In 1983, I embarked on a life-changing journey when I started training in Cha Yon Ryu Taekwondo under the guidance of Master John Stephens at the Kingwood Karate Club in Kingwood, TX. Little did I know that this decision would shape my life in countless ways.
Over the next three years, I dedicated myself to the art, advancing to the rank of brown belt before leaving for the military. Even during my service, I continued to train, learning from various schools in the US and South America. These experiences broadened my horizons and deepened my appreciation for the art of Taekwondo.
However, as it often does, life threw me some curveballs. A failed marriage and the pressures of making ends meet pulled me away from my passion. Despite remarrying and finding happiness with my spouse of 30 years, and raising children who are now grown and independent, I found myself far from the martial artist I once was.
About 7 years ago, I decided to recommit to my Taekwondo journey. I started taking classes again, and while my muscle memory was still sharp, my body had changed. Years of neglect had taken their toll, and I suffered a serious knee injury that forced me to confront the reality of my situation.
As an over-50 individual, I knew I needed to approach my training differently. I refused to let a slowing metabolism and the challenges of aging turn me into an “old, fat, angry bastard who couldn’t fight his way out of a paper bag.” I knew I needed to rebuild my strength, flexibility, and mental resilience to prevent injuries and reclaim my fighting spirit.
That’s when I developed the TKD Bootcamp Challenge – a holistic 90-day program designed to transform the mind, body, and spirit of those who commit to it. This challenge is not for the faint of heart. It will push you to your limits, break you down, and build you back up stronger than ever.
I’ll be documenting my own journey through the TKD Bootcamp Challenge, and I invite you to join me. Together, we’ll rebuild our health, sharpen our martial arts skills, and unlock our full potential. We’ll support each other through the tough times and celebrate our victories, no matter how small.
The challenge may last 90 days, but the benefits will last a lifetime. After completing the program, I plan to develop a maintenance routine to help us all stay on track and continue our growth. I’ll share this plan with all of you, so we can continue to support and inspire each other.
If you’re ready to transform your life and rediscover your passion for Taekwondo, I urge you to take a look at the TKD Bootcamp Challenge [link to challenge]. Commit to this journey with me, and let’s show the world what we’re capable of.
Together, we’ll kick start our lives and prove that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing our passions. Let’s do this!
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