**Open for Youth Kenpo testing and adult classes March 23**
Now that we’ve had a few days to gather more information, Tara and I would like to share some thoughts and temporary changes we will be implementing in our classes.
- At the moment it appears that kids are not in serious danger of the virus. They are however carriers of the virus. That being said any place where children congregate could be a potential danger to those whose respiratory systems are compromised. Therefore we plan to take the next week off and let things settle down. At the moment we plan to go forward with testing the week of the 23rd with a modified format to minimize physical contact.
- Our testing format will no longer include physical contact when performing self-defense techniques. All students will demonstrate what they’ve been training in the air as they do when performing forms.
- Sadly, we will have to have to cancel our bi-annual Black Belt Spectacular Promotion Ceremony. We have 11 students preparing to test next Saturday and we will not be able to honor those who pass at this event. We will make every effort do so in the days that follow.
- Our next testing cycle, which will run from April to June, will replace physical self-defense techniques with self-defense strategies. Our curriculum will include: Verbal De-escalation techniques, how to run effectively when being chased by a larger person, and how and when to use the 911 emergency system.
- All Krav Maga classes will be working on long-range combatives and offensive weapons training. This is higher-level material (2nd and 3rd Black Belt level) but it involves keeping distance between you and your opponent so there is less physical contact than is experienced in the typical level 1 and 2 classes.
If we receive new information in regard to this developing situation we will make adjustments as necessary. Tara and I are very committed to the safety of all of our students. That is why our life’s work has been the teaching of Martial Arts. That being said, we are aware that the younger children are watching how we respond to this threat and looking to us (all of us) to make them feel safe and protected. We are committed to making them feel this way. If you do have any questions or concerns that you would like to discuss please reach out privately and we’d be happy to talk with you.
