Husband and wife team, Doug Tate and Patty Weir are the owners of Tiger & Dragon Boca, a Kenpo Karate Studio in Boca Raton, FL. Karate is more popular than ever before (with both adults and kids) because of its many benefits. Today I sat down with Doug and Patty to get the scoop on karate, so our readers can learn more about this special art.
How did each of you get started in karate?
(Doug) I started in karate as a kid in Ohio. My uncle owned multiple Kenpo Karate schools throughout the area and I trained extensively, earning my first black belt at the age of sixteen. For years I trained and taught with my Uncle until I left for college. I regained my passion for the martial arts many years later, when my own son was old enough to train in karate. I’ve been training in multiple styles since that time, earning 2 additional black belts, and of course, opening a school with my wife, Tiger&Dragon Boca.
(Patty) My karate training started with my son when he was 7 and I was in my late 30s. I had always been physically fit, working out at the gym and taking various cardio classes. I had watched my son take karate for several months, and then he stopped training. He had a few months left on his contract, so the instructors asked if I would like to train in his place. Once I started, there was no turning back. I earned my first black belt in 2008 and have started training in traditional Kenpo with my husband. My son, age 12, has since re-joined and is well on his way to his first black belt.
Patty and Doug with their sons Dallas (left) and Adam at the studio
How would you best describe Kenpo to someone who may be unfamiliar with it?
Kenpo Karate is not a sport, it is the ultimate in real world self defense. Kenpo Karate, also known as Ch’uan fa or “fist law,” is both an ancient and modern method of self development and self defense. A true blending of inner and outer strength, Kenpo helps you develop grace and coordination as well as stamina and speed. Through Kenpo instruction, you will learn proper breathing techniques and movements utilizing the natural weapons of the body – the hands and feet – by developing breath control, muscle tone, quick reflexes and agility.
In addition to self defense, what benefits does Kenpo have for the participants?
The benefits of Kenpo karate, Shootfighting and the martial arts in general are many.
From training, there will be an increase in strength and flexibility, a gain in self confidence, concentration and focus. Students learn how to recognize and avoid dangerous situations in addition to learning real-world self defense.Students learn about their true inner strength and the art of self control, and experience improved cardiovascular health, weight loss and muscle toning through training and exercise.
After the holidays, are you seeing a lot of people who are coming into the studio to get into shape?
We definitely saw an increase in interest during and immediately after the holidays. We all know that the holidays bring out the best in good food, celebrations and family time that often revolve around meals and delicious foods. We often “give” ourselves permission to indulge during this time o
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