These days it is a fact of life that crime is on the increase and one should not confuse the issue of the way things should be with the way things are. While we do not wish to go through life in a constant state of paranoia, there are some simple, common sense precautions that can be observed. These precautions concern adults and children alike.
Self defence and martial arts are sometimes confusing to the uninitiated. The public can often misconstrue what they perceive to be "good fighting" based on what they see in movies as to what will be street effective. The first rule of self defence is usually preventative or street wise;that is, be aware of ones surroundings, people, environment, possible escape routes, likely trouble spots and so on. This awareness is not only reserved for the street, but also wherever one may be.
At Progressive Martial Arts Academy students are initially instructed in basic self defence skills that they may be used immediately. These include environmental,survival,verbal and physical skills, as well as basic psychology/fight strategies. These involve single/unarmed attacks, multiple attacks, weapon assaults and ground defence.
The History of Progressive Martial Arts
Progressive Martial Arts originated in 1991 and was based in a double garage under a large private highset house in Manly, where only 3 mixed classes a week were held. As the club grew and the number of private students increased, it became apparent that larger premises were required. In 1995 the current premises were chosen and with the help of students and family was transformed into a very comfortable training environment. In December 1995 the new gym was officially opened by Guru Dan Inosanto and Eric Paulson.
Cookie, the Clubs founder, being an instructor in the JKD, Jun Fan and Kali under Guru Dan Inosanto has built the club into what it is today. Today, the Academy has over 200 students, operates 15 classes a week plus private tuition and teaches many specialty groups such as the blind, the disabled, the invalid, Rape Victims, Police, Navy and children.
The Academy operates 7 days a week with Sunday catering to students personal needs, giving them the opportunity to interact and train with other students in a more relaxed environment and work on their own individual training requirements.
| There are four Instructors under Simo Cookie |
Grahame Lloyd |
| All of whom help out with classes and have been training for a minimum of six (6) years each. |
The Academy is renowned for it's openness and friendliness and welcomes anyone who wishes to experience a form of Martial Arts.
Group photo from Academy launch.