I started Kung fu when I was in 2nd or 3rd grade and I don't remember much about what I was learning in school at that time. But I know that teachers then could have only taught me so much and that the skills I've learned in Kung Fu have also shaped much of my life starting 7 years ago and continuing on. My confidence is just one example of how Kung Fu positively altered my life. When I was younger I was always one of the quieter students and would never participate during class. I was very shy and never thought I had anything valuable to say. But When I started Kung Fu I quickly learned that confidence was a key part of life. I soon learned that without any confidence or faith in yourself that you are never going to be able to succeed. This realization came every time I would learn a new skill or train with a new weapon that seemed difficult to master. Over the years Shifu's motivational words and encouragement shaped the way I think and positively changed the way I train. Having Shifu believe in me and the work I did helped me to have faith in myself leading me to where I am today. Staying dedicated to Kung Fu for so long has also taught me skills like how to persevere through any hardships that come my way. I was taught this mindset through every class that challenged me in physical and metal ways. Maybe because I had just come from practice and was so tired but Shifu continually pushed us to run a few more laps or made us review our form until we got it right. After years of this I was able to develop the skills to push myself. Kung fu has had an enormous impact on me and I know it will continue to do so for the rest of my life and this is because of the help of my friends, family and Shifu. Thank you 2/13/2022
My name is Hayden Youn and I’m 14 years old. I have been doing Kungfu for 6 years with my 2 siblings. I am currently a red-black belt and I’m testing for Black belt.
How did Kungfu benefit in your overall life?
Kungfu has helped me with my friends because I was able to become closer with one of my closest friends. During Kungfu we were able to help each other out. It was also helpful because I was able to make more friends than when I did with a different class. I was also able to help my friends in class.
Thoughts on your own performance?
I think that I overall did well. I tried my hardest for all of my performances. I messed up a little but I think that’s okay.
Explain how you were feeling before, during and after the test.
Before the test I was very nervous but I was also excited. I practiced a lot on my forms before. During my test, I also was nervous but more excited and trying to focus. Now after I am relieved and think it went well.