Archive for Taekwondo

If you’re over the age of 30, should you consider studying the martial arts?

Well, yes –and no.

You should consider a regular, daily, exercise program. A sensible one; one that starts slow and lets your fitness sneak up on you (rather than hitting you over the head with it).

A martial arts program certainly has the potential to be a wonderfully complete training program, as it includes stretching, strength training, aerobic exercise, and requires a kind of mental focus akin to deep meditation. That is, if the instructor you choose has the right kinds of experience. Instructors that are under the age of 30 are often spectacular athletes, but it’s important that they have an understanding of how to teach people of all ages.

But Oh, find a great teacher and the martial arts can become your best friend. The training can keep you supple, sharp, and clear thinking. A martial arts school, directed by a conscientious teacher, can be a centering, inspiring, refreshing place that you love going to –and leave thinking about your next session.

Yes, look to the martial arts for new perspective on your life, after the age of 30. It’s not too late, even at 40, 50, or 60. To choose a school take their trial course (which should be free or close to it). All the best school offer new students an opportunity to test drive “the car” before buying. I think you should try my school, of course, but I might be a wee bit prejudice.

If you’re thinking about taking classes, allow me to be the first to invite you in. Mention that you’re over 30 and I will offer you 2 weeks of lessons to try us out (no strings attached). Warning: It’s fun, affordable, and invigorating. It’s never to late to start working out. The most difficult aspect of exercise is taking that first step.

Reach me here: 866-858-2102 or mrhayden@haydensata.com

Self-Defense is Found in the Simple Things

We teach self-defense –and self-defense is found in the simplest of things. Kindness, for example; kindness is a beautiful form of self-defense. Good food –and the appreciation of it; there’s a fine, fine kind of self-defense. Oh, and how about love of community? Participation in –and love for –one’s community is a kind of self-defense that’s impossible to put a value on. And my favorite kind of self-defense is found in a simple rule, The Golden Rule:

Treat others as you would want them to treat you.

Simply perfect.

We like Tom Callos’ (www.tomcallos.com) description of self-defense too: “Self-defense isn’t only about personal protection, it’s about taking care of the people around you and the place you live as well.”

And of course, self-defense training is all you already imagined it to be, but with this particular attitude about it, self-defense becomes about living a good life. What a great idea.

For information about our school and self-defense lessons for today’s world, contact us today 866-858-2102.

Stop Bullying Awareness Day – February 9th

Kendallville, IN – On February 9th concerned parents and students are leading an effort to bring more awareness to the problem of bullying in Noble County. Local parent, Robyn Funk has partnered with the Noble Bully Project and Miss Limberlost, Vicki McKee, to bring awareness to this growing problem.

“I want to help our community understand the problem. I don’t want to be a parent that just sits and complains I want to help others.” says Funk.

Students and parents are encouraged to wear a blue shirt on February 9th to show support for the cause. You can even buy a special “The End of Bullying Begins with Me” shirt ($8.50) from Mr. B’s in Kendallville with profits from the shirts will go to the Noble Bully Project here in Noble County.

Not only are students encouraged to wear blue but they will also be encouraged to sign the PACER Center’s “The End of Bullying Begins with Me.” Some local schools will have copies at their school for students to sign. If you’d like to get a petition at your school please contact Robyn Funk (funkr@att.net). You can also sign the petition online at www.noblebullyproject.com.

Advice for Men and Women over the age of 40, Thinking About Taking Martial Arts Classes

First, take it slow. No, really. There’s no hurry, it’s not a competition, and you’re not 20 anymore (even though you look like it). Going too hard, too fast, is why a lot of people who would like to enjoy all the benefits of training, no longer practice the martial arts (or any number of activities). Go too fast, get injured; get injured, quit training.

Second, if the instructor is your age (or older), that’s a good thing. If he or she is younger, make sure they know who’s the boss (you!). You only do what your body says you can do. If and when a class moves into an area you, for sure, want to avoid, you can always find an alternative way to stay engaged. What you shouldn’t do is “100 reps” when your body is telling you the 50 would be wise. Trust me, your teacher will appreciate your input. Give yourself enough time and you will not only keep up with the group, you might be leading it!

Be consistent. Being inconsistent about class attendance can dampen the fire of your enthusiasm. Stay on course!

Try out the class you’re interested, first, before enrolling. There’s nothing wrong with trying a week or even two weeks of classes with an instructor you’re interested in studying with. Most all schools will provide you with an introductory or trial course, without a fee (if you like classes, they’re going to know you for a long, long time). If a school doesn’t offer an introductory, it’s a red flag to enrollment.

By the way, call Hayden’s ATA (866-858-2102) today to receive a free introductory course, good for you and up to 5 family and/or friends.

Tom Callos, 51 years of age and a 40 year veteran of martial arts practice (see his bio at www.tomcallos.com) offers the following advice:

“Don’t hesitate to enroll in martial arts classes,” says Callos. “It’s a wonderful, thorough, and engaging form of exercise. Just be mindful about the way you practice. Study some of the history of the art you engage in. Enjoy the process of improvement.”

ATA Student Changes Lives

Check out how this ATA student has taken her leadership skills and helped to change the world around here! My goal is to have a student that can make an impact this big someday!

Click here to check out the video!

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