Remember those words from class? We were either sparring, grappling, or training self-defenses with a classmate and your Sensei says: “YAME!!” ” COURTESY AND RESPECT.. THANK YOUR PARTNER.” ” FIND A NEW PARTNER AND INTRODUCE YOURSELF IF NEED BE” “HAJIME!” And, every time we started with a new partner our strategy would need to…
I believe there are two moments in my life that have drastically changed who I am as a person: the day I got my drum set for Christmas almost four years ago and the day my dad signed me up for karate because I was being bullied at school. A lot of people seem to…
The grading paper is received and it’s going to be a month away. Uncertainty rises and thoughts about progress and accomplishment swarm the mind. They’ve taught me so much, what if I don’t remember the name of the block or strike? What if I’m nervous and screw up the moves? What will I do if…
There are various benefits in tournament participation. One would be the experience of a social atmosphere. At an AMA Challenge, participants discover their community, beyond their dojo. They meet more people with common values and witness how training impacts the world around them. We all come together, contribute who we are and work to unify…
There are various benefits in tournament participation. One would be self-growth. Self-growth is the process of discovering and developing who you are. It’s an individual journey, yet it’s accomplished by yourself and with others. There are many ways to obtain growth and inspiration is found all around. Purpose is born within, and through interaction, new…
There are various benefits in tournament participation. One would be the opportunity to come out of your comfort zone and discover more of your person. As students, we get used to class routine and the people we work with. I’m safe to make mistakes and learn in class, but what about in tournament? What happens…
Entering my first tournament, my mind was conflicted with thoughts. What will people think of my inability? I should stick with what I’m good at so I have a chance. If I can’t do it physically, will my spirit be enough? What will I do if I fall down? Despite the questions hovering in my…
How can martial arts make everything better? I aspire to be a developed individual (spiritually, mentally and physically) who enjoys life for its diverse blessings. In my epilepsy and stroke recovery, karate has been the ultimate therapy for me. Here is how karate has made everything better for me. Living with a disability, I assumed…
Kevin Cyr – Second Degree Black Belt – Central Academy of Martial Arts “What sports do you do?” Jim slumps in the chair next to me. His stomach spills from the bottom of his white polo. “Uh, I don’t do sports.” I spin to face him on my own green plastic school chair. “You don’t…
I’m Astrid Hardjana-Large and I’ve been a member of the Academy of Martial Arts for about 15 years. Living with Epilepsy, then recovering from a stroke, training with the Academy of Martial Arts is a motivation for self-discovery. With an accepting community focused on everyone’s capabilities, difference isn’t something to fear; it inspires respect. Having…
