Montgomery
County Recreation offers a huge selection of martial arts classes from Karate
Do and Jujitsu to Aikido, Kendo, and something called Vovinam. We had the
chance to talk to Vovinam instructor Yanni Nguyen to find out more about this
unique form of martial arts.
Yanni Nguyen
grew up in Vietnam and started taking Vovinam when he was 12. He explains, “Living
in Vietnam it was very popular. While most other practices focus on one aspect:
kicking, punching or throwing; Vovinam covers all of those areas and more.” In
addition, Yanni describes Vovinam as “open source technology” that can be
modified and changed by whomever is practicing. Each class will vary depending
on the instructor and depending on what the student wants to contribute.
While Yanni
practiced Vovinam all of his life, he started teaching about 3 years ago. “I
used to have my own studio, but now I like partnering with Montgomery County
(Recreation). They offer more locations that are convenient for people.”
Vovinam classes
are 90 minutes including warm up, working on technique, working on form, and
then time for sparring. Students have the opportunity to participate in
competitions. While class has already begun, Yanni does accept late
registrations.
13 sessions,
$129
362301
Thursdays at Darnestown Elementary School from 7:00 – 8:30 pm
362277
Saturdays at Eastern Middle School from 1:00 – 2:30 pm
14 sessions,
$139
362293
Sundays at Plum Gar Community Recreation Center from 1:00 - 2:30 pm
362300
Tuesdays at Whetstone Elementary School from 6:00 – 7:30 pm
