In January 2013, Natasha Menko was looking for a new experience in life. Dealing with a “mid-life crisis” of sorts, she decided to pursue her interest in martial arts. “After 15 years of being a stay-at-home mom, I realized I needed to do something for me, not just for my kids,” she states. She also wanted to lose weight and get in shape, and felt like she found the perfect blending of all of her interests, in Tae Kwon Do.

Now the School Manager for Master Shim’s World Class Tae Kwon Do in Peachtree City, Natasha says there’s no looking back. Her interest in and excitement for Tae Kwon Do allowed her to share her love of the sport with her family as well. She’s ascended the ranks to 3^rd Degree Black Belt, and loves what she does.

Here’s more about Natasha Menko.

What made you select Master Shim's for your Tae Kwon Do? After deciding I wanted to try a martial art, I found Master Shim's was conveniently located and decided to check it out. I set up a trial class and was immediately hooked. I signed up for the black belt program, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Do any other family members take lessons with you? How did taking lessons together affect your relationship with your sons?  When I started, my sons saw how much fun I was having and decided they wanted to be a part of it also, and three of them took of classes with me. My youngest, Bryan (now 13) made it to red stripe before deciding he wanted to go back to soccer. My sons Nick (now 15) and Sean (now 20) both tested for 1st Dan with me in September 2015. Nick decided to take a break from Tae Kwon Do at 1st Dan Level 3, but Sean and I tested for 2nd Dan together in March 2016. He stopped taking classes a while after that. However, even though they no longer take Tae Kwon Do with me, I can say that having been on the journey with them was an incredible bonding experience.

What has Tae Kwon Do done for your confidence? Tae Kwon Do has done a lot for my confidence, both on and off the mat. Knowing that I am able to handle a situation, no matter what, I am more comfortable speaking up - no longer acquiescing when I disagree for fear of confrontation. I am less fearful in general, because I KNOW that I can handle myself.

Is it good exercise? Tae Kwon Do classes are not just great exercise, but good for the mind and spirit as well. I found that during stressful times, my classes really enabled me to let things go and work off that stress. The fact that it helped me lose weight and get in better shape were certainly welcome too. 

What changes have you seen in students who take Tae Kwon Do? Why would you recommend it to others?  The improvement in behavior, in respect for not only their elders, but also for their peers. I've had parents tell me proudly that within a couple of weeks they noticed a difference - in just saying "yes, sir, yes ma'am" at home, better listening, better focus. I've seen shy students come out of their shell to talk with and help others, I've seen focus improve, and the determination on some of their faces when they know they are so close to a tip or a new belt, and how hard they work to achieve that. I would recommend it to everyone. It doesn't matter what you are looking for - increased focus, confidence, stress relief, a good workout, better endurance or flexibility - you name it, Tae Kwon Do offers lots of benefits. Whichever one you are looking for, you may find you gain more than you bargained for. In a great way.

Memorial Day provides us with the opportunity to honor brave men and women who’ve given their lives in military service for this country. It became a federal holiday in 1971 and has evolved as a day of remembering the legacies of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Here at Master Shim’s World Class Tae Kwon Do, we count it a privilege to recognize this nation’s veterans. We’d love the opportunity to say “thank you for your service” to veterans who are still with us. This is where you come in.

In the comments below, tell us about a veteran you’d like to recognize for their service and dedication in the military. The remarks that garner the most “likes” will receive a week of free classes for your honored veteran.

All decisions are at the final discretion of Master Shim’s World Class Tae Kwon Do.

Tell us your stories ….

In Step With . . .Daniel and Peter van der Hoek

The Van der Hoek brothers have made Tae Kwon Do a family affair. Twelve-year-old Daniel got the ball rolling, when he started classes in September 2016. “My brother did it and I just thought it looked fun,” states 8-year-old Peter. He followed suit and started classes in November 2016. The boys are taking classes at the Fayetteville location.

Their mother is pleased with the changes she’s seen in her sons. “Taekwondo gives both boys a chance to channel their energy in a constructive way. They learn a little about Korean culture also. So far, they have not been in any situations where they would need to defend themselves, but I am glad they know some self-defense moves! They also receive positive reinforcement in being courteous and helpful to others, a key principle in Taekwondo,” says Betsy.

Presenting Daniel and Peter van der Hoek, our April Student Profile.

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

Both: We feel a little more confident than before we did Taekwondo.

Is it good exercise? 

Both: Definitely. It is physical and mental exercise. You have to remember all the forms and Korean terms, and also how to get along with each other and help each other.

Why do you like Tae Kwon Do? 

Daniel: Forms and self-defense, and Master Morgan.

Peter: I like the nice masters, instructors and the friends.

Tell me about some of your Tae Kwon Do accomplishments and things you have achieved?

Daniel: We competed in Master Shim’s tournament last year and in the Health Kick fundraiser two years in a row. I have been doing Taekwondo a year and a half, and I’m close to being a black belt. I feel like I have gained a lot of experience already.

Peter: I have been in Master Shim’s tournament and the 2017 Health Kick. I broke a board into 3 pieces!

FROM MOM, BETSY:

Why would you tell another parent that their child should take Tae Kwon Do? 

Apart from the fact that it’s good exercise, there is a good balance of competition and cooperation that is healthy for kids (and adults). Since my children are homeschooled, coming to Master Shim’s gives us a chance to get out and spend time with a nice cross-section of our local community. I can’t speak highly enough of the masters and instructors. They are cheerful, patient, friendly, encouraging, and know when a student needs a challenge. The administrative side of the school is also very organized. My kids appreciated the fact that they got a manual to help learn the requirements for each level and track their progress. The atmosphere in the school is always friendly for parents and grandparents as they watch the lessons. I like that my boys are involved in a sport they enjoy right now and can continue in someday as adults if they choose.

Students, teachers, and even some parents are itching with excitement – summer is almost upon us! Between counting down the days that remain in the school year, and enrolling in summer camps, the month of May can be a busy time. You may also be looking forward to slowing down the pace, focusing on relaxation, and preparing family vacation plans for the summer. If you’re looking for fun activities close to home, the city of Atlanta offers a plethora of options to choose from. There are choices for all ages, and all price ranges. In fact, if you’re considering summer excitement that will make your wallet happy, look no further. Get ready to smile with this listing of a few inexpensive ways to have summer fun.

• Enjoy the great outdoors at the park – This may seem obvious. After all, throwing frisbees at the park, playing on the monkey bars, and picnic lunches are all things summer was made for. You may also enjoy a trip to Centennial Olympic Park to play in the fountains and read about Atlanta’s time hosting the Olympic games.
• A little climb, anyone? – Looking for a little exercise? A climb to the top of Stone Mountain at Stone Mountain Park may be just what you need.
• Take a walk through history – The King Center in Atlanta is an informative look at the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Filled with intriguing details on both his public and private life, it would be a day well-spent.
• Loving our animal friends - Noah’s Animal Sanctuary provides an up close and personal look at exotic, wildlife and domestic animals. Self-guided tours are completely free.
• Activities with a little kick to them - Check out the events at Master Shim’s World Class Tae Kwon Ladies, looking for a self-defense class? Want to sign the kids up for summer camp? Looking for a few lessons to get your feet wet? Take advantage of all we have to offer! Visit www.atlantatkd.com to find out more.

In Step With . . .Samantha Ransier

Mat Instructor Samantha Ransier owes her love of Tae Kwon Do to her younger sister. “I started because my sister sparked my interest,” she states. “I had always thought martial arts were cool, but when I saw Master Morgan doing a self-defense demonstration at a birthday party, I was automatically hooked,” she continues. Four years later, Samantha enjoys working at the Fayetteville location, and is a first-degree black belt.

Here’s more on April’s instructor, Samantha Frazier.

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

I was always very socially anxious, but Master Shim's has taught me to use my voice in multiple ways.

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

There is nothing more confidence boosting than watching other people trying just as hard and encouraging you no matter how little you think of yourself. I personally had a group of students that I bonded with and became very close with. We did everything together at Tae Kwon Do. They helped me become more confident.

Is it good exercise?

Definitely. There is always a balance between the physical training and the curricular training which let's you develop not only muscular strength, but also your flexibility.

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

There are tremendous changes! I think one of my personal observations was how children who come into the door on the first day with the jitters, unable to keep still, and running from place to place, walk in the door, bow politely and respectfully grab their cards and sit patiently by the mat. Another change is watching the shy children finally expressing themselves and flowering into amazing martial artists with more confidence than ever before.

Anything else you would like to add?

Master Shim's has made me a better person. I focus more in school and have a higher self-image. I love the amazing family I've become a part of. I could never be happier anywhere else.

At the first peak of warm weather, many people excitedly flock to the beach. After all, winter’s blistering temperatures have held outdoor activities at bay for months. The squishy sand between your toes, refreshing cool water waves, and sunshine on your skin create an attractive allure to take a beach day. As much fun as frolicking in the sun can be, it can develop into too much of a good thing. May is Skin Cancer Awareness month. Instead of shying away from time in the sun and the benefits that it can bring, the key is to do it wisely. Taking appropriate precautions ensures your time in the sun is safe.

• Use sunscreen. That’s what it’s for. Allow it to help keep the harmful rays at bay.
• Don a pair of sunglasses. They’re not only stylish, they’re functional. They serve a valid purpose in helping your eyes.
• Limit your time in the sun between 10am and 4pm. When temperatures are often at their highest, and the sun’s rays are the fiercest, consider cutting back on outdoor time. Don’t make a practice of laying out for hours on end.
• Try to wear clothing that coves your skin whenever possible. Long-sleeved shirts and long pants can provide protection from damaging rays. Of course, it’s hot in the summer, so tank tops and shorts are an integral part of your wardrobe. But when you may be outdoors for extended periods of time, consider covering up to protect your skin.