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TRAINING FOR THE BODY AND MIND IN A COMMUNITY ATMOSPHERE
10 Year Anniversary
Bridgeville Martial Arts ( formerly Pro Martial Arts Bridgeville ) has been teaching young people the discipline of martial arts for 10 years . But perhaps even more importantly , it ’ s created a community within the school that encourages safety , confidence , camaraderie and integrity .
Instructor and Program Director Aaron Claughton , who is a 3rd Degree Black Belt , has watched kids grow in their physical ability , but also their character . He founded a program that the school has developed called BRAVE , an anti-bullying and child safety program . After years of working with students , Claughton realized the importance of teaching kids to stand up for themselves while maintaining a kind attitude , and recognizing truly dangerous situations . BRAVE helps give them the skills to deal with real-life situations when a parent or adult may not be present .
One of the benefits of studying self-defense at an independent , locally owned dojo is having learning programs that are specially tailored to the kids in the community . Bridgeville Martial Arts has classes for children as young as 3 years old , beginning with Little Builders for ages 3-5 . From there the students can enter the 6-12 age group , and finally advanced classes at the age of 13 , though every child ’ s progress is different .
Claughton says , “ It ’ s not a race . Everyone is always learning .” It ’ s a continuous process to develop confidence and physical capabilities . “ I ’ ve definitely seen the physical improvements ,” he adds . “ Kids who couldn ’ t even do a push-up when they arrived achieve endurance levels to keep going and pushing through to the next level . I ’ ve also seen kids who were timid , and afraid to even walk out onto the floor , progress to breaking boards ! It ’ s always inspiring to see that .”
Owner Shannon Schott agrees : “ We ’ ve built a very safe , community-oriented atmosphere where lasting friendships are created . We see some of these kids three or four times a week . And many have been with us from preschool to high school .”
The programs emphasize focus , responsibility , respect and integrity — in the class and also at home , at school and in the larger community . The physical regimen is a wonderful workout that keeps kids moving and engaged , with a focus on taekwondo and training in nunchucks and bo staffs . Kids also learn the classic forms , which are both graceful and powerful , teaching memory skills for choreographed movements .
Claughton says that all children are well-versed in leadership programs and safety training before any contact sparring is allowed , adding , “ We assess their emotional maturity as much as physical skills .”
The dojang hosts regular testing events for kids to advance in their belts , and parents and friends can attend the events . Many parents wind up taking classes with their kids after seeing the positive changes in their children ’ s physical development , and how much fun it is to participate . It ’ s a great activity that families can enjoy together .
Bridgeville Martial Arts is celebrating its 10-year anniversary in October , located at Collier Town Square off of Washington Pike . If you ’ re interested in finding out more about the training programs and schedules , visit bridgevillemartialarts . com .
Bridgeville Martial Arts is currently offering a free two-week trial exclusively for IN Community Magazine readers ! Just mention this article .