My martial arts training is inspired by the journey to be better than the previous day.
My life perspective changed by pursuing excellence, not perfection, and to never be comfortable with complacency solidified my rationale to train. I was encouraged to prepare for any moment and breakthrough any lingering fear or doubt by focusing on obtaining my goals on and off the mat.
I enjoyed playing team sports and lifting weights however both were no longer a daily participating interest of mine. So, I slowly gravitated towards a physical activity that explored an indefinite amount of ways to move my body while maintaining strength. If I did not Google search Jeet Kune Do in New York City, I would have been trained as a yoga instructor.
Most defining factor in training martial arts was seeing the quality amount of work from the professional and amateur fighters. They gave every ounce of dedication in order to compete at a high level. Their dedication was encouraging and it inspired me to compete in the World Kickboxing Association tournament in Richmond, VA in 2015. The training was new to me, but the memories of becoming better were priceless.
My biggest martial arts hurdle was not knowing enough techniques or series of moves. I realized that it takes time, practice, and infinite patience to observe my evolution as a martial artist.
Once I find more time it will be Jeet Kune Do and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, but in 2015 my most trained art has been Muay Thai!
Jermain won the gold medal in the WKA Muay Thai tournament last year with the A Team!
My absolute favorite go to move is the lead leg teep to the face and whatever follow-up combination I can think of to throw.
Training during a busy week requires taking my training equipment with me before leaving for school or work in order to attend class or practice movement/shadow boxing before the ending of my day.
Without the mind, thoughts no longer exist. Without thoughts, actions become paralyzed. The loss of actions diminishes self-esteem. Self-esteem starts with the mind. In another words, martial arts ingrained a cyclical evolutionary order into my practice. If I eat well to preserve my body, train with full engagement, learn from the practice, embrace the soreness, and show up regularly, my mastery of martial arts will become instinctual. This is an applicable formula for anything in our daily life.
Martial arts will challenge your focus, determination, and compassion for others.
