The last day of 2010. Start your year with a REVOLUTION in thinking, acting, and doing.

Collin County MasterMind Marketing Group
My name is Mark McGee, and I am the owner of Unlimited Success Ventures and Franchise Owner of Mile High Karate. Much like yours, a community orientated business.

One of the greatest challenges we have as entrepreneurs is targeting the specific people who can most benefit from our services, and gets the right message to them in a cost effective way!

A great strategy we have been utilizing in our locations is a business marketing MasterMind Group. We find local businesses who share a similar customer profile, and work together to generate business for both of our sakes.

Who Should Participate?

Business Owner / Entrepreneur
Self-Employed Professional in Private Practice
Senior-level Executive with Ownership Mentality and Significant Responsibilities
Who . . .
 Has an honestly open mind and progressive attitude.
 Is extremely busy and needs a time-efficient way to learn and grow.
 Is highly motivated to make improvements in marketing and sales methods.
 Is eager to substantially increase income.
 Is eager to bend the business to facilitate personal and lifestyle preferences - to be its master, not its slave.
 Is willing to share ideas and experiences, and help other like-minded business people.
 Values being part of a creative process.
 Is a practitioner of “the principle of slight edge” - a successful person always seeking improvement.
 Can be counted on to participate.


Who Should NOT Participate?
People who . . .
∅ Are set in their ways, stubborn, fearful of change and/or ignore truth.
∅ Are satisfied with or married to their present advertising, marketing, and sales methods.
∅ Have no need or desire for increase of income, wealth, or business value.
∅ Are selfish, unappreciative and/or have poor integrity.

Our informational meeting will be on Monday Jan.11th at 1130 am until 1pm. I'll announce the location in another post. If your interested, please email me directly, respond to this discussion, or call me at 972-390-7161.

Dedicated to your success,
Mark McGee, MBA

Great Article on Leadership. http://ping.fm/zJrfW Check out the MHK Leadership program.

“Life is uncharted territory. It reveals its story one moment at a time.” leo buscaglia. How are you writing your story?

"In life what you give, you get to keep and what you fail to give you lose forever." Tony Robbins. What RU affecting? Make a differnce.

"Just as a candle cannot burn without fire, men cannot live without a spiritual life." Buddha-- Where does UR spirit lie.

70% of students who are overweight tend to become obese as adults and increase chances for cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes.

“Between stimulus&response there is a space.it's our power 2 choose our response. In R response lies R growth& freedom.” Viktor Frankl

"Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent."
Calvin Coolidge

"There is only one way to happiness and that is to cease worrying about things which are beyond the power of our will." Epictetus

What legacy are you leaving? Devleoping character each and every day. Mile High Karate 972.390.7161

"The life given to us by nature is short but the memory of a life well-spent is eternal." –Cicero

Ft. Hood Shooting Victims Fundraiser

Join Hands with Mile High Karate of Allen this Thursday, November 19, 2009 from 6:15 PM to 8:15 PM- to aid the families of the Ft. Hood shooting victims as Mile High Karate will donate ALL PROFITS. “We do expect to be very busy, so certificates good for a future class will be sold as well, and go toward the donation fund,” says Mark McGee, the owner of Mile High Karate of Allen.

Being heavily connected with the military and the Army, this is a tragedy that has hit home. McGee states that his brother “will serving his fourth tour in the Middle East beginning December 26th. And with heavy hearts, our thoughts and prayers are with the families and for those lost and injured. We hope to that you will join us for this event that will benefit the families of the Ft. Hood shooting victims.” Even if you are unable to make the event you can donate on-line or via mail.

Mile High Karate’s in-store donation campaign is scheduled to run at least until Dec. 7 and possibly longer, according to McGee.

Mile High Karate in Allen is located on 604 W. Bethany #208 in Allen TX, 75013. Right next to the Starbucks at the corner of I-75 and Bethany. Further inquiries can be made by calling 972-390-7161 or via email to Mark McGee: markm@milehighkarate.com

When: Thursday Nov. 19th 6:15PM to 8:15PM
Where: Mile High Karate-Allen
604 W. Bethany #208, Allen TX 75013
(Right next to Starbucks at the corner oI-75 and Bethany. Above Ikura Sushi)

Cost: Donation to the Ft. Hood Shooting Victims $5 to $10 to help the families.

You can purchase a ticket to the event at www.mhkfthoodbenefit.eventbrite.com or make a donation at Mile High Karate.

Your current conditions R no indication of your true ultimate potential. Create a nu vision&take the action necessary to make it happen! TR

Ft. Hood Shooting Victims Fundraiser. www.fthoodbenefit.eventbrite.com

Self Defense Seminar to support the Victems of Ft. Hood. FREE SD Class on Nov. 19 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM . donations can be made online & door.

Great morning to workout! warriorfitness1.eventbrite.com and lose 30 pounds in by Valentines' day.

Congratulations new Mile High Karate Black Belts

Congratulations to Trent Lundgren and Kevin Burger on their Success promotion to 2nd Degreee Black Belt!!! Way to go guys, 5 years down and an entire lifetime to go.

1st dan certificates were awarded to Breanne Lunt, Lauren Davis, isabella Dalmacio, Beatriz Dalmacio, Jaeden Knutson, and her Dad, Loren. Breanne joins her brother Ian as a Black Belt, with Mom and Dad to follow. Kevin joins his brother Nick (our head instructor), and Loren and Jaeden join their Alec as the thrid family members.

We are very frotunate in having a total of 6 families that participate in the martial arts with us.

Congratulations to everyone. Tang Soo!!

November Events @ MHK

Good Morning! November is here and we've got a ton of things coming up this month.

1) Friday- No Classes due to the Black Belt Test on Saturday!

2) Saturday (11/7)- Black Belt Test (red through black) 9am to 12 noon, 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM Leadership Seminars (kama, stick & knife, staff, & sword ***Ms. Crews will be teaching us a TKD form called To-San as well) 5:30 to 7:00PM Pot Luck dinner and Belt Ceremony for all new Black Belts. Black Belt Test t-shirts are available at www.zazzle.com/mhkallen.

3) Have a friend? of course you do! Bring them to the Parent's Night out on November 13th from 7PM to 10PM. Register at www.unlimitedsuccessma.com then click on Events. $10 per person. We'll be celbrating our November Birthdays as well.

4) Turkey Day Camp Nov. 23-24 8am to 4:30 PM Full and Half day schedules available. Invite your friends to a fun filled class. Register at www.mhkturkeydaycamp.eventbrite.com

5) Nov. 24-28 Closed for the Holiday. Eat lots of turkey and sweets we'll work it off on Nov 30th.

6) MHK T-shirts are ready for purchase. $20 each or 3 for $50. Order Here (www.unlimitedsuccessma.com) click on t-shirts BEFORE Nov. 15th.

Word of the Month: Total Self Confidence-

Winning Black Belts have the ability to accomplish anything they are willing to work to achieve. They are not intimidated by the negative reactions of others â€" nor, do they get mired in mediocrity. They rise above the crowd and achieve great heights.

Mr. Burger will be returning this month. So look for him in Class on Nov. 9th. Welcome back Nick!!!! Woo-hoo!

Dedicated to your success,

Do U want a more CONFIDENT child? Start on Monday 11/15 at 5:30 PM. 972-390-7161 to register.

Rules-especially the rules of leadership-set the stage for initiative, loyalty, and teamwork of a highly powerful nature. What rules do YOU follow?

35% of {people} struggle with social self-consciousness. What are you doing to help yourself or your child overcome this? visit us at www.unlimitedsuccessma.com

Pig-headed discipline is the driving force of success. The only person that can make you quit is you.

Write down three things yoou've done to make the world a better place. Then do more tomorrow.

Obesity Prevention Class

According to the National Center for Health Statistics, the average weight for an adult female in the United States is:
• 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighs 162.9 pounds (1)
• The average American consumes 3,750 calories PER DAY! (2)
(1) This statistic for the average height and weight for an adult female is from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted from 1999-2002.
(2) http://www.diet-blog.com/archives/2006/12/27/do_americans_eat_3790_calories_per_day.php

A pound of body fat equates to approximately 3500 calories. So if you have a calorie deficit of 500 calories (meaning that you burn 500 calories more than you eat each day) you would lose approximately one pound per week:

500 calories x 7 days= 3,500 calories per week

It's easy to see that a calorie deficit of 1000 calories would mean that you'd lose approximately two pounds per week. And that's a good number to remember, because two pounds a week is commonly accepted as the maximum rate of weight loss that is healthy.

For the average women in the US, you should weigh between 111 and 132 pounds. That’s 30 to 50 pounds you MUST lose in order to GAIN health. This means you’ll need to burn an extra 1283 calories EACH AND EVERY DAY to lose 30 pounds!

In today’s busy world, how do you take the time to burn off 1283 calories per day? Actually it’s pretty easy. The first is start with your diet. Eating healthy well portion meals and having healthy snacks throughout the day is first, next is having a structured fitness program that mixes weights and cardio and provides a “multiplier” effect to keep the calories burning for at least 12-24 hours after the work out.


Let’s focus on the physical training.

Burn NINE TIMES More Fat.
Essentially, we are going to combine weight training (using medicine balls) exercises with proven rapid fat loss High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) protocols.

Interval training is a form of exercise where you alternate between bouts of high-intensity maximum effort and low to moderate-intensity active recovery. In 1994, researchers for The Metabolism Journal discovered the following: each calorie you expend during high-intensity exercise burns nine times more fat than the same calorie expended during steady state aerobic exercise! HIIT accomplishes this in the following ways:

- Embraces the Carb-Burning Zone: High-Intensity exercise rapidly reduces muscle glycogen (stored sugar) during training, promoting enhanced total body fat-burning at all other times of day.

- Burns a TON of Calories Both During AND After Exercise: This phenomenon is due to the post-workout “AFTERBURN” know as EPOC which describes the number of calories your body expends in the recovery of your metabolism back to pre-exercise levels from high intensity training. The best part about EPOC is that you control it, meaning that the harder you work during training the more calories your body will burn BOTH during your workout AND for up to 24-48 hours after completing your workout!

- Creates the Optimal Hormonal Environment for Fat Loss: High-Intensity exercise puts your body in a “fight or flight” mode that forces your body to CHANGE as a means of survival. More specifically, your body releases catecholamines (primarily adrenaline) in response to interval training that directly mobilizes stored body fat so that it can be burnt off as energy during activity.

So, what’s the best interval training protocol to use? Well, there is really no BEST interval training protocol but there are a lot of good ones. One of our favorite interval protocols are Tabata Intervals where you alternate between 20 seconds of work and 10 s of rest for a total of eight times for a fat-smashing four-minute workout. This workout is scientifically proven to promote greater fat loss and fitness gains than 60 minutes of the long, slow, boring aerobic training alternative:

Breakthrough Interval Training Study- The Tabata Protocol
Tabata I, Nishimura K, Kouzaki M, Hirai Y, Ogita F, Miyachi M, Yamamoto K.
Department of Physiology and Biomechanics, National Institute of Fitness and Sports,
Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan. PMID: 8897392 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

- Greater Fat Loss: ONLY four minutes of intervals burned just as much fat as 60 minutes of moderate aerobic training. This means that for every second of exercise performed, interval training burns EXPONENTIALLY more body fat than the moderate aerobic training alternative.

- Greater Fitness: Interval Training results in maximal improvements in both aerobic and anaerobic capacity, where moderate aerobic training only causes improvements in aerobic capacity. In addition, the aerobic improvements were greater with the interval group. In other words, Interval Training offers greater improvements in both anaerobic AND aerobic capacity in much less time than the aerobic alternative.


Mile High Karate and Unlimited Success is offering a FREE informational class on Saturday October 24th at 11AM to 12:30 PM. RSVP to Mark McGee (972-390-7161) or reply privately to secure your place at this event. Bring some clothes to work out and a notebook to take notes. This highly educational event will cover trends in obesity and how we as parent’s can counteract this disturbing trend.

How do you burn 750 calories in 60 minutes? visit www.warriorfitness1.eventbrite.com to find out.

Becoming a leader is a journey without end. Like a river, a leaders motivation ebbs and flows, but always moves to a certain destination.

New Month-New Beginning

Today is what I always call the first day of the month. Yes I know it's still August, but a great time to transition.

This month at MHK-Allen is going to be huge:

1) Mr. Burger is heading to 29 Palms to have a Marine Corps Vacation. He'll be back around the first of November (just in time for the Black Belt Test).
2) XMA Seminar on 9/19 at 11 am. It's only $45 so get signed up now and learn a lot about how martial arts in the movies are pulled off.
3) The September WOM is : Success Skill – Positive Self-Talk:Winning Black Belts learn to control their “inner dialogue.” They create a supportive conversation with themselves that support their goals and their energies.


This week is Progress Check Week: YOu should be able to recite the August WOM, know your forms and combination, Ho Sin Sool, and weapons components.

Take Care and Tang Soo!

Kids back in school and it's boring? Join our MOMs fitness class at 830 am. Kick boredom out the door. 972-390-7161

Warrior fitness classes at MHK-allen. Also MOMs fitness classes for women only. Call 972-390-7161 to find out more.

Awesome classes are scheduled for today. Stop by and check them out.

Getting your child ready for School.

“Discipline... confidence and a healthy self-esteem!”
“Who wouldn't want more of these qualities for their children?”

Life comes at you hard. As a concerned parent you want your child to be at the top their classes academically, socially, and athletically, don’t you?

Unfortunately, not everyone is born to be at the top of the class. For some it takes a little work. A little MORE time and energy, and a little MORE commitment.

The Mile High Karate Basic Program will prepare your child for our Leadership Program and further success in life. In the Karate classes, your child will be exposed to positive social interaction. They will learn how to work with others and follow directions from their instructors. Our Karate Instructors are excellent role models who are trained specifically to work with school-aged children.

Positive reinforcement for goals achieved is the foundation of this program. Instead of the traditional belt rank system, the Karate a belt promotional system of their own that will reward your children for their progress.

“For the first time in a long time Jalen is truly committed to this. He’s become an even better student. Jalen’s eyes lite up when he realized that in 4 short years he could be a black belt. He has such great qualities already and he has to work on self confidence and not being afraid to step out and be the leader. MHK has changed his life forever. He has the dedication and drive to be the best person he can be, and with MHK, his family and God he is well on his way. Thank You!!!” Toni Cofield-Allen TX

Some of the life-changing benefits you’ll receive are:

FOCUS - This skill will help your child's aim, listening skills and reaction skills. They will excel faster in any physical activities. Your child will also become a better listener and a more focused student in school.
TEAMWORK - Teamwork is necessary for any young child to develop. The more confident your child is willing to work with others, the more he or she will accomplish. Your child will develop character, which will help him or her make new friends and become a better leader in life.
CONTROL- Having control means making good decisions. Whether your child is handling a pet or handling a problem, he or she will learn to make the right decisions. Control builds confidence.
BALANCE - This skill is crucial to develop at an early age. Your child is beginning to participate in many physical activities that are challenging, like riding a two-wheel bicycle. Your child will develop good balance and a better posture.
MEMORY - Developing a good memory is exercise for your child's brain. The sooner your child exercises, the smarter he or she will become. Our drills are constantly helping your child think and make smart decisions.
SELF DISCIPLINE - Our instructors use the Karate drills to help create the vision that self discipline is fun and rewarding. Your child will take pride in doing the right thing. Your child will also follow directions better.
FITNESS - It is important for children to understand the importance of being healthy and physically fit. If your child does not burn off excess energy exercising, how will he or she burn off all of that energy?
COORDINATION - Your child will learn left from right. They will become better physical participants in sports and activities. The better coordination your child has, the fewer injuries your child will sustain. In our Karate classes, we make learning fun and educational. Our goal is to help your preschooler be the best they can be at everything they put their minds to. Our motto is "Karate today, leaders tomorrow"

At Mile High Karate, our program will equip your children with the attributes of self esteem and confidence that will make them less of a target for bullies. We'll also teach them specific ways to avoid trouble, and to overcome the bully without fighting. But, instead of teaching "sport karate" or flashy but empty "Hollywood Movie" techniques, we'll give them practical and effective self defense skills that are appropriate for their age, that will last them for a lifetime. Skills like how to get out of a headlock, how to make somebody stop choking them, how to get a bully that's holding them down off of them, and more.

“I just wanted to let you know how proud we are of Michael and his reaching black belt. You have taken the time to teach him the values and skills he needs to become a mature young man. I can’t thank you enough for everything you’ve done for my family.”
Maricarmen Kelly, Allen, Texas

Additionally, we cover a variety of life skills ranging from stranger awareness, how to introduce themselves politely, how to dial 911 and what an emergency is, how to say "NO" to a bully and mean it, and much more. We even teach them how to get parent's attention without interrupting. (We have parents who tell us that this is their favorite thing that we teach!)

SPECIAL: Bring your child in for a free lesson without any further obligation.
After your first FREE lesson let us assume any risk you may have by making this very special offer. We would like to offer your child one month of lessons without any further obligation whatsoever. Plus... these extra free gifts, available only through this offer, and for new students only.

To schedule your child’s free classes, simply call 972-390-7161, mention this offer, and receive:
Call 972-390-7161 (ask for Mark or Nick) to schedule your FREE Class!

WITH YOUR “Internet Special”
ENROLLMENT YOU’LL RECEIVE...

FREE STUDENT-PARENT CONFERENCE
Before or during the introductory program we will meet one-on-one to discuss your child's needs and your child's progress. We will educate you regarding our program and help you understand the developmental process for your child. We will give you tips on how to reinforce your child's development and share with you how our school can help you achieve you and your child's goals.

2 FREE Private Lessons ($150.00 Value)
Have your child be fully ready for his or her first belt exam by using 2 FREE one-on-one lessons with our internationally certified instructors.

A KARATE UNIFORM ($45.00 value)
Watch how excited your child will be the second they put the uniform on. This is just the beginning.

4 weeks of karate, leadership, and much much MORE! (Pricele$$)
Watch your child grows with confidence as they learn how to deal with negative peer pressure, bullies, and learn live-saving skills to keep them safe from sexual predators.
Were giving you $359.97 worth of services and products--FREE

All of this for $0.00, just to check us out. That's how confident we are in our program. Now you have to take action and see it for yourself.

To register for this Special introductory program do the following:

Pick up the phone and call Mark or Nick at 972-390-7161. They'll answer any additional questions that you may have and schedule a special time with our head instructor to work with you and your child. You'll be glad you did.


Thank you and I'll see you soon.

Mark McGee
972-390-7161

P.S. If you register within the next TWO WEEKS, I’ll even throw in a FREE Birthday Party ($300 Value), but only through this once in a lifetime offer. I'm asking you to take action now to ensure you are able to enroll in this life-changing program. So DON'T WASTE ANY MORE TIME!

Just pick up the phone; call 972-390-7161 right now to schedule your private introductory time. There is absolutely NO OBLIGATION or charge for this introductory program!

Three ways to get better grades for your kids: Develop a Schedule; don't overextend; Teach focus and Concentration. Learn more at www.unlimtedsuccessma.com

Confidence Course is this week to teach the kids how to introduce themselves to their new teacher, getting focused on school, and other ideas for parents dreading the drastic change in schedule.

"How to Help Your Child Focus Better"

“Martial arts strengthen minds and muscles”

Among the many benefits of a martial art is the way it strengthens the mind. There is a certain discipline that develops quickly among students, a shift in their ability to pay attention.

Brain Exercise

From the very first day in class, students are challenged to think as much as they act. Learning new forms and movements takes concentration. One reason why martial arts is so effective is that it reinforces working memory. Anthony Meyer, MD, medical director of Aurora Psychiatric Hospital in Milwaukee, Wis., and a specialist in attention deficit and child/adolescent issues, compares working memory to that of an executive secretary, taking in all the sensory information, sorting through it and compiling a list of priorities for the "CEO," or frontal lobe of the brain. If the executive secretary isn't working properly, that list of priorities isn't correct or in some cases not delivered.

To enhance working memory, Dr. Meyer says, it's important to use repetition and multi-sensory stimulation - meaning one sees, then hears and then attempts the task at hand. Martial Arts fit that bill. Students are taught by example, explanation and repetition.

Provide a challenge

Martial arts teaches life skills like discipline, respect and concentration. A student can't move up in rank without showing those characteristics at an age-appropriate level. And as students advance, their level of precision and even the intricacy of their movements become more challenging.

Together these factors help children retrain their brains so that, whether in class or in the real world, they are able to act and react in a responsible manner. "It's exercising their ability to focus," Dr. Harrison says. "They tune out other things around them when they're in martial arts class, and that is transferable at school and at home because they've learned how not to be distracted so easily."

Sign up for lessons

Martial arts keep kids engaged physically and mentally. They have fun while in class, and take pride in knowing that they are learning something most kids don't know how to do.

Dr. Meyer explains that martial arts "enhance motivation, which is like turbo power that gives you interest to attend to something. The master is able to give one-on-one instruction or work in small groups, which helps motivate. It uses the whole body, a number of sensory modalities, and has to do with focus, centering and getting along with friends and family, as well."

Get into sports

Like swimming, skiing and track, martial arts is a solitary sport. Martial art classes remove the pressure to do well in front of the other kids or to score a winning play. Students concentrate on their own movements rather than what everyone else is doing. They never have to worry about disappointing their team mates. Instruction is focused on the individual and his or her journey toward attaining the next belt rank. And every class is wall-to-wall movement. There's nothing like an hours worth of running, jumping and blocking to get rid of any pent-up energy.

Praise more than criticize

In a sport like the martial arts, the emphasis is on learning the basic steps and techniques. Good martial art instructors use a "praise, correct, praise" approach in which the student is praised for what he or she did right, instructed on how to improve what was not quite right, and then praised for making the correction. Children also get rewards like stickers, trophies and belts.

"Martial arts require a certain amount of focus to participate. The process of them learning their forms and coordinating the movement of their hands and feet is helpful, and the kids get tangible rewards like stickers, trophies and their next belt," says Dr. Harrison.

Turn off the TV

When kids are in class, they're not in front of the television. They're moving, active and engaged.

"I have heard parents say that they have seen a change," says Dr. Harrison. "They see a difference in their children's behavior, and the teachers tell them that their children pay better attention in class."

This page is sent to you courtesy of our local sponsor:



604 W. Bethany
Allen, TX 75013
972-390-7161

Another Busy Day. Getting Ready for school to start. Write outline for teacher leadership program, mail out some invitations for a party, and scheduling schools for PTA Fundraisers.

Welcome Stephen Meyer

Welcome Stephen Meyer and the Meyer Family to Mile High Karate-Allen. Stepehn is 7 years old and will be attending the Monday and Wednesday Basic Class. Make sure you say hello to Stephen and his family the next time you see them.

Thank you very much

I want to thank the Erickson Family for having Brady's party with us on Saturday and letting him work with us over the summer at Kids R' Kids in west Allen. The party was a lot of fun and we had lots of parent help (the kids taught the parents how to shake hands properly and make strong eye contact) and of course there was the pizza. Thanks Brady and we look forward to seeing you and your friends again on Wednesday.

Next, Thank you, Jennifer Bragg and East Texas Tae Kwon Do for your support with our Stick and Knife Defense Seminar. You have some wonderful and gifted students (that comes from being a great instructor). I hope we covered enough of material and can let you explore this in more detail.

If you live in the MP area, please stop by and tell Jennifer and her students "Hello!"

Again, thanks so much for a wonderful weekend. I couldn't do the things I love without your support.

Master McGee
Mile High Karate-Allen

Better Grades And Study Skills

The last month of Summer is the most important part of the school year! Start your child with a Study Skills Class!

Beginning August 10th, Mile High Karate will be offer free Study Skills Classes. Having excellent study skills is a great way to ensure your child's success in the coming school year. Studies have shown that children with a background in time management are do better in school, have more friends, and have more self-confidence than their peers without these skills.


Mile High Karate is a leader in childhood development. Focusing on creating strong, confident kids, families, and communities who respect and care for others.

To attend our Study Skills Week, please call 972-390-7161 or just stop by our office at 604 W. Bethany #208 Allen, TX 75013 right next to Starbucks at the corner of I-75 and Bethany.

In japan, the Haiku is form of poetry that boils doen the essence on one's thought to 17 syllables. We want to put a twist on the old classic. Write your Haiku on Leadership.

Leadership is knowledge
Moving always to the fore
Helping others succeed

Write your own Leadership Haiku and post it here in the comments or on discussion board.

Study Skills Week at MHK-Allen

The last month of Summer is the most important part of the school year! Start your child with a Study Skills Class!


Register at www.mhkbettergradesstudyskills.eventbrite.com


Beginning August 10th, Mile High Karate will be offer free Study Skills Classes. Having excellent study skills is a great way to ensure your child's success in the coming school year. Studies have shown that children with a background in time management are do better in school, have more friends, and have more self-confidence than their peers without these skills.


Mile High Karate is a leader in childhood development. Focusing on creating strong, confident kids, families, and communities who respect and care for others.

To attend our Study Skills Week, please call 972-390-7161 or just stop by our office at 604 W. Bethany #208 Allen, TX 75013 right next to Starbucks at the corner of I-75 and Bethany.

Register at www.mhkbettergradesstudyskills.eventbrite.com

New material for Basic, Leadership Level 1 & 2

We've started our new testing cycle so here what we're learning:

August Word of the Month – Positive Self-Expectancy & Goal Attainment
Winning Black Belts learn to have an overall attitude of personal optimism and enthusiasm. Winners understand that life is a self-fulfilling prophecy – a person usually gets what he or she actively expects over the long run. Winners have HIGH EXPECTATIONS of themselves and work to achieve those outcomes.

Leadership Weapon: Staff (bong).

Basic: Various kicks, blocks, and punches.
Level 1:

• Form-Pyung Ahn Cho Dan
• Ho Sin Sul- Advanced Falls, Armbar Takedowns
• Sparring Combinations: American Karate 1-4

Level 2:

• Form: Pyung Ahn Oh Dan
• Ho Sin Sul- Advanced Falls, Shoulder Throws
• Sparring Combinations: American Tae Kwon Do 1-4

Your next Belt Test is on: September 25th at 6:30 PM.

"Doubt yourself and you doubt everything you
see. Judge yourself and you see judges
everywhere. But if you listen to the sound
of your own voice, you can rise above doubt
and judgment. And you can see forever."

How does this quote relate to YOUR Formula for Success?

Mile High Karate Announce PTA Fundraiser for 2009-2010

My name is Mark McGee and I am the Dallas Area director for Mile High Karate. Several years ago I made a personal decision for all of my Mile High Karate instructors to donate 30 to 40 hours per month of their time to Collin County Schools.

In addition to their time, each of the Mile High Karate schools donates supplies and establishes fundraisers in conjunction with the PTA to raise money for the school. As you know, most teachers spend hundreds of dollars out of pocket to maintain the correct amount of supplies for their kids.

One of our programs (KIDS OF CHARACTER) has raised over $10,000 to local schools to buy supplies, and sponsorship for PTA related activities. Also, my instructor, Stephen Oliver, is personally involved with Chuck Norris' Kick Drugs Out of America – and has been their leading fundraiser in the United States and is involved with teacher training for their organization and 1,600 martial arts school throughout the country. Grand Master Oliver’s instructor is Grand Master Jhoon Rhee - who has been the official karate instructor for the congress and senate for over 30 years and is working to develop the Joy of Discipline program with the help of the secretary of education and many renowned educators.

However, we want to make a more dramatic impact.

This school year we want to raise $5,000 for your PTA. Five-thousand in supplies for our kids, grants for teachers, and scholarships for our students.

It’s an ambitious goal, but I know that our partnership will benefit our community like never before. From August 15th to August 30th, we’re ear-marking school supply donations and a portion of our new student enrollment to your organization. I would love to say that Allen Schools supports this goal.


For the success of our children,

Mark McGee, MBA
972-390-7161
www.milehighkarate.com
markm@milehighkarate.com

Congrats to our new colored belts!!!

July 31st Belt Test Results

Basic Students:
Yellow: Aidan O'Connor, Lajeeth Thangarval, Edwin Garcia, Enrique Torres,
Purple: Jason Hickey,
Purple/Black: Ethan Chin

Leadership Level 1:
Orange: Drew Gray, Nick Warchowski, Colin Ruano
Orange/Black: Jalen Cofield & Jason Ludowesse
Purple/Black: Keshav Dwande & Matthew Thouin

Leadership Level 2:

Green: Jennifer Lunt

Please welcome our newest Leadership Members: Barry Lunt (Jenns Husband) and Drew Gray to the leadership program. YEAH!!!

Please post you pictures to the MHK-Allen Fan Page.

Tang Soo!

10 Steps to Start your school year off right.

10 Steps to start your schoool year off right.

Self-esteem is a major key to success in life, and a MAJOR focus in our program!
The development of a positive self-concept or healthy self-esteem is extremely important to the happiness and success of children and teenagers.

Over the years, we have helped hundreds of parents and families, just like you (some who’ve had SUBSTANTIAL challenges) build their child’s self-esteem and sense of accomplishment.

In fact, we’ve had so much experience and success in dealing with self-esteem issues, even local school guidance counselors, principals and family practitioners regularly refer students to us for special attention in this area.




Why hundreds of other loving parents have chosen our program to help their son or daughter build their Self-Esteem!

At Mile High Karate we’re SERIOUS about making a real, positive impact on our students! Our instructors participate in rigorous ongoing continuing education programs, both locally, and in conjunction with the National Association of Professional Martial Artists, including in depth training on the subject of character development and Self-Esteem.

Rest assured your son or daughter is in the BEST hands at our school.

Our proven successful system for building Self-Esteem, is based on positive reinforcement, positive mentoring and empathy. Your son or daughter will never be singled out in a negative way or made to feel embarrassed…..only expertly coached, and encouraged in a positive, impact-full manner, to overcome any obstacles!

Here are some ideas, and a glimpse into our process.



Self Esteem and Children

Self-esteem is how we feel about ourselves, and our behavior clearly reflects those feelings. For example, a child or teen with high self-esteem will be able to:
• act independently
• assume responsibility
• take pride in his accomplishments
• tolerate frustration
• attempt new tasks and challenges
• handle positive and negative emotions
• offer assistance to others

On the other hand, a child with low self-esteem will:
• avoid trying new things
• feel unloved and unwanted
• blame others for his own shortcomings
• feel, or pretend to feel, emotionally indifferent
• be unable to tolerate a normal level of frustration
• put down his own talents and abilities
• be easily influenced

Parents, mentors and friends promote a child's self-esteem. It isn't a particularly difficult thing to do. If fact, most parents do it without even realizing that their words and actions have great impact on how their child or teenager feels about himself. Here are some suggestions to keep in mind, and outline some of the strategies we utilize in our classes!

When you feel good about your child, mention it to him.
Parents are often quick to express negative feelings to children but somehow don't get around to describing positive feelings. A child doesn't know when you are feeling good about him and he needs to hear you tell him that you like having him in the family. Children remember positive statements we say to them. They store them up and "replay" these statements to themselves. Practice giving your child words of encouragement throughout each day.

Be generous with praise.
Use what is called descriptive praise to let your child know when they are doing something well. You must of course become in the habit of looking for situations in which your child is doing a good job or displaying a talent. When your child completes a task or chore you could say, "I really like the way you straightened your room. You found a place for every thing and put each thing in its place."

When you observe them showing a talent you might say, "That last piece you played was great. You really have a lot of musical talent." Don't be afraid to give praise often even in front of family or friends. Also, use praise to point out positive character traits. For instance, "You are a very kind person." Or, "I like the way you stick with things you do even when it seems hard to do." You can even praise a child for something he did not do such as "I really liked how you accepted my answer of 'no' and didn't lose your temper."

Teach your child to practice making positive self-statements.
Self-talk is very important in everything we do. Psychologists have found that negative self-talk is behind depression and anxiety. What we think determines how we feel and how we feel determines how we behave. Therefore, it is important to teach children to be positive about how they "talk to themselves." Some examples of useful self-talk are: "I can get this problem, if I just keep trying." "It's OK if our team lost today. We all tried our best and you can't win them all." "It makes me feel good to help others even if the person doesn't notice or thank me." Your child can become an expert at this by listening to Self-Image For Children or Successful Teens. These tapes combine relaxation techniques along with positive self-statements and mental pictures to help kids and teens develop their self-esteem.

Avoid criticism that takes the form of ridicule or shame.
Sometimes it is necessary to criticize a child's actions, and it is appropriate that parents do so. When, however the criticism is directed to the child as a person it can easily deteriorate into ridicule or shame. It is important to learn to use "I statements" rather than "You statements" when giving criticism. For instance say, "I would like you to keep your clothes in the proper place in your closet or drawers not lying all over your room;" rather than saying "Why are you such a lazy slob? Can't you take care of anything?"

Teach your child about decision-making and to recognize when he has made a good decision.
Children make decisions all the time but often are not aware that they are doing so. There are a number of ways parents can help children improve their ability to consciously make wise decisions. Children make decisions all the time but often are not aware that they are doing so.

There area number of ways parents can help children improve their ability to consciously make wise decisions.
1. Help the child clarify the problem that is creating the need for a decision. Ask him questions that pinpoint how he sees, hears, and feels about a situation and what may need to be changed.

2. Brainstorm the possible solutions. Usually there is more than one solution or choice to a given dilemma, and the parent can make an important contribution by pointing out this fact and by suggesting alternatives if the child has none.

3. Allow the child to choose one of the solutions only after fully considering the consequences. The best solution will be one that solves the problem and simultaneously makes the child feel good about himself.

4. Later join the child in evaluating the results of that particular solution. Did it work out well? Or did it fail? if so, why? Reviewing the tactics will equip the child to make a better decision the next time around.

Develop a positive approach to providing structure for your child.
All kids and teens need to accept responsibility for their behavior. They should learn self-discipline. To help children learn self-discipline, the parent needs to adopt the role of coach/teacher rather than that of disciplinarian and punisher. Learn the "Three Fs" of positive parenting. (Discipline should be fair, firm and friendly).

The 10 steps you can take to help your child develop a positive self-image:
1. Teach children to change their demands to preferences. Point out to children that there is no reason they must get everything they want and that they need not feel angry either. Encourage them to work against anger by setting a good example and by reinforcing them when they display appropriate irritation rather than anger

2. Encourage your children to ask for what they want assertively; pointing out that there is no guarantee that they will get it. Reinforce them for asking and avoid anticipating their desires.

3. Let children know they create and are responsible for any feeling they experience. Likewise, they are not responsible for others' feelings. Avoid blaming children for how you feel.

4. Encourage your children to develop hobbies and interests which give them pleasure and which they can pursue independently.

5. Let children settle their own disputes between siblings and friends alike.

6. Help your children develop "tease tolerance" by pointing out that some teasing can't hurt. Help children learn to cope with teasing by ignoring it while using positive self-talk such as "names can never hurt me," "teases have no power over me," and "if I can resist this tease, then I'm building emotional muscle."

7. Help children learn to focus on their strengths by pointing out to them all the things they can do.

8. Encourage your children to behave toward themselves the way they'd like their friends to behave toward them.

9. Help your children think in terms of alternative options and possibilities rather than depending upon one option for satisfaction. A child who has only one friend and loses that friend is friendless. However, a child who has many friends and loses one, still has many. This same principle holds true in many different areas. Whenever you think there is only one thing which can satisfy you, you limit your potential for being satisfied! The more you help your children realize that there are many options in every situation, the more you increase their potential for satisfaction.

10. Laugh with your children and encourage them to laugh at themselves. People who take themselves very seriously are undoubtedly decreasing their enjoyment in life. A good sense of humor and the ability to make light of life are important ingredients for increasing one's overall enjoyment.

Finally, enjoy your children. Hang out with them. Do things together as a family but also see that each parent has "one to one" time with each child on a regular basis. For better or worse, our children learn from our example. Spending time with each child allows for full communication. Your child can share his thoughts and feelings openly. You can provide acceptance and (once in a while) guidance. Be heavy on the listening and provide lots of praise and encouragement.

Mile High Karate-Allen: Teaching Skills, Instilling Confidence Best Ways to Prevent Child Abduction#links#links

Mile High Karate-Allen: Teaching Skills, Instilling Confidence Best Ways to Prevent Child Abduction#links#links

Teaching Skills, Instilling Confidence Best Ways to Prevent Child Abduction

Teaching Skills, Instilling Confidence Best Ways to Prevent Child Abduction
Part TWO

"Stranger danger" lessons alone don't protect children.

"Parents can teach about personal safety without causing unwarranted fear," says Dr. Broughton.


What to teach instead:
- Children should know their name, address and phone number (with area code) so, if lost, they can be reunited with their family. Older children should know parents' work numbers.

- Away from home, older children should always be with a friend, always tell an adult where they will be, and say "no" if they feel threatened or uncomfortable.

- Children need to know that appropriate strangers - store clerks or police officers - can offer assistance if they are lost or need help.

- Parents need to listen, and respect their children's feelings. Children can sense unease in inappropriate relationships. They'll likely share their concerns if parents routinely take all of their concerns in life seriously rather than downplaying or shaming them.

- Children need to know that they do not need to kiss, hug, touch or sit on the lap of anyone, relative or not, if they do not wish to. This respect for their wishes translates into self-respect and the ability for children to say no to unwanted contacts without generating fear.

- Parents need to supervise children who use the Internet. Although still relatively uncommon, the practice of pedophiles and child molesters approaching children on the Internet is occurring more frequently.

- Parents need to keep reinforcing safety messages through middle school and high school. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, most victims of nonfamily abductions were 12 years or older (58 percent). Most were girls (65 percent).

- Parents should realize the limitations of participating in programs where children are fingerprinted or otherwise identified. These programs can frighten children and raise fears in adults without giving perspective on the real nature or risk of abduction.

- Parents should keep on hand a high-quality recent photo of each child, such as a school photo. Law enforcement officials consider photos the best tool in finding missing children.

- Parents should promptly report a missing child. The Amber Plan, the national program to immediately flood a region with news of an abduction, is credited with helping to recover more than 130 children since it started two years ago.

"None of these safety approaches needs to be taught specifically as safeguarding against abductions - with all its overtones of danger and threat," says Dr. Broughton. "Instead, safety should be taught as common sense so children can learn confidence and independence."

Statistics:

Non-family abductions
- In 1999, more than 50,000 children and adolescents were taken by nonfamily members by physical force or coercion for at least one hour.

- Ninety-one percent of non-family abductions lasted less than a day, with 29 percent lasting two hours or less.
- Classic non-family kidnappings pose the greatest risk of death or serious harm.
About 100 children were kidnapped by non-family members in 1999.
(Source: U.S. Department of Justice National Incidence Studies of Missing, Abducted, Runaway, and Thrownaway Children, 2002)
Family abductions

- 203,900 children each year are victims of family abductions, where the child is taken by a non-custodial parent.

- 24 percent of these abductions lasted one week to one month. Police were contacted in 60 percent of the cases.
(Source: U.S. Department of Justice National Incidence Studies of Missing, Abducted, Runaway, and Thrownaway Children, 2002)

Is your child going to become the next statistic?
Now is the time to do something. It only takes an instant for a child to be injured, abducted or to become the next statistic. You need to empower your children with "Powerful knowledge, skills & experiences" to help them learn that they do have the ability to protect themselves and stay safe.

Confidence is THE KEY!

One of the best choices for building a child's confidence and self-esteem is professional martial arts training at Mile High Karate. These programs are designed to help a child learn and develop special important, life saving self-defense skills while at the same time building their confidence and self-esteem. Consider enrolling your child today in one of these programs as one step to keeping your child safe everyday no matter where they are or what they are doing.

This page is sent to you courtesy of our local sponsor:





P.S. For a limited time only we are offering a very Special FREE 14 day "Confidence & Concentration Course" and a copy of the book "How to raise rock solid kids"

In just 14 days we will be able to dramatically improve your child's focus and confidence, giving them the power to stand up to bullies and peer pressure and help them stay SAFE AND get BETTER GRADES! Important: Call us at 972-390-7161 (right away because there's a limit of 15 kids. Or visit us on the web at Mile High Karate-Allen!

"Stranger danger" lessons alone don't protect children

Teaching Skills, Instilling Confidence Best Ways to Prevent Child Abduction
Part ONE
"Stranger danger" lessons alone don't protect children

Monday, October 04, 2004

ROCHESTER, Minn. - Parents and pediatricians could be doing more to prevent child abductions, says a new clinical report from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Daniel Broughton, M.D., a pediatrician at Mayo Clinic and former director of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children agrees.

"Rather than teaching children to fear strangers, which is at best, woefully inadequate, we need to use positive messages," says Dr. Broughton. "Children need to learn skills and confidence, not fear and avoidance."

Dr. Broughton is one of the authors of the newly published American Academy of Pediatrics Clinical Report entitled, "The Pediatrician's Role in the Prevention of Missing Children." Published in the October issue of Pediatrics, the report offers prevention strategies for pediatricians to share with families.

Dr. Broughton says, too often, emphasis is placed on stranger danger. However, most children reported missing are runaways or were taken by noncustodial parents. Only a small number of children are victims of classic kidnappings, though many are abducted for shorter periods and released. Most people who perpetrate these crimes on children are not strangers in the eye and mind of the child.

"It could be a neighbor, a familiar face in the child's daily routine, or someone the child's parents know well enough to greet," says Dr. Broughton.

According to research conducted by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, in cases of long-term kidnapping in which the child was found alive, 85 percent of the victims did not consider the kidnapper to be a stranger. In at least 65 percent of the cases in which a child was found dead and the perpetrator identified, it was clear that the child would not have considered the person a stranger.

"Those statistics are powerful reasons to teach children a different approach than "don't talk to strangers," says Dr. Broughton. "The stranger danger message frightens them without any proven benefit."


Child safety doesn't happen by accident.

You need to empower your children with "Powerful knowledge, skills & experiences" to help them learn that they do have the ability to protect themselves and stay safe. Child safety is very much about Empowerment, it is imperative that you find ways to build your child's confidence. Find programs and activities that are designed to build their confidence and self-esteem everyday.

"One of the best choices for building a child's confidence and self-esteem is professional martial arts training. These programs are designed to help a child learn and develop special important, life saving self-defense skills while at the same time building their confidence and self-esteem. Consider enrolling your child today in one of these programs as one step to keeping your child safe everyday no matter where they are or what they are doing."



This article is sponsored by Mile High Karate-Allen.
972-390-7161*** www.freekarate.com
604 W. Bethany #208 Allen, TX 75013

Ironing out the details on a Self-defense and anti-abduction class in Mt. Pleasant on august 8th at 3PM.

Want to lose weight and GAIN CONFIDENCE? Join us for our Morning workout at the dojo. 604 w. bethany 208. 972-390-7161

Excellent Knife seminar this morning. I should have some highlights up leter this week.

Fitness class today at Mile High Karate in Allen. 604 W. Bethany 208.
8 am MMA workout.

Christmas in July special coming today. Wait for it...Wait for it...

Instilling Self Discipline

How We Will Help Your Child
Succeed in our Program (and in Life)
While Increasing Self-Control
Helping children learn self-control is a MAJOR focus in our program!
The development of self-control skills is extremely important to the happiness and success of children and teenagers.

Over the years, we have helped hundreds of parents and families, just like you (some who’ve had SUBSTANTIAL challenges) build their child’s self-esteem and sense of accomplishment while also helping them develop self-control.

In fact, we’ve had so much experience and success in dealing with self-control issues, even local school guidance counselors, principals and family practitioners regularly refer students to us for special attention in this area.


“I just wanted to let you know how proud we are of Michael and his reaching black belt. You have taken the time to teach him the values and skills he needs to become a mature young man. I can’t thank you enough for everything you’ve done for my family.”
Maricarmen Kelly, Allen, Texas



Why hundreds of other loving parents have chosen our program to help their sons or daughters develop self-control!

At Mile High Karate we’re SERIOUS about making a real, positive impact on our students! Our instructors participate in rigorous ongoing continuing education programs, both locally, and in conjunction with the National Association of Professional Martial Artists, including in depth training on the subject of character development and self-control in children.

Rest assured your son or daughter is in the BEST hands at our school.

Our proven successful system for children with self-control issues is based on positive reinforcement, positive mentoring and empathy. Your son or daughter will never be singled out in a negative way or made to feel embarrassed…..only expertly coached, and encouraged in a positive, impact-full manner, to overcome any obstacles!



Here are some ideas and a glimpse into our process.

Positive Discipline

How do young children learn self-control, self-help, ways to get along with others, and family and school procedures? Such learning occurs when parents and teachers of infants, toddlers, or preschoolers are continuously involved in setting limits, encouraging desired behaviors, and making decisions about managing children.

When making these decisions, caregivers often ask themselves these questions: Am I disciplining in a way that hurts or helps this child's self-esteem? Will my discipline help the child develop self-control? This digest suggests methods and language that can be used in handling common situations involving young children.

Methods of Discipline that Promote Self Worth

Show that you recognize and accept the reason the child is doing what, in your judgment, is the wrong thing:
• "You want to play with the truck but..."
• "You want me to stay with you but..."
This validates the legitimacy of the child's desires and illustrates that you are an understanding person. It also is honest from the outset: The adult is wiser, in charge, not afraid to be the leader, and occasionally has priorities other than those of the child.

State the "but":
• "You want to play with the truck, but Jerisa is using it right now."
• "You want me to stay with you, but right now I need to (go out, help Jill, serve lunch, etc.)."
This lets the child know that others have needs, too. It teaches perspective taking and may lead the child to develop the ability to put himself in other people's shoes. It will also gain you the child's respect, for it shows you are fair. And it will make the child feel safe; you are able to keep him safe.

Offer a solution:
• "Soon you can play with the truck."
One-year-olds can begin to understand "just a minute" and will wait patiently if we always follow through 60 seconds later. Two- and three-year-olds can learn to understand, "I'll tell you when it's your turn," if we always follow through within two or three minutes. This helps children learn how to delay gratification but does not thwart their short-term understanding of time.

Often, it's helpful to say something indicating your confidence in the child's ability and willingness to learn:
• "When you get older I know you will (whatever it is you expect)."
• "Next time you can (restate what is expected in a positive manner)."
This affirms your faith in the child, lets her know that you assume she has the capacity to grow and mature, and transmits your belief in her good intentions.

In some situations, after firmly stating what is not to be done, you can demonstrate how we do it, or a better way:
• "We don't hit. Pat my face gently." (Gently stroke).
• "Puzzle pieces are not for throwing. Let's put them in their places together." (Offer help).
This sets firm limits, yet helps the child feel that you two are a team, not enemies.

Toddlers are not easy to distract, but frequently they can be redirected to something that is similar but OK. Carry or lead the child by the hand, saying,
• "That's the gerbil's paper. Here's your paper."
• "Peter needs that toy. Here's a toy for you."

This endorses the child's right to choose what she will do, yet begins to teach that others have rights, too.

Avoid accusation. Even with babies, communicate in respectful tones and words. This prevents a lowering of the child's self -image and promotes his tendency to cooperate.

For every no, offer two acceptable choices:
• "No! Rosie cannot bite Esther. Rosie can bite the rubber duck or the cracker."
• "No, Jackie. That book is for teachers. You can have this book or this book."
This encourages the child's independence and emerging decision-making skills, but sets boundaries. Children should never be allowed to hurt each other. It's bad for the self-image of the one who hurts and the one who is hurt.

If children have enough language, help them express their feelings, including anger, and their wishes. Help them think about alternatives and solutions to problems. Adults should never fear children's anger:
• "You're mad at me because you're so tired. It's hard to feel loving when you need to sleep. When you wake up, I think you'll feel more friendly."
• "You feel angry because I won't let you have candy. I will let you choose a banana or an apple. Which do you want?"

This encourages characteristics we want to see emerge in children, such as awareness of feelings and reasonable assertiveness, and gives children tools for solving problems without unpleasant scenes.

Establish firm limits and standards as needed. Until a child is 1 1/2 or almost 2 years old, adults are completely responsible for his safety and comfort, and for creating the conditions that encourage good behavior. After this age, while adults are still responsible for the child's safety, they increasingly, though extremely gradually, begin to transfer responsibility for behaving acceptably to the child. They start expecting the child to become aware of others' feelings. They begin to expect the child to think simple cause/effect thoughts (provided the child is guided quietly through the thinking process). This is teaching the rudiments of self-discipline.

To avoid confusion when talking to very young children, give clear, simple directions in a firm, friendly voice. This will ensure that children are not overwhelmed with a blizzard of words and refuse to comply as a result.

Remember that the job of a toddler, and to some extent the job of all young children, is to taste, touch, smell, squeeze, tote, poke, pour, sort, explore, and test. At times toddlers are greedy, at times grandiose. They do not share well; they need time to experience ownership before they are expected to share. They need to assert themselves ("No," "I can't," "I won't," and "Do it myself"). They need to separate to a degree from their parents, that is, to individuate. One way they do this is to say no and not to do what is asked; another is to do what is not wanted. If adults understand children in this age range, they will create circumstances and develop attitudes that permit and promote development. Self discipline is better learned through guidance than through punishment. It's better learned through a "We are a team, I am the leader, it's my job to help you grow up" approach than through a "me against you" approach.


Creating a Positive Climate Promotes Self Discipline

Creating a positive climate for the very young involves:
• Spending lots of leisurely time with an infant or child;
• Sharing important activities and meaningful play;
• Listening and answering as an equal, not as an instructor (for example, using labeling words when a toddler points inquiringly toward something, or discussing whatever topic the 2-year-old is trying to tell you about);
• Complimenting the child's efforts: "William is feeding himself!" "Juana is putting on her shoe!" (even if what you are seeing is only clumsy stabs in the right direction); and
• Smiling, touching, caressing, kissing, cuddling, holding, rocking, hugging.

Harmful, Negative Discipline Methods

Criticizing, discouraging, creating obstacles and barriers, blaming, shaming, using sarcastic or cruel humor, or using physical punishment are some negative disciplinary methods used with young children. Often saying, "Stop that!" "Don't do it that way!" or "You never..." is harmful to children's self-esteem.

Any adult might occasionally do any of these things. Doing any or all of them more than once in a while means that a negative approach to discipline has become a habit and urgently needs to be altered before the child experiences low self-esteem as a permanent part of her personality.

Good Approaches to Discipline
• Increase a child's self-esteem,
• Allow her to feel valued,
• Encourage her to feel cooperative,
• Enable her to learn gradually the many skills involved in taking some responsibility for what happens to her,
• Motivate her to change her strategy rather than to blame others, help her to take initiative, relate successfully to others, and solve problems.


To find out more about Mile High Karate and how we can help you and your family lead a more disciplined and focused lifestyle, please call 972-390-7161.
Thank you and I'll see you soon.

Just confirmed my 6th appointment for this evening.

I think people should honor thier appointments. I've had three cancellations and no shows this week.

AB-Domination workout today at AHS track 8 am start.

Get Fit!Monday morning fitness class at the allen Track. 30 second intervals.

Good Morning Sunday, time to start another fantastic week.

5 Steps to Helping Your Child Become a Leader

By: Scott D. Krenz
Being a leader and developing leadership skills is learned. While some children may have a little more confidence in themselves than others, it does not necessarily make them a leader. It has been proven countless times throughout history that anyone can learn to be a leader. As a parent, you will play a huge part in whether your child is a leader or follower in life.

“Being a Leader” does not necessarily mean that a person is in a position to tell others what to do. Many of the most powerful or influential leaders in history simply “led” themselves but by their powerful individual choices they influenced millions or even entire generations of people around the world. One of the most important traits of a leader is the ability to make decisions for your self, being able to stand up to peer pressure and set a personal standard of behavior.

Leaders and followers step into their roles at a very young age. You can walk into a kindergarten class and within a very short period of time you will know which children are going to be the leaders in the class and who will be the followers.
As a parent, the question you need to ask is;

“Do YOU want your child to be a leader or a follower?”

Because it really is up to you! It is up to you to instill your children with the knowledge and skills to be a leader everyday of their life…beginning TODAY!
There are a few simple skills you can help your child learn and develop that will help them become a leader. These skills will empower your children with the confidence and tools to make choices for themselves and not have to follow the crowd or peer pressure.

5 Qualities of a “Leader.”

A “Leader” says “Yes, I Can!” It’s called the power of a Positive Attitude.
A Leader understands there will be many people throughout their life who will tell them why they CAN NOT do or be something. A leader stays focused on maintaining a positive attitude no matter what the people around them say or do. A leader stands up to peer pressure everyday to make choices for themselves.

Teach your children to say “Yes I can!” even when they are not sure. Help them understand the power of a positive attitude.

A “Leader” says “It’s not a problem, it’s a Challenge!” It’s called
Overcoming Adversity.
Every day life is filled with challenges, however, many people call them “problems” and therefore they are overcome by their magnitude. One of the crutches in life that leaders do not use is the phrase “I Can’t.” Leaders learn very quickly in life that saying “I can’t” is just an excuse not to try. It makes it easy to give up. The first step to being a leader is to always say “Yes, I Can.” There is always another solution. You just need to ask a different or better question to find more solutions. Each challenge in life is an opportunity to learn a new lesson.
Teach your children to ask better questions and be creative in finding solutions to life’s challenges. Help them find the lesson in each of life’s challenges.

A “Leader” says “Never give up, never give up, never give up!” It’s called Perseverance.
The easiest answer or path whenever something gets hard in life is to stop or give up. A Leader knows that the easiest path is not always the best path. A simple well known quote expresses the power of perseverance very well;
“Perseverance prevails when all else fails.”
Quitting is easy. It’s a habit that begins at a young age. Children need to learn at a very young age the power of building positive habits in life.
Teach your children the power and importance of not quitting and fulfilling their commitments in life. Help them develop a habit of persistence and fulfilling commitments.

A “Leader” says “I may fail or make mistakes BUT I always learn and move ahead!” It’s called Commitment.
Mistakes and failure are an integral part of life. We tend to learn the most in life from our mistakes or failures. Leaders learn to do their best and are not beaten down by their mistakes. A leader learns to ask them selves a powerful question each time they make a mistake or fail; “What can I learn from this experience?”
Teach your children it is O’K to make mistakes in life as long as they learn and do their very best. Help them find the lesson in each of life’s experiences.

A “Leader” says “I will always do my best!” It’s called Excellence.
“EXCELLENCE” or doing your very best, is a daily decision. It’s easy to be average. It takes a focused effort every day to do your best. It really is an attitude. Leaders choose to do their best in everything they do. It’s not about being better than other people, it’s just about challenging yourself to be your best.
Teach your children to do their own best and not worry about comparing themselves against other people. Help them understand the importance of challenging themselves to do their very best everyday.

Gat Day of Classes. Only 30 days left until our next Back Belt Recert on JUly 24th.

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Dads with Daughters in Martail Arts

Auhor: Meredith Lyon of the Chicago Examiner.com

Everyone knows Dad’s have a soft spot for their little girls and are naturally protective regardless of how ‘grown up’ their girls may become. How do they feel when their daughters start throwing and taking punches? In this Father’s Day Special, we have some quotes from dads with daughters of varying ages, who are actively involved in martial arts.

“At first when the competition begins you are very apprehensive that she might get hurt. After the bell rings you begin to see the techniques that she has learned come into use and you become very impressed. I did not get to see a lot of her training skills until she completed her demo for her first black belt. I was quite impressed with her skill level as well as her confidence.” George Gibson, father of Alex age 19


Jack Lyons with daughter Morgan and John Dalton with daughter Christina. “There are many proud moments. Everything that she’s learning; the respect that she’s learning, the fact that she can stand there listening to an adult talk very loudly to her and can learn from that adult and not draw back. She’ll be handed things that are going to be difficult to get over [later in life] and she’ll be much more equipped to deal with those things. So if somebody talks strongly to her she’s not going to internalize it as much as I think she may have otherwise.” – John Dalton, father of Christina age 7


“I am really happy my two girls started martial arts early. They took to it immediately and haven't looked back. I figure my job is to raise my kids to be confident and successful adults. I believe strongly that their training will help them achieve this goal. My plan is to protect them while they are young and teach them what they need to know so they can protect themselves when they are adults. By the time they are 18 they should be able to handle anything short of WMD!” Trent Zilmer, father of Veronica age 12 and Genevieve age 11


Trent Zilmer with daughters Veronica and Genievive. Jack Lyons, (no relation to your examiner), tells a story of how a boy teased his daughter Morgan and tried to get her to prove her martial arts skills by beating him in a grappling match. Morgan maturely did not want to hurt the boy to prove herself.

“The boy still learned that you can not tell someone's abilities by looks, size, or gender. Morgan learned that her skills and confidence are part of her, no matter what anybody thinks. I can summarize my impression of how martial arts study has contributed to Morgan's being: schoolmates, friends, and family appreciate being with Morgan because of her self-confidence, interpersonal skills, discipline, and enjoyment of life that she has developed in large part through her martial arts training. I take comfort and pride in her abilities and motivation that will serve her well for her whole life.” Jack Lyons, father of Morgan, age 9

W had a greattime at parent's night out list night. The kids had a blast (my son Caleb is still asleep). Say tuned for our July Events.

it's time to teach class again. Tomorrow is our Parent's Night Out from 7PM to 10PM.

Brian Tracy Seminar on June 25th. Recession Proofing your business.
Check out my notes on Facebook.

Parent's nitht out for Father's Day.
June 19th 7PM to 10PM at Mile High Karate-Allen 972-390-7161 to RSVP.

$10 per child. Can you beat it?

7 Father’s Day Fitness Tips

June 15th, 2009 Author: bjgaddour


Though Father’s Day should be a time for celebrating what our father’s have sacrificed to allow us to lead the lives of our dreams, to me it’s more of a rude awakening.

Look, I hate to be Debbie Downer, but someone has to say something already.

Our father’s are now in the worst shape of their lives, many suffering from a very scary condition called Metabolic Syndrome X.
One of the main indicators of someone who has metabolic disorder is abdominal obesity, as clearly demonstrated in the picture above. The scary part is that many of our father’s look just like this!

Please read below for an excellent description of Metabolic Syndrome from www.MedicineNet.com:

What is metabolic syndrome?

An association between certain metabolic disorders and cardiovascular disease has been known since the 1940s. In the 1980s this association became more clearly defined and the term metabolic syndrome (also known as syndrome X or the dysmetabolic syndrome) was coined to designate a cluster of metabolic risk factors that come together in a single individual. In more current times, the term metabolic syndrome is found throughout medical literature and in the lay press as well. There are slight differences in the criteria of diagnosis - depending on which authority is quoted. Regardless, the concept of a clustering of risks factors leading to cardiovascular disease is well accepted.

The main features of metabolic syndrome include insulin resistance, hypertension (high blood pressure), cholesterol abnormalities, and an increased risk for clotting. Patients are most often overweight or obese.

Insulin resistance refers to the diminished ability of cells to respond to the action of insulin in promoting the transport of the sugar glucose, from blood into muscles and other tissues. Because of the central role that insulin resistance plays in the metabolic syndrome, a separate article is devoted to insulin resistance.

How is metabolic syndrome defined?

The definition of metabolic syndrome depends on which group of experts is doing the defining. Based on the guidelines from the 2001 National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel (ATP III), any three of the following traits in the same individual meet the criteria for the metabolic syndrome:

1. Abdominal obesity: a waist circumference over 102 cm (40 in) in men and over 88 cm (35 inches) in women.

2. Serum triglycerides 150 mg/dl or above.

3. HDL cholesterol 40mg/dl or lower in men and 50mg/dl or lower in women.

4. Blood pressure of 130/85 or more.

5. Fasting blood glucose of 110 mg/dl or above. (Some groups say 100mg/dl)

The World Health Organization (WHO) has slightly different criteria for the metabolic syndrome:

1. High insulin levels, an elevated fasting blood glucose or an elevated post meal glucose alone with at least 2 of the following criteria:

2. Abdominal obesity as defined by a waist to hip ratio of greater than 0.9, a body mass index of at least 30 kg/m2 or a waist measurement over 37 inches.

3. Cholesterol panel showing a triglyceride level of at least 150 mg/dl or an HDL cholesterol lower than 35 mg/dl.

4. Blood pressure of 140/90 or above (or on treatment for high blood pressure).

And though Metabolic Syndrome affects more women than men, there is certainly no shortage of men 40 years and older who have that “deadly beer gut” that literally makes them a ticking time bomb for a slew of serious medical conditions.

But there is good news amongst this frightening reality: The most common cause of metabolic disorder is of course a vicious combination of a lack of exercise and poor diet.

See below for the top 7 fitness tips to help save our father’s lives:

1.) Lay off the Brewskis

It’s no wonder why our dads have more of a keg for a gut than a six-pack. See below for the best way I know of explaining how detrimental alcohol can be on your body composition:

How Alcohol Makes You Fat

-Alcohol first passes through the esophagus as it travels to your stomach.

-From there, 20% of the alcohol is absorbed immediately by your bloodstream.

-The remaining alcohol travels to your intestines and is absorbed from there.

-The alcohol in your bloodstream then travels directly to your liver. It is here that
the body breaks the alcohol down, something that is absolutely essential since
alcohol is toxic to the body.

-Alcohol brakes down into acetate and acetaldehyde which IMMEDIATELY
signals to your body to stop burning fat. Even worse, another waste product of
alcohol, acetyl CoA, actually starts to make more body fat.

If you booze, you WON’T lose fat!

What Does this Mean?

-Your body can only effectively process 0.5 to 1 ounce of alcohol per hour

-How much damage? A 12-ounce beer contains about 0.6 ounces of alcohol. If
you consumed 5 of these, your body would be inhibited from fat burning for up to
6 hours. This is aside from the fact that your body will actually be storing fat
during these 6 hours! The more you drink, the longer your body is inhibited from
burning fat in addition to a greater fat build up from excess acetyl CoA. As you
can see, one day of binge drinking can set you back days if not a full week when
it comes to fat loss!

-What’s the worst-case scenario? Mixing alcohol with sugary beverages
promotes even further fat gain due to the resulting insulin surge that triggers fat
storage (e.g. regular beer or cocktails mixed with regular soda and/or fruit juice)

The Bottom Line

If you want to be lean, you must minimize ALCOHOL consumption!

If you must drink:

a.) Choose wine or hard liquor and “light” beer
b.) Limit alcohol consumption to 1-2 days per week with a 1-2 drink per day max

References:

Campbell and Volek, “TNT Diet: Targeted Nutrition Tactics”

2.) Quit being such a pansy and work your lower body

Most dads just want to do the typical meathead workout that emphasizes the upper body only. If you are going for the Johnny Bravo look where you are built up top with chicken legs for wheels, then keep doing what you’re doing.



However, it is important to note that strong, muscular legs are the key to torching your gut. After all, the majority of your body’s muscle mass, and thus metabolism, is contained within your lower body. Not working your legs is like going to a gun fight without a gun, and here’s why:

a.) Training your whole body (legs included) not only helps you burn more calories each workout, it also maximally depletes your body’s glycogen stores (the sugar in your muscles) to allow for more total body fat burning

b.) The more lean muscle mass you have in your lower body the more calories your body will be burning 24-7-365 outside of your workouts

c.) Whenever you work your legs you generate the largest increases in natural anabolic hormone levels which translates into more total body muscle and less ugly, unwanted body fat

So if you want better abs, you better start using those legs! This can be easily accomplished with 3 total body workouts per week that train your upper body, lower body, and core within the same workout.

3.) Do something besides bench presses and curls



Look- I get why guys don’t want to train their legs. Unless you are wearing a speedo, no one is going to see them! So there is simply not as much motivation to put the time and effort into your lower body as there is for your upper body which is always on full display at the beach or poolside.


Nothing beats a little chest and bi’s baby!

However, if you are trying to develop a really nice upper body, you need to start venturing outside the realm of bench presses and curls. Don’t forget, you do have muscles on the backside of your body too!

In fact, your lats (the wings that extend from your arm pit to the bottom of your rib cage) are the biggest muscles in your upper body and when developed they really help promote that V-shaped torso that both makes your waist look smaller and your wife happy

Bruce Lee- The Lat Master Himself


Start doing at least the same amount of pulling as pushing (if not more) unless you want to end up like the Hunchback of Notre Dame.



Quasimodo did way too many bench presses and curls… not too sexy!

Lastly, only do isolation movements like bicep curls if you have extra time after your main workout. Compound movements like rows and pull-ups work your biceps just as hard and since they allow for the use of heavier loads, they also provide a better growth stimulus to maximize results in minimal time.

4.) Don’t eat like those idiots from NutriSystem

Here’s my take on how NutriSystem was created:

“I’ve got an idea for an incredible product and marketing campaign:

Let’s gather a group of genetically gifted former professional athletes that have put on some pounds since ending their playing days. We’ll have them all get their asses kicked by top personal trainers while following a restricted calorie diet so we lean them out real nicely.

But then we lie to the overweight male coach potato consumer and tell them that they got these results from eating the same food they are currently eating- you know, pizza, lasagna, sweets, etc. Except we’ll make the meals the size of a dime so they can still technically eat what they want and lose weight at the same time.

To make it even better, we’ll pre-package all of their meals for them to buy from us so these lazy bastards don’t have to do anything besides nuke it up and eat it!

We’ll make millions!”




Laces Out Dan!

Well, that’s exactly what has happened- thousands of sports-loving, ESPN-watching dads have been swindled to buy into this gimmick that you can eat whatever you want and still lose weight without exercise- because Dan Marino did it!

Look- if you honestly think you can keep eating the same foods that got you that gut in the first place, then I’m not sure how much more I can help you. And yes, there is portion control within the system, but to me it’s a like a big terd versus a small terd… IT’S STILL A TERD!

5.) Accept the fact that you probably need some professional fitness advice


One of my superstar clients lost 105 lbs of fat. He’s a busy executive and father of 4 in his 50’s and he spent 20+ years doing everything wrong from both a training and nutrition perspective until he met me. I interviewed him one time and asked him what his best advice was for people that are in the same position today as he was before he transformed himself and this is what he said:

“What you don’t know will hurt you, but what you think you know will KILL you!”


Seek out a fitness expert like busy dad Michael did and get life-changing results!

Dads- quit being so stubborn and macho. It doesn’t make you any less of a man to hire a personal trainer or join a boot camp because your wife and her lady friends do it. In reality, your wife (and women in general) are simply smarter than you because they effectively outsource their fitness needs to an expert whereby you try to re-invent the wheel on your own with little to no results.

If you want to lose your gut, follow the lead of the ladies

6.) Make the time for a 5-minute warm-up

You simply can’t afford to NOT warm-up. It’s like pushing the pedal to the medal in the dead of winter in your frozen car- things just don’t work right and you’re not going anywhere.


A cold body, like a cold car, doesn’t run on all cylinders



It only takes about 3-5 minutes to lengthen your muscles and lubricate your joints to best prevent injury and ready your body for a more effective workout, so don’t skip the warm-up!

Below is a great 5-minute body weight warm-up we use in our boot camps:

Alternate between 50 s of work and 10 seconds of rest for each exercise in the following warm-up circuit:

1- Stationary Running
2- Jumping Jacks
3- Lunge, Reach and Twist (left leg)
4- Lunge, Reach and Twist (right leg)
5- Push-up Walkouts

7.) The “no pain-no gain” attitude will leave you a bitter, crippled, and grumpy old man

The “no pain, no gain” methodology is quite possible the most abused practice in fitness. Pain is a good thing as long as it’s the right type of pain as outlined below:

When exercise BURNS YOUR MUSCLES that’s a good pain- this means you are pushing past your comfort zone to inspire change, working with intensity to torch calories and build muscle, and burning sugar so your body can burn fat for hours and hours after your workout.

When exercise HURTS YOUR JOINTS that’s a bad pain- it means you are quickly wearing down the structural integrity of your joints and will soon be unable to do anything without pain or stiffness. This is most often caused by a combination of using too heavy of loads, poor exercise form and technique, strength imbalances, and lack of mobility and/or flexibility- more reason to heed Tip#5 and seek professional help!

I have worked with too many dads who have beaten their bodies down and nothing’s more depressing than a dad who can’t play with his kids or participate in recreational activities with his buddies. Do yourself and your family a favor and stop being such a meathead when it comes to exercise. Exercise doesn’t have to hurt to get results and nobody wants another grumpy AND injured old man



Happy Father’s Day! I love you Dad. You mean everything to me


Mark

PS- If you are a father who is ready to make some changes, please make a comment to this blog post below to let the world know about it.

PPS- Want to have a FREE Summer of Fitness? Call me (972-390-7161) today to find out how you can get in the best shape fo your life over the summer.