All Island Martial Arts – December Newsletter | Middle Island NY
Welcome to Our December Newsletter
Thank you for joining us! This month’s newsletter brings you important updates, schedule changes, and exciting martial arts content. Stay informed and keep training strong with All Island Martial Arts in Middle Island, NY.
Schedule Updates for December
December 9th – One Class Only
On Tuesday, December 9th, we will have one class only from 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM for all students.
Reason: Soke Michael Hutchings has a mandatory work meeting earlier in the evening, so class will start later than usual.
December 18th – Studio Closed
On Thursday, December 18th, All Island Martial Arts will be closed for the entire day.
Reason: Soke Michael Hutchings and staff are required to attend a work-related event, and return time is uncertain. Thank you for understanding!
Christmas Schedule
Closed: Christmas Eve (December 24th) and Christmas Day (December 25th)
Open: The day before Christmas Eve and the day after Christmas Day as usual.
Enjoy the holidays and stay safe—we’ll see you back on the mats right after Christmas!
Technique of the Month: Side Kick (Yeop Chagi / Yoko Geri)
History
The side kick is a classic martial arts technique found in Taekwondo and Karate.
Taekwondo: Yeop Chagi (옆차기)
Karate: Yoko Geri (横蹴り)
This powerful linear strike was designed to break through defenses using the heel or blade of the foot. It’s a favorite for self-defense and competition because of its reach and impact.
Definition
A side kick is a straight, lateral kick executed by extending the leg outward to the side while maintaining balance and proper body alignment. Targets include the midsection, ribs, or head.
Step-by-Step Guide
Start in Fighting Stance – Feet shoulder-width apart, knees bent, hands guarding your face.
Pivot and Chamber – Pivot your supporting foot, lift your knee, rotate hips sideways.
Extend the Kick – Push your leg straight out, strike with heel or blade, toes pulled back.
Maintain Guard – Hands up, lean slightly away for balance.
Retract and Return – Pull back to chamber, return to stance.
Pro Tips:
Practice slowly for form before adding speed.
Aim for midsection or head level.
Exhale during the kick for control.
Fun Martial Arts History Moment
Did you know Bruce Lee demonstrated his famous one-inch punch in 1964 at the Long Beach International Karate Championships? He knocked a man backward with a punch delivered from just one inch away—a legendary moment proving technique beats brute strength!
Fun Corner
Why did the karate student always carry a pencil?
Because they wanted to draw their sword! 🥋✏️
Thank You!
Thank you for reading our December Newsletter! We appreciate your support and dedication to All Island Martial Arts. Let’s finish the year strong—keep training, stay motivated, and see you on the mats!