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It's Not Just For Kicks

Tribune photo by JULIE BUSCH

Caleb Probus, 8, practices karate drills with his class at Lugo's Martial Arts & Wellness in Odessa.

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By MICHELE SAGER msager@tampatrib.com

The Tampa Tribune

Published: February 25, 2009

ODESSA - In swift, staccato movements, Bethany Febre makes a series of swipes for her imaginary opponent. She kicks, blocks and punches before the teacher finishes his count of three.

The 11-year-old is learning to stay focused and precise. She's learning to become a warrior.

Febre is one of about 24 students attending the Little Warriors karate class at Lugo's Martial Arts and Wellness studio in Odessa. The studio opened in the past year and offers a range of wellness classes including kickboxing, yoga and Zumba, said owner Luis Lugo.

"We try to offer something for all interests and skill levels," he said.

His Little Warriors karate class for children is one of his most popular.

"We've been very lucky because our classes have been very steady despite the economy," he said. In the class, students learn the techniques of karate such as kicks, punches and form. But Lugo said another key element is discipline.

"I'm gong to ask you how your grades are all the time," he told the students. "You have to be disciplined here and in class."

He also makes it clear to students that they are not to use karate at school.

"You should only use this to defend yourself when you have no other choice," he said. "If a kid is hassling you at school, you go tell the teacher. You don't fight."

Students of different skill levels practice in the same class. More experienced students are encouraged to be leaders to newer students. And when students lose focus during class, there are techniques to put them back on track.

When the students weren't kicking as a unit, Lugo made them drop and do pushups. After 10, the students suddenly sprung back into action.

Febre, a yellow belt, has only been taking the class for a few months, but said she loves it.

"It's a lot more fun than I thought it would be," she said. "It helps me stay active, and I really love to do the kicks."

Reporter Michele Sager can be reached at (813) 865-4843.

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