You missed a good one | LETTER TO THE EDITOR

To the editor:

I am glad to have read the article that discussed various fitness businesses in town. I must say, though, that you missed one of the oldest and best establishments on the island: Family Martial Arts. Just to be clear, I am not affiliated with the business other than I train there.

It’s great that new fitness operations are opening up here, and I’m excited that some of them offer the martial arts angle. Competition is a very good thing. But for years Rick and Shannon Demile have been offering excellent martial arts training over in the Day Road industrial complex (years ago they were located by Sawatdy Thai Restaurant).

Particularly awesome are the programs for children and teens. Every young person I have met that is a student of Rick’s has been exceptionally respectful. This tells me all I need to know.

In addition, I have been training under Rick in the adult Mixed Martial Arts program for over four years. The atmosphere has always been respectful and cordial and we really emphasize safety. A fantastic workout is available every time we step onto the mat, and I feel that the skills we practice are relevant to self defense. In fact, we periodically practice self-defense skills not seen in MMA.

A Thai kickboxing class is offered also, as well as a complete strength and conditioning program with full facilities.

Just wanted to make sure to fill in what the article missed. No discussion of martial arts and fitness on the island would be complete without mentioning Family Martial Arts, and I feel it needs to be included.

BRIAN STUCK

Bainbridge Island

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