Profile - Steve
I've been training in Choi Kwang Do now for about two and a half years and currently a Brown Belt hoping to take my Black Belt grading in March 2007. I’m also an Assistant to the Chief Instructor and regularly help out in classes i.e. stretches at the beginning of the class, class basics, patterns; speed drills and a whole lot more. I also jointly run the Demonstration Team with Mr Tailor our Chief Instructor, whereas we go to school fete's etc to show others our Martial Art.
I first heard of Choi Kwang Do through one of my friends who is also an Assistant Instructor about this Martial Art he had started, I was intrigued but was unsure if I would be able to do it with my groin injuries caused by football. After giving up football because of these injuries I was pretty adamant that Darts would be the only sport I'd be able participate in, but after discussions with my friend and being absolutely diabolical at Darts.
I attended several classes and it became apparent that this form of Martial Arts was very kind to the joints and muscles. As you'll find if you read about CKD the form is very smooth and not contorted like other Martial Arts where joints are locked out and could possibly damage the bones. CKD starts each class with a thorough routine of stretches and yoga which was ideal for circumstances.
This seemed to be like an option that was appealing to me to keep fit, learn a Martial Art and will accommodate my injuries. The next step was to go to one of the classes and felt nervous about doing so, but that was worry wasted as everyone there was very helpful, polite and friendly and made me feel part of the class straight away and telling me that everyone has to start somewhere. Touch wood my groins have held together and I’m fighting fit some two and a half years later doing 2-3 classes per week.
CKD has shown me how to defend myself and if necessary how to use techniques against would be assailants, giving me confidence and allowing me enjoy and relax when I’m out with my wife, children and friends. I've also found new friends here and enjoy going on the Enfield Choi Kwang Do events, meals and socialising.
