Yes - You Will Earn a Worldwide Recognized, Certificate of Rank!!!

I had my old 2nd Black Belt Certificate Handy. This is an example of a TTKDF certificate of authenticity.

I have been receiving this question multiple times in the last month - and want to go ahead and set it straight so you don't have any questions or concerns about the validity of the rank you earn in our Home Study Courses.

Ultimate Karate - (sung moo kwan tae kwon do)

As you may have already learned our programed titled "Ultimate Karate" is a name for the core style sung moo kwan tae kwon do --- which has an infusion of shotokan karate and mudokwan tae kwon do. Your certificates of rank are certified with integrity and just accuracy through the Texas Tae Kwon Do Federation, which is nationally and worldwide recognized. The TTKDF is the style that I have trained through since age 7 and earn a rank of Master Instructor with the ability to pass along rank in this setting. 

The Grand Master of the TTKDF is P.D. Hale; a 10th degree black belt with over 50 years martial arts experience. Grandmaster Hale studied and earned his black belt from Jhoon Rhee in Washington DC (the father of American Tae Kwon Do). So, as a student, you are in direct lineage of Master Jhoon Rhee with the official rank that you will earn.

Ultimate Bo & Ultimate Chuks

Ultimate Bo & Ultimate Chuks are both blended, eclectic styles officially founded and recognized in 2007. The style of Ultimate Bo is drawn from Okinawan traditional Bo (more fighting and combat based stylings) and freestyle bo (drawn from 'American Style Bo') which is a term that refers to the blended tournament/competition style Bo of modern day characterized by fast spins, tricks, rolls, and sudden movements. Ultimate Chuks is based on American Style Nunchaku - which is an officially recognized martial arts style from The United States Martial Arts Association. Ultimate Chuks has been infused with traditional, combat styled Okinawan, and karate-based nunchaku techniques as well. Both Ultimate Bo and Ultimate Chuks are certified through the Governing body of Hodgyma; a martial arts organization with thousands of martial artists worldwide training. The systems are recognized throughout the world. And, as you may know, Ultimate Bo, is the world's one and only way to earn a true rank of black belt (chevron) in the weapon of the Bo.

More questions....let me know. But I hope that answers them for you!

Michael Hodge is Back! 5 New DVDs, 5 Days, $50, ...Ballet DVD?

Ok, so I have never actually been "gone" - but I am finally back with my first all NEW DVDs to launch in over 3 years!! Yeah, that's right, exactly what you asked for: Krav Maga, Kickboxing, and some advanced kicking content. The fans asked, I delivered.

So what have I been doing for the last 3 years.....?

I actually launched a Premier Martial Arts school, which is one of the top chains of schools in the world (in my opinion, the number 1 chain) - we teach a curriculum that is comprised of Krav Maga and Kickboxing. I have trained very heavily in the last 3-4 years in this style with some top Masters in the world; and am now ready to pass it on to your in my unique teaching method.

The location is now an award winning school, with many instructors and school owners coming to learn more about our unique way of thinking. We will soon be featured nationally in a huge, widely-read publication.....

Why should I buy these DVDs?

First set - Beginner Krav Maga (2 DVDs). This is one of my favorite DVD series to ever film. There is real-no BS, no-crap, just real self defense. Techniques that you can actually use and create as muscle memory. I break down these ideas and techniques in a very easy to follow manner, and after a couple of days you will feel pretty incredible.

Next - Kickboxing Foundations (2 DVDs). You will be busting out clean combos, bob and weaves, and mitt work in no time - not only feeling great, but understanding real technique and theory.

Stellar Martial Arts Kicks - Stop kicking like a white belt (just kidding); but really you can finally learn advanced kicks and moves in a very, very easy manner.

5 DVDs, 5 DAYS, $50, Free Shipping, (+ Free Mystery DVD)

For the next 5 DAYS ONLY - you can get all 5 NEW DVDS, + Free Shipping + 1 free mystery dvd  (a ballet instructional DVD??? a doritos cooking video lesson??? a kung fu phantom cinema thriller...???? who knows????.....)


Get yours now - and let me know what you think.


Remember, I have a new 120% Guarantee. You don't like that new $50 set - send it back, and I will send you $60 back.
 
 

 

Why You Constantly Fail.

Not to sound TOO harsh - but you and I both know that you fail more often than you would like. I do too, but have learned some important lessons along the way that I enjoy sharing with my students. Here are some tips to help you get where you are trying to go. Maybe you want to earn a black belt in bo staff; maybe you are training hard to be a tournament champion, or even building up a business as a martial arts instructor/school owner? Maybe this has to do with disciplining your child, improving your marriage, or getting better results at work?

1. Set a Meaningful, Specific, and Time Oriented Goal.

Example, "I will earn my black belt in June 2013." Next, TELL SIGNIFICANT PEOPLE in your life about your goal, and date - and ask at least one "ACCOUNTABILITY PERSON" to keep you on track. Usually best this person is a teacher, respected individual, mentor.

2. Develop a Plan of Action.

Example, set aside every Monday from 7-8 pm to train on your kata and one steps. Set aside every Saturday from 2-3 pm to train on kicks, punches, and do a full cardio workout. As you continue this with new material and improvements, you will be well on your way.

3. Execute your Plan of Action. Is it too hard? - ASK FOR HELP.

THIS IS WHERE EVERYONE ALWAYS FAILS. Setting a goal and planning to be successful is not too hard - because you are so excited as you start out. You have to remember you goal, and if it is important enough to you, make it happen. But sometimes you just want to give up; so you need someone else there to back you up. 


This is where I come in - with our Distance Training program. You are not alone. I am here for you to help along the way. I will give feedback on your exams and back you up on ACHIEVING YOUR GOALS. 

Step three is where everyone quits - are you going to stand apart - or fall with the crowd?

Being a Martial Arts Instructor is the Best Career In the World

What do you want to be when you grow up - a martial arts instructor you say - great choice! Being a martial arts instructor is an incredibly rewarding profession - and is not just a part time, or volunteer job anymore. You really can do many great things for others, and for your family at the same time. Here is why:

1. You have a meaningful purpose every day changing lives. 

Every day you walk in the door to teach a martial arts class, whether to children or adults, you are there to make a difference. You are not just teaching a mindless fitness class where everyone hits a bag and goes home. No. You are teaching children how to respect others, how to maintain focus, how to lead in front of others, how to push themselves past their limits, how to control themselves, and so much more. After this class ends - they did not just do a workout - but gained wisdom and power from you.

2. No sitting behind a desk tapping, chained to the floor.

Some days you will be about the community marketing your school, maybe at a local elementary school teaching students about bullying, one day you will be in the school planning our special events, every day you will teach fun and high energy classes. The work is varied - from building a business, to martial arts, to customer service, and so much more. 

3. You get to practice what you love - everyday!
You are not making mindless calls all day or working in a factory doing the same old thing. You will be practicing your martial art; and learning new arts along the way. You get to do what you love - and get paid for it.

4. Make a lot of money and have a secure financial lifestyle.

Being a martial arts instructor is different than it used to be - the martial arts business has evolved into a mature organization. You can now make anywhere from $30,000 - $115,000 a year as a martial arts instructor. If you OWN YOUR OWN school - these numbers are higher, depending on what you put in to the efforts. You have the ability to make as much money as you want - the better you are at enrolling AND keeping students - the more money you will make as well. IT Is not wrong to get paid well to do something valuable for others.

5. Happiness.

So many people hate their jobs. They wake up everyday dreading work and just waiting for the weekend. THIS IS YOUR LIFE! DO WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY! You will do better at it since you are having fun. Your happiness is worth it!!


How do I know all of this? I have been a career martial arts instructor for 8 years; and know how incredible of a career it is. -Sensei Michael Hodge

How to Choose the Right Bo Staff

White Wood Lotus Bo

Graphite Bo

I get asked, quite often how to pick the correct Bo Staff for training. Let me go through a couple of quick tips:

• Get a BO that is about your same height or a couple of inches shorter. If you are 5' 8'' - I would recommend a 5' 6'' (five and 1/2 foot) staff. This is just a couple of inches shorter than you.
• Do NOT get a BO that is taller than you. This will make it difficult to perform sweeps, wrist rolls, spins, and low strikes that require bringing the tip of the Bo close to the ground. It will be a very frustrating training experience.  
• A Broomstick/Pole will also work for you. You do not have to have a specially created weapon just to practice some movements. The Bo is essentially just a long stick; generally hardened and heavy in the past when it was used for actual combat. A broomstick of lightweight pole that is around your height could work. But the WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION will generally not be as favorable as a crafted Bo.  
• Beginner's Practice - I recommend a white wood lotus Bo - like found here: You can really buy this from most martial arts suppliers.
• Competition Level - Graphite Bo. Graphite is an incredibly material, very lightweight, hard, and flashy. Like found here.
• DO NOT get a Two-Piece Bo. These are uneven in weight due to the screw on apparatus. I do not recommend.
  

5 Questions with Sensei Michael Hodge

Below are 5 QUESTIONS, random or relevant asked to Michael Hodge, head instructor of Ultimate Training and Black Belt at Home.

1. What is your favorite martial arts weapon?

That would be nunchakus. Although, Bo is a very close second. Nunchakus were my first weapon to learn; I have spent the most time with the weapon. I love the way they rotate and create a flurry of movement, like a firecracker exploding in front of your face - that you control! I especially love working with double nunchakus; and seeing awe in crowds faces (hopefully most of the time). My enjoyment with nunchakus led me to learning all other weapons; and helped me understand the mechanics at a deeper level.

2. Why did you begin martial arts?

My dad began training in martial arts. I loved to watch him at this belt tests; teach me some moves at home, and practice along with him. I always thought it was "his thing" and that it was more for grown ups (since he trained with a few of his work friends). After two years of watching him, I finally jumped in at age 7. I did not necessarily start just because I was a smaller child or because of bullies (although these things did happen to me). Since I started so young, I feel the added confidence made me more immune to negative situations going through school.

3. Do you like any other sports?
I love to ski. It is such a thrill to race down the mountain, slash up snow, and feel the wind through your face and hear your body piercing the air. I have skiied in Colorado, New Mexico, and California. I still have many mountains that I want to tackle - I am not an expert skier (yet...) I like to watch football at times, usually only pro football.

4. Any hobbies?

My biggest hobby is definitely learning Spanish. I have worked at hit for about 6 years on and off; I recently made a decision to be fully fluent by the end of this year. Necesito mas ayudar. Tu sabes espanol, quisiera a practicar contigo - estoy tomando lecciones cada dia en el internet, pero necesito hablar con mi voce a aomentar experencia.

5.Any great martial arts moments?
I have had so, so many of various types over the years. This may sound like an odd choice; but one of the most energizing and eclectic experiences I have had was teaching 300 children age 6-7 a martial arts class. This was a special school presentation teaching children goal setting + self defense. Having 300 kids scream "Yes SIR!" and get so excited created a massive amount of energy within me. 

Brand New Website - BlackBeltatHome.com

I want to thank everyone for your incredible support over the years. Since founding Hodgyma/Ultimate Training in 2007, thousands of martial artists worldwide have enjoyed training with our curriculum. I have received hundreds of emails with pictures, comments, and positive feedback about what we do. I have seen many children happily holding up trophies, kissing their medals, showing off their nunchakus bruises, and grown men crying from receiving a new rank. Again, as always, my goal is to help you reach your full potential.

I have also received negative comments and feedback, as in every situation. I would like to thank these individuals as well; for giving me guidance on how I can improve our organization. I also recommend to those that do not enjoy my teaching style and methodologies to go elsewhere for martial arts guidance, rather than spreading incessant negativity throughout the world.

BLACKBELTATHOME.COM

We launched this new website as the go-to source for our popular Home Study Programs. You can find everything you need to know here about earning a true black belt in Nunchakus, Bo, and Karate. As always I welcome and (ask for!) your feedback.

Warmest Regards and Best Wishes in Your Training,

Sensei Michael Hodge

How to Become a Skinny Guy

1. Portion Control

Just because you have a certain amount of food in front of you, do not mean that you HAVE TO eat all of it. Sometimes, you have to learn to say no. Don't worry, you are not wasting money, but adding healthy years to your life along the way. Eat less when you do eat. Simple.

2. Eat Many Times

I know you are getting really hungry with those small portions. Go ahead and eat more often to maintain a consistent metabolic pace. Breakfast, mid morning snack, lunch, afternoon snack, and dinner. This is what I recommend. 

3. 45 Minutes of Cardio( at least 5 times a week)

Kickboxing, running, MMA training, Karate - whatever is total body cardio. YOU HAVE TO DO THIS eat least 5 times a week.

4. Increase Intensity

What got you to lose 10 pounds will not get you to 20 pounds off. You have to push yourself, and keep TRACK of your past workout reps and intensity.

Follow these quick tips and you too can become skinny! (or seriously ripped if you want)