Martial arts training can be one of the most rewarding experiences in our lives. It can up our physical and mental fitness, lower our stress levels, and improve the overall quality of our lives. It can also positively impact the lives of those around us in different ways. However, there can be challenges along the way that can derail our entire martial arts journey.
When we talk about these challenges we might think of injuries, illness, frustration with our progress, or getting too busy in our lives. These are certainly things we need to deal with and minimize, but some of the things that can end our martial arts journey can be a bit more hidden. Below are some examples of these for students and parents to be mindful of.

​Attendance  Success in the martial arts begins with managing our attendance properly. This means setting a regular training schedule for ourselves and sticking to it. For children ages 8 to 12 we recommend two or three classes each week. One or two classes per week are recommended for kids ages 4 to 7. Less than this may result in them getting discouraged because of slow progress, and more will likely result in them getting burned out over time. For 

As of mid January, there may be times when the front desk is unattended. Unfortunately, this means that students may need to check themselves in more frequently. As you probably know, there is an attendance sheet available on the desk for students to do that. Parents of younger students will probably have to check them in. The head instructors will check the attendance sheets at the end of the day, but taking an active role in helping with this will be greatly appreciated.
In cases where someone is not at the desk and help is needed with tuition or equipment, a button is available on the right side of the front desk that will ring a bell when pressed. This will notify the instructors that assistance is needed and they will be there to help before long. In a worst case scenario, a short trip down the hallway to flag down an instructor in the training rooms will do the trick. We do have a camera in the front room, but are unable to monitor it while busy in the training rooms, etc.
We appreciate your understanding and support in this matter, and apologize for any inconvenience.

On Saturday, January 11th we held an ‘Advanced Concepts’ clinic for Uechi-Ryu Karate. After some discussion about issues in training and teaching, the group focused on a set of partner drills known as ‘Yakusoku Kumite Daini.’ These are designed to help advanced students in understanding applications of Uechi-Ryu strategies for sparring and self-defense. Some of the students also worked on advanced Kata.
Closing out this round of AC seminars, we hosted a Muay Thai clinic on Saturday, February 1st. This one started with some talk about optimizing movement with timing, distancing, and rhythm. Then we focused on counter strategies for common attacks including Jabs, Crosses, Teeps, and Round Kicks. The session concluded with some well-earned promotions including: Chalice Mitchell to 4-Stripe Prajiet, Carlo Petrucci to Purple Prajiet, Glen Giumarra to 1-Stripe Purple Prajiet, Matt Moreau to 2-Stripe Purple Prajiet, and Jennifer Sommerville to 3-Stripe Purple Prajiet.
ZenQuest’s AC clinics are provided to its advanced students at no additional cost. Congratulations to all promoted!