MILTON — For GrandMaster Gary Nichols, educating residents on martial arts twice a week at the Guy Thompson Community Center is not about earning an extra income.
It’s about helping people to prepare for the unexpected.
GALLERY: Photos for martial arts training at the Guy Thompson Community Center>
From learning self defense tactics to maintaining focus, Nichols aims to help his students with different aspects of martial arts.
WATCH: Video of martial arts students putting skills to the test>
“People that study martial arts typically learn faster,” he said.
Although the flier for his martial art class suggests a monthly payment of $60, Nichols, an enlisted U.S. Air Force veteran, said he will often offer his mentorship at no charge to those who need it the most.
“Anybody in the military or police and they want to learn, I will teach them for free,” Nichols said. “If they are in a position where they are in danger, you bet I am going to teach them for free.”
Nichols said learning about the different aspects of martial arts — including tai-chi, kung-fu among other areas — comes with dedication.
“This is not the kind of art you want to get into if you are not willing to commit,” Nichols said.
Branden Steadman, a long-time martial arts student, said learning MA has helped him overcome obstacles.
“I was diagnosed with (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) at a young age,” Steadman said.
Steadman said his parents looked into several options before deciding to enroll him into martial arts. Through the decision, Steadman said he eventually got off taking medication for his ADHD.
“It helps a lot with focus,” he said.
Others enrolled in martial arts have witnessed personal changes within less time.
“It has changed my outlook,” said Ian Parker, who has been in martial arts for the past six years. “(Martial Arts) is a defining aspect of me.”
WANT TO GO?
The Martial Arts Academy is from 6:30-7:45 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays at the Guy Thompson Community Center, 5629 Byrom St., Milton. Start-up fee, including uniform, costs $60; classes cost $60 a month. Call 529-2370 for more information.
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Martial arts classes prepare residents for the unexpected (VIDEOS, PHOTOS)