When I was in my teens, a pastor I knew was fond of saying, "Sow an action, reap a habit. Sow a habit, reap a character. Sow a character, reap a destiny."
Today, join me in taking action on our resolutions and goals. Exercise today. Eat well today. Do a kind act today. Spend meaningful time with loved ones today. Sow an action. Sow it again tomorrow. Eventually, you will reap a habit...then a character...then a destiny.
In many ways, that is what martial arts training is all about. We spend each class sowing actions, whether it is working on specific techniques, bowing, lining up in order, sparring with a partner, working on self-defense, hitting the heavy bag, training kata, or whatever. Those actions eventually become habits. Our techniques, if trained well, become more effective, and become second nature. So does bowing and other forms of etiquette. And eventually those habits mold our characters. We become more disciplined, more respectful, more confident, more strong, more self-controlled. And our destiny becomes so much more, so much better, than it would have been otherwise.
So, for today, just do it. If you aren't one of our students already, sow the action of calling 805-931-0683 and registering for classes. Reap a lifetime of good habits, of stronger character, and of a great and wonderful destiny.
Saturday, January 03, 2009
Friday, January 02, 2009
Resolve today: make monthly goals
Most New Year's resolutions are about broad, sweeping reforms. Lose weight. Stop smoking. Become a nicer person. Spend more time with family and friends. These are all very well and good, but without a specific game plan, too many of them are doomed to failure before January is even over.
Enter the monthly goal --- the road map that will get you from New Year's great ideas to actual success at the end of the year.
When it comes to goal-setting, many successful people follow something similar to what is known as the MAPS principle. A good goal is Measurable, Attainable, Purposeful, and Specific. That way, you will be breaking down general resolutions into monthly goals --- your road map to success.
How it works...
One of my resolutions is "Exercise regularly and improve fitness". That all sounds well and good but, without a specific plan, I'm pretty much doomed to go on with my current habits and, at the end of 2009, be telling myself that 2010 will be the year that I really become more disciplined in exercising. And I'll feel like a guilty failure, berating myself for not keeping my resolutions. Or, even worse, I'll have completely forgotten what I resolved at the beginning of the year.
With monthly goals, I will have a workable plan. So, for January, my goal is to get at least 20 minutes of some form of exercise every day. This will help me form a habit for the rest of the year. It also fits the MAPS principle.
Measurable: I will measure my progress towards this goal by keeping a fitness calendar (more about that in days to come). It's easy to measure whether or not I exercised for at least 20 minutes.
Attainable: This is a realistic goal. I've looked over my calendar and determined that each day has at least 20 minutes in it that I can set aside for exercise, even if it is only taking a walk with the dog.
Purposeful: Having a purpose for this goal will motivate me in keeping it. Actually I could list a number of motivating factors. Any health or fitness website will detail the many benefits of daily exercise. My main motivation, besides those benefits, is to establish a daily habit that will help me be successful in my resolution.
Specific: This goal is quite specific. I've discovered that the more easily measurable a goal is, the more specific it tends to be, and vice versa.
Today I am looking at all of my resolutions and, if I haven't yet done so, am formulating my monthly goals for January. If I feel especially ambitious, I may go on to map out monthly goals for February and beyond.
Enter the monthly goal --- the road map that will get you from New Year's great ideas to actual success at the end of the year.
When it comes to goal-setting, many successful people follow something similar to what is known as the MAPS principle. A good goal is Measurable, Attainable, Purposeful, and Specific. That way, you will be breaking down general resolutions into monthly goals --- your road map to success.
How it works...
One of my resolutions is "Exercise regularly and improve fitness". That all sounds well and good but, without a specific plan, I'm pretty much doomed to go on with my current habits and, at the end of 2009, be telling myself that 2010 will be the year that I really become more disciplined in exercising. And I'll feel like a guilty failure, berating myself for not keeping my resolutions. Or, even worse, I'll have completely forgotten what I resolved at the beginning of the year.
With monthly goals, I will have a workable plan. So, for January, my goal is to get at least 20 minutes of some form of exercise every day. This will help me form a habit for the rest of the year. It also fits the MAPS principle.
Measurable: I will measure my progress towards this goal by keeping a fitness calendar (more about that in days to come). It's easy to measure whether or not I exercised for at least 20 minutes.
Attainable: This is a realistic goal. I've looked over my calendar and determined that each day has at least 20 minutes in it that I can set aside for exercise, even if it is only taking a walk with the dog.
Purposeful: Having a purpose for this goal will motivate me in keeping it. Actually I could list a number of motivating factors. Any health or fitness website will detail the many benefits of daily exercise. My main motivation, besides those benefits, is to establish a daily habit that will help me be successful in my resolution.
Specific: This goal is quite specific. I've discovered that the more easily measurable a goal is, the more specific it tends to be, and vice versa.
Today I am looking at all of my resolutions and, if I haven't yet done so, am formulating my monthly goals for January. If I feel especially ambitious, I may go on to map out monthly goals for February and beyond.
Thursday, January 01, 2009
Resolve today: celebrate new beginnings
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
Remember that trite saying, "Today is the first day of the rest of your life"? Like many such sayings, it has some truth, even wisdom, to it.
Use the energy and excitement of a new year, a fresh page on the calendar, to motivate you to change and renewal. Now is the time to embark on adventure, to recommit to old goals even while setting new ones, to try something you've never tried before, to take on projects, to commit deeper to what is good in your life as you discard what isn't.
Celebrate new beginnings. Even if it seems as if there is nothing new in your life, celebrate turning over a new leaf as you embrace life with fresh enthusiasm.
Read more about having a successful 2009.
Remember that trite saying, "Today is the first day of the rest of your life"? Like many such sayings, it has some truth, even wisdom, to it.
Use the energy and excitement of a new year, a fresh page on the calendar, to motivate you to change and renewal. Now is the time to embark on adventure, to recommit to old goals even while setting new ones, to try something you've never tried before, to take on projects, to commit deeper to what is good in your life as you discard what isn't.
Celebrate new beginnings. Even if it seems as if there is nothing new in your life, celebrate turning over a new leaf as you embrace life with fresh enthusiasm.
Read more about having a successful 2009.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Resolve today: look back to look forward
It's the last day of 2008. If you're like me, you'll find some time, amidst whatever is keeping you busy today, to reflect quietly over the past year. In doing so, I encourage you not to look back with regrets, but rather to look forward with hope as you plan to overcome any defeats and build on your successes.
What did you do well in 2008? How can you continue and even improve on that?
What could you have done better? What can you do, today and tomorrow, to set new habits and to stop those habits that do not serve you well?
What goals have you or will you set for 2009? And how can Shinjin Karate help you with those goals?
The time that I plan to spend training in the dojo will directly help me achieve a number of my goals and resolutions for 2009, not just the obvious ones like improving my health and fitness. I know that when I train well, a lot of the other things in my life tend to fall into place. Maybe it's the increased confidence, the endorphins from exercise, the extra level of energy, the self-discipline, the stress-relief --- all I know is that the hours I spent on the mat are always well spent and reap great rewards in the rest of my life. I'm sure you'll discover the same thing.
Happy New Year!
Read more about having a successful 2009.
What did you do well in 2008? How can you continue and even improve on that?
What could you have done better? What can you do, today and tomorrow, to set new habits and to stop those habits that do not serve you well?
What goals have you or will you set for 2009? And how can Shinjin Karate help you with those goals?
The time that I plan to spend training in the dojo will directly help me achieve a number of my goals and resolutions for 2009, not just the obvious ones like improving my health and fitness. I know that when I train well, a lot of the other things in my life tend to fall into place. Maybe it's the increased confidence, the endorphins from exercise, the extra level of energy, the self-discipline, the stress-relief --- all I know is that the hours I spent on the mat are always well spent and reap great rewards in the rest of my life. I'm sure you'll discover the same thing.
Happy New Year!
Read more about having a successful 2009.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Looking for a last-minute Christmas gift?
...or just a great value for martial arts & fitness classes?
Start out the New Year right! For only $50, you can choose one of the following:
- Our Karate Beginner Course. This includes intro classes PLUS one month of regular classes. We have classes for ages 5 - adult.
- One month of fitness classes. Choose from Combat Fitness (ages 16 - adult; meets Mondays & Wednesdays at 7:00 pm) or Women's Fitness (ages 14 - adult; meets Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:00 am) or Family Fitness (ages 12 - adult; meets Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7:00 am)
- Our Fitness Pack. This includes what you'll need for all of our fitness classes and for our Friday Fight Class. Deluxe bag gloves, elastic hand wraps, and an adjustable jump rope all come in a tote bag. This is a $60 value.
For an even better value: Your first month of fitness classes PLUS the Fitness Pack is only $80!
How to get started:
- Call 805-931-0683 and schedule your first class. If you are interested in karate classes, your free intro class will be held outside of the regular classes, and will cover the basics and what you need to know to participate successfully in our regular classes.
- Attend our FREE workout on Saturday, January 3, 2009 at 9:00 am --- and kickstart your New Year's Resolutions. This workout will include what is usually covered in our karate intro classes, as well as giving you a good flavor of what our fitness program is all about. It should be a fun and exciting workout, and a great way to start 2009. Call now to reserve your space.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
It's fun, exciting --- and FREE!!!
Start the New Year out right by joining us for a great workout on Saturday, January 3 at 9:00 a.m. to noon. This will be like our Fight Class, Family Fitness, Combat Fitness, basic training, intro course, and regular classes all rolled into one exciting morning!
Our New Year's Workout is for:
1. Current students at Shinjin Karate. Get back into the swing of things after the holiday break, and get a jumpstart into getting into the best shape of your life this year.
2. Former students thinking of returning to class. Polish up on your karate skills and review the basics, plus find out what some of our new bonus classes are all about.
3. New students. If you are starting your Beginner Course in January or February, this would be a great introduction to our basic techniques.
4. Friends and family of current students. Why not join them out on the mat for just one day? Who knows, you may discover you've been missing out on more fun than you thought!
5. Anyone interested in our martial arts and/or fitness classes. This is a great FREE way to discover what we're all about.
What to wear: workout clothes or gi. If you wear a gi, you will probably want to bring a t-shirt to wear for part of the workout.
What to bring: water, healthy snack, bag gloves, hand wraps, jump rope. [Call today to order your "Kickboxing Fitness Pack" for a special reduced fee of only $45! Contains elastic hand wraps, boxing/bag gloves, adjustable jump rope and a tote bag]
Our New Year's Workout is for:
1. Current students at Shinjin Karate. Get back into the swing of things after the holiday break, and get a jumpstart into getting into the best shape of your life this year.
2. Former students thinking of returning to class. Polish up on your karate skills and review the basics, plus find out what some of our new bonus classes are all about.
3. New students. If you are starting your Beginner Course in January or February, this would be a great introduction to our basic techniques.
4. Friends and family of current students. Why not join them out on the mat for just one day? Who knows, you may discover you've been missing out on more fun than you thought!
5. Anyone interested in our martial arts and/or fitness classes. This is a great FREE way to discover what we're all about.
What to wear: workout clothes or gi. If you wear a gi, you will probably want to bring a t-shirt to wear for part of the workout.
What to bring: water, healthy snack, bag gloves, hand wraps, jump rope. [Call today to order your "Kickboxing Fitness Pack" for a special reduced fee of only $45! Contains elastic hand wraps, boxing/bag gloves, adjustable jump rope and a tote bag]
CALL 805-931-0683 TO REGISTER FOR THIS FREE WORKOUT
SEE YOU THERE!
SEE YOU THERE!
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Calling all homeschoolers!
Recently a homeschooling mom shared her dilemma with me. It all started after the birth of her youngest, when she gained more than she intended...and those extra pounds refused to budge, even years later. Then her husband began putting on weight. They turned from a healthy, trim family into what she described as "couch potatoes who only got up to go look for more potatoes to eat".
They tried bicycling as a family, but it was hard to get into any sort of routine. Plus, they seemed plagued by flat tires, lost helmets, loose chains, outgrown bikes, poor weather and other problems that, while not insurmountable, made bicycling into more of a bother than they had anticipated.
Then they decided team sports were the way to go, so they headed down to the local Recreation Department. Next thing they knew, they were spending weekends shuttling back and forth between two or three different sports fields and juggling a schedule that kept them running during the week.
And Mom and Dad? They were so busy driving their children to sports activities, that they had no time for exercise.
One evening, after yet frantic afternoon, the father asked, "Didn't we homeschool so we could do stuff together as a family? How is having our children in all these separate activities and on all these different teams really helping us bond better? Besides, I don't think the kids are in all that much better shape, especially since we eat so much fast food while we're rushing from one thing to another." Then he sighed and said, "Wouldn't it be great if we could all join a gym together or play some sport that we could all do as a family?"
And they both laughed over the silliness of his idea...until the mom shared her story with me. By the time we finished our conversation, she was convinced I had the correct solution to her dilemma, and she was ready to sign up. The only reason she's not at Shinjin Karate is because she lives out of the area. But, last I heard, she's looking for karate schools in her area that allow parents and children to take classes together.
If her story resonates with you, I'd like to encourage you to call me today at 805-931-0683. For January 2009, I am putting together a special "Homeschooling Fitness Package" that will be tailor-made for your particular family and your schedule. To get started, all you need to do is call to set up your first FREE introductory session, during which we'll get to know each other. I'll briefly assess your family's level of fitness; we'll talk about your goals; we'll go over schedules; I'll guide you through a sample workout (either fitness activities, martial arts, or both, depending on your interest) and I'll help you set up the best program for your family.
We have morning and evening fitness classes, and afternoon and evening karate classes. I'm sure we can put together a Fitness Package that will help your family become stronger, not just physically, but relationally --- and mentally, emotionally, and spiritually as well.
And if you're not a homeschooling family? Ask about our "New Year's Resolution Success Program". Both programs offer reduced class prices for new students who begin in January 2009.
They tried bicycling as a family, but it was hard to get into any sort of routine. Plus, they seemed plagued by flat tires, lost helmets, loose chains, outgrown bikes, poor weather and other problems that, while not insurmountable, made bicycling into more of a bother than they had anticipated.
Then they decided team sports were the way to go, so they headed down to the local Recreation Department. Next thing they knew, they were spending weekends shuttling back and forth between two or three different sports fields and juggling a schedule that kept them running during the week.
And Mom and Dad? They were so busy driving their children to sports activities, that they had no time for exercise.
One evening, after yet frantic afternoon, the father asked, "Didn't we homeschool so we could do stuff together as a family? How is having our children in all these separate activities and on all these different teams really helping us bond better? Besides, I don't think the kids are in all that much better shape, especially since we eat so much fast food while we're rushing from one thing to another." Then he sighed and said, "Wouldn't it be great if we could all join a gym together or play some sport that we could all do as a family?"
And they both laughed over the silliness of his idea...until the mom shared her story with me. By the time we finished our conversation, she was convinced I had the correct solution to her dilemma, and she was ready to sign up. The only reason she's not at Shinjin Karate is because she lives out of the area. But, last I heard, she's looking for karate schools in her area that allow parents and children to take classes together.
If her story resonates with you, I'd like to encourage you to call me today at 805-931-0683. For January 2009, I am putting together a special "Homeschooling Fitness Package" that will be tailor-made for your particular family and your schedule. To get started, all you need to do is call to set up your first FREE introductory session, during which we'll get to know each other. I'll briefly assess your family's level of fitness; we'll talk about your goals; we'll go over schedules; I'll guide you through a sample workout (either fitness activities, martial arts, or both, depending on your interest) and I'll help you set up the best program for your family.
We have morning and evening fitness classes, and afternoon and evening karate classes. I'm sure we can put together a Fitness Package that will help your family become stronger, not just physically, but relationally --- and mentally, emotionally, and spiritually as well.
And if you're not a homeschooling family? Ask about our "New Year's Resolution Success Program". Both programs offer reduced class prices for new students who begin in January 2009.
More ways to stay in touch
If the website, blog, and dojo calendar/handouts aren't enough, or you want more up-to-date info, here are two new ways to stay in touch with us:
1. Shinjin Karate is a Facebook group. Check it out.
2. We're also on Twitter. Supposedly all the cool people are into this. Or maybe it's just the techno-geekish sorts.
1. Shinjin Karate is a Facebook group. Check it out.
2. We're also on Twitter. Supposedly all the cool people are into this. Or maybe it's just the techno-geekish sorts.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
How to succeed at keeping your resolutions in 2009
Many of us make them. But do we keep them? Not as many, at least according to the online articles I've been reading.
New Year's Resolutions...how often have you made them with all the best intentions in the world, only to abandon them before January was even over? Don't you want 2009 to be different?
As I've discovered via some quick online research, these are some of the most popular resolutions:
Here are a few keys to your general success:
I believe strongly that our martial arts and/or fitness programs at Shinjin Karate are designed for success in all five of those popular resolutions. In fact, I would like to tell you in person --- and even show you --- how our individually tailored fitness classes and our Keichu Ryu karate program (or even a combination of the two) can put you on the road to success.
Call me at 805-931-0683 and ask about our special "New Year's Resolution Success Program". Let me introduce you to our fun and effective programs that will increase your energy level, reduce your stress, boost your confidence and self-discipline, help you be more focused, empower you for success...and more. Plus, all of this will be available for you --- and your family --- at a great value.
Make 2009 your year for success. Get started now. Call today.
New Year's Resolutions...how often have you made them with all the best intentions in the world, only to abandon them before January was even over? Don't you want 2009 to be different?
As I've discovered via some quick online research, these are some of the most popular resolutions:
- Lose weight
- Start exercising
- Quit smoking
- Enjoy life more
- Spend money more wisely
Here are a few keys to your general success:
- Begin early. Don't just make your resolution on December 31st.
- Prepare for success with a realistic plan.
- Find someone to encourage you, hold you accountable, and coach you through the tough times.
- Make measurable short-term goals, mid-range goals, and long-term goals.
- Don't just rely on will-power; make the process of reaching your goals an enjoyable one
I believe strongly that our martial arts and/or fitness programs at Shinjin Karate are designed for success in all five of those popular resolutions. In fact, I would like to tell you in person --- and even show you --- how our individually tailored fitness classes and our Keichu Ryu karate program (or even a combination of the two) can put you on the road to success.
Call me at 805-931-0683 and ask about our special "New Year's Resolution Success Program". Let me introduce you to our fun and effective programs that will increase your energy level, reduce your stress, boost your confidence and self-discipline, help you be more focused, empower you for success...and more. Plus, all of this will be available for you --- and your family --- at a great value.
Make 2009 your year for success. Get started now. Call today.
Monday, December 08, 2008
In 2009: Resolve to be strong
No matter what New Year's resolutions you come up with over the next month or so, it will take discipline to achieve them, right? Discipline, determination, self-control, will power --- in short, it will take a certain amount of strength.
Maybe weight loss will be on your short list of resolutions. Or maybe it's to become more fit, or to break a bad habit or two. I'm convinced that, even if your resolution is something like "Be nicer to my spouse", a good fitness program will help you keep it. Why? Because, as you get stronger, improve your energy level, and handle stress better, you will be more capable of actually keeping that set of resolutions this year.
Ready to succeed? We have three fitness programs that will help you get a handle on stress, make you stronger, and improve your level of fitness, whether you are a couch potato or a seasoned athlete...or somewhere in between.
Call 805-931-0683 to find out which fitness classes are right for you. Here is the rundown:
Combat Fitness: Train like a fighter, whether you are a martial artist or not. This high energy workout is taught by "Mr. Isaac", and will definitely get your heart pounding, your muscles working, and the sweat flowing. Classes are currently in session and meet Mondays & Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. New students may start at any time. For ages 16+. (Younger students may enroll at instructor's discretion.)
Women's Fitness: This is the class to get you started in the morning. All levels of fitness are welcome, because we will tailor this fun, stress-busting workout to meet your needs and your personal goals. Classes meet Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:00 a.m. and will begin again on January 6, 2009. New students may start at any time. For ages 14+.
Family Fitness: If 6:00 a.m. is just a bit too early for you, or if you and your spouse would like to exercise together before work, or if you are looking for a physical fitness class for your homeschool family, this one is for you! Classes meet Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7:00 a.m. and will begin on January 6, 2009, provided we have enough interested students. For ages 12+.
No uniforms are required for any of our classes, just workout clothes.
Our "blog special" will end on March 1, 2009.
Are you ready to make 2009 your best and most successful year ever? Let us help you! Call 805-931-0683 to begin your fitness program.
Maybe weight loss will be on your short list of resolutions. Or maybe it's to become more fit, or to break a bad habit or two. I'm convinced that, even if your resolution is something like "Be nicer to my spouse", a good fitness program will help you keep it. Why? Because, as you get stronger, improve your energy level, and handle stress better, you will be more capable of actually keeping that set of resolutions this year.
Ready to succeed? We have three fitness programs that will help you get a handle on stress, make you stronger, and improve your level of fitness, whether you are a couch potato or a seasoned athlete...or somewhere in between.
Call 805-931-0683 to find out which fitness classes are right for you. Here is the rundown:
Combat Fitness: Train like a fighter, whether you are a martial artist or not. This high energy workout is taught by "Mr. Isaac", and will definitely get your heart pounding, your muscles working, and the sweat flowing. Classes are currently in session and meet Mondays & Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. New students may start at any time. For ages 16+. (Younger students may enroll at instructor's discretion.)
Women's Fitness: This is the class to get you started in the morning. All levels of fitness are welcome, because we will tailor this fun, stress-busting workout to meet your needs and your personal goals. Classes meet Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:00 a.m. and will begin again on January 6, 2009. New students may start at any time. For ages 14+.
Family Fitness: If 6:00 a.m. is just a bit too early for you, or if you and your spouse would like to exercise together before work, or if you are looking for a physical fitness class for your homeschool family, this one is for you! Classes meet Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7:00 a.m. and will begin on January 6, 2009, provided we have enough interested students. For ages 12+.
No uniforms are required for any of our classes, just workout clothes.
Our "blog special" will end on March 1, 2009.
Shinjin Karate Blog Special!!!
Mention this blog post and receive...
First month of fitness class AND Kickboxing Fitness Pack for only $80
Kickboxing Fitness Pack contains the equipment you'll need for our fitness classes:
Boxing/bag gloves, hand wraps, adjustable jump rope, and tote bag (a $60 value)
If you already own gloves and hand wraps, first month of class is only $50
Current Shinjin Karate students: ask about your discount price!
Mention this blog post and receive...
First month of fitness class AND Kickboxing Fitness Pack for only $80
Kickboxing Fitness Pack contains the equipment you'll need for our fitness classes:
Boxing/bag gloves, hand wraps, adjustable jump rope, and tote bag (a $60 value)
If you already own gloves and hand wraps, first month of class is only $50
Current Shinjin Karate students: ask about your discount price!
Are you ready to make 2009 your best and most successful year ever? Let us help you! Call 805-931-0683 to begin your fitness program.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Reminder: martial arts trainingweekend!
Yes, it's this weekend, and it's not too late to sign up! You don't want to miss this exciting weekend of karate, self-defense, physical conditioning, ground fighting, and more.
Call 805-931-0683 for more info.
-- Post From My iPhone
Call 805-931-0683 for more info.
-- Post From My iPhone
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Life can be tough...
...but you can train to be tougher.
Training at Shinjin Karate offers more than just kicking and punching. Like many of the "old school" practitioners of karate, we have discovered that the benefits of training go beyond the physical. We truly train mind, body, and spirit. Yes, you'll get stronger physically, especially if you train hard. But you will also achieve a new mental toughness and a new strength of spirit.
One of our students described her training as "re-inventing herself". Another student remarked how bullies at school gradually stopped bothering him, even though none of them knew he was training in the martial arts. Somehow he found himself no longer reacting in a way that was rewarding to the bullies. Now he's standing up for the other kids who are being picked on. Another student commented that her new-found confidence not only makes her less afraid to be alone at home, but has made her more willing to take greater risks, whether it's asking for a raise at work or being her child's advocate at school.
Other students have found the focus and mental toughness they needed to do better at school or work. They have learned to stand up for themselves. They have discovered that they are stronger and tougher and more capable than they ever thought possible. They have learned to live their lives with confidence.
Yes, life can be tough. But the lessons you learn on our dojo floor will help you face life head on. You'll learn how to persevere. You'll learn to get up when knocked down but, most importantly, you'll learn to win.
Training at Shinjin Karate offers more than just kicking and punching. Like many of the "old school" practitioners of karate, we have discovered that the benefits of training go beyond the physical. We truly train mind, body, and spirit. Yes, you'll get stronger physically, especially if you train hard. But you will also achieve a new mental toughness and a new strength of spirit.
One of our students described her training as "re-inventing herself". Another student remarked how bullies at school gradually stopped bothering him, even though none of them knew he was training in the martial arts. Somehow he found himself no longer reacting in a way that was rewarding to the bullies. Now he's standing up for the other kids who are being picked on. Another student commented that her new-found confidence not only makes her less afraid to be alone at home, but has made her more willing to take greater risks, whether it's asking for a raise at work or being her child's advocate at school.
Other students have found the focus and mental toughness they needed to do better at school or work. They have learned to stand up for themselves. They have discovered that they are stronger and tougher and more capable than they ever thought possible. They have learned to live their lives with confidence.
Yes, life can be tough. But the lessons you learn on our dojo floor will help you face life head on. You'll learn how to persevere. You'll learn to get up when knocked down but, most importantly, you'll learn to win.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Training Weekend is ALMOST HERE!!!
It's almost here! Sensei Danny Gilliland, 6th dan in Keichu Ryu Karate, will be coming all the way from Louisiana for this exciting weekend of seminars. You won't want to miss it. We are offering a variety of seminars that will improve your skills in karate, self-defense, ground fighting, and all-around fighting skills.
Click on the above image for a larger, more readable version.
Click on the above image for a larger, more readable version.EDITED to add corrected flyer.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Give yourself the gift of fitness
Our next 6 week women's fitness course will start Tuesday, January 6, 2008. Here is some info:
If you are a woman or teenage girl (age 14+) and you want a fun, exciting workout - Do we have a class for you! We are offering six week women's martial arts fitness classes, meeting Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:00 am. It's a great way to lose fat, gain muscle, become more flexible, and all that good stuff --- and it's a terrific stress-busting workout that will leave you energized for the rest of the day. Our next session starts on January 6 and runs through February 12. No uniforms required; just wear workout clothes. Our fitness classes are open to Shinjin Karate students and non-students alike. The cost is only $100 for the entire six weeks [ask about coupons, specials and reduced rates for current students] and includes, as a bonus, our Friday Fight Classes at no extra charge! (To enroll, call 805-931-0683)
If you are a current Shinjin Karate student looking to ramp up your workout - You can enroll in either our Combat Fitness or Women's Fitness classes at a reduced rate OR you can attend our Fight Class OR you can become involved in as many of our fitness classes as possible!
If you are a woman or teenage girl (age 14+) and you want a fun, exciting workout - Do we have a class for you! We are offering six week women's martial arts fitness classes, meeting Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:00 am. It's a great way to lose fat, gain muscle, become more flexible, and all that good stuff --- and it's a terrific stress-busting workout that will leave you energized for the rest of the day. Our next session starts on January 6 and runs through February 12. No uniforms required; just wear workout clothes. Our fitness classes are open to Shinjin Karate students and non-students alike. The cost is only $100 for the entire six weeks [ask about coupons, specials and reduced rates for current students] and includes, as a bonus, our Friday Fight Classes at no extra charge! (To enroll, call 805-931-0683)
If you are a current Shinjin Karate student looking to ramp up your workout - You can enroll in either our Combat Fitness or Women's Fitness classes at a reduced rate OR you can attend our Fight Class OR you can become involved in as many of our fitness classes as possible!
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
It all starts here
COMBAT FITNESS!It all starts here.
This is more than a workout. Much more.
Mondays and Wednesdays at 7:00 pm
Ages 16 through adult.
Be there.
Shinjin Karate
720 S. Frontage Rd. #106
Nipomo, CA 93444
Monday, October 06, 2008
Coming soon to Shinjin Karate: Combat Fitness!
Combat Fitness, which will meet Monday & Wednesday evenings at 7:00 pm, is the latest addition to our small but growing number of fitness classes. This is not your run of the mill, boring, same old same old fitness workout. This class, designed for ages 16 and up, and is best suited for you if:- You are looking for a challenging, hardcore workout
- You are looking for a way to get fit quickly
- You've never trained in any sort of fighting style, but you have always been interested
- You are training in the martial arts, but want to add an additional, more rigorous workout
- You once took a cardio kickboxing class and thought it was kinda wimpy
- You think our Fight Class is just for kids
- You prefer taking fitness classes from a young, tough, extremely fit instructor
In addition to our new Combat Fitness class, we also offer the following:
If you are a woman or teenage girl (age 14+) and you want to be more fit - Do we have a class for you! We are offering six week women's fitness classes, meeting Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:00 am. It's a great way to lose fat, gain muscle, become more flexible, and all that good stuff --- and it's a terrific stress-busting workout that will leave you energized for the rest of the day. Our next session starts on September 9 and runs through October 16. No uniforms required; just wear workout clothes. Our fitness classes are open to students and non-students alike. The cost is only $100 for the entire six weeks and includes, as a bonus, our Friday Fight Classes at no extra charge! (To enroll, call 805-931-0683)
If you are a current Shinjin Karate student looking to ramp up your workout - You can enroll in either our Combat Fitness or Women's Fitness classes at a reduced rate OR you can attend our Fight Class OR you can become involved in as many of our fitness classes as possible!
Monday, September 29, 2008
Our tournament was a success!
Thank you, thank you, thank you to everyone who worked so hard to make our tournament a success.
And then there were all my wonderful tournament volunteers who shopped and cooked and built trophies and made signs and handled registration and served as medics and hauled stuff and set up and cleaned up and worked and worked and worked. Thank you all!
I am also grateful for all the wonderful people who judged the competition.
And then the competitors --- you all did GREAT!
Thank you, each and everyone, for all that you contributed to make our first tournament such a fun and successful event!
Our competition team --- or at least most of them. Some had not yet arrived in time for the picture, and at least one was already working hard getting our snack bar up and running.
(By the way, the food was GREAT! And our snack bar crew was the best ever!)
Sensei Maria Evans, our USKA California State Representative, co-sponsored our tournament.
Mr. Crothers, aka "Mr. Mr.", helped keep the tournament running smoothly and got all of our scorekeepers and timekeepers up to speed.
My Sensei, Danny Gilliland, came all the way from Louisiana to help out. I don't quite recall what it was that made us all laugh here, but it must have been funny.
(By the way, the food was GREAT! And our snack bar crew was the best ever!)
Sensei Maria Evans, our USKA California State Representative, co-sponsored our tournament.
Mr. Crothers, aka "Mr. Mr.", helped keep the tournament running smoothly and got all of our scorekeepers and timekeepers up to speed.
My Sensei, Danny Gilliland, came all the way from Louisiana to help out. I don't quite recall what it was that made us all laugh here, but it must have been funny.
Sempai Miriam was our main bracketing person.
Chuck Cody was our announcer and brought his own special flair to the event.
I am also grateful for all the wonderful people who judged the competition.
And then the competitors --- you all did GREAT!
Thank you, each and everyone, for all that you contributed to make our first tournament such a fun and successful event!
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Tournament: full speed ahead!
It's hard to believe that, by this time next week, our tournament will be a thing of the past!
I have been blessed beyond measure by all of you who have, in many different ways, been so quick and eager to show what our core values mean to you. So many of you --- students and parents --- have been helping out, and have promised to be of support in whatever way you can.
Our students have shown that they are ready to meet the challenge I set for them. Almost everyone on the list of eligible students has demonstrated their eagerness to compete by pre-registering early. What has truly amazed me is how many of our new white belts have been working so hard to learn their kata. Last night we had our Competition Class, and our dojo was full of students who wanted to make sure they will be as ready as possible to do their absolute best next week. I felt that it was a personal triumph for some of our very little ones, and some of our most shy students, to perform in front of so many people. I just know they will do well in competition!
If you are one of the handful of Shinjin Karate students who has not yet pre-registered, all is not lost. Although you've missed out on the discount, you can still register in the dojo this coming week and avoid having to wait in a long line to register at the tournament.
Today, a number of you showed up at our house to help build trophies. What a great crew we had! You were undaunted by the last-minute time change and by our lack of experience in trophy building. Very quickly, we had an assembly line going. If it weren't for the fact that some of the bases we needed weren't shipped, we would have all the trophies done.
I have been blessed beyond measure by all of you who have, in many different ways, been so quick and eager to show what our core values mean to you. So many of you --- students and parents --- have been helping out, and have promised to be of support in whatever way you can.
Our students have shown that they are ready to meet the challenge I set for them. Almost everyone on the list of eligible students has demonstrated their eagerness to compete by pre-registering early. What has truly amazed me is how many of our new white belts have been working so hard to learn their kata. Last night we had our Competition Class, and our dojo was full of students who wanted to make sure they will be as ready as possible to do their absolute best next week. I felt that it was a personal triumph for some of our very little ones, and some of our most shy students, to perform in front of so many people. I just know they will do well in competition!
If you are one of the handful of Shinjin Karate students who has not yet pre-registered, all is not lost. Although you've missed out on the discount, you can still register in the dojo this coming week and avoid having to wait in a long line to register at the tournament.
Today, a number of you showed up at our house to help build trophies. What a great crew we had! You were undaunted by the last-minute time change and by our lack of experience in trophy building. Very quickly, we had an assembly line going. If it weren't for the fact that some of the bases we needed weren't shipped, we would have all the trophies done.
Assembling the 1st Place trophies
1st Place trophies ready to be taken to the dojo
1st Place trophies ready to be taken to the dojo
Previously assembled components
Our efficient assembly line working on the 2nd Place trophies
Our efficient assembly line working on the 2nd Place trophies
Thank you, thank you, thank you for giving up a big part of your Saturday to support your dojo!
All of the 1st & 2nd Place trophies are now in the dojo, awaiting transportation to the tournament next Saturday. I'm sure they will serve as an inspiration to all of our hard-working students as they spend next week training hard to prepare to compete. Our "factory workers" did a great job!
And, judging from the sounds I'm hearing right now coming up from my husband and sons in our garage, I expect that the Grand Champion trophies will be quite something...
All of the 1st & 2nd Place trophies are now in the dojo, awaiting transportation to the tournament next Saturday. I'm sure they will serve as an inspiration to all of our hard-working students as they spend next week training hard to prepare to compete. Our "factory workers" did a great job!
And, judging from the sounds I'm hearing right now coming up from my husband and sons in our garage, I expect that the Grand Champion trophies will be quite something...
Friday, September 19, 2008
More questions about Fight Class
Frequently when I recommend Fight Class to students, they raise the following questions:
1. Should I come to Fight Class if I'm a white belt? Yes. There are often other white belts there. In fact, we even have had some of our women's fitness class members there. This class is truly for all levels, from just beginning to advanced.
2. What if I'm not very fit? Again, Fight Class is for all fitness levels. Every exercise we do can be modified. If you're not very fit, you really need this class!
3. I'm in great shape, and I'm worried that Fight Class will be too easy. Should I bother coming? Definitely. Each exercise, drill, and activity we do can be "ramped up" to make it more challenging.
4. Why should I come if there is no one there for me to spar or grapple? At least half the class involves no contact. As far as the other half, if there is no one there for you to partner with, we have alternative activities. For example, we keep our women's fitness students and white belts busy the entire hour even though they do not do any contact.
5. Don't you think I'm too young or too old for Fight Class? If you are in our Keichu Ryu Karate program or in our women's fitness program, you are just the right age.
6. Is there anyone who shouldn't come to Fight Class? Yes. This class is really not designed for our Kid-Karate students. However, everyone else in our dojo would greatly benefit.
7. What is the difference between Fight Class and Fighting Friday? There are several differences:
9. What else do I need to know about Fight Class? Read:
1. Should I come to Fight Class if I'm a white belt? Yes. There are often other white belts there. In fact, we even have had some of our women's fitness class members there. This class is truly for all levels, from just beginning to advanced.
2. What if I'm not very fit? Again, Fight Class is for all fitness levels. Every exercise we do can be modified. If you're not very fit, you really need this class!
3. I'm in great shape, and I'm worried that Fight Class will be too easy. Should I bother coming? Definitely. Each exercise, drill, and activity we do can be "ramped up" to make it more challenging.
4. Why should I come if there is no one there for me to spar or grapple? At least half the class involves no contact. As far as the other half, if there is no one there for you to partner with, we have alternative activities. For example, we keep our women's fitness students and white belts busy the entire hour even though they do not do any contact.
5. Don't you think I'm too young or too old for Fight Class? If you are in our Keichu Ryu Karate program or in our women's fitness program, you are just the right age.
6. Is there anyone who shouldn't come to Fight Class? Yes. This class is really not designed for our Kid-Karate students. However, everyone else in our dojo would greatly benefit.
7. What is the difference between Fight Class and Fighting Friday? There are several differences:
- Fight Class is a fitness workout, based on the same sort of training that many MMA fighters receive. It also includes sparring and grappling, with instruction, for those students who are ready for contact training.
- Fighting Friday is a competitive event. We always have grappling and point sparring. Sometimes we may include chanbara, continuous sparring, ippon kumite, or some other event. We try to match students as fairly as possible. Winners in each division receive a medal.
- Fight Class is designed for all Keichu Ryu students and women's fitness program members.
- Fighting Friday is open to Kid-Karate students and Keichu Ryu students.
- Fight Class is held two to three times per month, on Fridays, usually at 7:00 pm
- Fighting Friday is held every two to three months.
9. What else do I need to know about Fight Class? Read:
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
IMPORTANT DOJO MEETING!!
DOJO MEETING THIS FRIDAY
AUGUST 8, 2008 AT 7:00 PM
THIS MEETING IS FOR:
ALL PARENTS
ALL STUDENTS AGES 14 AND OVER
ALL RESPONSIBLE YOUNGER STUDENTS
PIZZA WILL BE SERVED AFTERWARDS!!
IF YOU HAVE NOT YET REGISTERED FOR THE TOURNAMENT, DON'T PROCRASTINATE TOO LONG OR YOU'LL MISS THE SPECIAL STUDENT DISCOUNT!
AUGUST 8, 2008 AT 7:00 PM
THIS MEETING IS FOR:
ALL PARENTS
ALL STUDENTS AGES 14 AND OVER
ALL RESPONSIBLE YOUNGER STUDENTS
PIZZA WILL BE SERVED AFTERWARDS!!
IF YOU HAVE NOT YET REGISTERED FOR THE TOURNAMENT, DON'T PROCRASTINATE TOO LONG OR YOU'LL MISS THE SPECIAL STUDENT DISCOUNT!
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