Tolson's Okinawan Karate (TOK) is located at 29770 Three Notch Road, Mechanicsville, Maryland 20659. For more information, the Dojo can be contacted by calling (301) 884-6141 or by cell phone (301) 693-8749.
TOK was established in 1996 by Master Instructor Shihan Steve R. Tolson to carry on the traditional teachings of Okinawan Karate under his instructor Kyoshi Roy Canter. Shihan Steve Tolson believes that karate is not only a physical practice but a philosophical study as well. Karate is the development of the body, mind and spirit, not just the training of one's fighting abilities.
Karate training requires both physical and mental endeavors that must be developed through discipline and determination. At TOK students learn that karate-do is, in the long term, a way of life. However, because too much seriousness regarding the art of karate can warp a persons training and perspective on the meaning of karate-do and life itself, we incorporate a lot of fun and enjoyment within the activities of student training. Karate is one way to relieve the stress and strain of every day life and the pressures of society.
Training in the art of Karate emphasizes the mental and physical growth of the individual, thereby enhancing the spiritual aspect of the person. The "spiritual" does not mean a religious affiliation of belief, but an individual's outlook towards others and themselves. Students gain physical strength, mental confidence and a well-being of self. They learn that as individuals, they may accomplish almost any goal through their determination, awareness and insight.
One of the first things a student learns at TOK is respect: respect for one's self, of others, of all living things, rules, laws and most importantly, of parents and family. Students learn that through respect and courtesy, they may proudly look upon their own lives as honorable ones.
The lessons of Karate are numerous, there is sport Karate, self defense, internal energy development, body and mind control, balance of body and breathing, philosophy, history and culture, a new outlook and perspective into life itself.. In summary, Shihan Tolson believes that the purpose of Karate is to bring understanding of one's self through the training of the body, mind and spirit.
Body = Strength
To physically touch, feel and do; to gain physical strength, flexibility, balance, control and awareness, to master fighting and self defense abilities, to build confidence.
Mind = Peace
To strengthen thoughts, ideas, reasoning and beliefs, mental abilities, discipline, confidence, balance, control and awareness through exercise, meditation, focus and respect.
Spirit = Tranquility
To establish self, inner well-being, energy, feelings, life force; to practice giving and receiving, accepting and forgiving, understanding of others and ourselves, to develop awareness of life.
TOK teaches the style "Matsumura Shaolin Kenpo" karate which is based on the original Okinawan Shorin-Ryu Karate system founded by O'Sensei Hohan Soken. Both Family and Adult classes focus on self defense, kata and weapons. Family classes are presented in a less aggressive setting so the children can learn better discipline and control.
The benefits of Martial Arts training can only be attained by attending class on a regular bases. Parents need to make a commitment to their child(ren) to make sure they attend class every week.
We offer different levels of classes:
Our Family classes are where
students learn the basic history and movements of karate.
Students can start at age six and many adults also start off with this class and then
move to the Adult Only Classes.
Family
(Group) Schedule*:
Monday 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Tuesday 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Thursday 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Saturday Schedule*:
Beginner (White, Orange and Yellow belts) 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.
Intermediate (Blue and Green Belts) 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Advanced (Brown and Black Belts) 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Adult Only Class. This class is appropriate only for children ages 14+ and adults due to the techniques being displayed.
Adult Schedule*:
Tuesday 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Thursday 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Sparring is the first week of each month*.
Special or
independent classes are offered. Please contact me for additional
information.
cell phone: (301)-693-8749
e-mail: TOKDOJO2@yahoo.com
*Schedules and sparring dates are subject to change without notice. Please call for more information.
Introductory
|
Includes two introductory lessons and a free gi. |
$30 |
Monthly (Based on attendance)
| Once weekly | $70/mo |
| Twice weekly | $85/mo |
| Three times weekly | $95/mo |
| Four or more classes a week | $105/mo |
Family Discounts (Applies only to members of the same household.)
| Second family member | $5 off |
| Once weekly (3rd family member or more) | $65/mo |
| Twice weekly (3rd family member or more) |
$80/mo |