Little Ninja!

James is growing into a rough, tough young boy. As they say... "He is ALL boy!!!"

We decided it would be beneficial to teach him how to channel his energy, while learning about self discipline and respect for others. So we started him at a local Martial Arts studio where he has been practicing Taekwondo in the Little Ninja class for 4-5 year olds.

He goes 3 days a week and is having a blast!  Mondays and Wednesdays are normal class days where he listens to Master Hong (5th degree black belt) and learns the rules and Taekwondo values as well as practices kicks, punches and blocks. He is able to earn stripes for each technique mastered and after 6 stripes he gets the next color belt.

Last week James earned the last of his stripes for the white belt and received the next color which was an orange belt. This was a very special and proud day for him!

Standing at front being recognized by Master Hong

James' Orange Belt

On Fridays, he actually uses theses techniques practiced throughout the week in his sparring class with Master Walter (3rd degree black belt).

Sparring Uniform

James kicking

Master Walter teaching James to spar

In the room next door, Master Katarina (black belt) teaches a power fitness class for the parents of the Little Ninja's. Now the unbelievable part is that I took advantage of this class and am learning a few Taekwondo kicks and punches myself. It's not as easy as it looks...believe me! It's a tough workout, but lots of fun!