Driving down Main St. Cartersville, I had often noticed the storefront window of Koo Self Defense. I was curious about the classes for my son as he had expressed an interest in learning self-defense.

While walking by, we had observed one of the classes. It looked interesting. I took one of the pamphlets home and called Master Koo. He suggested Ben come in and try a class. I decided to try the class too for the physical fitness potential. I was fairly certain that I would not be able to take the class myself.

I have scoliosis, and a history of problems with back pain. I had tried several exercise classes over the years, and not been able to make it past the first few weeks without back problems causing me to quit. We tried the first class. It was very challenging!

I liked Master Koo's philosophy of everyone working at their own pace, and setting personal challenges, not competing with others. The classes start with light stretching, then aerobics, more stretching based upon yoga, then anaerobic (power drills which are executed upon focus mitts and shields) punching or kicking. Many of the stretching exercises are ones I had done in physical therapy for my back. My son and I continued to do classes, building our strength, flexibility and stamina.

I made it past the first several weeks with no back problems. I have averaged four classes a week since May 1999, and am still going strong. Master Koo changes and adds to the classes to keep them interesting and challenging. He has also worked with me to set new personal challenges.

In April 2002, I decided to add a goal of weight management. I have since lost 45 lbs, and greatly improved my muscle tone and definition. The class has also helped with improving my bone density which had become a problem with the loss of an inch in height prior to joining the class. I am convinced that this class has provided benefits well beyond the cost of the class in terms of physical and emotional health.

I have exercise videos at home such as tae-bo, salsa and others, but they don't compare to the challenge, support, comraderie, and good advice available as a member of the class. I will keep going as long as the doors are open.

Thank you Master Koo!!

Video Clips at the Downtown Cartersville Koo Self Defense Studio, Georgia, USA. We both started training in Koo Self Defense on May 22, 1999. Ben has done 218 classes and I have done 401 classes to the day of photos and video clips
Taken May 2002
Anne's Power Drills Class - 1800 non stop hits
Anne's Power Drills Class - Kicking
Anne's Power Drills Class - Addon Punches
Anne's Power Drills Class - Brown Belt Hands Combo (23 movements)
Anne's Power Drills Class - Jumping Hands