Nine-year old Zachary Koehler is new to Tae Kwon Do, after starting in January. His grandparents gave the gift that keeps on giving … and though it’s early, they have seen some positive changes. “We gave him the membership as a Christmas gift,” states grandparents Barry and Kathy Holcomb. “He shows more willing(ness) to answer questions when asked,” they say, adding, “he has developed strength and flexibility.” With more on what made Tae Kwon Do a good choice, here’s this month’s student profile on Zachary Koehler.

What is your belt level? At what location do you attend classes?

I just received my yellow belt. I attend classes at the Fayetteville location.

Why do you like Tae Kwon Do?

It’s challenging, but in a good way. It is a sport you do at our own pace. You control your pace based on what you put into it.

What are some of your Tae Kwon Do achievements?

After being in it for only a couple of months, I have received my yellow belt. My flexibility and range of motion has improved.

Why would you encourage someone else to consider Tae Kwon Do?

It’s a fun sport that almost anyone can take up. It’s up to you what you put into it.

Master Shim’s World Class Tae Kwon Do has a new location!!

Calling all Augusta residents ….

• Our Evans, GA Martial Arts school is conveniently located in the Market at Riverwood
• Classes are offered for all ages – from Little Tigers (age 4) to adults
• Our matted floor provides an extra measure of safety
• No experience is necessary! We teach an easy step-by-step system
• Free trial is available

What are you waiting for? Check us out today. We can’t wait to meet you!

Easter is almost here. Whether you are commemorating a religious holiday and Jesus’ crucifixion, or observing the day of springtime fun, there are sure to be activities that you will enjoy.

Many parks and churches are hosting Easter egg hunts. There are a few notable holiday happenings around the city. Callanwalde Fine Arts Center will hold an Eggstravaganza event, while Callaway Gardens is pairing its egg hunt with a 5K race, a kids’ race, entertainment and an Easter Sunday morning sunrise service. Stone Mountain Park will also host an Easter Sunday service, both at the base and the top of the mountain.

Other activities during Easter weekend include the Georgia Renaissance Festival in Fairburn; several restaurants serving Easter brunch, including Park Tavern and downtown’s Ritz Carlton; and free entrance into several area national parks.

Celebrate. Commemorate. Invigorate yourself with a relaxing weekend of enjoyable activities.

Happy Easter from Master Shim’s World Class Tae Kwon Do.

April is National Autism Awareness Month. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) describes a group of neurodevelopmental disorders. The goal of the month designation is to increase awareness about autism itself, as well as anything relating to the condition. That includes understanding methods that can be used to help those dealing with autism. One such method is exercise.

According to autism.com, studies show that vigorous exercise at least 20 minutes in length, 3-4 times per week, can help decrease hyperactive or destructive behaviors. It also helps stave off unhealthy weight gain that can creep in with a sedentary lifestyle. If a loved one in your life is living with autism, healthy options are available to help.

Anyone seeking an activity that will get the blood pumping, the mind engaged and offer good clean fun doesn’t have to look any further. Master Shim’s World Class Tae Kwon Do may be the perfect physical exercise outlet for all ages. Click here to check out our free trial program: https://atlantatkd.com/beginners-martial-arts-classes-program/.

Stress from school. Fast food for dinner. Chips and sodas for lunch. Camped out for hours in front of a computer screen. All of these factors can contribute to the deterioration of a child’s physical and mental health. Add in the busyness of parents and the general hustle and bustle of life, and you’ve got an area of a child’s life desperately in need of attention. Enter Every Kid Healthy Week.

The Seventh Annual Every Kid Healthy Week will be April 22-26, 2019. According to everykidhealthyweek.org, it is “an annual observance created to celebrate school health and wellness achievements.” The week shines a spotlight on programs implemented by schools to improve students’ physical and mental well-being. From teaching about proper nutrition, to supporting physical activity and other healthy initiatives, Every Kid Healthy Week is designed to encourage schools to help kids live healthier lives.

What is your child’s school doing to promote healthier habits? Check out ideas for how you can take part by visiting everykidhealthyweek.org.

Stress from school. Fast food for dinner. Chips and sodas for lunch. Camped out for hours in front of a computer screen. All of these factors can contribute to the deterioration of a child’s physical and mental health. Add in the busyness of parents and the general hustle and bustle of life, and you’ve got an area of a child’s life desperately in need of attention. Enter Every Kid Healthy Week.

The Seventh Annual Every Kid Healthy Week will be April 22-26, 2019. According to everykidhealthyweek.org, it is “an annual observance created to celebrate school health and wellness achievements.” The week shines a spotlight on programs implemented by schools to improve students’ physical and mental well-being. From teaching about proper nutrition, to supporting physical activity and other healthy initiatives, Every Kid Healthy Week is designed to encourage schools to help kids live healthier lives.

What is your child’s school doing to promote healthier habits? Check out ideas for how you can take part by visiting everykidhealthyweek.org.

Eight-year old Jeffery Rapes knows he can do anything he puts his mind to. He loves climbing the ranks of Tae Kwon Do. “I have achieved getting my black belt, which I am very proud of,” he states. In addition to being fun and a great form of exercise, Tae Kwon Do has benefited Jeffery in several areas of his life.

His grandmother, Donna Blanton, has seen first-hand the impact that the sport has had on him. “Jeffery was a scared little boy when he came to live with his Grandparents,” she says. “He had terrible anxiety and separation anxiety. Tae Kwon Do gave him focus, confidence and security; and a second family that he knows loves him. (It) gave him more friends and a feeling of belonging.”

Nothing can compare to that type of impact on a child’s life.

Here’s more on this month’s student profile …. Jeffery Rapes.

How long have you been doing Tae Kwon Do?

I have been taking Tae Kwon Do for 4 years.

Did you have any problems/issues that Tae Kwon Do helped you overcome?  

Yes. Focus and confidence.

What has Tae Kwon Do done for your confidence? Self-esteem?  

It has made me a lot more confident, and made my self-esteem greater.

What are some things Tae Kwon Do has helped you achieve?

I am much more focused about long-term goals and what I want to do with my life. I love music and animals and want to become a veterinarian.

Why would you tell another kid that they should do Tae Kwon Do?

It gives you focus, responsibility, and leadership. You also learn to defend yourself against bullies.

Earlier this month we celebrated National Sleep Awareness Week, March 3-10. I think we’d all agree that sleep is something that can be severely underrated, yet of extreme importance. Here are just a few reasons why not getting enough sleep each night can be so detrimental:

• You can get sick easier. Lack of sleep can lead to a compromised immune system. Your body has a more difficult time fighting off sickness when you’re tired.
• Your decision-making is hindered. It’s harder to make wise decisions, or even think, when you’re tired. Memory and alertness suffer, too.
• You increase your risk of gaining weight. Indeed, some studies show there is a correlation between adults sleeping 5 hours or less each night, and their weight gain.
• Your skin pays a price. Tired inside can show on the outside. More wrinkles, uneven skin color and even looser skin can result from lack of sleep.

Bottom line – get the rest that you need! Your body will thank you for it.

Are you looking for some excitement and intrigue? Seeking a family-friendly event the kids will enjoy? How about a little action and movement? You can find it all at Master Shim’s 13^th Annual World Class Tae Kwon Do Open Championship.

The event will take place on Saturday, April 27. Although there is a competitive element, the main impetus is for improvement and growth for each participant. All belt levels are invited to take part. It will be a wonderful opportunity to see amazing demonstrations, including board breaking and sparring. You’ll also have the chance to see incredible strength and determination from each person involved.

The Championship will take place at Dutchtown High School in Hampton, Georgia. Find out more by visiting us online, at atlantatkd.com.

Self-professed Roller Derby Girl Crystal Booth is relishing her new role at Master Shim’s World Class Tae Kwon Do. She started her journey at the Fayetteville school, and has recently been named the School Manager at the Peachtree City location. “I have a new home!” she exclaims.

Crystal’s resilience and ability to adapt to change come from her courage in the face of adversity. She has overcome difficulties, and loves the way Tae Kwon Do allows her to chart her own course. “Being a cancer survivor for 10 years now, and in that time having 7 knee surgeries sure makes classes interesting! But that’s why I LOVE Tae Kwon Do at Master Shim’s. This journey is mine, and no one else’s! I am allowed to work with my Masters to make each and every Poomsae, Kick, Break, and new move one that I can accomplish to the best of my ability!”

Meet an inspirational woman of strength …. Crystal Booth.

How long have you been doing Tae Kwon Do? Why did you start?

I have been doing Tae Kwon Do for a little over a year. I started taking classes a few months after my son Peyton started at the Fayetteville location. I joined and a week later was in my first tournament!

What made you select Master Shim's for your Tae Kwon Do experience?

After doing a lot of research and talking to friends of mine, we chose Master Shim’s because of the values they have and expect out of each one of their students. I knew that was where we were meant to be!

What has motivated you to continue climbing the ranks of Tae Kwon Do?

My kids! No, not just my biological sons, but my kids at Master Shim’s. They push me (and compete) with me to be the very best I can, and who would I be to let down a bunch of kiddos that are looking up to me for direction?! Not only does the way getting a tip or a new belt make me feel the need to keep on going, but the hugs and smiles I get from the kids is the best motivation ever!

What has Tae Kwon Do done for your confidence? Self-esteem?

Tae Kwon Do has given me a confidence in myself that I didn’t know existed. I have the power within me to achieve anything that I want to, as long as I work hard and WANT IT. Knowing that you have an army behind you cheering you on isn’t a bad feeling either! My self-esteem is a work in progress, but one that has come a long way! I love myself, I love what I am capable of, and I know without a shadow of a doubt, I can do anything!

What changes have you seen in students who take Tae Kwon Do? Why would you recommend it to others?

The changes that I see in students is unbelievable. Even in my own son, who is ADHD, the change has been huge! You see them have more control over themselves, and the knowledge they are responsible for the decisions they make and the outcome they will have. The discipline here at Master Shim’s was a huge reason we chose this school!

Anything else you would like to add?

If I could tell any adult thinking about trying Tae Kwon Do for themselves it would be DO NOT WAIT! Once your feet hit the mat and you feel the amazing support system that instantly surrounds you, you’ll know you made the right choice! Don’t wait, trust me. Those tired days get easier, the hard parts become second nature, and you become FIERCE!

When most people think of St. Patrick’s Day, they think of wearing green, shamrocks and parades, amongst other fun activities. And although each of these items bring the holiday to mind, none of them give a true indication of the meaning behind St. Patrick’s Day.

St. Patrick was a patron saint and a national apostle of Ireland. He is famous because he is credited with successfully bringing Christianity to his country.

The reason St. Patrick’s Day is commemorated on March 17? That day is widely accepted as the date of his death, in AD 461. Oh, and the purpose of the shamrock? According to legend, the three leaves of a shamrock are designed to symbolize the Holy Trinity.

So, as you prepare for your day of festivities and don your green ensemble, take a moment to think on the life and legacy of the patron saint.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day from Master Shim’s World Class Tae Kwon Do.