Kathy Wise, Age 34

Kathy Wise white spacer Kathy Wise
I had never done anything like this before, never even thrown a punch. I am not what you would call an "athletic type"-far from it actually. I'm more of a Klutz-the two left feet, always picked last in gym class variety. Because of this, I've gone through life avoiding most types of athletic activity. At various times, I'd tried to start exercising (step aerobics, treadmill, Tae-Bo, assorted exercise tapes, etc.) but I never stuck with anything for long. However, as my 30th birthday drew near, I realized that the couch potato approach to life was no longer going to cut it! I needed to do something to get in shape and undo the less than wonderful changes my body had undergone in the past 10 years. Also, I needed to find a way to vent some of the stress I was experiencing.

IMAC on WTHR 13
The Indianapolis Martial Arts Club has been everything I hoped for and so much more! It's the best workout I've ever had. I work really hard. And I see the results! When I joined, I felt better almost immediately-I was less tense and slept much more soundly. Within two months I started noticing changes in the way my clothes fit. I've been coming to the school regularly for about 10 months now. I can see muscles in my arms and legs, where before there was only flab. I've lost 14 pounds without changing my diet! I've also gone down several clothing sizes-before coming to the gym I wore size 10-12 pants and I just recently bought a pair of size 4 jeans! I can't even remember the last time I wore a size 4 - not since high school at least. I'm much happier and more confident person now. For perhaps the first time, I feel like I'm in control of my life.
Kathy Wise
When I look at where I started and what I've accomplished in these past months, I realize that I can do anything if I put my mind to it! In fact, I'm going to compete in my first match next month! The instructors at the school are wonderful. I found the whole experience pretty intimidating when I first started but the staff took the time to teach me the basics and made sure to keep an eye on me to make sure I was doing well. They don't just throw new people into the deep end-they help you learn and develop skills. I've really appreciated how supportive all the instructors are.
Kathy Wise white spacer Kathy Wise
They always encourage me to do better-I never feel stupid in class, even when I'm doing something completely wrong because rather than focusing on what you've done incorrectly they focus on how you can improve. Joining I.M.A.C. in one of the best things I've done. I have gotten so much out of it-I couldn't be happier with my experience.

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