Our Shared Taekwondo Background
At Central Vermont Martial Arts (CentralVermontMartialArts.com), our journey has roots in a powerful tradition that shaped both our instructors, Jeremy Lesniak and Cory Anderson. Although CVMA is not exclusively a taekwondo (often spelled "taekwon-do" or abbreviated as "TKD") school, it’s deeply influenced by the principles and values that Jeremy and Cory first encountered through taekwondo. Their shared experiences, philosophies, and dedication to the art of teaching have not only formed the foundation of CVMA but have also introduced an enriching, cross-training approach to martial arts that continues to benefit each student.
A Beginning Rooted in Taekwondo
Jeremy and Cory first met at a local taekwondo school, which has since closed but left a lasting impact on both of them. Cory was a student there, while Jeremy would visit, seeking both inspiration and connection within the martial arts community. It didn’t take long before they discovered a synergy in their approach to training, teaching, and exploring martial arts in all its dimensions. Their shared journey through taekwondo led to a friendship grounded in mutual respect and admiration for each other’s dedication, knowledge, and vision for martial arts.
Though CVMA embraces a variety of martial arts styles, the philosophies Jeremy and Cory learned in taekwondo have become essential elements in their own teaching practice. Together, they built CVMA on these foundational experiences, continually inspired by the essence of taekwondo: the discipline, mental focus, and a spirit of respect that runs through every class and training session.
Shared Values: Passion for Teaching and a Love for Martial Arts
The unifying thread between Jeremy and Cory has always been their passion for teaching and a profound love for martial arts. Both believe that martial arts are much more than physical techniques; they’re pathways to personal growth, resilience, and community. This belief shapes their approach to every lesson at CVMA, where each student is encouraged to find their unique strengths while learning to overcome personal challenges.
The Role of Cross-Training in Martial Arts
One philosophy that Jeremy and Cory both champion is cross-training, a concept they consider invaluable for martial artists. Cross-training, or practicing multiple styles to gain a broader range of skills, has played a significant role in both of their careers. While taekwondo remains a critical part of their background, cross-training has expanded their perspectives, helping them appreciate different martial arts principles and techniques. At CVMA, this diversity is reflected in the curriculum, which offers students the opportunity to explore a blend of martial arts traditions, leading to a more balanced, well-rounded martial education.
Integrating Taekwondo’s Theory of Power at CVMA
While CVMA is not a strict taekwondo school, it has embraced core elements of taekwondo’s traditional philosophy, especially the five aspects of the theory of power, which are fundamental in taekwondo and guide many aspects of their instruction. For those unfamiliar, the taekwondo theory of power consists of:
1. **Reaction Force**: The concept of using the opponent's force to increase one’s own power.
2. **Concentration**: Focusing power on a small point to enhance the effectiveness of strikes and blocks.
3. **Equilibrium**: Maintaining balance during movements to increase control and power.
4. **Breath Control**: Regulating breathing to manage energy and maximize power.
5. **Mass**: Using body weight to amplify the strength behind each movement.
These elements, while distinct to taekwondo, are principles that Jeremy and Cory incorporate into training at CVMA, providing students with a structured and disciplined approach to developing power, precision, and control in all their techniques. By introducing these aspects to CVMA students, they honor the influence taekwondo had on their own martial journey while empowering students with skills that transcend individual styles.
Balancing Tradition and Innovation
As instructors, Jeremy and Cory take pride in balancing the respected traditions of taekwondo with innovative methods and insights from other martial arts. This blend allows students to learn with a deeper understanding of martial principles that are adaptable and applicable across various disciplines, ultimately enhancing their personal growth and skill set.
The Legacy of Taekwondo at CVMA
Reflecting on their years of training and teaching, Jeremy and Cory have come to see taekwondo as a foundational pillar in their personal and professional lives. Through taekwondo, they learned the importance of dedication, patience, and the value of community—a legacy they carry forward at CVMA with every new student who walks through the doors. The journey from that now-closed school to CVMA is one they cherish, representing not only the evolution of their martial paths but also the heart of what CVMA stands for: an inclusive space for all martial artists to grow, learn, and thrive.
For students at CVMA, the integration of taekwondo’s values serves as a reminder that martial arts are not just about self-defense or fitness but about a commitment to personal integrity, respect, and lifelong learning.
Teaching for a Lifetime of Growth
At CVMA, Jeremy and Cory aim to equip each student with the skills and mindset they need to succeed both on and off the mat. Whether a student comes to CVMA to learn self-defense, gain confidence, or find a community, they are welcomed into a space rooted in the timeless principles Jeremy and Cory first encountered through taekwondo. The school’s approach remains dynamic, yet it is always anchored in the steadfast values they’ve embraced from their shared taekwondo background.
Join Us in the Journey
We invite you to become part of our community at CVMA, where the spirit of taekwondo lives on in every class. Here, we strive to honor the core values and principles that have guided us on our paths as martial artists, encouraging each student to achieve new heights and embody the discipline, respect, and resilience that taekwondo taught us.
While CVMA offers a unique blend of martial arts, the influences of taekwondo remain integral to our philosophy and methods. For those interested in the benefits of a cross-disciplinary approach or simply eager to join a community founded on respect and tradition, CVMA welcomes you.
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**Common Taekwondo Misspellings and Alternate Spellings**
To help ensure all those seeking information about taekwondo and CVMA can find us, here are some common alternate spellings and misspellings of taekwondo:
- Tae kwon do
- Taekwon-do
- Taek-won-do
- Teakwon-do
- Takwondo
- Taekowndo
- Taekwando
- Taewondo
At CentralVermontMartialArts.com, we honor and celebrate the art and philosophy of taekwondo in every class.