I saw the sign for Master Hannah’s Pro Martial Arts studio one day, and decided to finally realise my dream of learning karate. I’d wanted to since seeing Karate Kid all those years ago when I was 10. I reached out via the website and had an instant response. I was told I could do a two week trial and get a free uniform. What was there to lose?? I remember nervously going for my first class. Looking around, I saw everyone was fit and flexible, and I was recovering from two years of no real exercise due to a heart condition. “I don’t belong here” was my thought for all of three seconds before Ms Kara came out and made me feel exactly like I did belong. She helped me get my uniform on, taught me patiently how to tie my belt etc, and from the second I clumsily tried my first kick, she and Master Damien had nothing but encouraging words. I left that class certain of two things; this was the place for me, and I was definitely signing up. What made me return to this Dojo was simple. When I walked away that day, I remember thinking how Master Damien and Ms Kara made me feel human, like I belonged, like there was absolutely nothing I couldn’t do or learn. They are both so kind, patient, understanding, and whenever you need to reach out, they are responsive and helpful. Never once have I felt silly or like I couldn’t do the workouts. Patience and grace and kindness do go such a long way. I am from NYC where classes like theirs cost the same PER HOUR as these ones do for a whole month. I have trained in places that made me feel less than, that looked at me like I was a beginner at exercising and working out, that treated me patronisingly when I said I used to run, box, swim, cycle every day - all because of how I looked. From the minute I walked in to Master Hannah’s Dojo, I knew it would be different. Joining was the best decision I have ever made, and I am proud to call myself a student. I enjoy every class, all the instructors are amazing, and every student there is treated with the utmost respect. I could never recommend them highly enough.