Early Mornings and Daily Routines
The day for Soke Michael Hutchings begins before sunrise, around 5:00 AM. His mornings are dedicated to personal training weightlifting from Monday to Thursday and cardio from Friday to Sunday. After his workout, he heads to his day job at a nonprofit organization. By late afternoon, he transitions to his true passion: running All Island Martial Arts. Arriving at the studio by 4:30 PM, he cleans the school, checks messages, handles administrative tasks, and prepares the evening’s lesson plan. After classes wrap up at 7:30 PM, he’s still on duty—responding to parent questions and reviewing anything that needs attention. The work doesn’t stop there; he regularly connects with partners like Market Muscles and Grow Pro to keep the school’s marketing and operations running smoothly.
Moments of Pride and Growth
Every day on the mat brings something new and exciting. For Soke Michael Hutchings, pride isn’t tied to a single moment, it’s the ongoing energy, growth, and sense of community that make the dojo special. Welcoming new students and watching the dojo grow is a constant reminder that the school’s mission is working and that families trust All Island Martial Arts with their children’s development. Recent partnerships and system improvements are paving the way for future growth, and the anticipation of what’s next fills him with pride and excitement.
The Dual Role: Instructor and Owner
Many people don’t realize that being a martial arts instructor and a business owner are two distinct roles, each with its own challenges. As an instructor, the focus is on student safety, high-quality teaching, and adapting to different learning styles. The goal is to reach every student, whether they learn visually, by listening, or through hands-on guidance.
As a business owner, the responsibilities multiply. It’s not just about teaching, it’s about motivating and supporting the entire team, ensuring the school runs smoothly, tuition is collected, bills are paid, and the dojo remains a welcoming place for the community. Communication is key, with tools like MyStudio allowing parents to reach out 24/7. Being available and responsive is part of the job, far beyond class hours. Ultimately, wearing many hats is worth it for the positive impact on students, families, and the community.
Staying Motivated Through Challenges
Running a martial arts school is a roller coaster, some days are exhilarating, others are stressful. What keeps Soke Michael Hutchings motivated is always the students. Their energy, engagement, and gratitude from parents are constant reminders of the difference the school makes. Attending industry conferences and training with peers provides support, inspiration, and a sense of belonging. Bringing students to these events is especially rewarding, as it exposes them to new experiences and reinforces the value of their journey.
What Every Student and Parent Should Know
Being the owner and head instructor is more than a job, it’s a lifelong commitment. The role requires sacrifice, ongoing learning, and dedication that never truly stops. Even on days off, there’s research, study, and planning for improvement. Mistakes along the way have led to growth, and the school’s continued presence is a testament to resilience and purpose.
Martial arts is more than physical training; it’s a system for building confidence, discipline, and resilience. The mission at All Island Martial Arts is to help students maximize their potential and live their best lives. Behind every class and lesson is a deep sense of purpose, heart, and belief in the power of martial arts to change lives.