal power. 

"You must have your body mechanics and correct stances down before to be able to properly apply the techniques to the martial arts," said Mr. Ross.  "The biggest holdback for anyone is the thought, 'I can't do that,' that some students let get into their thoughts."

Kuk Sool Won classes are held every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 5:30 p.m. in the fitness center. For more information on Kuk Sool contact Mr. Ross at 902-1415.