Yesterday, on May 5th, 2026, I had the privilege of teaching a short self-defense course for the Halton Police Department Mentorship Program at Elsie MacGill Secondary School. It was truly an honor to work with such an engaged and respectful group of young people who are pursuing future careers in law enforcement and community leadership. […]
Author: Sensei S.
Win or Learn: The True Meaning of Belt Testing
Yesterday, we held another belt ranking at the Academy, and I want to start by saying how proud I am of every single student who stepped onto the floor. It takes courage to test. To stand in front of your peers, your instructors, and sometimes even your family—and give your best effort under pressure—is no […]
What Happens When Things Don’t Go to Plan?
Most people believe martial arts is about learning the perfect technique. The perfect punch. The perfect block. The perfect kata. And in the beginning… that’s true. The First Phase: Building the Foundation From White Belt through Brown Belt, students are learning the fundamentals. They develop: This stage is about getting it right. We train in […]
The Hidden Cost of Too Much Screen Time: Why Social & Physical Hygiene Matter and How SKILLZ Helps
Today’s kids spend more time on screens than ever before. Between phones, tablets, video games, and streaming, it’s easy for hours to pass by without much movement or real connection. While technology has its place, too much screen time can quietly affect a child’s health, focus, and confidence. The Social Cost Spending too much time […]
Get your home ready to defend against winter.
Hey there AMA tribe, I received the email below from one our HVAC guys and thought I’d share. The one thing I would add to the list is clear any debris off the rain water grates on the road in front of your house. This will help prevent flooding in the spring when the snow […]
How Martial Arts—and the Right Sensei—Help Students Become Their Best Selves
In every dojo, the mats hold more than punches, kicks, and kata. They hold the stories of transformation. Students walk in carrying doubt, distraction, or maybe just curiosity. Over time, with guidance and discipline, they walk out standing taller, thinking clearer, and believing in themselves in ways they never imagined. At the heart of this […]
Why the Drive To Practice Matters Just as Much as the Ride Home
Before a child ever steps onto the mat, field, or court, they’ve already begun forming a prediction in their brain about how the day will go. That prediction isn’t just based on their skill level—it’s based on your tone, your energy, and your expectations. Common Phrases That Sabotage Before Practice While often said in frustration […]
Summer Brain Gains – How The Academy Fights the Summer Slide with Science and Fun
Every summer, parents worry about one thing: Will my child fall behind while school is out? The truth is, the summer slide is real — and it affects millions of children each year. This loss of academic and cognitive momentum during school breaks can delay progress and dampen a child’s love for learning. But what […]
Product Spotlight: Grounded Bedsheets – My Honest Review and Why I Recommend Them
As martial artists, we know the importance of balance—not just in our movements but also in our daily lives. Achieving a good night’s sleep is one of the most critical factors in maintaining our energy, focus, and overall health. Recently, my wife came across a product that has completely transformed our sleep quality: grounded bedsheets. […]
Why Your Child Shouldn’t Skip Martial Arts Classes During the Holidays
As the holiday season approaches, many parents face a familiar question: Should my child take a break from extracurricular activities, like martial arts, during this busy time of year? The festive season often comes with packed schedules, family gatherings, and a touch of chaos. While it’s understandable to consider pressing pause, I encourage you to […]