Spring Break
Self-defense, an artful way of protection
Ashley Abernathy
Issue date: 10/30/08 Section: Features
When students at ECU receive an e-mail alerting them of a robbery or attack on campus, many just delete the e-mail and hope something of that nature never happens to them.
No one wants to be a target of crime, but sadly, many people may find themselves in a dangerous situation.
However, there is a way students and others can better protect themselves and it's not with pepper spray (even though that is a good safety measure), but with self-defense.
The student recreation center at ECU offers several classes that teach not only self-defense, but also confidence and self-discipline throughout clubs and organizations.
"I feel like self defense is a life skill. If practiced enough it will never go away. It is especially important in today's world," said Heather Stewart, president of the Isshinryu Club at ECU.
Stewart has been practicing Isshinryu, a type of martial art, for three years and helps lead the club at ECU.
Isshinryu started in the 1950s with a focus on teaching natural movements.
Basic skills that are taught at ECU include striking skills and body conditioning while focusing on perseverance, integrity and leadership.
The club meets each night at the recreation center in room 240 from 8 p.m. - 9:45 p.m.
Attendance averages 8-10 people per night and anyone interested in learning the art is welcome to stop by and see what it is all about.
Master TD Gribble, who is a sixth degree black belt, instructs the classes. He has practiced Isshinryu for 31 years.
"Self defense will teach you why it's not a good idea to walk alone, especially late at night or listening to your iPod," said Gribble. "When you are presented with a tough situation in a controlled environment [self defense class], it will open your eyes a little more."
Another martial arts club at ECU that focuses on self defense is Tae Kwon Do.
Standing for "Foot, Fist, Way," Tae Kwon Do is a complete mental, physical, and spiritual workout.
No one wants to be a target of crime, but sadly, many people may find themselves in a dangerous situation.
However, there is a way students and others can better protect themselves and it's not with pepper spray (even though that is a good safety measure), but with self-defense.
The student recreation center at ECU offers several classes that teach not only self-defense, but also confidence and self-discipline throughout clubs and organizations.
"I feel like self defense is a life skill. If practiced enough it will never go away. It is especially important in today's world," said Heather Stewart, president of the Isshinryu Club at ECU.
Stewart has been practicing Isshinryu, a type of martial art, for three years and helps lead the club at ECU.
Isshinryu started in the 1950s with a focus on teaching natural movements.
Basic skills that are taught at ECU include striking skills and body conditioning while focusing on perseverance, integrity and leadership.
The club meets each night at the recreation center in room 240 from 8 p.m. - 9:45 p.m.
Attendance averages 8-10 people per night and anyone interested in learning the art is welcome to stop by and see what it is all about.
Master TD Gribble, who is a sixth degree black belt, instructs the classes. He has practiced Isshinryu for 31 years.
"Self defense will teach you why it's not a good idea to walk alone, especially late at night or listening to your iPod," said Gribble. "When you are presented with a tough situation in a controlled environment [self defense class], it will open your eyes a little more."
Another martial arts club at ECU that focuses on self defense is Tae Kwon Do.
Standing for "Foot, Fist, Way," Tae Kwon Do is a complete mental, physical, and spiritual workout.
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