Long before the Karate Kid ever hit the big screen, a less knownmovie, Billy Jack, surfaced, leaving 4-year-old Joe Wilson inawe.
Now, 24 years later, after his very first karate class at theWhitehaven YMCA, Wilson remains dedicated to his craft, somethinghe credits with keeping him centered and out of trouble.
In July, the former University of Memphis student opened theMemphis Martial Arts Center to increase the awareness of an artform about which many know little.
"A lot of martial arts training is kind of relearning what youknew when you were a kid, like how to breathe properly, how tostand and how to shift your weight," Wilson said. "It's one of theonly art forms in the world that anybody can do. Once you learn tophysically express yourself, it's a beautiful, beautiful thing. Ithink anyone that has had trouble tapping their creative sideshould give it a shot."
Unlike most normal exercises, karate students learn to defendthemselves, improving their cardiovascular health and toning, allat the same time.
"I think the benefits really are multi-fold," said Robert Feol,a black belt assistant instructor. "Mentally, I think people becomemore confident and poised from the ability to defend themselves.Joe is a great example of that, he's very poised, veryself-confident and he can make the most out of a badsituation."
Wilson, along with his instructor's attitudes, may be what drawspeople in to the center.
Brian Douglass, a member for two months said their patience andability to give specialized attention is something aerobics classesoften lack.
"They kind of work you in," Douglass said. "You come in and theywork one-on-one to make sure it is right for you. It's a goodexperience -- everyone helping one another."
Wilson has been teaching in the Memphis area for 14 years. Heholds numerous black belts and certifications in several arts. Heis also a full-time officer for the Shelby County Sheriff'sDepartment, where he is the lead defensive tactics instructor.
Prior to opening the center, he owned and operated the MemphisMartial Arts academy on Summer Avenue, as well as a school onHighland.
The Memphis Martial Arts Center is located at 3472 Plaza Ave.Ste. 101 in the Poplar Plaza shopping center. For more information,contact Joe or Rachael Wilson at 454-6467.
