My Karate Experience
History of Modern Arnis
Remy A. Presas (Right) was a Filipino martial artist who created the "Modern Arnis" school of stick combat. Who my Sensei, Mike Donovan (Left) directly trained under. The name "Arnis" refers to a traditional Filipino martial art employing sticks, knives, and empty-hand techniques. Modern Arnis is a modernised and streamlined form of this traditional art, emphasising self-defense principles and employing contemporary teaching methods.
Modern Arnis is based on a series of drills and techniques that are designed to be simple to learn and execute in real-world circumstances. In addition to footwork and body mechanics, the technique emphasises the development of reflexes and situational awareness. Modern Arnis is well-known for its aesthetic qualities in addition to its utilitarian applications. The system consists of a number of fluid, beautiful motions that can be performed alone or with a partner.
Modern Arnis is practised by martial artists all over the world, and it is frequently taught with other systems, including as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai, to provide a well-rounded self-defense curriculum.
My Involvement in Summer Day Camps/ Little Dragons Classes
Before I received my Black Belt, I assisted in a summer day camp and Little Dragons classes for children between the ages of 5 and 12. As part of my role, I coordinated schedules for play, karate, and swimming activities. During playtime, we engaged in games like Ninja Ball, Dodgeball, Uno, Monopoly, and Chess. In addition to play, I taught the children Karate Katas, such as Kata Shogun and Kokuro, as well as fundamental techniques like trapping hands, basic wrestling, and sparring. To further develop their skills, I also taught them how to use nunchucks, bo staff, and stick training.
My Involvement in Youth Classes
Upon earning my Black Belt, I had the opportunity to teach youth courses for children and adolescents aged 8 to 14. Each class included rigorous exercises such as push-ups, burpees, and sit-ups, as well as yoga and stretching techniques like toe touches, cat stances, and butterfly stretches. After warming up, we focused on trapping hands, sparring, and wrestling, with an emphasis on proper technique and safety. We also continued to practice Katas, and occasionally included weapon training with the bo staff or wooden sticks. Overall, the classes were designed to provide a well-rounded martial arts experience that helped students develop strength, flexibility, discipline, and confidence.
My Involvement in Adult Classes
After gaining a year of experience as a Black Belt, I began assisting with and teaching Adult Classes. Our students ranged from individuals aged 15 to 70, and classes were focused on weight loss and body sculpting. We incorporated distinct and longer exercise regimes to increase flexibility, while still maintaining a focus on Katas and weapon training. However, the main focus was on open-hand defenses, with trapping hands now including specific take-downs, and a focus on swift movements from kickboxing to wrestling. It was gratifying to see everyone in the class becoming better prepared for anything that might happen in the real world.
Summary Of Karate's Benefits
Karate gave numerous benefits for both the mind and body for students and instructors like myself. Physically, karate training can improve strength, endurance, and flexibility, as well as promote weight loss and overall fitness. Additionally, karate teaches us to control stress, as it allows practitioners to release tension and aggression in a safe and controlled environment. Mentally, karate can help to build discipline, focus, and self-confidence. Through consistent training and practice, students can develop a greater sense of self-awareness, and learn to channel their energy towards positive goals. Furthermore, karate can be a social activity, providing opportunities to make new friends and connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for the art. Overall, the benefits of karate extend beyond the dojo, and can have a positive impact on many aspects of life.
What I Gained From This Experience
I personally understood the significance of patience and I took an oath to only use my training defensively and as a last resort. In addition, I took an oath to become the best Roman I could be, inside or outside the dojo. In addition, I was taught to remain humble in all situations, to not spark jealousy in others or myself. To this day, I continue to be grateful of my distinct personal experiences and support others to learn and ameloriate themselves as well.