My Journey Through Martial Arts: A Journey of Discipline and Dedication

Throughout my life, I have had the privilege of experiencing and training in various martial arts disciplines. From my early training with my father to more structured classes in Austin and beyond, my journey has been a rich one. This article will explore my experiences with Kendo, Fencing, Krav Maga, and boxing, highlighting the lessons and achievements that helped shape me into the martial artist I am today.

My Background in Martial Arts

I was raised surrounding martial arts techniques, thanks to my father, who had experience in Taekwondo, Hapkido, and Isshinryu Karate. From an early age, I began to learn and practice these techniques, building a strong foundation for my future martial arts journey. This early exposure and guidance have been instrumental in my development as a martial artist.

Formal Training in Austin

My formal training began in Austin, Texas, where I took Kendo lessons starting in 2013. I committed to two classes per week for two years, which allowed me to develop a deep understanding and respect for this traditional Japanese martial art. This experience was not only physically demanding but also mentally strengthening. It taught me discipline, concentration, and the importance of technique over brute force.

Exploring Fencing in College

My journey didn't stop with Kendo. In the past year, I took a semester-long class in Foil and Epee at Atmospheric and Commitment College (ACC). While I enjoyed the quick and dynamic nature of these styles, I specifically took an interest in Fencing because of its unique blend of strategy, precision, and flexibility. The classes provided a great opportunity to refine my skills and connect with a new community of martial artists.

Continuing Education at Austin Fencing Academy

Recently, I started attending weekly adult group classes with Austin Fencing Academy, where we rotate between the three different swords (Foil, Epee, and Sabre) monthly. This rotation has been beneficial, as it challenges me to adapt to different sword techniques and strategies, enhancing my overall skills and flexibility in the sport.

Early Training Experiences

My martial arts journey didn't begin with formal classes. In my teens, I boxed under the Golden Gloves program in California. This experience taught me discipline, resilience, and the importance of physical conditioning. Although it might not be as high-contact as some other martial arts, the lessons from boxing have stayed with me, emphasizing self-discipline and mental toughness.

Further Training in Krav Maga

Around four years ago, I took a package of 10 Krav Maga classes, which took about two months to complete. Krav Maga is a highly practical and effective form of self-defense, suitable for both real-world situations and competitive sparring. This training was intense but also highly rewarding, as it provided me with a set of defensive and offensive techniques that are applicable in a wide range of scenarios.

Competition and Tournaments

One of the most memorable experiences in my martial arts career was when, at seventeen, I began training ITF Tang Soo Do and competed in 15 tournaments, including the Superfoot tournament and two world tournaments. My best moment came at the world grand champion cup in Washington D.C. In this tournament, I had to fight a champion twice, winning one match and tying the second. The feeling of a crowded room cheering for me as I battled a highly skilled opponent was indescribable and extremely unique. It was a powerful experience that solidified my love for martial arts and the sense of community within the sport.

Conclusion

While my journey through martial arts has included a variety of disciplines and experiences, the common thread has always been a sense of discipline and dedication. Each training method, whether in Kendo, Fencing, Krav Maga, or boxing, has contributed to my overall development as a martial artist. From the discipline of Kendo to the strategy of Fencing, and from the practicality of Krav Maga to the resilience of boxing, I have gained valuable skills and memories that are cherished.