We think about self defense from the inside out.
That's why our motto is:

Create a life of value. Protect that life.

How does our form of self defense do this? It's simple.

We build leaders.

Leadership

As much as you learn to punch, kick, block or flip or fall, you will learn to lead. Just as you (or your child) will learn to follow orders, you will learn to give orders. Every action, every movement, every punch or action at Woodard's is accompanied by a command. An order.

It comes with the class--it is built into the teaching style. It is how the classes are organized, from the beginning ceremony and words of respect, to the plan and exercises given by the instructors, to the announcements and class cheer and high-fives that end every class. 

Every student, in every class, is surrounded, at all times, by the organization of discipline. If you're thinking this doesn't sound like fun -- if it sounds like army bootcamp, well, it's not. Students don't really notice the underlying discipline and organization and the leadership building because they are having so much fun. It is an exciting thing to do these exercises -- whether punching, kicking or rolling off your shoulder into a defensive stance.  

And we make sure it stays fun! What's the point if you're not enjoying it, right!?

Goal Setting

One of the most important parts of getting to any destination is having plan. Putting together that plan is goal-setting. It is one of the most integral, crucial parts of of Woodard's. You and I both know we'll have a hard time getting anywhere in life without a map that marks the way. And the only way you know that you're getting closer is by consulting the map and checking off landmarks. 

One of the first things you'll notice at Woodard's is the wall of Intention Sticks. This is a piece of wood with the student's picture on it. There is a section of the wall for each belt level and each student. After our belt-award ceremony, after the student has put on their new belt, their next action is to go to the will, and move their intention stick up to the next level. The experience of getting a new belt and then moving your intention stick up to your next level -- where you intended to put yourslef, is an incredible feeling. You have to experience it for yourself -- or watch your child experience it to know how truly life-changing it can be. 

It's a great feeling to be in control of your life this way. It is a great feeling to know you are acheiving your goals. And it is a great feeling to know that the journey is making you stronger physically, more keen mentally, as well as helping you to grow psychologically and emotionally.

Work

That's right. It's simple, old-fashioned focused effort. How many times have you heard the Albert Einstein's quote: "Genius is 10% inspiration and 90% perspiration."  Well, old Albert would be proud.

Those are the 3 main principles we use at the school. Now to further explore, in depth, how it all works, we need to get into the specific artform we practice -- Budo Taijutsu -- or you can read more about what we do at Todai on our main page.

I encourage you to do both. And enjoy the journey!

Warmest regards,

Matt & Vicki Woodard

Owners/Instructors