The Samurai Advantage is a specialized training system that blends the discipline of traditional sword arts with dynamic open-hand martial arts to enhance speed, agility, precision, and power. Designed for athletes, professionals, and martial artists seeking an edge in performance, this program is rooted in time-tested warrior training principles adapted for modern application.
HAIDONG GUMDO
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~KOREAN SWORD~
HAIDONG GUMDO is a Korean sword art that emphasizes fluid movement, precision striking, and mental discipline.
Unlike traditional fencing or kendo, Haidong Gumdo practitioners train in cutting techniques, sparring, forms, and combat strategy, developing full-body coordination, core strength, and heightened reflexes.
Training equipment is simple and includes wooden swords and World Haidong Gumdo Federation proprietary high-quality safety-swords.
The training instills a deep sense of focus and control, making it a valuable asset for anyone looking to improve their athletic performance, reaction speed, and combat efficiency.
"OPEN HAND"
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MARTIAL ARTS
THE SAMURAI ADVANTAGE goes beyond sword training by incorporating a comprehensive an customized open-hand martial arts system by blending: Olympic Taekwondo & Kickboxing, Korean Karate, and Hapkido.
Olympic Taekwondo & Kickboxing – Develops rapid acceleration, explosive power, and evasive footwork.
Korean Karate (Shotokan based) – Builds strong foundational strikes, structured discipline, and body mechanics.
Hapkido – Focuses on joint locks, throws, circular movement, and controlled falling techniques for self-defense and control.
Shaped by decades of expertise and deep study across multiple disciplines, each system taught by Master Wathen is carefully selected to provide a unique dimension of physical and mental development – blending tradition with modern application for athletes seeking peak performance.
This unique combination provides a full-spectrum approach to combat training, refining both precision and adaptability, making it an exceptional cross-training program for athletes and martial artists alike.
INSTRUCTOR
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PROFILE
A globally traveled and highly experienced martial artist with over 30 years of training and instruction in multiple disciplines, Master Wathen offers a deep reservoir of practical, expert-level knowledge in martial arts applied toward athletic cross-training for college sports and self-defense seminars adapted for the corporate world.
As the founder of The Samurai Advantage, and Furious Fox Sword & Defense, he has dedicated his career to refining effective training methods that merge traditional warrior principles with modern athletic development.
His philosophy emphasizes efficiency, adaptability, and lifelong growth, helping students and professionals gain unmatched agility, strength, and mental resilience.
Training Korean Adoptees in their cultural heritage in Pella, Iowa USA, 2024
Korean Sword on stage at KAMP 2024 with Korean Adoptees in Pella, Iowa USA
Master Wathen performing Korean Sword on stage Seoul, South Korea, circa 2009