by Bart Axelrod
San Shou Martial Arts is starting a youth MMA program this month for 13-18 yrs olds. MMA is a great way to get in shape, learn to defend yourself, build self esteem and learn very useful and practical martial arts skills.
Head instructor Ariel Tyre Wesley won Kickboxing championships in three weight classes and competed in sanshou and wrestling. He has been involved in mixed martial arts for over 20 years and brings a huge amount of experience in competition and coaching.
Our youth MMA program isn’t all about competition though, it’s geared toward achieving the personal goals of fitness, self defense and self esteem.
Classes will include basic martial arts skills training, this includes punching, kicking, takedowns and throws as well as ground grappling and submission skills. Fitness, strength and endurance training will also be a big part of the program.
Students will wear safety equipment and our rules will ensure safety. If students are interested in competing then there will be opportunities for competition with affiliated schools as well as open competitions.
There will be three classes per week starting January 26 at the EP Rec center. Classes will also be held at San Shou Martial Arts Gym Wednesday’s and Saturday’s.