I would like to tell you about the physical progress that my son Gage has made in the the Kid's Martial Arts Class at Gold’s Gym, under the instruction of Vince Peterson. Gage started first grade a little behind, physically.  During the first physical testing done in P.E., Gage scored below 30% (he was actually below where the chart started) in sit-ups, and was identified as having some throwing difficulties.  I talked to his P.E. teacher, who assessed his biggest problem as a trunk strength issue.  He believed that if Gage could increase his trunk strength, everything else would fall into line, including his throwing. 

My wife and I had recently read an article in the paper about the benefits of Martial Arts for kids and noticed that Gold’s Gym had a program.  We enrolled Gage with the hope that he could improve his trunk strength and his coordination, while having fun and learning some skills that may help him in his future.

The difference was noticeable within a month and the improvements kept on coming.  His P.E. teacher asked us what we were doing differently. His scores in the second semester were dramatically higher.  In the first semester Gage did 16 sit-ups and in the second semester, he was able to do 38 sit-ups in a minute. This placed him at 90% for his age group.  He also scored 12 seconds in the flexed arm hang.  This put him at 85% for his age group.  His throwing and coordination have also improved dramatically.  Previously he had difficulty in skipping and in what they call the horse run (this is first grade).  Neither of these things are difficult for him now.  I personally believe that Vince Peterson’s class at Gold’s Gym has made the difference for Gage.  It is the hardest I have ever seen Gage work and still come out smiling.

Frank Coprivnicar

Thank you Gage for your hard work.

Vince Peterson