Being a recently new member of Gwent Tang Soo Do has been inspiring and motivating.

My children have been part of the club for 18+ months, and while I had a sense of community, it wasn’t until I joined and started training that I realised it’s far more than that, it’s a family. All the instructors and students go out of their way to be welcoming, open and helpful.

From the moment I stepped into the dojo, I knew I had found a place where I could find limitless motivation, challenge, and accomplishment. Each class is filled with dynamic techniques that have rocked my world and made me realise the true power within me. Whether it’s executing a flawless kick (or on my way to it) or mastering a complex form, the sense of achievement I feel is unmatched. Gwent Tang Soo Do has provided the perfect platform for me to continuously grow as a martial artist, a dad and a person.

It doesn’t stop there. The power of growth extends far beyond the physical aspect. Through my involvement with this incredible club, I have witnessed improvements in my mental and spiritual well-being. I have refund a sense of discipline I had long lost, and have begun to carry over into all aspects of my life, enabling me to face challenges head-on with confidence and determination. Tang Soo Do has empowered me to overcome obstacles and tap into my inner strength.

A significant part of this transformative journey is the outstanding instruction. Led by Master Thomas, the expertise, passion, and dedication are awe-inspiring. Master Thomas and the team have created an environment that feels like family, fostering unity and support among the members. Their teaching style is exceptional, blending traditional values with fun techniques that keep us engaged and motivated. The instructors go above and beyond to ensure each student receives the individual attention and guidance needed to excel. I am forever grateful for the inspiration provided, not only as martial arts instructors but also as mentors and role models.

I wholeheartedly recommend Gwent Tang Soo Do to anyone seeking a transformative and fulfilling martial arts journey.

James Scrimshire

Joined 2023, aged 52

Since joining GTSD in September 2022, our family has been welcomed into a supportive and encouraging martial arts community.

From his very first lesson, Master Thomas made sure that Huw felt included and part of the class. The emphasis on discipline and hard-work has allowed Huw to make huge progress. Starting as a white belt and now progressing to an orange belt tag, Huw’s dedication and the guidance of Master Thomas have resulted in tangible achievements and he has earned himself the name The Machine which he is very proud of.

We are able to attend tournaments. Master Thomas ensures that all the students are well-prepared and instills a strong sense of camaraderie among them. It is lovey to see the students support and cheer for each other during these events. As parents, we greatly appreciate the opportunity to observe the training sessions and be involved in our child’s progress. In fact, I have been so inspired that I have decided to sign up for lessons myself!

What sets GTSD apart is the availability of a range of classes, 1-1 sessions and a supportive network. Master Thomas maintains a high level of professionalism and expects good behavior, but he also knows how to infuse fun into the lessons. This combination creates a positive and enjoyable learning environment that both children and adults appreciate.

If you are considering starting martial arts or are unsure about GTSD, I cannot recommend it highly enough. I encourage you to attend a session and see the atmosphere and instruction firsthand. Choosing GTSD Tang Soo Do for our son has been one of the best decisions we have made. We are grateful to Master Thomas, the assistant instructors and the entire GTSD community for their support and guidance.

Amanda Williams

Joined 2023

My children have been apart of the club since 2016, for years I sat in the back of the class as a spectator wanting to join but not being brave enough or never believing I could do it. One Xmas I found myself in an uncomfortable situation where a man approached me and tried to rob me at a cash point, I verbally managed to scare him away but was left feeling vulnerable and scared. 

I, there and then I made the decision to get on the mat that day and learn how to defend myself and built my confidence so that another person never, ever made me feel that way again! And it was the best decision I made. I enjoy training and look forward to every lesson, it’s pushes me physically and mentally, over all my confidence has increase through all aspects of my life. I’ve build up fitness, flexibility, strength and power through every sweaty training session and I’ve made some very good life long friends along the way, the club really does have a family feel to it. I can’t imagine my life with out it or the people in it. 

Before GTSD I hadn’t done anything, not even as a child. The feeling of getting my first belt and moving up the ranks was such an empowering feeling.

Master Thomas is the most patient and dedicated man I know, he builds relationships with each and every student and adapts his teaching techniques to suit their individual needs. His encouragement, passion and pure excitement towards his students is joyous to see. He truly is a wonderful man, not only a role model but a friend.

GTSD have given us many opportunities to travel not only all over the uk but over seas to compete. 

I encourage everyone to give TSD a try even just once.

Jessica Wright

Joined 2022, Aged 32

I’ve been training since I was 4 Master Thomas helps me believe I can do it even when I feel like I can’t. My favourite thing is sparring with the friends I’ve made, it’s fun.

Oliver "Bossly" Atkinson

Joined 2017, Aged 10

Im very proud to say GTSD is my family I’ve been apart of it for 7 years. I was 4 years old when Master Thomas came to my school for a demonstration for his first ever class opening up and I asked my Mum to take me, I’m so glad she did. I’ve made lots of friends with children and adults. I have travelled to different countries to perform and fight, most recently to Holland. I even hold a world Championship title for my sparring which I’m very proud of. I’ve been given the opportunity by Master Thomas to help teach and coach with his junior assistant scheme which I love, I get to help teach the skills I know to the new students and am someone they look up to, I like being a role model. I’m about to sit my black belt test but this isn’t the end of my journey, it’s the beginning.

Emilee Atkinson

Joined 2016, Aged 12

Being part of a martial arts club offers a sense of community, the opportunity to learn and improve your skills, a chance to challenge yourself both mentally and physically, and the camaraderie with fellow members who share your interests and goals.

I have been been part of GTSD for the past 10 years.

The skills I’ve developed have propelled me to secure ongoing medals, world titles, and grand champion titles. Guiding fellow students in honing their abilities and becoming their role model has been a privilege. Gwent Tang Soo Do has significantly influenced my life, fostering incredible friendships and diverse relationships. Throughout my journey, Master Thomas has been an unwavering pillar of support, guiding me to surpass my own expectations. His enduring respect has shaped both my on-mat progress and my character beyond the DoJang. I’m forever indebted to the continuous backing from students, instructors, friends, family, parents, and especially my teammates. Gwent Tang Soo Do isn’t just a martial arts club; it’s an exceptional family, and anyone who joins us is truly fortunate.
Paige Norville

Joined 2011, aged 19