OSF Center for Health introduces ‘Safety & Self-Defense’ classes

From press release

The OSF St. Anthony Center for Sports Medicine and Health Fitness is continuing weekly
Safety & Self-Defense

classes in January at the OSF Center for Health, 5510 E. State St., Rockford.

The classes offer a martial arts approach that includes Tae-Kwon Do techniques to stay safe. Participants will also develop more self-confidence and assertiveness through participation.

The Safety & Self Defense classes are open to participants 12 years of age and up. Participants will be encouraged to repeat classes to reinforce the training they have learned. Classes are physical, and participants are encouraged to wear exercise clothing.

Level II (Advanced) 7 to 8 p.m. – Thursdays

Level I (Beginners) 5 to 6 p.m. – Fridays

Children’s Tae-Kwon Do classes are offered from 1:30 to 2:15 p.m. on Saturdays at the OSF Center for Health Fitness for children ages 5 and up. The classes will provide a healthy approach for children to learn self-discipline and respect while developing confidence.

Participation fees per month for any of the classes:

First family member: $50

Additional family members may participate at the rate of $25 each.

Fees are not pro-rated if participants join mid-month.

Tae-Kwon Do is a martial art and sport that teaches the practitioner techniques for defense and offense without using weapons. Regardless of age or sex, Tae Kwon Do teaches the practitioner self-discipline to defend oneself and to use his or her hands and feet in any defensive situation.

The classes are taught by Master Bennie Gonzalez, 5th degree Black Belt at the Excel Academy in Rockford and martial arts instructor for more than 14 years. Master Gonzalez began martial arts training in Kung Fu at the age of 11 and free-style Tae Kwon Do two years later. His style has led him to compete in a number of championships in form and sparring, and he has placed well in national tournaments. In 2003, he was inducted into
The World Wide Martial Arts Hall of Fame

in the category of
Instructor of the Year.

Master Gonzalez and his students continue to win state, regional and national tournaments.

For registration and information, call (815) 395-4505.

The OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center Web site is www.osfsaintanthony.org.

From the Jan. 13-19, 2010 issue.