Over the last century, martial arts have grown more popular in Western culture. There are now more “karate” studios in the U.S. than ever before! With an increase in MMA competitions and movies featuring Asian-style martial arts, children are especially interested in taking classes so they can one day become as good as their heroes. However, real martial arts lessons, such as those taught at the Academy of Self-Defense schools in Northeast Ohio, are very different from how they’re shown in movies and on television.
Those who choose to learn self-defense Minna Jiu-Jitsu, Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or T’ai Chi Ch’uan at one of our schools quickly discover that there is much more to martial arts than fighting. In fact, these local schools in Akron, Twinsburg, and Mayfield Heights take an approach based on cooperation rather than one based on competition. Though the media often portrays martial arts as violent and miraculous, the reality is that learning martial arts at an establishment like the Academy of Self-Defense provides students with self-defense training and other valuable skills that transfer to school, work, extracurricular activities, and more.
For years the media has portrayed martial arts in an unrealistic way. Chinese films such as Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and House of Flying Daggers show characters that are able to fly through the air and take on an entire group of foes without breaking a sweat. While these movies are entertaining, they contain a mythical element that just isn’t found in real life. On many TV shows, martial arts are often used to one-up another competitor or harm an enemy. These programs rarely demonstrate the true essence of martial arts and its core lessons confidence, responsibility, and non-violence.
For children, teens, and adults who are interested in enrolling in self-defense martial arts lessons, it’s important to note that taking real martial art lessons won’t grant you the ability to sprint through treetops or take down your adversaries with a single punch. It will improve your health and vitality while providing you invaluable knowledge that may save your life some day. Learning martial arts takes commitment and dedicated practice. The rewards for your hard work may even lead to a Black Belt around your waist.
Though martial arts lessons may not be able to give you superhuman strength and speed, they will improve your body and mind, and enrich your spirit. Needless to say, it’s well worth a look at the Academy of Self-Defense school near your area of NE Ohio. To learn more about T’ai Chi or self-defense training visit or give us a call or email, or simply visit TheAcademyOfSelf-Defense.com.
In Twinsburg: (330) 237-9594
In Akron: (330) 814-5058
In Mayfield Heights: (440) 409-6954
