Celebrating 20 Years of Serving
Charlotte and the Surrounding Communities!
This month, join us in focusing on cardiovascular fitness through working out (martial arts is a great way) and good eating habits to promote life long heart health!
Heart Healthy Special!
In the month of February, we invite you to join us for a FREE introductory class and $50 off the program of your choice when you decide to join the family!
Call today to schedule your FREE introductory class!
Is your child being bullied? Scott Shields Martial Arts Academy can help. Check out the story on Fox News Charlotte.
Internet Politics
At first glance, the absolute absurdity of accusations by certain small groups of people in otherwise reputable groups on the internet leads one to fits of laughter. Their claims of alleged fraudulence, punctuated regularly with vulgar language and blatant, obscene and crude sexual references, may be humorous on the surface but deeper examination leads one to realize their behavior and attitude shows a disturbing and sad trend demonstrating a loss of respect and tradition in the martial arts community.
These groups are commonly known for spreading misinformation and malice with the sole intent of discrediting people's reputation. They do this by misleading the public into thinking they have evidence of fraud, when the reality is they are simply lacking knowledge of the truth or are unwilling to admit it. Their claims that Scott Shields is a fraud are based solely on their assertion that it is “impossible” for a man to acquire so much expertise and their inability to locate someone in a foreign, 3rd world country.
Scott Shields has been a staple in the Charlotte, North Carolina martial arts community for 20 years. Running a school and training has been his full time job and he has been fortunate enough to study and attain ranks under some of the most internationally renown martial artists in different fields, including Daniel Inosanto, Bruce Lee's protege, the late Larry Hartsell, another direct student of Bruce Lee, Erik Paulson, World Shooto Champion and founder of Combat Submission Wrestling (CSW), “Romero "Jacare"” Cavalcanti, head of Alliance Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Bobby Tobada, founder of the Balintawak Arnis system, among others. He has also studied under some of Charlotte's most notable martial artists including Rob Kelly, Doug Bradford, George Mandrapilias and the late Professor Luis "“Sucuri"” Togno.
Having competed professionally in both grappling and kickboxing, Mr. Shields has won many championships including at the national and international level. Through all this he has remained a humble, steadfast example to the community of hard work, dedication and the quest for self-perfection. Mr. Shields has offered his time to train members of local and national law enforcement and US military personnel as well as FBI. He has given numerous free seminars on "“Martial Arts for Confidence”" for children and womens self-defense. Mr. Shields is a paragon of respect and tradition and teaches it to all his students.
The recent barrage of negativity and personal attacks on Mr. Shields himself, his credentials and even his family is deeply troubling. In an industry where respect has always been a pillar, the man who was the first to teach many styles of martial arts in Charlotte is being publicly defamed and violated by those arriving on the scene 20 plus years into his career. It seems as though the “internet generation” cannot grasp that every rank or accomplishment attained might not be listed on Google's search results. While it is enough for Mr. Shields to quietly display the pictures of his instructors and his certificates on the walls of his school, internet groups have gone so far as to blackmail him by threatening to "“shut down"” his school if he doesn't scan/fax/email every bit of information they demand of him, acting as if they are some sort of "sanctioning body"” with the ability to give those who were running schools before they were even training “permission” to teach and credit as "“legitimate"”. Scott Shields does not need or want the approval of “the any internet groups or any other community” to run his school. The high level of skill, approval of his instructors and happiness of his students in their training is what gives him the legitimacy to teach the various martial arts.
While Mr. Shields loves all aspects of the martial arts including sport, and there are many good people in the sport community as a whole, it deeply saddens him that those most outspoken act with such brazen rudeness, disrespect and blatant disregard for those around them. In light of this fact and Mr. Shields' feeling that the current trends and attitudes in the martial arts sport world are shedding a bad light on the martial arts in general, he is choosing to stop associating himself with it. This decision will remain in effect, indefinitely, until Mr. Shields feel that community earns back their respect and honor by displaying the traditional values always held so dear in the martial arts. He will, however, continue to support all his students on their personal quests for excellence, including if they choose to pursue competition related goals and also maintain relationships with his friends within the sport community.
If you have any questions at all, you are invited to come to Scott Shields Martial Arts Academy and speak to Mr. Shields personally. He is more than happy to show you face to face the “"proof"” these nay-sayers claim he does not have. The truth is that not one single person from the group spreading these malicious and defamatory accusations they claim as “fact” has accepted Mr. Shields' offer to come and see for themselves. You are invited to sit down with him personally and ask him any question you may have in a respectful environment. Further, you are invited to try classes at his school for FREE for 30 days. If you don't like it you are under no obligation to continue.
"To hear is to doubt. To see is to be decieved. To feel is to believe." -Grandmaster Ed Parker
Cyber Bullying
In twenty years of teaching self-defense, I have had the privilege to teach kids, families, professional fighters, police, and even military personnel to defend themselves from threats. Many come to my school to learn to handle bullies at school, at work or out on the street. Threats I have handled and experienced. Recently through I have experienced something that I want to share with all of you. I am being bullied online: A victim of cyber bullying.
Cyber bullies tend to use the same tactics as they do in the offline world. They torment and threaten from a distance using email, web sites,Facebook, online games, instant messaging, blogs and community sites like MySpace or American Online chat rooms. Online taunts sting just like they do offline, but on the Internet cyber bullies can sometimes stay anonymous, hiding behind fake email addresses and screen names. In my case, they simply threatened me and demanded that I provide them with information about my accomplishments. I recently displayed all my certificates and openly gave all my students a chance to review and ask questions concerning my personal background in the martial arts. I showed them all of the material these people claimed I didn't have and explained why I would not hand it over- the fact that these people were attempting to threaten me into doing so or "bad things would happen to me and my academy". I refuse to be bullied and will NOT engage in any discussion with these people. They have even verbally attacked my family. I hope the information provided below will help those who are going through similar problems and set an example of how to deal with this issue.
There's no doubt cyber bullying can be devastating. For instance, some bullies harass their targets with a barrage of instant messages, like "Everyone hates you," or "You are a loser." Other cyber bullies create web sites that mock or humiliate other kids, such as setting up online polls with themes like: "Vote for the ten ugliest girls in school." Cyber bullies can also impersonate their target, for example, posting fake online ads soliciting dates on their behalf. Or hacking into the victim's email account and sending hateful messages to their friends, or even leaving reviews online (like what has happened to me).
Don’t be a victim! It occurred to me that I can use this experience to help shed light on this all to common occurrence and maybe help if it happens to you or someone you love.
If your child is a victim of online bullying, there are a number of escalating steps you can take, says Nancy E. Willard, author of the book Cyber bullying and Cyberthreats: Responding to the challenge of online social cruelty, threats, and distress.
So what should we do?
Identify and Block
First, ask your child not to respond or retaliate, no matter how tempting it may be to "fight back." If you can identify who's cyber bullying your child, block any further communications. In your instant message program go to People or Friends in the main menu and choose Block User or Remove Friend, for instance. In your email program, add the offending email address to your blacklist. For assistance in online sleuthing, contact WiredSafety.org, whose trained volunteers can also help you try to track down who's behind the online harassment.
Set boundaries
You, not your kids, should also contact the bully (or bullies) and demand the offending behavior stop. If you don't know their real identity, send an email or IM. Warn them that you will contact their parents or school, too, if the behavior continues.
File a complaint
Most cyber bullying behavior-harassment, threats, invasion of privacy, stalking-are violations of a web site or Internet service provider's "terms of service." You can file a complaint with the service and that could lead to the suspension or termination of the cyber bully’s (or his or her parents') Internet access.
Contact the school
If you know the bully attends the same school as your child, teachers and administrators might be able to help. Keep in mind, however, that due to free speech rights, schools often have little leverage over what goes on outside the classroom. Some schools are incorporating anti-cyber bullying terms into students' online access agreements, so if the bully contacted your child from a school computer, he or she could be in big trouble. Make sure to report the incident either way.
Send a certified letter
If you've done all you can and the bullying hasn't stopped, send the child's parents a certified "cease and desist" letter. Along with the letter, include computer printouts of the bullying behavior, such as emails or IM transcripts. Ask the parents to step in and put a stop to the cyber bullying. Willard, who is also a lawyer and director of the Center for Safe and Responsible Internet Use, says certifying the letter proves the parents are aware of their child's behavior and can be held responsible if it still doesn't stop.
Call an attorney
In the worst-case scenario, a lawyer can help you consider filing a civil suit against bullies and/or their parents for defamation, harassment or other causes. Sometimes the threat of a suit is enough to dissuade cyber bullies.
Contact the local police
If there's any evidence that the cyber bully’s tactics include criminal actions, such as hate crimes, physical threats or talk of brandishing weapons at school, contact your local police immediately. Cyber bullies who post surreptitious locker-room photos of their victims online can also be brought up on charges of child pornography. Make sure to print examples of the offending behavior and pass it on to the police. The police can use your complaint to gather any other admissible evidence from your child's computer, if need be.
Talk with your kids about what's acceptable
Anne Collier, editor of NetFamilyNews.org, an email newsletter about online safety for kids, says to truly stop cyber bullying, however, you have to first know what's happening when your kids are online. Kids are often reluctant to tell parents about cyber bullying or anything else that goes on online for fear parents will only make things worse. Others feel that what they do on the Internet is "private." Williard says that nothing could be further from the truth: "Kids need to know that the Internet is a public space and need to treat it as such."
Willard suggests that you get to know your child's screen names and email addresses and don't hesitate to "Google" (or search) for your kid's online identities. She also says parents should be up front-so tell your kids you'll be checking up on them periodically. And communicate with your kid's friends' parents, she says. Setting expectations not just for your child but everyone else can avoid future problems.
Below are the answers to some frequently asked questions but remember the best way to get more information is to give us a call at (704) 573-3830 or drop by the school- we would love to answer your questions in person!
How often do I have to attend?
Most students attend 2 classes per week, although some do come more often.
What styles do you teach?
We teach Bruce Lee's Jeet Kune Do (JKD), the Filipino Martial Arts (Kali), Muay Thai, Kids Extreme Karate and Jiujitsu. If you are looking for something else, more arts are available through private lessons.
Who teaches the classes?
Sifu Scott Shields or one of a number of other highly skilled instructors under Sifu Shields.
Do I have to spar?
Sparring is not required. Once you have the appropriate amount of training, students have the option to spar in a safe and fun way, in order to eliminate injuries.
What is the range of ages in your adult classes?
We have students from 12 to over 60 that participate in classes!
I have never trained in Martial Arts before; is that a problem?
Not at all, we always have plenty of beginners. You will feel welcome and safe.
What is the best Martial Art?
There is no real answer to this question as everything depends on context but we think the best one is the one that best suits your personality. Personal preference is the key.
Can I come in and try a class?
Of course! That is the best way to see if you are going to enjoy training here. Call us today to set up your free trial class!
I have more questions, what should I do?
Please contact the academy, we will be glad to answer any other questions you might have.
Our academy was founded in 1991 by Sifu Scott Shields. Since our inception (1991) we have proven to be THE leader in the Charlotte Martial Arts Community. Our current, 3,000 sq. foot school opened in January 2010. In addition to ample mat space, the state of the art facilites include all new Wavemaster XXL bags, a crash mat to practice takedowns and a variety of well kept training gear and equipment for student use. Our comfortable lobby features plenty of seating for the viewing of classes and we are constantly making additions and improvements to all areas of the school. We hold monthly, school-sponsored events to bring our family closer together and enjoy each other's company.
Scott Shields Martial Arts Academy is my second home. I can't say enough about the atmosphere and the instruction. Sifu Shields is one of the most knowledgeable and technical instructors I have ever met. He keeps the classes fun and provides you with the tools you need to defend yourself. As far as what changes I have noticed in myself since training at Scott Shields Martial Arts Academy I would say number one improved self-confidence. I actually was very shy and would have been intimidated to stand in front of a group and speak or demonstrate, but that is what I usually do when I'm in class now. I have also gained some really good friends. I would definitely recommend stopping in and taking a class.
Jeremy Price
Monroe, NC
Scott Shields Martial Arts Academy is, without a doubt, the best martial arts school with the best instruction around. Sifu Shields shows a passion for teaching and for the martial arts that has inspired me to better myself in every way. Since training there I have noticed a massive change in my outlook on life as well as my physical health. The martial arts taught here are top notch and I am very proud to be a student of Sifu Shields.
David Quigley
Formerly of Charlotte, NC; now living in Los Angeles, California and a student of Guro Dan Inosanto
Training at Scott Shields Martial Arts Academy is an honor and a privilege. the staff is very warm and friendly, and always eager to help you if you have a question.
Since I have been training at ssmaa my attention span has improved, my coordination is much better than it was before I started training there, my speed and strength have improved, I'm not as nervous as I was before I started training there.
Sifu Scott Shields explains the techniques and breaks them down in a very crystal clear way that anybody can understand them. If you really want to learn how to defend yourself, then this is the place for you. It would be safe to say that training at SSMAA has been one of the smartest decisions I have made.
James Cook
Charlotte, NC
This school provides an excellent program to anyone that's looking for either sports aspect of martial art, pure self-defense training or both .
During my training here, I've noticed significant improvement in my speed/reflects and overall physical/cardio attributes. Simultaneously, the self-defense aspect is very practical and effective.
The Chief instructor is very open-minded and he's very passionate of teaching others. He always challenges his students to think for themselves, instead of us blindly believe what he said true.
All the senior students I have met here are very serious of helping the newcomers. In addition, the ratio of senior students and newcomers are 1:1 so you are always able to get a great training partner during class session.
These are some of the few reasons why I'm willing to spend 40 min. driving (each way) just to train in this school, instead of joining other schools closer to my area
Albert Chiu
Scott Shields is a martial arts encyclopedia. I've never met anyone with as much knowledge, encompassing so many arts, as Sifu Shields. He also has a tremendous ability to transfer his knowledge, as well as put it into practice. Anyone who has the opportunity to train with Sifu Shields should not hesitate.
Ryan Hoover
Ryan Hoover's Extreme Karate
www.rhek.com
I would like to express a heart-felt thank you for allowing me to be a part of the Scott Shields Martial Arts Academy family.
The detailed instruction and effective application of techniques and drills you have provided has equipped me to be more efficient at my job and has instilled in me the confidence needed to remain calm in the face of adversity. It is very rare to find a school that highlights the context, practicality and discretion of techniques in real-life situations. Your dedication and effort to include these principles in your curriculum illustrates your passion to train the "whole student".
Although unchangeable circumstances lead me back home know that my genuine hand of friendship will always remain. I pray that the family orientated philosophy that encompasses Scott Shields Martial Arts Academy will remain, grow and inspire other schools to shadow your example. (2. Timothy 1:7) "For God has not given me/us a Spirit of fear but of power and love and of sound mind."
Johnny Rivera
U.S. Federal Air Marshal
This correspondance should serve as a letter of character reference for Scott Shields. It is a pleasure to produce this document and in the event that more information is required, please feel free to contact me.
Please not that I have known Mr. Shields for several years and in myriad capacities including social and professional. As a matter of course, Mr. Shields has never ceased to impress me with his kindness, thoughtfulness, responsibility and unparalleled willingness to share himself (and expansive knowledge) with anyone who desired to learn.
Mr. Shields never missed any opportunity to dote on his son. Many are the stories he proudly recounted to me in private conversation. Given that I work with human beings that happen to have disabilities, I found Mr. Shields's dedication to his son's treatment especially well informed, optimistic and impressive. He often sought my advice about various matters including eductional options, potentially beneficial reading material and therapudic paradigms for his son. Without exception, Mr. Shields was always better informed than I was.
More, Mr. Shields-in addition to being a wonderful friend, training partner and mentor- has consistently been a sounding board and moral compass not simply for me, but for many of our mutual friends. You could easily find consensus in this by contacting any number of individuals who have had the good fortune of contact with Mr. Shields.
I have said this on a number of occassions, but is bears repeating in this forum: Mr. Shields is the finest Martial Artist that i have ever had the pleasure of meeting. Clearly this speaks to his consistent work ethic, patience and diligence. That said, Mr. Shields's talent as a Martial Artist and teacher pale in comparison to what a lovely human being he is.
Jeffrey Jimmo
Scott Shields is a great martial artist with a ton of knowledge and skill in so many different areas. I highly recommend training with him any chance you get.
Erik Paulson
Founder of Combat Submission Wrestling (CSW)
Former World Shooto Champion
Trainer of UFC Champions
I stareted studying Jeet Kune Do and Escrima when I was about 18 years old and studied for approximately two years. After being away from martial arts for several years, I began studying Kempo Karate. Although I enjoyed Kempo, and learned a lot, I found that i wanted to go back to JKD or the Filipino martial arts.
I learned of Sifu Scott Shields through the Kempo school I was attending and I visited some of Sifu Shields classes. I found Sifu Shields to be very knowledgeable and reputable, and that the Filipino arts were what I wanted in the martial arts. As I studied under Sifu Shields, I learned that he had exstensive background and expertise in several martial arts, including many Filipino arts, JKD, Thai Boxing, grappling arts and Kempo Karate.
Sifu Shields classes offer a good mixture of stick, empty hands and knife techniques and drills and he stresses the flexibility of being able to use the same techniques with either empty hands or weapons. Sifu Shields not only has the expertise in the martial arts, he also has the ability to teach and help his students learn.
In addition to the adults classes he teaches, Sifu Shields also teaches children's classes. He not only teaches martial arts in the classes, he puts a strong emphasis on self improvement and respect for self and others. He makes this learning process fun for the children. It is also obvious that Sifu Shields is having fun and enjoys teaching both children and adults.
Sifu Shields has established a solid reputation for himself by not only being very good at what he does, but also also associating himself with reputable martial artists both on a local and international level. i am fortunate to have had reputable and proficient instructors, but I have also known some not so reputable ones. I am equally as fortunate to be one of Sifu Shields' students and I highly recommend him to anyone who is serious about the martial arts.
David Hudson
Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Officer
I have known Sifu Scott Shields for over 15 year now. I have developed over those years the greatest respect for Sifu Shields as a man of integrity, honesty and intelligence. Sifu Shields always has time for his students and his dedication to the martial arts is obvious. I believe I could depend on Sifu Shields for anything- he is a true friend that I would trust under any circumstance.
Raymond F. Werts
Just wanted to take a moment and give credit where credit is due. Master Scott Shields has been my Instructor for the last 16 years and also one of my most trusted friends. I have earned the privilege of holding several different Instructorships and belts under him, and own an Academy in his association.
I have to say that his Academy, his students and him personally have been one of the biggest and best influences in my life, in and out of the Dojo. His style of teaching is very hands on, his attention to detail is top notch and his mind is literally an encyclopedia of Martial Arts techniques. If you have never trained with him, you are missing out on a very special learning and self growth opportunity.
All of which led me to my decision to run my own Academy under his association. I focus in M.M.A., but because of his influence, my fighters learn that "Martial Arts" is still the underlying backbone of what we do. Respect, honor, discipline above all else is the key. If I can be half the teacher, coach, mentor and friend that he is, I will consider myself successful!!
Sensei Jason T. Outlaw
Owner/Head Instructor
Trinity M.M.A. Academy,
Indian Trail, NC
704-891-2445
Hi, my name is Scott Davis. I live in Miami, FL and train _ American Top Team, Coconut Creek, FL. A 3 year member of ATT I train my BJJ w/ my mentor Jonatas 'Tagarela' Gurgel under the tutelage of Master Ricardo Liborio. the last time I competed I placed 2nd in the men's super heavy weight Black Belt division _ the 2010 Abu Dhabi Pro JJ USA trials. i 1st recieved my Brown Belt in 2004 & have competed in BJJ over a decade. My 1st BJJ Instructor was Professor Scott Shields. Professor Shields took pride in all of us and taught us BJJ not only as a way to fight but as a way to live our lives.
Although my BJJ Journey has taken me far from home for many years I have always kept in touch w/ Scott as a former Instructor & friend. I'm glad that Scott laid a solid foundation for me in BJJ so that I could evolve into the student/fighter I am today. To the students of Professor Shields take pride in your opportunity to learn from an incredible Instructor. To anyone that may be out to discredit...(tharr be more) him I would suggest to proceed any further w/ caution. That statement comes solely & directly from me. I consider Scott to be a brother and any disrespect to him I will personally take as an insult to Me & My BJJ family of friends. Scott, God Bless You and Yours ! Train hard man ! As always I will stay close in touch ! Osu !!!
Scott Davis
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, American Top Team
Miami, FL
I have known Scott Shields for over 20 years. I was student number 1 and still continue to train with Mr. Shields. Most martial artists are held down by the dogma of their one martial art and the false sense that their system is “"The Only Way'"” and “"Complete"”. Not Mr. Shields. I was lucky to meet an instructor who believed so much in all martial arts and being skilled at all ranges of fighting and self defense. His instruction is top notch and extensive. I still to this day have not met an instructor with the high level of knowledge that Mr. Shields possess from weapons, striking and grappling whether sport or self defense- and I have trained and trained under many.
If you are looking for a martial arts school I recommend Scott Shields Martial Arts Academy for several reasons:
-Mr. Shields is one of the most knowledgeable and skilled martial arts instructors.
-One of the few places where the instructor understands all ranges of fighting and what will work for you and your body style, athleticism and aggressiveness.
-Mr. Shields is straight forward and there are no politics holding back what he teaches and to whom.
-He has always gone the extra mile for his students whether it be in martial arts training or improving their own Martial Arts Academy business (like my school).
Mr. Shields is not only my instructor, he has been a mentor and most importantly a close friend for all these years. If anyone needs a reference from me regarding Scott Shields and his Martial Arts, I am always available to give one.
Steve Odom
Steve Odom’s Martial Arts Academy
404-401-8087
www.gacombatmma.com
gacombatmma_gmail.com
I have been training at Scott Shields Martial Arts Academy for four years. I have been impressed with Mr. Shields knowledge of Martial Ars, but what has continually kept me training here at the Academy is the Mr. Shields' character, as he reaches out to his students and considers them family. Our Academy's attitude as being Modest, Respectful and having attention to detail, evolving techniques is solely based upon our head instructor, Mr. Shields. He providesus a safe, fun and challenging atmosphere to train in. Overall Mr. Shields is a great Instructor and Mentor! I would personally do anything to help out the Academy as needed!
Shawn Robinson
United States Marine
Police Officer
I just wanted to express our gratitude fpr your instruction of our detention officers. Your vast knowledge and expertise in relation to practical self-defense made an incredible impact on the students. Sever made comments on your effective instruction style.
The techniques that were demonstrated were very similar to the situations that detention officers will face on the job. The instruction and guidance you gave them had a profound impact on the importance of self-defense. It is hoped that this knowledge will not have to be used, however, if it is, the instruction you gave will be very beneficial to their safety. Once again we appreciate the time and energy you devoted.
Sgt. H.T. Parker
Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Office
At Scott Shields Martial Arts Academy we offer Bruce Lee's Jeet Kune Do, MMA, Muay Thai, American Combat Jiu-Jitsu, Kali, and Kid's Karate. Our classes are taught in a friendly environment where we value skill, smarts, and sportsmanship over strength or brutality. Members can expect a great workout and the opportunity to acquire valuable skills that will benefit all aspects of his or her life.
At SSMAA we keep the "art" in martial arts. We realize there are 3 aspects to martial arts; art, self-defense and sport and we teach you all of these in an atmosphere emphasizing tradtional values.
MMA Fitness is a class dedicated to getting you in the best shape of your life. Based around the structure of a mixed martial arts fight, the program starts off with a warm-up and then drills straight from MMA and Jiu-Jitsu on grappling dummies, followed by a cool-down consisting of isometric strengthening and yoga streching designed to keep your body well balanced. The program is designed so students can follow the class while still going at their own pace, allowing for a personalized program in which the difficulty picks up as the student's fitness and cardio do. Since all drills are done one grappling dummies, there is no contact among particpants, which reduces the risk of injury.
Kids Extreme Karate program which specializes in building confidence, discipline, self-esteem, and leadership skills in children. Through a structured program of martial arts, children also learn to defend themselves from bullies without encouraging them to become more violent. The character building skills they develop help to reduce peer pressure as well. Do remember that martial arts are just that--fighting skills. That is what martial arts is rooted in, and that is what the discipline, self-confidence, and all those other positive things associated with them springs from. Skilled martial artists carry themselves with an air of self-confidence that we'd all like our children to have. This is because these artists know they can fight; they have proved it to himself by doing so and feel no uncertainty about it. Our program differs from others in that we also include non-violent self-defense methods. Our kids don't have to hit back if they need to use their self-defense tactics.
Muay Thai is a hard martial art from Thailand. It is similar to other Indochinese styles of kickboxing, namely pradal serey from Cambodia, tomoi from Malaysia, lethwei from Myanmar and Muay Lao from Laos. The art has a long history in Thailand and is the country's national sport. Muay Thai as it is practiced today varies significantly from its ancestor muay boran, such as in its use of gloves similar to those worn in Western boxing.
Muay Thai is referred to as "the Science of Eight Limbs" and utilizes punches, knees, kicks and elbows. In our Muay Thai classes we combine padwork, light touch drills, cardio and sparring drills. We also have a ring that can be set up and taken down which is often used in class.
We combine our JKD class with training in the Filipino Martial Arts, including Kali and Silat. There are many different styles of Silat found in Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. These art were developed to help the natives survive invasions from other countries. The style that we focus on at Scott Shields Martial Arts Academy is Maphilindo Silat. It is a system founded by Guro Dan Inosanto. Guro Inosanto has studied Silat from Malaysian, Indonesian and Philippino masters. To honor all of his instructors he combined these styles and has created a highly effective system of fighting. He has incorporated empty hand strikes, kicks, knees, and elbows as well as off balancing sweeps from each method. Kali originated in the Philippines. It utilizes weapons of all different lengths and sizes, both bladed and blunt, as well as empty hand work using feet, hands, knees, elbows, throws, grappling, joint locking, pressure points, pinching and biting, and in many areas projectile weapons.
In this class, we focus on Bruce Lee's concepts, his methods for fighting and training, and his techniques. The advantage to using this style as opposed to other systems of martial arts is its totally adaptability to different situations. The training methods used help students prepare for any situation because unfortunately violent attacks do not always happen in desirable conditions (i.e., a rainy night in a dark parking lot between two cars).
Training is broken up into three areas.
Area One - Kickboxing is learned in this phase of training. The repetition and drilling creates a good foundation in which to build other skills. This class develops the basic skills necessary for a person to survive on the streets (How to properly kick and punch. Also how to defend kicks, punches and common grabs.).
Area Two - In the second phase of training, standing grappling and ground control / attacks are learned. Once students have learned how to control a fight in striking range, it becomes necessary for them to become skilled at what to do if the situation progresses to a closer distance. The students are also introduced to sparring. Students are encouraged to try to bridge the distance from kicking / punching and enter into standing grappling or go all the way to the ground. When they leave this phase, they will understand how and when to close the distance, takedown, and submit their opponent while on the ground.
Area Three - The final area of training concentrates on trapping range (the brief section that occurs between kicking and punching range and standing grappling). This is perhaps the most difficult phase to learn. Timing and coordination are finely tuned in this section. Sparring helps in this process and makes the student incorporate all four areas.
By the time a student is ready to graduate from this system, they will be prepared for any attack and situation. They will know what to do and by having this knowledge they will have the upper hand against any opponent.
Scott Shields Martial Arts Academy
1115 Matthews Mint Hill Rd.
Matthews, NC 28105
(704)573-3830
Call TODAY to make an appointment for your free trial class!
Jiu-jitsu specializes in ground fighting. The art first gained prominence with the advent of the Ultimate Fighting Championship and other 'no-holds barred' matches. It is one of the most respected and effective grappling arts in the world. Positioning, escapes/reversals, chokes and joint locking are all taught. Jiu-jitsu is not based on strength but rather technique. Skill in the grappling range is necessary to complete your martial arts training in order to truly defend yourself. Training starts with students learning positions, escapes, and flowing from one position to another. Submissions are then introduced. Students will learn various arm locks, chokes (adults only), leg / knee locks, and shoulder wrenches. The appeal for Jiu-jitsu is that it is effective on a larger opponent. It neutralizes an attacker's ability to do anything while at the same time leaves them susceptible to submission.
The style we teach is Scott Shields' American Combat Jiu-Jitsu, a combination of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Japanese Jiu-Jitsu, Russian Sambo and CSW (Combat Submission Wrestling). All students will learn the most effective takedowns, controls and submissions that will help ensure their ability to survive any street encounter safely. Scott Shields' American Combat Jiu-Jitsu is not a new style but a composite martial arts created out of respect for all Master Shields' instructors.
New MMA Fitness Program
Our newest program, MMA Fitness, kicked off Monday January 16th at 8:30pm. The class is held Monday, Wednesday and Friday nights. There are still a few spots left and we are currently offering a special rate/upgrade for the program. The class is based around 5 five minute rounds of MMA style drilling and cardio and also includes a warm-up and stretching/cool down. Whether you are looking to supplement your current martial arts training or simply looking for a fun alternative to the gym, this class is for you. Schedule your free trial and get in the best shape of your life!
Professor Joe Hurst Seminar: February 4th 2012 1-4pm
We are proud and excited to announce that, back by popular demand, Professor Joe Hurst will be back for another fantastic seminar on Saturday, February 4th from 1-4pm. Don't miss this opportunity to train with the most skilled black belt in the Carolinas! Only $35
Valentine's Day Sarong Seminar: Tuesday February 14th 6:30-8:30pm
Do you have plans for Valentine's Day? We do and we want you to join us! We will be celebrating in the spirit of martial arts with a FREE sarong seminar, open to ALL adult students reguardless of skill level or which program they regularly participate in. Come and join your friends and family for a fantastic night of training!
Kid's Kickin' Valentine's Party: Friday February 17th 6-10pm
We want you to have a chance to celebrate Valentine's Day with the one special to you without having to worry about the kids so we are hosting a a very special Parent's Night out on Friday, February 17th. From 6-10pm, the kids will have karate classes, games, pizza, snacks, a movie and even participate in a fun Valentine's craft activity to bring home at the end of the night! No need to find a sitter, drop the kid's off for their own special party and go enjoy your date night! Space is limited so make sure you sign-up early. Only $10 per child (non-students welcome)!
North Carolina Stick Fighting Invitational Championships: Feb 25th 2012 at 10am
