Martial Artistry: What Our Students Have to Say

The study of martial arts has always been a goal of mine, but I kept putting it off deciding I was “too busy” for it. I started taking classes at Martial Artistry in April of 2003. It was my first time in any sort of martial arts. The amount of individual attention I get at Martial Artistry is incredible. The instructors encourage me to proceed at my own rate, and challenge me to improve myself. The constructive feedback the instructors give makes it seem easy to learn Kung Fu, and I feel like I’ve accomplished a lot in the short time I’ve been studying.

Jonathan Milton (May 2003)

PHOTO TO COME

Prior to coming to Martial Artistry, I had 13 years of training in Tang Soo Do. Although I had earned a second-degree black belt in that style and participated in many competitions, I didn't feel as though I "knew" karate. I have been at Martial Artistry a short time, but feel that my time has been well spent. I have more confidence and self-discipline, and have come to know what martial arts are truly about. Having looked all over Albuquerque to find a place to continue my studies, none have greeted me with such open arms as Martial Artistry. From my first phone call expressing interest, to my first class, I have felt a part of their family. Because of Sifu, Ms. Shubert and the many wonderful instructors here, Martial Arts have become a passion rather than just a hobby. I look forward to growing as a martial artist and know in my heart that I have chosen the right place. Xiexie nin!

Stephanie Preston
February 2003

Bryce was introduced to kung-fu through his 10 year old cousin when he had just barely turned three. He begged to join a class, but I kept putting it off because I had no idea that there were even classes available for three year olds. Martial Artistry was the first place I called and after speaking to Sifu, I wouldn't have considered sending my child anywhere else. Bryce was extremely shy to join class the first couple of times, but always wanted to come anyway. It didn't take long for Sifu and the other Instructors to bring him out of his shell. One year later, Bryce has come a long way and still enjoys Kung-Fu. He is so proud of himself each time he learns something new or earns a new sash. While still shy, he is not as afraid to try new things as he used to be and we really believe that Martial Artistry is to thank for building his self confidence.

Thank You Sifu,

Allison Simpson
February 2003

          Martial Artistry gives new meaning to the concept of self-improvement. Thanks to my very good friend Jason, I’ve found an institution that has helped me to challenge myself with greater standards of personal development. The physical benefits that are acquired through the practice of Wu Shu and Tai Chi have given me a greater sense of all around physical fitness. The knowledge and mental discipline that are shared and developed through Sifu Kayne LaTrans provide a great foundation for learning quality Kung Fu. Sifu LaTrans’ positive attitude and respect for individuality make Martial Artistry a truly unique and fun group to be a part of.
          The practice of Kung Fu requires patience. It can and should be a life long endeavor. Despite any natural physical ability, Kung Fu cannot be learned and properly executed overnight. My experience at Martial Artistry has helped me to set higher goals for myself, while realizing that long term dedication and honest self-assessment are the keys great achievement in all aspects of life.
          I have always been a very active and athletic person throughout my life. I played soccer for about fourteen years and I’ve lifted weights since the fifth grade. Soccer developed speed, agility and endurance, while lifting weights developed strength. However, I tended to neglect balance and flexibility. Not only does the practice of martial arts develop all of these areas, but it also provides practical and effective applications. Self-defense is becoming an increasingly valuable asset in the world that we live in today. Furthermore, the efficient use of strength through proper timing, balance, and breathing can make everyday tasks easier and difficult tasks become less strenuous.
          Sifu Kayne LaTrans shows great depth of knowledge in what she teaches. Students are really encouraged by her ability to clarify what is being taught. The students of Martial Artistry are never stifled by her, or by any of the other instructors. I have always felt that my questions are welcomed by Sifu LaTrans. This has reassured me again and again that I am in an environment truly conducive to learning.
          Martial Artistry is as unique as the students who train there are. There is something for everyone. From Michael Johnson’s relaxing, slower paced Tajiquan class, to Chris Baca’s intense, fast paced sparring class, Martial Artistry has something for everyone and every level.

The students and instructors at Martial Artistry compose an environment that is truly exemplary of the ideals of martial arts. I am very happy and proud to be a part of Sifu Kayne La Trans’ school of martial artistry.

-- Frank X. Alderete (February 2003)

Since growing up in a small town in North Carolina, I have always been interested in Martial Art. I can remember watching the old Kung Fu and Karate movies that the actors would speak a few seconds slower than the words of the movie. I would day dream of doing some of the moves and stunts that I would see on these movies. I never got a chance to train in any kind of Martial Arts due to the fact I never had the time or too broke to pay for tuition. Whenever I moved to Albuquerque in January of 2000, I had just started working and had all of this free time after work. One day I was speaking to a co-worker who has been training in Martial Arts for many years. I was telling him that I have all of this free time after work and I needed something to occupy my time. I was giving him my spill about going to the gym and lifting weights and jogging after work from time to time. It was kind of the same old routine and that I was getting pretty bored with doing it. He brought to my attention had I ever thought about martial art. A light bulb went off in my head. I had told him that I use to dream about training as a kid but I had not thought much about it in a long time. He recommended that I try it out since now that I was working I had the money to pay for it as well as had the time after work to train. He had even suggested that I check out Martial Artistry off of Jefferson Street. He had a lot of high praises for the school. So since February of 2000 I have been constantly training at Martial Artistry. Some of the things I enjoy most about the school are the friendly instructors that work there and also how down to earth Sifu Kayne can be.

For me Kung Fu is a way that I get my daily exercise without looking at it as a routine work out. Martial Artistry provides for me a way to vent and relieve stress from my daily life. Also it provides an opportunity for me to increase my confidence as well improve myself mentally, physically, and morally.

-- Darren Buie (January 2003)

I started training at Martial Artistry because it was an activity my teen was interested in doing with me after we saw a demonstration. This was a great way for us to get some physical activity in during the week and spend some time together building skills and confidence – and a little bit of healthy competition pushed us both to strive for our best. Unfortunately, my teen was unable to continue with the training. Since this type of training was something I never would have gone into on my own; it would have been very easy for me to discontinue lessons also. However, I’ve found I enjoy training at Martial Artistry for many reasons.
          While I have part-time employment that keeps me busy about 10 weeks each year, my full time job is being a stay-at-home mom. This is the best job I’ve ever had, but I truly welcome the chance to get out of the house a couple of evenings per week to train at Martial Artistry. It affords me a chance for physical activity, self-improvement, and a much needed sanity break.
          I also enjoy how the training is structured with more advanced students training newer students. This gives the experienced students a good leadership opportunity and a chance to test their own knowledge. If you can teach a new skill to someone else, you understand the finer points of that skill better yourself. Many, but not all, of the instructors are young people in their teens and twenties. I’ve been involved in programs for young people before. In my experience this type of structure – where you are responsible for someone who may be older than you, but does not have the same skills you are trying to teach – is an excellent confidence builder for the instructor and a valuable learning experience for the student. Instructors at Martial Artistry attend a weekly instructor class and follow a written lesson plan. This improves standardization and their teaching skills. In addition, Sifu is always available to answer questions and she instructs each group at least once per week.
         Sifu’s expertise, experience, wisdom, and gentle teaching manner make her a true asset to Martial Artistry. She provides guidance to help each student improve and perfect the skills they’re learning. She encourages us by praising improvements and making corrections that help us fine-tune the skills we are studying.

She reads each student well, providing instruction geared toward his or her current level of learning.

Finally, respect is always at the center of this training and that is obvious in the way instructors and students interact with one another at Martial Artistry. Corrections are made in a positive way that encourages students to perfect their form. At my first lesson, Sifu was explaining how to salute and bow. Part of her explanation was the mutual respect student and teacher should have for one another because “we can all learn something from the other”.
To summarize, a break from my routine, physical activity, a good training structure, a Sifu with a talent and heart for teaching, and an atmosphere of respect are the reasons why I enjoy training at Martial Artistry and would highly recommend it to others.

-- Sherry Riddle (January 2003)

Ever since I was a kid, I have always been excited about wushu/kung fu. Growing up in the 70's, the kung fu explosion was everywhere from Kung fu theater to Kung fu the series to Bruce Lee. At the time, the only schools were tae kwan do or karate. I was introduced to Kung fu in high school, in the form of Tai Chi Chu'an. My first sifu had given me the real concept of martial arts, and not that of fantasy in the movies. After graduating, it was hard to find a good school for wushu, until I was picking up some supplies for work at the cash and carry, and I looked across the street and saw Martial Artistry. Wow went through my head, I went over and looked inside and was greeted by a friendly smile(sifu). Sifu was unloading all the supplies and boxes, we talked for about almost two hours. I was so impressed and honored that she took the time to answer all of my questions. I wanted to join, but I thought to myself how long will this school be open for, the good ones sometimes don't last. A year and a half has passed and Martial Artistry was still open! I called and was greeted by Ms. Shubert, I was so exited that I enrolled not only myself but also my wife Charlene. It has now been almost two years and I am still enjoying not only being a student, but also an instructor of wushu, but also for tai chi. I enjoy all of the students, the questions and conversations are so refreshing. I also enjoy the friendships and bonds with instructors and students.

Thank you Sifu! for your kindness and coaching and encouragement!

Sincerely Michael Johnson (January 2003)

As a parent, my experience of Martial Artistry is very positive. It is a pleasure to interact with owner and master, Kayne LaTrans, as well as the other instructors who assist her in running the office and classes. The number and quality of instructors are impressive. I particularly appreciate the focused attention given to the youngest students. I appreciate that this younger group is given separate instruction that is appropriate for them.

I appreciate the efficiency of all aspects of the operation at the school as well as the good humor and camaraderie that is evident. It is nice to watch some fun as well as the very disciplined approach to the martial arts. Discipline and progress seem to be enhanced, not sacrificed, by the more light-hearted atmosphere. My kids certainly enjoy themselves as well as work hard. All types of people seem to be enjoying themselves at the school, from the youngest girls to the oldest men, and all the men and women in between who are from a variety of backgrounds and have a wide range of personalities.

It can be very entertaining to watch several sections of students training at once, some with different weapons, etc, all the while listening to the variety of instructors and students conversing. In a nutshell, Kayne and Martial Artistry as a whole have successfully created a human-friendly recreation that happens to be a potent and disciplined martial art. Swords with a smile! Thank you, Kayne!

Amy (parent of students, January 2003)

When I first started out at martial Artistry I knew nothing about martial arts. I only knew that I was drawn to Chinese styles for an unknown reason. I picked Martial Artistry because it was the only school teaching Kung Fu that I could afford; being a student. My choice proved to be a great one. My life has been changed forever by Sifu La Trans school. Her training, and the training of the other instructors, has given me a confidence and a drive in myself that I feel could not of been developed any where else. I believe I’m in my third year at the school and have come to be in the best shape of my life both internally and externally.
Martial Artistry can provide every kind of strength a person needs. The Wu-Shu / Kung Fu classes will increase balance, strength, flexibility, endurance, and speed; plus the added benefit of self defense week that teaches even the smallest, weakest person that they are not totally helpless out there in the real world. The sparring class taught by Chris Baca is rigorous and exciting. Here I have learned to both control my emotions and to act instinctively at the same time when confronted by one or more attackers. This class is excellent for tournament training and real life situations; as Mr. Baca teaches both. I also have enrolled myself in Michael Johnson’s Tai Chi class. Here is where I learn that breathing is everything and that the softest movements can ,and often do, contain the the hardest punch. Mr. Johnson’s class also provides great moving meditation, healing from the inside out, utilizing energy provided by nature.
Thank You Sifu, and thank you Martial Artistry for all that has been given to me.

In three months, on April 9th I will have a son, Aidan Paul DuBois, and I can’t wait to envelop him in the Martial Artistry family!

-- Jason DuBois (January 2003)

My mid-life crises dictated that I try something new and different, something physically demanding requiring total mental focus. I thought about it for a while and decided that some martial art would be what I wanted, even though I'd never have any martial arts training. So I did a Google search for "martial arts Albuquerque" and started going through the results. I was mainly looking for a website that focused primarily on general teaching philosophy - are they concerned with mind/body focus, are they thinking more about teaching or doing well in competitions? Looking through the first 20 search results, I picked 3 to investigate further. Martial Artistry was the first (and only) one I called. I went to my first class to see how the school operates. I was very surprised at how well run and fun the class was. It more than met all of my qualifications.

I've been at Martial Artistry for several months and my impressions have continued to be more and more favorable. I'm having fun, getting in better shape, meeting good people, learning something new and helpful, and learning better mental focus in a pleasant environment.

-- Jim Kitchen (January 2003)

     I joined Martial Artistry at the age of 20, but not for the reasons most people join. I was tired all the time. No matter how long I slept I was always exhausted the next morning. Never was I truly alert at during any time of the day. Even though I was of healthy weight (almost too light), and had never had health problems, I was a couch potato. Occasionally I had attempted to start on exercise programs, but I always let them fall by the wayside. It was too boring walking on a treadmill for half an hour, or even biking the same route over and over again. It was so meaningless to do the same physical activity repeatedly. I needed two things out of an exercise program. First it had to be meaningful. Swimming just to swim, running just to run, and biking just to bike were not enough. I needed to be doing something for a reason or it just wasn’t worth doing. Second, It had to be structured. It was just too easy to blow off something constantly until it was no longer routine. I needed something that was almost as much as a responsibility as an exercise program. That’s why I choose martial arts.
     Faced with a sea of faceless, indistinguishable martial arts schools, it was this web site that made the difference. Unlike many other schools, Martial Artistry didn’t even pretend to be all things to all people. Martial Artistry seemed genuinely interested in educating and assisting everyone, even if that meant sending them to another school. The wushu style isn’t for anyone, nor is any style of martial arts, and at Martial Artistry they had a section on choosing the style for yourself. (Martial Artistry does not teach crude brutal technique. Here, the focus is not so much on brute force as it is artful redirection and strategy. For some people, that’s the best style, for others it isn’t, and that’s ok.) There were other materials and advice to protect consumers from disreputable schools. (I highly recommend these regardless of what style you choose.) This honesty and acceptance of diversity were what made Martial Artistry different.
     I had always considered myself rather weak and relatively uncoordinated. I was shown differently at Martial Artistry. I was shown how to tap strength I didn’t even know I had. With the training I have received from Martial Artistry I have learned to run faster, hit harder, and jump higher than I ever thought I could. In fact, one of my instructors always marvels at how high I can jump in one of the forms I am learning.

     Now that I’ve talked a little about how Martial Artistry is different, let me say a little about why it is different. There is simply one reason: Head Instructor Sifu Kayne Latrans. She is interested not only in physical development, but in mental and moral development. As part of one of my graduate business courses, I once asked Sifu Latrans what the mission statement was of her business. Being the small business that Martial Artistry is, I expected either none, or one that was poorly thought out that focused on generating money. I was surprised by her answer, not only because it had all the elements of a good mission statement, but also because it revealed so much about what Martial Artistry meant to her. I will never forget what she said, “I want generate the best martial artists in the world, not only in physical ability, but also in mind, spirit, and integrity.” Those simple words explain why Martial Artistry means so much to me.
     Sincerely,
                                                       -- Kuan Ma (January 2003)

I have been a student of ballet for the last 20+ years and started at Martial Artistry a couple of months ago to have a common activity with my husband but most of all out of a curiosity to see what my body could do in a completely different way of moving and exhibiting power. Martial Artistry is like delving into a whole world of opportunity, this has been the most motivating to me in realizing how hard work and dedication will without a doubt take me somewhere other than just my next class. I was also struck by the positive interaction between students and instructors; the instructor(s) are very approachable and I have never felt intimidated or brushed aside. In fact, I was very surprised to see that my strengths and weaknesses were quickly recognized and “attacked” or praised as needed.

It is obvious that Sifu Kayne has gone above and beyond in providing the school itself, the curriculum, and a place for students who desire even more. From years of bouncing from one school of ballet to the next I know that this is no easy feat in creating an environment students can call home. Sifu takes her classes and her students very seriously by being physically present and involved in all classes and monitoring the progression of all her students. I feel like the knowledge is ahead of me and the path precisely laid, there is no getting lost in the system or learning things you are not equipped to learn.

In the end, I’m the one who has gained something and most importantly is that I get so much more from my wushu experience without sacrificing the beauty of movement.

-- Holly Esparza (January 2003)

The last time I heard somebody complain about being too old to do something, I thought to myself, I hope I don't have so many problems when I get to their age. Then I found out that somebody was younger than me. My good health and energy not only feeds into but also feeds off of the practice of martial arts. It is an investment in mind and body, learning how to focus on accomplishment and progress. No one here at Martial Artistry is left out. This school is about you and how you can reach goals, no matter how lofty they may seem. Martial Artistry has truly been a gem for me since I moved to NM. I have made friends, not just acquaintances. I have revived a dormant passion for an art so beautiful and unique, it has survived for over two millennia! What more could I say? Thank you Sifu.

-- James Esparza
(January 2003)

     The study of Kung Fu/Wushu at Martial Artistry is an excellent way to begin or complement your current exercise routine.
     I was introduced to Martial Artistry when my son began the Little Dragons program. I was impressed with the care and patience that Sifu and the other instructors showed the very young children. When my son graduated to the 'adult' class, I decided to join in as my '40 year old' thing to do.
     The study of Kung Fu/Wushu has been very rewarding for me. Even though I swim and lift weights, the movement and weight bearing elements of Kung Fu has greatly increased my flexibility and toned my body.
     My continued study has provided great stress release. I can advance at my own pace. I can 'hit something' when we do pad work. I learn what my body is capable of when presented with new challenges. I can defend myself from a variety of attacks.
     Martial Artistry is an excellent school. Sifu is one of the best instructors that I have ever encountered. I have always felt that she is personally interested in my advancement. Her devotion to Kung Fu/Wushu is immediately apparent when you enter the school and see all of the trophies that her students have earned in National competitions, the care put into the Demonstration Team's routines, and the aura of respect for the discipline that everyone at the school shows.
     I heartily recommend the study of Kung Fu/Wushu at Martial Artistry. You will find it a very rewarding experience.

-- Ted Borek (January 2003)

As a child I often dreamed of studying martial arts. I even enrolled in tae kwon do in my early 20's, only to drop out after less than a month because of a knee injury sustained in a bicycling accident. Gradually, the dream faded as adulthood responsibilities replaced childhood fantasies. Then one day, in the middle of my 43rd year, I found myself approaching a school because the 9-year-old walking beside me wanted to learn martial arts. Little did I know how much walking through that door would change my life.

That was over a year and a half ago. In that time I have done things I would never have thought possible at my age and in my physical condition. I have learned that my potential is limitless and that dreams can come true. I have found a safe place to learn, improve myself, push back boundaries and challenge myself "mentally, physically <and> morally." I have realized that even the loftiest goals can be reached, even exceeded, one step at a time. And I have discovered strength within myself - of body, of character, of desire - far greater than I ever imagined.

True, we all have unrealized potential and hidden strengths locked away inside of us. So what was the key for me? Without a doubt, it was walking through that particular door. Martial Artistry is unique. You feel it the moment you enter. Open, friendly, encouraging, tolerant, challenging, harmonious. It is the essence of the place, of the students, of the instructors, of the Sifu. The quality of a school is best measured by the quality of its Sifu, and Sifu Kayne Sirocco LaTrans is of the highest quality - not only a master of wushu, but a master of teaching as well.

I have rediscovered a long lost dream, to study martial arts. Fortune brought me to the best school, with the best Sifu. Adherence to the principles taught at Martial Artistry has brought me farther than I ever imagined. And I've only just begun.

-- Kyra Gryphon, September 2002

I first met sifu at another wushu school. I was about nine, one of those tall, thin, kids who couldn’t walk straight half the time. After a year or so, I started taking private lessons with her and that was when she first started to inspire me to bigger and better things. After awhile she left to start her own school, but I stayed on at the one I was at. A few years later I realized that I was not happy at that school, even though I was one of the core assistant instructors and teaching 8 classes a week, I was still shy and was hardly ever entrusted with leading a group of my own. Not even the fact that I was a month away from testing for that one thing that most people recognize as one of the highest symbols of skill, my black belt, brought me happiness. I knew that that black belt would mean nothing to me because the school meant nothing to me, so I left. I immediately went to Martial Artistry and joined. I have been at this school for almost three years now, and it means more to me than all of those years that I spent at my previous school. I am still an assistant instructor and I have not only joined the demo team but been promoted to co-leader. Me -- that awkward boy who never talked to anybody unless I absolutely had to, on a demo team and teaching groups of people on my own all the time. Sifu has indeed inspired me to do more than I have ever thought possible.

-- Jason Padilla (2002)

My 10 year old Kris and I wanted a sport that we could do together, yet could also do individually and at our own pace. I've always wanted to learn an oriental martial art, and I looked into a range of options including various schools of Karate, Judo, and Aikido. We were both especially attracted to Wu Shu because it is a graceful yet powerful style, with a lot of history and tradition. After watching Sifu LaTrans work with her Little Dragons class and then with Team Steel Phoenix, it was obvious that she was the teacher for us and so we started our instruction that following week.

Although neither of us were in very good physical shape when we began training at Martial Artistry, we have come so far in the past year I find it hard to believe when I look back. Studying Wu Shu with Sifu LaTrans has been fun, exciting, challenging and in a word: wonderful.

Recently my wife joined us in learning Tai Chi at the school, which has been a tremendous experience for the three of us. The people here make it what it is; a friendly and supportive place to learn and practice the grand tradition of the Chinese martial arts. I have seen so much emotional and physical growth in my son over the past year, and I am amazed at some of the physical feats we both can now perform as a result of our Wu Shu training!

I am confident that both he and I will continue to study and improve our skills for many years to come, and no matter where we go in life will always think fondly of our days here at Martial Artistry. Thank you Sifu and all of your instructor staff for so many positive changes for us over the past year, and here's looking forward to many more!

-- Paul Klarer (2002)

My daughter Alexandra enrolled in classes at Martial Artistry in May of 2001. She had tried a lot of sports, track, soccer, swimming, gymnastics, ballet, but nothing had really caught her fancy. Although she had great moments in sports, she was very inconsistent. She is quite distractible, and a strong and charismatic leadership figure is extremely important to her. Once in a while she had a great teacher or coach and really flourished, but mostly she ended up with well meaning coaches who couldn’t really inspire her to her best efforts. For several years my wife and I considered martial arts for Alex, but we wanted to carefully select a school. We thought she could succeed at martial arts because of her strength and flexibility, but mostly we hoped she could increase her self control and discipline. We heard wonderful things about Martial Artistry and especially about Sifu Kayne LaTrans from several people. I spoke with Sifu by telephone, described our concerns about how Alex can really be a handful, and she was very warm and welcoming. We watched her teach class one afternoon, and were impressed with the way Sifu is able to inspire a large and extremely diverse group of people to really tremendous efforts. Sifu met with us after class and I was very impressed with the rapport she built with Alex in only a minute or two. We signed her up on the spot. After taking Alex to classes for a month I was very impressed with the workout the students get. Sifu uses plyometrics, aerobic and anaerobic conditioning, and also spends lots of time on stretching. Every student gets a great warm-up and workout before even starting the actual martial arts training. I have played many sports, and I am always on the lookout for a good workout to help keep me in shape. I enrolled in November of 2001. In just a few months I have become more flexible than I have ever been in my life, which I think will help protect me from injury in the sports I play. The instructors are very positive and encouraging. They never get impatient and are full of praise when you finally master some technique you had been struggling with. I find the martial arts to be very challenging, yet very satisfying. It is

such a great feeling of accomplishment to finally get a form right after working on it for months. I can now do things I thought were physically impossible for me only a few months ago. Sifu in particular is a wonderful teacher. She reaches everyone, from small children to adults. I have never seen her perform, but the quick demonstrations of forms and stances she provides give a clue of what a wonderful martial artist she is. It is so great to see her demonstrate the forms so you can see they way they should look.

Martial arts is now my daughter’s prime focus, she has recently been accepted onto the Martial Artistry demonstration team, and she is very excited at this rare opportunity. Alex and I are very happy we found Martial Artistry and Sifu Kayne LaTrans. We highly recommend Martial Artistry to anyone.

-- Mike Daniels (2002)

I enjoy the classes because they use up a lot of my energy. It’s really fun, and you get to learn about what to do to protect yourself. You get to learn a lot of interesting stuff. You get to use weapons, which is pretty cool. You get a lot more flexible and you get stronger in your muscles. I also enjoy it because you don’t have to be really skilled at the beginning to be good at it like in some other sports. All the instructors are really nice, even if you get something wrong. They’ll always be really positive if you get something right that you’ve been working on for a long time. The instructors teach the forms and the basics to you so you understand; if you don’t understand they’ll explain it again until you get it. They explain things very well. Sifu is a good leader, and she’s also real nice. She has a good sense of humor, but she’s also very serious about her art. I really like working with her and the other instructors. I recommend Martial Artistry to everyone.

-- Alexandra Daniels (2002)

Everybody loves to play with Alex. She's sort of like a Gumby, only alive.

(We're probably going to scare off a whole bunch of students with this photo . . .)

When I was young (7 or so) I was taking Karate classes at a school in Tennessee. I was never really excited about it, but my parents wanted me to do something physical. When they moved to Albuquerque, my interest in the Martial Arts remained, but my excitement was never sparked by the various schools that I called or went to and watched. Some schools put too much emphasis on just one aspect of the martial arts while others had the students warming up and stretching out on their own (which led mostly to screwing around and not stretching at all). Years later, one of the people that I work with told me that they had joined this Kung Fu class at Martial Artistry. They had so many good things to say, that I went there shortly afterwards and took a trial lesson. Everyone there was so nice and friendly that I felt at home after only minutes. What else can I say? One class and I fell in love. After only one year of training, I am amazed every time that I learn a new skill that my body is capable of doing something like that. The best thing about Martial Artistry is that the instructors really care and only push you as hard as you can go, and the art form itself is such a beautiful combination of grace and power. Since joining, I have really improved in my personal physical condition in all aspects, strength, endurance, speed and power, as well as my mental well being, doing something that I truly enjoy.

Sifu inspires me every day to do my best and to push myself to the limits. Thank You Sifu for all your hard work at making me be the best that I can be.
-- Levi J. Parsons (2002)

I have been going to Martial Artistry for a little over a year now. I came to Martial Artistry with five previous years in training in kung fu. The instructors at (my old kung fu school) did not know what they were doing and they were lazy, so they made you do things that would not really help you improve your kung fu. All that they seemed interested in was getting my money. For example: The first time that I tested at my last school was the last time I did the normal testing time that they provided. The testing went from about 6:00 until 10:00 or 11:00 at night on a school night because they had so many different colored belts testing together. For that point on I took a private testing.

Another thing that was not so good about (my previous school) is that your classes did not teach you the things that you needed to know. I had to take a couple of months of private lessons just so I could test. Once again they where just trying to get my money.

Martial Artistry is nothing like that. Sifu does not just try to get your money. She is there to help you out to the best of her ability and not take advantage of you. Sifu's ambition to teach has taken my love for kung fu to the next level.

There is no way I can thank Sifu enough for what she has done for me. Her passion to teach others and her passion for kung fu is what makes her the best. I am down at Martial Artistry almost every day and when I start practicing Sifu is right there to watch me or answer any question that I might have.

She has made my training for kung fu better and a whole lot more fun. I wish that when Sifu left the old school I was at, that I had gone with her. There is no doubt in my mind that there is no better person in this world than Sifu.

James Cole (2002)

PS Sifu is my hero!!!

My sweetheart and I had seen the (Martial Artistry Team Steel Phoenix) exhibition last year on the 4th of July and decided to try Wushu. I had always wanted to take a martial arts class but thought that since I'm almost Deaf I couldn't, but Sifu said to try it. Boy am I glad I listened to her!

Wushu has taught me a lot besides kicks, handwork and katas (forms). I've learned to laugh at my mistakes, and to have fun. I've also learned that I CAN do anything I put my mind to. It's great I get to spend time with my sweetheart and we both get in shape and get to go at our own pace. I've gained balance, which before wasn't great because of my hearing, and confidence. I know I can do things in Wushu that I never thought I could do and that confidence has carried over into other my schoolwork and social life too. The teachers are great and willing to help. We're not just a school and the teachers aren't just teachers they're friends too.

Sifu thanks for letting me call you my friend as well as Sifu (teacher).

-- April Littlejohn (2002)

What can I say about how much you've done for me? I've only known you for a few months but you've enlightened me in so many ways. You've shown me a beautiful art which I now call my own and liberated me from the environment in which I was accustomed to for too long. You've shown me your generosity and the great love you possess for your art and the joy it brings you in sharing your knowledge and experience. There are not enough good words in the English language to express my immense appreciation of what you've instilled in me and what continues to grow within me. You've given me a new passion. Thank you SO much!!

-- Monique Renee Cordova

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