What inspired you to start studying martial arts?
Sports and physical activity had always been a big part of my life, but I was looking for something with more of a purpose than just lifting weights or running. Martial arts offered developing the ability to defend myself or others at need while also having a fascinating spiritual and ethical history to learn from.
How has the study of martial arts impacted your life?
As our student creed says, martial arts has built my confidence in myself as I’ve learned (and continue to learn) what I am capable of – not only physically, but even more so mentally and emotionally. The discipline and self-control cultivated by martial arts has helped me with everything, from school to life’s other challenges. Most of all, though, it just makes me happy.
What do you enjoy most about teaching martial arts?
There are several things that come to mind: the smiling faces of the kids and the enjoyment they get out of it, seeing students work hard and get better each day, and having a positive impact on students’ lives are the main ones.
What keeps you on this path?
knowing that it is a path and that I can help others progress along it to experience its benefits. I hope that I can help build students’ characters the same way that martial arts has strengthened mine. The happiness it brings is really what brings me back each day.