Review: Me By Angela Lefante

Cobra Martial Arts Student & Instructor

Martial Arts has taught me to become a better person and has given me the discipline and confidence to accomplish any goals, both physically and mentally.

When I began at Cobra I wanted to develop a strong mind and as everyone knows achieving a black belt is the symbol of that, if you put your mind to a task and accomplish it. However it wasn't just the black belt that I wanted to attain, it was the achievement of developing my strength of character.

Traditional virtues such as courtesy, integrity, humility and self control are not commonly taught in our present society. We are encouraged to be self indulgent, selfish and self orientated above all else to achieve personal gain, otherwise we can be perceived as being weak or unsuccessful. I know that the mental side of training far outweighs the physical training because it is the driving force behind my skills, I can do everything technically and physically that I do because I believe that I can.

Martial Arts requires concentration, self belief and focus to achieve the goals that appear unachievable, through self discipline, patience and understanding that it takes only one step at a time.

So what does Martial Arts mean to me today? Being a martial artist is to be an ordinary person that tries harder despite personal fears and doubts, not just existing but participating in something that is bigger than the individual. It is how you conduct and improve yourself through personal difficulties and challenges that determine your character.

"I personally feel that anything you can do in your pyjamas has to be a good thing."