Great Job Steven!

Citizen Schools and H.E.A.R.T. Martial Arts student Steven was ready to take on the challenge of the toughest re-breakable board in the class. In Steven's own words he's "on fire!" I hope your family smiles at this as much as I do, you did a great job!

OSU!

H.E.A.R.T. — Martial Arts — We're Fighting To Make A Difference.

H.E.A.R.T.s Soar! - Great Job Melissa!

Although the week is not out I had to post this video as soon as possible. Citizen Schools and H.E.A.R.T. Martial Arts student Melissa set a goal last class, to break the black re-breakable board which is the equivalent of a 1" piece of wood. With a little help, encouragement and support from the class she met her goal even faster than she expected! You can see the surprise and excitement on her face! Way to go! Great job!

H.E.A.R.T. — Martial Arts — We're Fighting To Make A Difference.

Amazing Fighting Spirit Melissa!

Citizen Schools and the H.E.A.R.T. Martial Arts student Melissa puts all of her heart into everything that she does! I am very proud of her, as well as all of the students. Today though, Melissa has earned my respect on yet another level she showed her true Spirit and what an AMAZING FIGHTING SPIRIT IT IS!

One of our Eighth Graders, Justin, a student much bigger and stronger than Melissa had to try breaking the same board twice before he was able to do it. Melissa has acted as a true champion not because she took on one of the toughest challenges and failed but because of what she said to me after she tried her best. Melissa said she now has a goal to reach for... I feel sorry for that board when Melissa squares off with it again!

By not giving up, trying twice and only reluctantly moving to breaking a thinner board upon my instruction, Melissa has learned one of the toughest and most valuable lessons that she could. Never quit! Never give up! Set your goals and work hard to achieve them! This applies to everything in your life not just the Martial Arts. We can all learn a lot and be inspired by Melissa's actions.

A truly great job and incredible Spirit!

OSU!

Great Job Justin!

Citizen Schools and the H.E.A.R.T. Martial Arts student Justin breaks through one of the the thickest re-breakable boards on his second try! Incredible!!!!!

OSU!

Great Job Yanissa!

Citizen Schools and the H.E.A.R.T. Martial Arts student Yanissa lets out a loud Kia (Shout/Energy) and slices through the board like a hot knife though butter! AWESOME!!!!

OSU!

Great Job Brianna!

Citizen Schools and the H.E.A.R.T. Martial Arts student Brianna does a great job with her board breaking!

OSU!

Tettsui - Hammer Fist

Citizen Schools and the H.E.A.R.T. Martial Arts students learned how to make a proper Hammer Fist called "Tettsui" in Japanese. It is crucial that the fist's out edge (palm area) be tight as possible on impact with the board. This helps to protect the hand from injury. The students also learned that they must use their whole body when executing a board break and not just rely on the arm and fist. They must rotate the shoulders and hips at the same time. In addition, they must drop the knee, on the striking arm's side, down along with the Tettsui.

OSU!