Julianna Goldsmith
I have been a student of Indianapolis Martial Arts Club for one year. And wow, I can't believe time has moved so quickly! When I reflect back on my original reasons for joining this club as a SAHM--to simply get out of the house a bit and feel more capable of protecting my young children-- I realize that my original goals have been surpassed. Not only am I more prepared for situations that may arise, the physical training involved has inspired me to pursue additional new physical challenges. One year ago, I laughed at the thought of running. "You'll see me run in an emergency," I'd say. I did not go for runs, do pushups every day, or even think about "core strength." Physical activity was not a priority for me so long as the scale reported an acceptable number when I stepped on it to weigh myself. Now, though, I see strength, cardio, and flexibility as incredibly important. I now notice these qualities and especially the challenge of muay thai as a necessity to quality mental health and healthy aging. I am happier every time I leave class because I am being challenged just enough to improve yet not so much that I feel overwhelmed or behind. Muay Thai is something that can be practiced for years to come. My husband and kids have noticed a positive change in me since I joined this club. They are all very proud of me as I leave to go to "hi-ya class", as we call it at home. Seeing me leave to attend class even when I am feeling too tired has shown my kids the importance of discipline. When they get a bit older, I hope to enroll them so they can enjoy the same benefits I have enjoyed. My time here has been wonderful because the culture of this place is overwhelmingly positive. The instructors are consistently helpful and provide 1-1 assistance with learning new skills. They have an incredible amount of knowledge about a great variety of fighting techniques and are always teaching with the end goal of making each individual student capable of handling a dangerous situation should one arise. The facilities are clean and the staff require all students to maintain good hygiene in order to participate. I really appreciate that practical requirement. The only regret I have about joining Indianapolis Martial Arts Club is that I have not been able to make it to every class because of my own responsiblities at home with my children. However, every time I return to class I am met with the same amount of encouragement from instructors as they give students who have better attendance. This enthusiasm makes me feel welcomed and ready to work hard. I will also say as a last bit to anyone considering joining the club that the people who sign up to join Indianapolis Martial Arts Club are some of the best people. They are kind, consistent in expression of that kindness, intelligent, varied in their professions and cultures, and eager to learn. They are not afraid to laugh and are bold enough to improve themselves through hard work. Just being in a room with such interesting and wonderful people is truly a joy. Thank you Indianapolis Martial Arts Club for letting me be apart of the fun and the learning!
