My name is Instructor Maria. I was born and raised is San Diego California. I am currently attending Grossmont College and finishing up an AA Degree in Art photography. At the age of twenty-five I started taking Martial Arts classes to develop myself physically and mentally. Physically I wanted to increase my flexibility. Mentally I wanted to develop a better awareness as I have adult A.D.D. After training for a short period of time I noticed a marked increase in my flexibility, and mentally I was able to stay a lot more focused.

When I first came to this school I never thought of myself as a Marital Arts Student. I really did not think I would last that long. However, pushing myself physically and mentally I started to learn the different forms and movements and I started to see the difference in myself. At the age of 33 years old I tested for my black belt.

As I continued to train I earned the opportunity to become an Instructor for the Martial Arts After School program and an Assistant Instructor at the Allied Gardens School for Martial Arts. I really love teaching and the great team of Instructors I work with. I have found through teaching this program, how important it is to help children develop mentally and physically through martial arts training. Being an Instructor has helped me learn a lot about others and myself and I look forward to continuing to teach kids to build a strong mind and body.

Sincerely,

-Instructor Maria