Scott Kramer has been fascinated with Asian philosophies for most his life. It was this fascination that led him to find one of his great passions while attending college at Grand Valley — martial arts. Since taking his first class in Charlotte more than 30 years ago, martial arts have remained an integral part of his life.
He has progressed to 2nd and 3rd degree black belt in three martial arts disciplines and has trained in several others. He has also taught classes in the Charlotte and Lansing area for years.
Gaining a complete grasp of the benefits and discipline of martial arts, his experiences led him down the path of defining a program specifically geared towards senior citizens.
“This is a concept I’ve been working on a long time,” Kramer said. “So many of us in our middle ages have to keep moving, or in some cases, start moving again.”
Kramer said he was interested in designing a class that seniors would find both interesting as well as supportive. Called Ju Tai Sabaki (gentle body motion), Kramer will offer two free introductory classes at Taylor’d Fitness and Nutrition in Charlotte on Tuesday, Jan. 28 and Thursday, Jan. 30 both from 10 to 11 a.m. Kramer will also provide a short demonstration during Taylor’d Fitness and Nutrition’s open house this Saturday, Jan. 18 from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Ju Tai Sabaki is rooted in Okinawan Shidokan Shorin Ryu Karate. It utilizes proper body movement and exercise to help students regain or strengthen overall balance, physical dexterity, improve overall flexibility and physical fitness. Ju Tai Sabaki does not include any ballistic or impact movements, Kramer said and is for individuals not interested in a fighting style.
“We’ll utilize proper body movement, breathing techniques and gentle movements that would appeal towards seniors working towards improving body motion,” Kramer said. “Done in a gentle way, this will develop the many small muscles in the body that help with motion.”
The class will be designed with several martial arts principals, Kramer said. A big part of the martial arts philosophy is having all students train together, regardless of skill level or rank. The environment encourages support among all students and advanced students actually participate in assisting with newer students.
“There is a fellowship that is formed within the group and a synergy that evolves,” Kramer said. “We teach to all levels so no one is left behind. The entire class structure is dedicated to providing a respectful, supportive and fun atmosphere. If this is something they enjoy, it can be something they can do their whole lives.”
For more information, contact Taylor’d Fitness and Nutrition at (517) 541-2868 or visit TFN Saturday, Jan. 18 from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., or participate in one of the two free Ju Tai Sabaki sessions Jan. 28 and Jan. 30 from 10 to 11 a.m.
