“I took the training at Sun Dragon probably 15+ years ago. It left an impression on me that should I end up in a violent situation I would be able to defend myself. Unfortunately, as a social worker, I did end up being attacked by a client. The principles I fell back on were the ones that I learned in this training. First trying to give a verbal command “get off of me” as the assault began. As the assault progressed I was able to not freeze (which is critical) but to defend myself until I could get help through a panic button in my office. I’m quite certain that through learning self defense I was able to save my life and the life of my unborn child (as I was 10 weeks pregnant at the time of the assault). I want everyone I know to have this knowledge and training so that should they end up in a similar situation they also have the tools to respond.”

We are immensely gratified that we were able to impart knowledge to this woman that enabled her to safely protect herself and her unborn child until she was able to get help. This is exactly what self defense training is all about, and as has been illustrated by this story, these skills are useful for life.

If you are interested in taking a self defense course from Sun Dragon, visit our self defense page for information about upcoming workshops and arranging private workshops.

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Camp is about having fun while developing physical skills and encouraging character development. Campers will fill their days with karate, martial arts-related games, art, performance, and more. Our girls’ karate program is based on a philosophy of respect, self discipline, and high expectations. We teach a traditional Japanese style of karate that emphasizes character development along with physical mastery. In addition to increased fitness and physical skills, girls gain increased self-esteem, confidence, and discipline.

Camp is for ages 6-12 and occurs M-F from 9am-1pm the week of June 17-21. Camp will be at our location on West Gate Blvd. and S. Lamar across from Amy’s Ice Cream and Central Market. All campers should pack a lunch and bring a water bottle. Please pick up your campers promptly at 1pm.

You can register for camp at our main registration page here for $200: click on the “summer camp” tab. A space can be reserved for $50, with full payment due by June 1. Need-based scholarships are available. Call us at 512-416-9735 or email info@sundragon.org for more information.

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Ready to try something new? Seido karate at Sun Dragon will strengthen, empower, and challenge you! Our New Member Special includes: Two months of unlimited training A uniform and patches 1 year membership in the World Seido Organization That’s everything you need to start on your way to black belt. As a non-profit, we’ll never ask you to sign a contract, and we offer scholarship and work-study opportunities. We never turn anyone away for inability to pay. Check out our schedule and rates to see what classes will fit your life, then contact us to schedule your first class. We look forward to welcoming you to Sun Dragon!

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Things that eventually happen to all Sun Dragons

On a long enough time line, everyone will eventually:

1. Learn to bow, and bow, and bow. Then bow some more.
2. Shamelessly copy a more senior student’s movements.
3. Cringe when someone walks on the training floor in shoes.
4. Do something you never thought you could do.
5. Do something you never imagined you would want to do.
6. Be corrected on a point of etiquette you were unaware of.
7. Enjoy a sparkling clean dojo after a big soji day.
8. Forget your water bottle at the dojo.
9. Feel happier about a water break than you would a happy hour.
10. Tangle up your arms while blocking.

11. Confuse one Japanese term for another.
12. Do birthday pushups.
13. Have your birthday pushups done.
14. Stress over a promotion.
15. Go out and celebrate after a promotion.
16. Arrive late to class.
17. Forget to kiai.
18. Kiai at the wrong time.
19. Say “osu” in a non-karate context.
20. Bow in a non-karate context.
21. Struggle not to say “osu” and bow in a non-karate context.
22. Start a different kata than everyone else is doing.
23. Feel a joyous rush as you do something well for the first time.
24. Forget your place in a kata.
25. Feel inspired by one of your kohai or senpai
26. Kick higher than you could before.
27. Forget to bow when entering or leaving the training floor.
28. Make a big mistake and then move on.
29. Address someone by the wrong title.
30. Blank out while calling bows.
31. Forget your belt.
32. Experience shin-to-shin contact.
33. Experience elbow-to-shin contact.
34. Answer questions about bruises.
35. Make lots and lots of small corrections.
36. Remind yourself to strive with patience outside of karate.
37. Kick or punch harder than you meant to.
38. Have someone kick or punch you harder than they meant to.
39. Model a kata for a more junior student.
40. Feel really proud of yourself.

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