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This is the philosophy behind the martial art of Jiu-Jitsu, “the art of flexibility,” as interpreted by the Ontario Centre For Mania] Arts. “The world does not function on preset rules. We teach our stu- dents to adapt, give them the tools and show them how to use them. Many martial arts promote strict stmctured responses. Our philoso- phy is that every scenario is difl‘er- ent, every challenge requires a unique response. This is how we train, and therefore, how our stu- dents learn to react.” It could explain why O.C.M.A. instructors are such a fun, laid-back group, even as they discuss the lofty goals of one of Oakville’s largest martial arts schools, which offers instruction for children and adults in the age groupings of: four to seven, eight to 13 (by skill level), and adult (13-plus). “Many schools tend'to use a very militaristic approach, but while we adhere to the Bushido Code of discipline, we want this to be a fun experience for the whole family,” explains O.C.M.A. president and eminently qualified head instructor, Sean Stewart. As captain of the Canadian World Jiu-Jitsu Team, O.C.M.A. is... TflETRADIflONOFMAKflALAR’IS? - SELF DISCIPUHE - INCREASED FOCUS - IMPROVED CARDIOVASC ° INCREASED FLEX! - A PROVE” SYSTEM ADVERTISING FEATURE By Stephanie Henderson _ Their . Future... ‘ In Focus Stewan led his fellow competitors to victory in two consecutive World Titles, earning the team a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. He is also a three-time World J iu-J itsu Champion. “We want happy people to come and learn here,” notes David Coules, the school’s curriculum co- ordinator, and one of several black belt instructors. “The kids have the responsibility of signing themselves in for each class. They’re taking ownership of their own experience.” FUN ATMOSPHERE Heavy-sounding stuff, but expertly executed in an environ- ment where fun is part ofthe action Each summer, O.C.M.A. offers a day program, much like a camp, filled with stimulating activities and outings. Movie nights, ‘Summer Olympics,’ a Blue Jays game, inter- club tournament, volleyball touma- ment, and a visit from the Oakville Fire Department were among this year’s warm-weather highlights. Special events are also held during the school year, on evenings and weekends. Spend a little time checking out classes, and see for yourself how instructors and students relate to one another in an atmosphere of mutual respect Parents are encour- AND CREATIVE THINKING SKILLS COMMUNICATION SKILLS MANY BENEFITS Self-esteem is one of many potential benefits of studying mar- tial arts, the instructors point out. Consider also: fun and fitness, self- confidence, physical well-being, personal drive, stress relief, aerobic and anaerobic training, endurance, improved physical appearance, building muscle fibre, and learning about the philosophy and scientific principles involved. Children (and adults) also bene- fit from the club’s operating poli- cies, which reinforce personal cleanliness, hygiene, safety and politeness. Vulgar or inappropriate language is unacceptable. Safety equipment is mandatory. Even the spotless, modern facility mirrors a respect for orderâ€"it’s closed down for a week each year and complete- ly repainted. CATERS T0 INDIVIDUAL “The school really caters to the kids of the ’80s and ’90s. We encourage them to set goals, but we’re also focusing on the broader educational issues, of problem-solv- ing, effective verbal and non-verbal communication, team building, and aged to observe classes, where stu- dents build self-esteem as they work through increasingly challenging Nick Petroff is a full-time instructor, second degree black belt and the ' current World Middleweight Jiu-Jitsu Champion. His martial arts expertise and teach- ing skill typify the ‘eclectic’ group of talented instructors at O.C.M.A. The additional teaching staff of five black belts includes ‘senseis’ versed in Tae Kwon-Do (Alva Noel), Karate (John Ritchie and Glen Bacon), Kung Fu and Aikido, although the school’s main focus is Jiu Jitsu. The student to instructor ratio is approximately 12 to one, and begin- ners are eased into the programâ€" gently. Parents are consulted regu- larly, and urged to get involved in their child’s progress. “It’s really important for parents to be supportive,” says office man- ager Sharon, who makes a point of remembering each child by name. Competitive sparring allows each student to further challenge their skills, and a regular newsletter tracks each victory with enthusiasm individual and co-operative learn- ingâ€"skills that will transfer into other areas of their lives, such as school,” explains Coules, a high school math teacher by day. “We try to address the learning styles of each one.” “Each one inngs a different per- WEIGHT ROOM COMPETITIVE PRICING 2 FREE INTRODUCTORY LESSONS 825-4223 461 NORTI‘I SERVICE ROAD ONTARIO Cmfi Fox MARTIAL Ans LARGEST FACILITY IN THE AREA 6 BLACK BELT INSTRUCTORS SPACIOUS CHANCE ROOMS ‘This allows students to develop a broader range of potential responses to each situation” STUDENTS OF ALL AGES Jiu-Jitsu’s adaptability has made it a passionate pursuit for 0.C.MA. students of all ages. The school’s senior student is 60, and a diabetic. Some younger initiates have been referred to the school to better learn to deal with dyslexia, attention deficit disorder (ADD), and low- self-esteem “Jiu-Jitsu is all-encompassingâ€" it combines striking techniques, throwing, locking and ground work,” Sean Stewart explains. The growing school has been at its present site in Glen Abbey’s Commercial Point Plaza for just over a year. Before that, Stewart and Coulee had been teaching in the Oakville area for 12 years. “It’s a small school that grew without losing its romance,” noted one three-year adult member. To register for fall classes, or meet the staff and observe a class, call the 0.C.M.A. today. “There’s no pressure here. We u'ytohelptheparentmaketheright decision for their child,” Coules says. “Some children are ready at different limes.” spective to the mat,” remarks Coules.