With a little help from South Somerset District Council a brand new martial arts class got off to a flying start in Martock Primary School on Monday 9 September.
The class aims to encourage participation from people who would not normally venture into Martial Arts as Diane Linton at Reality Martial Arts and Self Defence (MASD) explains, “We are very family orientated and place great emphasis on improving traits such as concentration, confidence and respect.
“Feedback from parents has already been very encouraging; some even saying things like ‘my daughter is now a real pleasure to be with – not like before!’
The district council’s Healthy Lifestyles Team and Area North Development Team worked in partnership to identify the need and access the funding required for the sparring equipment. The funding will also be used to provide support for children from families experiencing financial hardship to enable them to access the classes.
The sessions in Martock are in addition to classes that Reality MASD already run in Somerton and Warminster.
Councillor Sylvia Seal, Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture at South Somerset District Council said, “This sounds like such a positive activity for young people and their parents to get involved in. The turnout on Monday was very encouraging and these classes will not only help towards living a healthier lifestyle but will teach participants skills that they can use in everyday life.”