There are plenty of reasons to try martial arts: some people are keen to jump high or kick hard, and some are more interested in the philosophy and culture informing these ancient arts. Some might sign up for a class to get exercise, meet people, or get the kids out of the house; some might be hoping to immerse themselves in a different way of life.
There’s no wrong way to practice martial arts, but it’s crucial to find an instructor and school that fits you or your child’s goals. If you’re looking for a casual weekly work-out, a serious academy will feel like too much pressure. If you’re hoping to dive deep into the physical and mental aspects of martial arts, a crowded gym with mixed skill levels will leave you frustrated.
That’s why Stephanie and Ken Aduddell have a long, slow intake process at their private academy, Pacific Fusion Premier Martial Arts. They’re not looking for any student, they’re looking for the right students.
“We take great pride in teaching the physical aspects of the arts, but we take greater pride in honoring the very tenets the arts were built upon—pride, honor, discipline, integrity, respect, humility, and perseverance,” Ken says. “Our mission is to have our students take all these martial arts skills and have them as part of who they are for the rest of their lives. Yes, the cool kicks and fast punches, but also those essential tenets of martial arts.”
Brand new boutique location in Silverdale
Stephanie and Ken both left successful careers in corporate America to open Pacific Fusion in 2008 and have built a community following on Bainbridge Island,applying their professional skills to a boutique martial arts school where they help an exclusive group of students reach athletic and life milestones. Now they’re opening a second location in Silverdale in the Seattle Lighting Plaza, and welcoming about 50 dedicated students to join the academy.
“When we meet with potential students we’re not looking for a specific body type or athletic ability. It’s the sparkle in their eye that they want to learn, and are ready to dedicate themselves to the process,” Ken says.
At the same time, Pacific Fusion won’t demand that martial arts become your only obsession. Students shouldn’t suffer academically once they join a class — in fact, Ken and Stephanie’s goal is to create an empowering space that strengthens both martial arts and personal development.
“We’re not competing with other martial arts schools or a student’s other responsibilities, we’re competing with social media and screens, we’re competing with apathy. We hope to help our students get out of their own way, to make what they thought was impossible, possible.”
Pacific Fusion Martial Arts teaches a blend of arts from the Pacific Rim countries of Japan, Korea, China, and the Philippines. To find out if it’s right for you or your child, visit pacificfusionmartialarts.com or email info@pacificfusionmartialarts.com to schedule an introductory lesson.