What Martial Arts Does Yu's Academy of Martial Arts Teach?

Updated

Yu's Academy of Martial Arts teaches two martial arts: Taekwondo and Judo. According to the academy, its courses are designed for people of all skill levels, ages, and backgrounds, so the two styles serve different interests—Taekwondo for those drawn to kicking and distance work, Judo for those interested in close-range grappling and balance.

Taekwondo: A Distance Style Built on Legs

The academy describes Taekwondo as a distance style that emphasizes the versatility of the legs. Training begins with basic stretching to improve flexibility and tone muscles, then moves into self-defense skills including kicks, punches, blocks, and more.

This makes Taekwondo the academy's option for someone who wants:

  • A striking-based art where the legs are the primary tool
  • A flexibility and conditioning component built into early training
  • Self-defense practice at a distance from an opponent

Judo: A Close-Up Style Built on Balance

Judo is described as a close-up style that develops core muscles and awareness of balance. Students learn to maintain their own balance while disrupting their opponent's. Skills taught include grappling, sweeps, throws, and falling safely.

Judo suits someone who prefers:

  • Close-range engagement rather than striking from distance
  • Using an opponent's balance and momentum rather than kicks and punches
  • Structured falling practice (a core safety skill in throwing arts)

The Two Styles Side by Side

Dimension Taekwondo Judo
Range Distance Close-up
Primary tools Legs (kicks), plus punches and blocks Grappling, sweeps, throws
Physical focus Flexibility and muscle tone through stretching Core muscles and balance awareness
Signature skill Self-defense striking combinations Maintaining balance while disrupting the opponent's; falling safely

Shared Values Across Both Programs

The academy states that a member of Yu's Academy should strive to be modest, patient, polite, trustworthy, and respectful. These character expectations apply across both martial arts, which matters if you are choosing a school for a child as much as for yourself.

How to Choose Between Them

The choice comes down to what kind of training you want. If you are interested in kicking techniques, flexibility work, and standing self-defense, Taekwondo is the fit. If you prefer grappling, throws, and balance work in close contact, Judo is the fit. Because the academy states its courses benefit all ages and fitness levels, neither style requires prior experience to start—but the two demand different physical emphases, so pick the one whose core skills you actually want to practice.