NorCal Mudo offers martial arts that join traditional and modern elements together. We frequently train using punch mitts and Thai pads which allows us to intermix footwork, boxing techniques and the dynamic kicks from Tae Kwon Do to train strike combinations that can be seen in modern combat sports.
Our students come from a wide variety of backgrounds and skill levels. Everyone trains together like a family, including children 8 years and up.
Following a martial path not only trains the body, but also builds character. That is the spirit of mudo our school pursues.
OUR HISTORY
TAE KWON DO
There are multiple versions of Tae Kwon Do that have been presented over several decades in Korea and around the world. Probably the best-known version of Tae Kwon Do is the sport version that entered the Olympics in 1988.
Our particular lineage is derived from a martial art called Moo Duk Kwan (Institute of Martial Virtue).
Moo Duk Kwan was created in the 1940’s by Hwang Kee. It is a blend of original Korean art forms such as Taekyon, Chinese martial arts, and there is also a distinct Karate influence as well. Moo Duk Kwan was once a very popular martial art in Korea and had been promoted under different names and different organizations. It has been called Hwa Soo Do, Soo Bahk Do, and Tang Soo Do (the action star Chuck Norris is a Tang Soo Do black belt).
In the 1960’s, a new organization formed to unify the different martial art schools in Korea under one name. Originally the new name was Tae Soo Do but soon the name Tae Kwon Do was chosen. Three of Hwang Kee’s senior students split from Moo Duk Kwan to join the Tae Kwon Do Association. This was the beginning of Moo Duk Kwan Tae Kwon Do.
Master Byong Yu & Master Ken Youn taught Moo Duk Kwan Tae Kwon Do in Berkeley California after emigrating from South Korea in the 1960’s. Master Julius Baker Jr. trained at their dojang and after earning his black belt, he continued to teach in the Bay Area for over 40 years. In addition to being an excellent martial artist, Master Baker has been a guiding light for a multitude of students and instructors in the Bay Area.
Our lineage of Tae Kwon Do continues to evolve. Master Byong Yu based much of his footwork on the boxing champion Muhammad Ali. Master Baker incorporated Capoeira and knowledge of Aikido into his training. Master Andre Amacker utilized the dynamic kicks of Tae Kwon Do together with wrestling to flow in and out of fighting ranges. This was before UFC had been created. It’s important to honor the tradition while maintaining an eye forward into what Tae Kwon Do will mean to you.
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OUR COMMUNITY
MEET VINCE
MARTIAL ARTS INSTRUCTOR
Vince is a Bay Area native and has been training in martial arts since 1993. He holds a fourth degree black belt in Moodukkwan Taekwondo and has trained in disciplines including San Shou Kickboxing, Northern Shaolin, Tai Chi and Toyama Ryu Battodo.
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Having experienced firsthand the benefits of martial arts in his personal life, he is thrilled to share his love and passion of training with you:
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When I started training in martial arts I didn’t know what to expect. I just knew that I needed a change. Once I got involved, my life immediately began to improve. I became stronger, learned valuable new skills and developed a sense of confidence that had previously eluded me. I’ve never turned back since. Now I help others discover their potential. It’s a step-by-step process and no one gets it overnight. But I believe with determination and the right encouragement, you can find what you’re looking for. I look forward to partnering with you.
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With his background in martial arts and fitness training, Vince will personalize a training plan for you. Click here to connect with Vince to learn more and discuss your training goals.
UPCOMING TRAINING SCHEDULE
TAE KWON DO (OAKLAND)
TUES & THURS
6 : 30 - 7 : 20P
Pad Training & Sparring (All Levels
7 : 20 - 8 : 10P
Intermediate belt requirements (purple Green)
FRI
6 : 00 - 6
Beginner belt requirements (white/orange/yellow)
Tae Kwon Do instruction incorporates traditional Korean hand and foot strikes, integrated with modern striking skills like boxing, kickboxing and MMA. Our lineage derives from Moodukkan.
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TAE KOWN DO X KICKBOXING
(RICHMOND)
SUN
1 2 : 30 P
We are offering new class in Richmond that is blend of Tae Kwon Do and Kickboxing. Traditional martials arts culture will be observed. Instruction will also cover modern training methods found in Kickboxing and MMA.
PRIVATE TRAINING SESSIONS
aRRANGED
pER cLIENT
Sessions are built based on each client's needs and range from a mix of conditioning, pad training or specialized skill training in martial arts (TKD, Kickboxing, Northern Shaolin, Tai Chi & Bokken Training). Please contact for rates and scheduling availability.
Class Locations:
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Suigetsukan
103 International Blvd
Oakland, CA 94606
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Okinawa Karate Academy
3025 Research Drive
Richmond, CA 94806
Please email info@norcalmudo.com for more information.
* For the safety of our training community, we are requiring masks and proof of vaccination for participation indoor classes. Additionally enhanced cleaning protocols are in place. We ask students to stay home if feeling under the weather.
Come Train With Us
Come check out a class and chat with the team!
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Your first visit is on us.