Based on a number of recent inquiries, we’ll be adding a second “Cranes” children’s Karate class on Mondays at 4:30 PM.  This class is for kids ages 3-1/2 to 5, and focuses on age appropriate drills, activities and games for that age group.  For years, ZenQuest has had an afternoon class on Tuesdays at 12:30 PM.  However, with parents’ busy schedules and more kids in daycare during that time, we think that the later class will work well for many families.
This class is scheduled to start on Monday, May 7th.  For more information, or to register for this class, please contact us at 413-637-0656, or via email at train@zenquestmac.com.

Seasoned students at ZenQuest were recently provided with opportunities to do some advanced training in our latest round of “Advanced Concepts” clinics.  Karate, Jiu-jitsu and Muay Thai practitioners all upped their game a bit with some hands-on drills and discussion related to more complex principles in each respective art. 
On Saturday, March 10, Jiu-jitsu students ranked Blue Belt and above attended Advanced Concepts in Jiu-jitsu.  After touching on some leadership and teaching issues, the students were given different strategies for “Knee Bar” attacks and defense.  After some rolling (sparring), two students were promoted, including: Stephen Tagliari to Blue Belt, and Brennon Stockton to 1-Stripe Blue Belt.
Then, on Saturday, March 17 ZenQuest’s experienced Thai Boxing students attended Advanced Concepts in Muay Thai.  After some discussion on leadership and teaching issues with this group, the students practiced strategies for striking and throwing from the clinch.  After some sparring,  Karyn Bienia was promoted to Purple Prajiet (arm band.)
Lastly, our advanced Uechi-Ryu training took place on Saturday, March 24.  Students ranked Ikkyu (Black Stripe) and above discussed “Sempai” teaching and training issues before diving into the physical training.  The group went through advanced Kata while focusing on finer details and optimizing the rhythms and timing of the routines. The senior students also focused on advanced two-person drills, being mindful of balancing technical precision with realism.  Since advanced promotions in Karate happen biannually, promotions are not made at the Advanced Concepts clinics.
Thanks to everyone who attended and congratulations to those promoted.  Our next round of AC trainings are expected to take place in June.