Berkeley Martial Arts 2438 Sacramento Street, Berkeley, CA 94702

"My daughter got so much from this program. Confidence, strength of body and mind and body image issues, that really helped her as a teenager and continues, as a young adult. I would recommend it highly for all, young and old."

"I've gone to this martial arts studio for almost five years, and I would 100% recommend this studio to anyone looking to start martial arts. The classes are structured, and being a combination of multiple Korean martial arts, it has "the best of both worlds". A class will offer a good workout, and high quality instruction on self-defense. Going to this martial arts academy for almost five years, my character has improved, and I am more self-disciplined. Students who show enthusiasm towards learning and apply effort will improve and learn to properly defend oneself."

"As a three year student of Kuk Sool Won of Berkeley, I have gained in mobility and endurance, but lost in circumference and weight, about 12" in the middle, and 50 pounds, respectively. So I am very happy with my KSW win/loss system, as I am almost 70, and the other active martial arts I have tried just don't work for arthritic and overweight older guys. 6th degree Black Belt Tom Brewer, has gained insight and knowledge into ways to tailor his teaching to specific students needs that few westerners possess. Big bonus! He speaks English as a first language! This course takes you from whatever condition you arrive there, and to the degree you are able and willing to work, will develop your strengths, and new strengths to go with them. Oh, and you can learn safely how to handle sword, staff, and jool bong - "Numchucks", but padded ones, for safety, and more weapons as you learn. This art is taught in the U.S. Air Force, West Point, Sky Martials, and in many countries, and was named and organized in 1958, by Grandmaster In Hyuk Suh. Regional and international tournaments are there for the competitive, and instruction for kids from about 5 years old to over 75 is given. (and presumably longer) I have personally enjoyed so many benefits in pain relief and mobility, just from moving my body and stretching, and memorizing and practicing forms, falls, pins and finishes, techniques, and all sorts of kicks and punches, and stretching exercises, and "ki" generating exercises, all in Kuk Sool Won. Meeting like minded and wonderful people is also part of the process. Try it and see how it works for you."

"I cannot praise this martial arts academy enough. Two years ago we were looking for a physical activity for my then 5.5 year old daughter. She is high functioning on the autistic spectrum and my husband and I thought that martial arts would be perfect for her. It provides the structure that she thrives on as well as the physical activity that we wanted her to have. Two years later she is still attending three times a week and having a great time. Through the guidance of the instructor, Master Thomas Brewer, she has really developed physically, with a marked improvement in her balance, coordination and ability to cross midline. In addition, we have noticed an improvement in her overall ability focus and concentrate, both in the martial arts studio and out. Master Brewer works so well with all of his students, both kids and adults, and is always willing to revise his teaching approach to accommodate my daughter’s unique way of thinking. He runs the classes with a firm yet gentle approach, emphasizing both discipline and respect. Master Brewer is an exceptional, inspiring martial artist who possesses a natural ability to teach. After sitting in the waiting area watching my daughter do the classes, I couldn’t hold back anymore and signed myself up as well. I am now completed hooked! Now my 4.5 year old daughter is now also enrolled and my mother, who wanted to do something with her granddaughters, has also signed up. We are able to enjoy Kuk Sool as a family because most of the classes are for both adults and kids. The kids generally stand in the front and the adults stand in the back of the studio. Master Brewer directs most of his instruction toward the kids, yet teaches in a manner that is still instructional, informative and interesting to the adults. I have never felt that I was an adult participating in a class for kids. Give Master Brewer a call for an intro class and give it a try. You will not be sorry!"