MADISON – For physical and mental improvements, all the family can train in martial arts at Hogan Family YMCA.

Heart of the Valley YMCA offers martial arts as a branch-based program. Students can learn practical mental skills, such as self-defense and building self-confidence in a safe and fun classroom environment, with professional instructors as coaches.

Y instructors teach Hy Tang Soo Do, which originated in Korea. Based on karate, Hy Tang Soo Do was used as the karate-derived martial arts style centuries ago to select leaders. Today, many people skilled in Korean martial arts continued to use Tang Soo Do to preserve the elements of the discipline. (Wikipedia.org)

Participants will learn kicks, punches, throws and joint-locking techniques as an effective means of self-defense. Students will gain character values of caring, respect, honesty and responsibility are program cornerstones. Classes are progressive and recognize achievement and skill levels, according to YMCA material.

ADULTS — At Hogan Family YMCA, adults (defined as individuals who are at least 13 years old) can attend sessions for Hy Tang Soo Do on Feb. 1 through Feb. 24 on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7 to 8 p.m. Registration will open on Feb. 1 at 11 a.m. and close on Feb. 10.

In March, the YMCA will offer classes with the same schedule as February. Classes will be open on March 1 through March 31. Fees start at $52.

YOUTH BEGINNER – Youngsters from seven- to 12 -year-olds can enroll in beginner classes. These sessions on Tuesday and Thursdays from 5 to 6 p.m. will be held from Feb. 1 to Feb. 24.

Registration for beginners will open on Feb. 1 at 11 a.m. Fees start at $52.

In addition, the beginners’ classes for youth will be held from March 1 to 31. The sessions in March will follow the same day/time schedule as February.

YOUTH ADVANCED – Youth who have completed the beginner classes can further their understanding of the sport with advanced classes for that age group. The YMCA considers youth as seven- to 12-year-olds.

Advanced classes are scheduled on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 7 p.m. during Feb. 1 to Feb. 24. Registration starts at $52.

The same classes for advanced youth will be offered from March 1 to March 31. Class times will jive with the sessions from February.

For more information, call instructors Colby Flack at 256-705-9622 or Ola Myszka at 256-705-9622. Email colby.flack@ymcahuntsville.org.