Courses

The USTA poomse sessions have exposed me to a broader world of Tae Kwon Do. Grandmaster Cook’s knowledge of, and passion for, the history and philosophy of Tae Kwon Do and the various forms is deep and inspiring. I leave every session having learned valuable insights and feeling more connected to the larger chain of martial artists who have come before me.

Steven E. Stemler, Ph.D. (he/him/his)
Professor of Psychology
Professor of Education Studies
Wesleyan University
207 High Street, Middletown, CT 06459

A few years ago, when GrandMaster Cook first announced this program, I did not see muchvalue in it. As a student of Chosun Taekwondo Academy, I felt that the poomsae classes offered at the Dojang were more than sufficient. About six months into the program, I decided to join and have rejoined each iteration since. My participation in this program has greatly expanded my knowledge of both rare Hyung like the Kibon and Pyung-Ahn sets but also of more well-knownforms like Balsek. Adding on the opportunity to learn from a venerable GrandMaster and join the great link of Taekwondo knowledge makes this program invaluable to me both as a student and an instructor. My initial assessment couldn’t have been more wrong, and I am grateful to GrandMaster Cook for providing this opportunity and immensely proud to be a participant.

Poomsae are the heart of traditional taekwondo. In the USTA Poomsae Training Series, Grandmaster Cook teaches forms both ancient and contemporary, going deep into technique and history. The sessions are intellectually and physically gratifying.  Through this course, Grandmaster Cook ensures that the heart of traditional taekwondo is beating strongly.

The USTA Poomsae session program has put new life into my forms. Little intricacies that I never knew that my forms were missing came to fruition and life. The program showcases the word authenticity of Taekwondo forms as well as the meaning and essence behind them. A true treasure chest worth joining or embarking on.