Student Testimonial from Brianna Alonzo | Faustini's Institute of Martial Arts and Fitness

What Our Students Say

Brianna Alonzo

So here I am, ten years later, at my Tae Kwon Do Black Belt Test. Throughout my journey in the martial arts, I have gained much more than numerous belt ranks and the possession of my lunch money due to no problems with bullies. Karate has had its effects on me both physically, mentally, and all around as a person.

Karate has truly built up my endurance, physical strength, flexibility, and physical fitness. All of these qualities have benefited me as an athlete both in and out of the martial arts school. I know that if it had not been for karate, I would not be able to kick as high in cheerleading or swing as hard in softball.

After my years in FIMA, I now have the confidence not only in my physical abilities, but mental abilities to defend myself. The saying, "Knowledge is Power" is absolutely correct. By looking in the mirror, it is clear to see that it isn't the my physical power that got me here today, but my knowledge of the material, technique, and precise mechanics that has made me into a martial artist. I cannot count how many times I've heard Sensei say the word "mechanics" but all I can say is I am glad he did, for it is because of those tiny mechanics that can one day help defend my life.

One major theme the dojo focuses on is "focus." I know my focus would be far from what it is now if were not for karate. I've learned to focus on what other people are teaching me, focus on my surroundings, and focus on what I am doing. Because of the strong emphasis the school places on teaching focus, I have gained a great understanding for one of the most important qualities in life. Focus is something that enables me to learn new things, and perform them to the highest extent.

Also, karate has helped me with respect. As a young white belt, bowing to your instructor was nothing more than something you did because you were told, but as years progressed, I soon learned that bowing was more than a movement at the hips, but a sign of showing respect. This is just one example of respect in the dojo. Through karate I've learned to address my elders and teachers in a proper and respectful manner. Also I have respect for the hard work and patience others have put into teaching me. Self respect and discipline was another benefit of karate. I have learned how to take responsibility and control for my actions. These are also very vital morals to have in life, whether it be having self control on my kicks in the dojo, or the discipline to say no to peer pressure.

I feel that the most important benefit karate has had on my life is my outlook on goals. One hour, two times a week, for ten years is quite a long time to be coming to karate. There have been so many times I just wanted to quit. But each time this thought came into my mind, it was because of what I was taught in the dojo about setting my goals that kept me going. I know that I'm not going to get anywhere in my journey of martial arts or in life by quitting or giving up. There are always going to be those low points, but I know that I have to just keep going. Finally, testing for a Black Belt is one the many goals I have set for myself, and with the motivation I have from karate, I know that I will be able to push myself to conquer that goal, as well as anything I set my heart out to do.