A Lesson in Mixed Martial Arts

Two sensei's from MDB Martial Arts in downtown Des Plaines, Ms. Michelle De La Rosa and her son Michael De La Rosa, visited the third graders.

Ms. De La Rosa talked about the importance of being confident in yourself and being kind to others and how these characteristics are key to becoming a good martial artist.

After answering a few questions, Michael led the class in some exercises. The students spread out so they all had enough space and they did jumping jacks and push ups to warm up.

One student in the class was a member of MDB Martial Arts so he went up to the front to help demonstrate the moves.

Michael showed the students how to bow by putting your hands at your sides and bending forward, explaining that every class starts and ends with a bow.

The students learned a karate stance and took a few hits on pads and how to do a defensive block and a karate kick.

The last activity was breaking wooden boards in half!

They each had a chance to participate in the board-breaking if they wanted to and they were surprised and excited as they each took the proper stance and chopped the board in two.

Ms. Michelle De La Rosa distributed flyers offering two free classes, sparking immediate excitement among the students.

The club, led by Special Education Teacher Ms. Natalie Stevens and Library Media Specialist Ms. Kelly Torres, is offered to third graders during their lunch hour once a week.

The club brings the field trip to the school and provides new experiences and interests to the students.