Bullying and Me

As a Korean-American growing up in the suburbs of Little Rock, Ark., I experienced racism, discrimination and bullying from my peers. I was shy and suffered separation anxiety when I was away from my mother and father. The bullying in school fed my anxiety and often led to faked stomachaches and school absences. Instead of embracing who I was, I often resented my heritage, culture and appearance.

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Nine Ways to Combat Bullying: Bullying Prevention in Action

Two Arizona kids dealt with bullying head-on, and emerged more confident than ever.

By Sarah Asp Olson / Illustrations by Pietari Posti
ATA World | Winter 2010

Collin
Chandler, Ariz.

When 9-year-old Collin was having problems with another student at school, his mom decided to seek out help from his ATA family. "By attending the Bullying Prevention Program, Collin and I learned short, simple techniques that helped with this school issue," his mom says. "Collin learned how to avoid the 'hot spots' on the playground, how to speak up for himself and how to be confident in himself. Furthermore, he learned that, since bullies are not usually brave, having confidence in himself can help prevent bullying." Collin's newfound bravery also helped him stand up for his friends and other students who were being bullied. "When he notices that his friends are being picked on, Collin will try to help his friends," his mom says. "He knows that standing up for his friends boosts this confidence and will help stop bullying with others, not just himself."

Read more: Nine Ways to Combat Bullying: Bullying Prevention in Action

Krav Maga vs. Tae Kwon Do: The Difference between These Two Martial Arts

While both forms of martial arts, Tae Kwon Do and Krav Maga vary in practice and have different but equally rich historical foundations. Neither of the two is irrefutably better than the other and many practitioners of martial arts enjoy both.

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Blocking a Straight Punch

Have you ever wondered how to block a straight punch on a split-second’s notice? For an enthusiastic demonstration on how to simultaneously block a straight punch with one hand and counter it with the other, watch this short video clip.

In addition to showing us the mechanics of punch blocking, the speakers introduces you to Jeet Kune Do, the hybrid martial arts system and life philosophy founded by martial arts instructor Bruce Lee in the 1960s.

If you want more hands-on training in blocking punches, or if you are looking to explore the world of martial arts, then consider taking a course at one of several ATA MARTIAL ARTS schools located throughout the country! For more information please call us at (571) 991-9550