Davis Karate Studio, located in Morehead, KY, has proudly served the community for over 40 years, offering diverse martial arts programs for all ages. From Pee Wee Martial Arts for young children to specialized classes for teens and adults, the studio emphasizes personal development through martial arts, promoting confidence, discipline, and respect among its students. With a focus on building long-lasting relationships within the community, Davis Karate Studio welcomes individuals of all skill levels to join and experience the enriching benefits of martial arts training.
At the end of a busy evening of classes, KickFit Founder Kyoshi Pankiewicz sits down to interview Senior Master Shihan Davis to learn more about the benefits of martial arts and instruction.
Shihan Davis's Journey into Martial Arts
Shihan Davis’s journey into martial arts began as a young teenager, driven by a desire to learn self-defence and build self-confidence. What started as a personal quest soon evolved into a full-fledged career as she immersed herself in the art of Taekwondo. As she earned her black belt, her passion for martial arts inspired her to become an instructor.
The Benefits of Being a Martial Arts Instructor
One of the most significant benefits of being a martial arts instructor, Shihan Davis explains, is the opportunity to empower the next generation. “Teaching martial arts is not just about physical techniques; it’s about instilling discipline, respect, and self-confidence,” she says.
Instructors like Shihan Davis are not just teachers but perpetual students of the art. She emphasizes the ongoing learning process, which keeps her engaged and excited about her job. “I’m constantly refining my techniques and deepening my understanding of martial arts. It’s a journey that never ends,” she states.
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Martial arts instruction hones vital life skills, particularly leadership and communication. “Being an effective instructor means being a great communicator,” Shihan Davis remarks.
Shihan Davis shares Hanshi Kovar’s instructor’s creed which is at the core of the KickFit Instructor Team, “I will teach this class as if it is the most important class I’ll ever teach. I am patient and enthusiastic. Martial arts training promotes physical fitness, mental strength and instructors lead by example.
Shihan Davis points out that this sense of community and purpose is one of the most rewarding aspects of her job. Instructors often become central figures in their local communities. “I’ve seen my students transform not only physically but emotionally.
Finally, Shihan Davis acknowledges that being a martial arts instructor can provide a part-time job and income.
Benefits of Martial Arts Training for Adults
Martial arts classes for adults focus on building core strength and cardiovascular fitness in a fun, social setting. Martial arts workouts are fun and challenging. Our martial arts classes for adults can help you build core strength, increase your flexibility, learn how to defend yourself and the people you love, or lose weight. They’re also a great place to make new friends. Adults who study martial arts learn to search within themselves for their best qualities.
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We strive to create a fun, positive environment in which to get in shape and safely learn martial arts, including self-defense. Students of ALL LEVELS are welcome, whether you have prior experience or are trying kung fu for the very first time! Increase strength, stamina and energy level. We have an open enrollment for adult classes so you can join at any time. We invite all first time students to come in and try out a first class for free.
What to Expect in Your First Class:
In your first class with us, we typically like to meet new students about 20-30 minutes before the start of a regular class. This gives us an opportunity to introduce ourselves and discuss your main interests, your goals for the class and anything that you’d like to let us know ahead of time to assist us in helping you get the most out of class.
What to Wear:
A t-shirt and workout pants are perfect attire for kung fu. You should also be aware that street shoes are not allowed on the practice floor in the studio.
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We believe you must feel comfortable in a class in order to excel, and our instructors pride themselves on creating a welcoming environment, giving positive feedback, and encouraging questions. Students are taught how to practice and work independently, so they can practice both at the studio and at home.
Discounts available for longer plans (6 and 12 month) and for combined Kung Fu / Tai Chi classes. If you would like to register for a FREE first kung fu class, or if you have any questions at all regarding our programs, we’d love to hear from you!
What Are The Confidence Benefits Of Martial Arts?
Kung Fu at Davis Karate Studio
Our Kung Fu program strives to create a positive learning environment for students where they can challenge themselves both mentally and physically. The goal is to set up each individual for success, so they can reach their full potential. The forms (e.g., Shaolin Longfist, Southern Fist, Tiger and Staff) and training are designed to improve the body’s strength, flexibility, endurance, coordination, and control. More importantly, these movements will challenge the student to improve patience, focus, and will power.
Since most martial arts are derived from Chinese-style martial arts, Kung fu training incorporates all the major kicks found in Tae Kwon Do, the joint locks found in Ai Ki Do (or Chin Na), the falls/rolls/throws in Judo, and the hand strikes used in Karate. Students who are new to martial arts are often confused by the large number of different styles available to them.
The Northern Longfist styles are open and athletic, great for developing flexibility, balance and coordination. The Southern Kung fu styles typically emphasize “rooting” and strength of posture, making it effective for short range self-defense.
Typical Class Structure:
- Warm-up: The warm-up consists of several exercises geared toward loosening up the body and raising the heart rate.
- Forms: This portion of class focuses on learning new skills and the choreography of different martial arts forms.
- Application of Movements / Self-Defense: Each class ends with a chance to apply what you have learned to a self-defense situation. New students move slowly and carefully at first. When they are comfortable with the technique and show good control, they are encouraged to add speed and intensity.
Our Typical Student:
All types of students join our program, from those having no martial arts experience to those with black belts from other styles. Our adult students range in age from late-teens to late 60s. We advise all students to go at their own pace during the warm-up, especially during their first few classes. It is more important to focus on doing the movements correctly than keeping up with the pace of the group. The benefits of training come from consistent practice over a long period of time.
If you would like to register for a FREE first kung fu class, or if you have any questions at all regarding our programs, we’d love to hear from you!
Benefits for Children
Does your child need a supportive, educational, and fun activity? Martial arts classes benefit growing children far beyond the dojo and in many real-world scenarios. Our structured classes are meant to help develop coordination, physical fitness, mental strength, as well as gain valuable social skills.
Testimonials
Here's what people are saying about Davis Karate Studio:
- Douglas Roberts: I have had the pleasure of growing up with this man. And I can tell you Mr Davis is a great man.
- Douglas Jones: Real good dude! And he knows his craft!
- Adam Farmer: studied under Mr. Davis for 10 years, and that was 20 years ago.
- Geraldine Lewis: one of the best experiences of my life was studying karate with my son here.
- Ruben Thomas: Very nice place.
Frequently Asked Questions
- I don’t feel good about myself. Can studying martial arts make me feel better? Yes.
- Do people really study martial arts to make friends? Yes, it happens all the time.
- I don’t think of myself as an athlete and I was never good at sports. Can I do martial arts? Yes.
- I do better with workouts when I have a friend with me. Can my friend and I take classes together? Yes, we love it when friends come in together.
- I live in a tough neighborhood and I don’t feel safe at night. Can studying martial arts help me feel better? Yes.
- I’ve always thought of myself as clumsy and un-athletic. Can martial arts make me more graceful? Yes. Martial arts instruction focuses on building core strength and improving balance.
Learn self-defense, build confidence, and get in the best shape of your lives! Martial arts has tons of physical, mental and social benefits, suitable for anyone and everyone. Become part of something positive and learn new skills from trained martial arts professionals.
If you would like to register for a FREE first martial arts class, or if you have any questions at all regarding our programs, we’d love to hear from you!