If you want to get your family involved in a physical activity that everyone can enjoy, you may consider karate.
Master Art Griggs of Karate America-New London says, “We are a family oriented business that keeps everyone involved, as idle time is the devil’s time.”
Jani Fuller, Griggs’s fiance, states that “anyone can do this. Any age, size, or even people with disabilities. It is a real confidence booster.” They expressed how amazing it is to see the transformation in people both physically and emotionally when they attend classes.
Griggs and Fuller encourage parental involvement and host events throughout the year outside of class time such as picnics, bowling parties, birthday celebrations and roller skating. They get to know students very closely and consider them an extended part of their own family.
Master Griggs has been the chief instructor and business owner October 2005. He teaches the students not only karate, but also discipline, focus, self esteem, and physical fitness. He states that the whole family benefits from being members of Karate America.
Karate classes are offered five days a week with no contracts to sign. Karate America takes students from age 5 years to adult. Kinderkickers are 5-6 year olds, the older children’s program is based on students ages 7-12, and teen and adult classes begin at 13.
There are workout mats, punching bags, exercise balls and workout equipment available for use anytime during open hours. Kickboxing classes are also available.
Griggs has been studying karate since 1966, and has been teaching since 1971. He coached the United States Army team from 1977-’84 while serving in the armed forces. He is a 7th degree black belt in Kung Fu, 4th degree in Karate, and 1st degree in Judo. He combines all techniques during the course of study, but bases the classes primarily on Karate, including grappling and self defense.
Tournaments are held throughout the year, including Diamond National in Minnesota, Southern Wisconsin Open in Madison, Tundra Town in Green Bay, and most recently the Badger State Games Competition.
Students that competed this year are Shannon O’Brien, Myles O’Brien, Alexandra Ramirez, Joni LaPage, and Cisco Jimenez. In combination they won 1 Gold, 4 Silver, and 2 Bronze awards.
Karate America-New London asks for no enrollment fee and the first month fee includes the karate uniform. If you wish to have your entire family join, they have a family cap of $200 per month. This includes use of the workout equipment, class time for everyone up to five times per week, and basic uniforms. The facility is closed on Fridays and open Saturdays.
Karate America-New London is located at 207 W. North Water Street in downtown New London, in the Markman building. They can be contacted by calling 920-982-6033.