Sensei David Kalish earned his third degree black belt on the same day. Sensei Kalish is the head instructor and operator of the United Martial Arts Center in Victor, NY. He and his phenomenal staff are directly responsible for facilitating the growth of hundreds of students since it’s opening in April of 2007. Sensei Kalish is an incredible tournament competitor and uses the skills that make him so good in that arena as attributes to bring out the best in all!

Sensei Pam Wright was awarded a fourth degree black belt during the ceremony. Sensei Wright opened UMAC with Sensei Ingallina in April of 1999 and has been directly responsible for its success throughout the years. The amount of space it would take to list her contributions would turn this into a ten page blog so we won’t even go there. She has been involved in EVERY ASPECT of EVERY PROGRAM that has been developed at UMAC. She developed the Little Dragon and Junior curriculum. The adult program was designed on her watch. Her kickboxing class has rocked Rochester for almost twelve years. She directly helps the lives of all in her role as a self defense instructor. And on and on… Although her titles are many, her biggest gifts cannot be measured. She is a role model to the young and old. She inspires people just from being with them. She is a friend, confidante, coach and inspiration to all of us. UMAC is what it is because of Sensei Pam Wright. Please let her know just how much she is appreciated and loved. There’s only one of her and we all feel lucky she’s ours!

WHAT IS YOGA?

Yoga, which means “union” or “harmony”, signifies the unity of various elements of body, mind and spirit. It is both a philosophical system and a science whose goal is the attainment of self-awareness, but it is not a religion. Its origins date back to India around 6,000 years ago and there are many different styles (ashtanga, kundalini, Iyengar, Bikram, restorative and many more). However, Yoga is classically divided into eight “limbs” or aspects, and one of them is the “Asanas” – the yoga postures. This focus is what people in the fitness industry refer to as “Yoga”. Hatha Yoga is the art of healing the physical body through the use of a highly sophisticated array of postures, movements and breathing techniques. The exercises gently take each joint in the body through its full range of motion – stretching, strengthening and balancing each part. Although ancient, Yoga is not outdated – it has value for the modern world. A world with much sitting – desks, computers, cars and couches that is further complicated by a steady increase in daily levels of stress. The benefits of yoga are countless and cross all areas.

HOW DOES YOGA DIFFER FROM MOST OTHER EXERCISES?

It is an art that incorporates the whole person, including the physical, physiological and psychological states. The use of coordinated total body movements (rather than the strengthening of isolated muscle groups, as in weight training) improves posture and body mechanics needed in daily activities. The postures are very functional and unwinding. They primarily liberate the legs, arms and head from the torso and increase their freedom of movement while strengthening the core to promote balance and good posture. The asanas also stimulate health by: allowing improved circulation throughout; exercising full lung capacity; massaging internal organs; promoting age defying positions (inverted) and assisting with release of toxins stored in the cellular tissue.

Practicing yoga postures gives you a more acute sense of body awareness (flexibility and alignment) and knowledge of one’s strengths and weaknesses. It is a self- journey and challenge that may continue through old age. Subtle changes are the greatest transformations, and Yoga enables you to listen to and feel your body.

Yoga stretches and relaxation techniques can be powerful tools for coping with stress. The brain perceives deep breathing and muscle stretch as the opposite of muscle tension and anxiety. Whereas a muscle in spasm sends a signal of safety and wellbeing (consciously breaking the flight or fight response).
The breath is the most powerful tool to calm, heal and clear out bodies and our minds. Yoga turns the focus inward. It is designed to help each person become the best they can be in that moment, letting go of competition, letting go of judgment, and letting go of ego driven thoughts. Surrendering to the breath and pose is the ultimate goal.

Through Yoga, you will learn flexibility, inner strength and self-awareness. After only a few sessions you’ll begin to feel the positive changes in your body and your mind. As your body becomes more flexible, so will your thinking. As your muscles become stronger, so will your inner power.

Namaste,
Andrea Escos

“Yoga is like the steady drip of water that eventually transforms the shape of a stone”. - BKS Iyenger

TRY A YOGA CLASS FOR FREE!

Simply fill out our online information request form and you will receive a coupon that lets you try one of our yoga classes for FREE.

These high-energy classes are for all women and men looking for a great aerobic workout. There is no contact and no uniforms are required. Our classes are perfect for the beginner or those of you that want to be challenged. You won’t believe the way you feel!

Be a part of Rochester’s #1 Fitness Kickboxing Center where everyone gets results. All classes are instructed by professionals. See why our members choose us over any “Fitness Center” classes. Check out a FREE class today!

THE HOTTEST WORKOUT IN AMERICA!

Interested in the Martial Arts but could never find the time?
Like the benefits of Aerobics?
Then Fitness Kickboxing is the answer.

WHAT CAN FITNESS KICKBOXING DO FOR ME?

• Fat Loss – Rated number one fat burner, with over 800 calories burned in a one-hour class!
• Toning – You’ll get tight buns, toned legs, a flat stomach, and a strong upper body.
• Stress Relief – Our clients tell us this is one of the top reasons they can’t get enough of Fitness Kickboxing.
• Flexibility – A major benefit of increased flexibility is better blood circulation, and a more relaxed overall lifestyle.
• Self Confidence – We all know when you look good, you feel good. Add to this feeling of being in shape with the knowledge that you can defend yourself if you ever had to.

TRY A FITNESS KICKBOXING CLASS FOR FREE

Simply fill out our online information request form and you will receive a coupon that lets you try our fitness kickboxing classes for FREE.