Ashley Nationals 2010

In January I started out knowing the bare essentials of competitive fighting and now, in June, I have watched myself grow into *ahem* a bit of a badass. Whereas I would have never considered myself an aggressive, competitive, or athletic person in the past, I see myself growing into someone who is gradually gaining more confidence and realizing that I can be whoever I want to be with some hard work and focus. I knew that joining the Trinity TKD team would push me further physically than I have ever been pushed before and even though I might have been nervous or afraid (especially given some of my team mates more athletic backgrounds) I knew it would be a great test to find out  just what I could do.

In competing at Nationals this week with my team mates I have accomplished just what I have set out to do by becoming a fighter. I had two fights this week and even though the  girls I fought were bigger than I was and may have had more experience,  I never backed down. Although I still have a lot to learn I am noticing big changes in my skill level with each fight.  I am becoming less nervous, more skilled in my movements, and more aggressive.  I am proud to be bringing home two silver medals  for the Trinity team and I feel they truly represent how far I’ve come in the last 6 months. I know they are just a jumping off point for the person I hope to become in the future. I have come to love my team mates as sisters and Nathan as a great friend and supporter. I  could not have made it this far without their love and support.

The last week has been an amazing experience and I’m looking forward to watching Nathan compete tomorrow (you’re going to be awesome by the way) and celebrating with the rest of the Trinity family when we return home.

Unfortunately, spring and summertime are prime seasons for attackers and rapists.

Why?

As the temperatures rise, we spend more time outside, and we shed the bulky jeans and sweaters for tight running shorts and tops.

The first tip to staying safe is where and when you run.

If you run early in the morning or late at night, find a running partner.  If that’s not an option, a dog is a great deterrent. If you still decide to go it alone, be aware of your surroundings at all times and leave the head phones at home.

Second, be careful using head phones.

A lot of runners and walkers wear head phones because listening to music passes the time and keeps runners motivated. When the music is blaring in your ears, however, you can’t hear the person next to you, let alone an attacker on your heels. Rather than putting both ear pieces in, leave one out so you can hear everything around you, including cars and other traffic hazards.

The next tip is to have a partner.

A running or biking partner can help on those days when you feel little motivation.  They provide support and often make the activity much more enjoyable.  Most importantly, a partner can keep you safer on trails where there aren’t too many people around.  

Keep in mind attackers want easy targets.  While it’s true that desperation can cause an attacker to approach a group, this seldom happens.  You have a greater chance of being avoided if there is someone with you.

Also, always carry a cell phone.

What would we do without cell phones?  Don’t talk on your cell phone unless it’s an emergency!  Cell phones are equipped with a form of GPS, and they can give the police and other emergency personnel your exact location.

The final tip for this newsletter is even when you’re heading back to your car, don’t put your guard down until you’re in your car, with your doors locked and driving away safely. Make sure you’re aware of everyone and everything around your vehicle.

*These are excerpts from week 3 of Trinity’s self-defense course, Are You Prepared?

All of these tips are for avoiding potentially dangerous situations before they happen. However, what do you do if you are approached and the only option is to fight back? We cover all physical aspects of self-defense in Trinity’s 5 week course, Are You Prepared? If you’re interested in taking the course, please call the gym at 404.966.KICK or go to Are You Prepared? for more information.

Although we don’t like to think about it, violence is an unfortunate fact of life.

Effective self-defense is about agility, attitude, and awareness –  three components that reinforce each other.

The stronger and more fit you are, and the quicker your reaction time,  the more confident you are that you can react swiftly and creatively to threats – throwing a punch, aiming a kick, running away, or doing whatever it takes.

Trinity Self-Defense instructor, Steven Carter, assisting with kicking drills during an "Are You Prepared?" seminar

Confidence generates a “hands-off” attitude that can discourage would-be attackers.

The discipline and focus you develop while getting and staying in shape make you more alert, aware of activity in your immediate environment. That awareness increases your responsiveness to sudden moves, odd sounds, and other “danger cues” that require decisive action.

Disciplines such as tae kwon do and kickboxing teach excellent skills such as kicking and punching that can be applied to staying safe day-to-day.

Self-defense classes focus specifically on practical, simple moves to stave off attacks.

But whatever fitness activity you pursue, take time to think about the practical applications of the coordination, muscle strength and self-esteem you’re gaining.

Remember: ability, attitude and awareness can spell the difference between being a victim and becoming a criminal’s worst nightmare.

Not a hard choice to make.

Wednesday, September 2nd is the first night of Trinity’s “Are You Prepared?” 5 week course. We are offering $150 OFF the program. (regular price $399)

Are You Prepared? students

We only have 4 spots remaining!

This could very well be the last 5 week course of the year. Don’t put your safety on hold. It just may be too late!

Check out a CBS 46 video of Trinity’s self-defense program on our website. “Are You Prepared?”

Learning how to bring an attacker down to size!

You’ve studied for a test, a presentation at work or trained for a sporting event.

When it was time to act, your preparation gave you the confidence in your ability to perform under the pressure,
but, what about in a self-defense situation?

What would happen if today, after work, you were approached by someone as you walked to your car?

What would you do if someone stopped you at your doorstep and pushed you into your house?

What would happen if at a stop light, you find yourself sitting next to a carjacker who just got in the unlocked passenger side of your car?

What would you do?

Are you prepared for these and many other situations you could find yourself in at anytime?

We successfully completed another 5 week course last Wednesday June 24,2009. This was the third course this year.
Normally we only have three per year.

Why did we decide to add another one to the schedule?

Because women are calling in and wanting to take action NOW!!

We hear from government officials, crime is under control, but is it really?

While police say crime is under control, Ga. Tech students are being held at gun point and robbed in their houses, women are being attacked in their apartment complexes and people can’t even walk to local attractions (Centennial Olympic park) without being held up and robbed.

So, what can you do about it?

What steps can you take to make sure you and your family is protected?

Don’t leave your safety and the safety of those around you to anyone else.

Take responsibility for yourself!

These women are prepared!

Feel empowered,

Build self-confidence,

And learn real techniques that can save your life if you have to fight back!

Check this out!

http://www.cbsatlanta.com/video/19879037/index.html

AJC article pic.

Last night was the first of our 5 week self-defense program. I’m really excited about this group. Everyone is extremely into the course and has a specific purpose for being here.

We usually don’t have an AYP? course this close to summer. With vacations and summertime fun, many people can’t find the “commitment level” necessary to complete the entire program.

I felt it was necessary to have another course, due to the overwhelming increase in crime in the Atlanta area.

Although this group is smaller than our normal class, they will definitely get their share of hands on training with the instructors.

I’ll keep you posted on their progress throughout the next 5 weeks.