NORWICH – An old business is getting a fresh start by moving to a larger facility and changing its name.
Martial arts instructor and business owner Ron Lewis, who began teaching self-defense in 1985, recently opened Tribute Martial Arts and Fitness at 58 Hale St. in the City of Norwich. The building’s previous occupant was the “Touch of Texas.”
Lewis, who is a Norwich resident, had his former school was in a warehouse located behind the Eaton Center. He said he was forced to move because the building was demolished for additional parking space.
In describing martial arts training, Lewis said, “It is an all-in-one activity that promotes confidence, discipline, safety and wellness.”
“We strive to instill in our students a sense of responsibility and respect for another,” he said. “Being a martial artist is not just learning to kick and punch, it’s about becoming the best you can be physically, mentally and emotionally.”
Norwich resident Kisten Giglio brings her son Matthew to the center for classes. “He has a lot of fun. I love the discipline, the focus and it carries over into the other things he does. Ron is great, he’s everywhere. He is really good at working with the kids at their level,” she said.
“I’ve always loved teaching the martial arts. The look on the face of a child when the board finally breaks or when they complete a 35-move form to perfection, priceless,” Lewis said.
The school accepts ages four to adult. Instruction is structured according to age groups in order to create a better learning environment and to make students feel more comfortable.
The youngest group, called ‘Little Ninjas,’ is for 4 to 6 year olds. The classes teach kids how to control their bodies and focus their attention through fun games and challenges.
The next level is for 7 to 8 year olds and includes more strength and coordination training. “The activities at this age become more challenging, discipline and self control are stressed,” Lewis said.
From there, students move into the 9 to 12-year-old age group called ‘Juniors.’ This level of training has a junior black belt program and is a more traditional training.
“A black belt attitude doesn’t just happen. The day a student earns a black belt, he or she has not only mastered the kicks and punches – he or she has grown strong in character, too. Having a spirit strong enough to persevere and reach a difficult goal is one of the cornerstones of martial arts,” said Lewis.
The final class is for 13 year olds to adults. This level involves grappling, weapons and defensive tactics. Norwich resident Robin King, 51, who has been Lewis’ student for over 13 years, helps teach a number of classes. “I do it for the stress relief, the workout and the flexibility,” said King.
The school also offers specialized training, such as a Fear Adrenal Stress Training course. Through real attacks with real strikes, participants are taught how to avoid confrontation and escape. “It’s a scenario-based learning program that allows you to feel the adrenaline rush of a real attack,” explained Lewis.
The center is available for birthday parities and features a five-hour program called ‘Kids Night Out. “Just bring the cake, we’ll take care of the fun,” said Lewis.
The center also hopes to begin workout and basic defense fitness programs in the near future. To contact Tribute Martial Arts and Fitness center, call 336-5425 or 226-2471.