I started my martial arts journey with Master Clark in 2008, and I have never looked back nor doubted my decision to train under him. Under his tutelage, I learned that martial arts is not a "self-defense" activity, but is a vehicle to learn how to successfully handle those life problems that seem to crop up at the most unexpected times. Through my training with Master Clark, I have learned to come to peace with a past that had an unhealthy dose of physical and emotional abuse; albeit that abuse occurred in the first few months of my life, I am suffering the effects of that abuse; however, under Master Clark's guidance, martial arts has shown me how to developed a sense of calm, self-confidence, and focus. I have learned, and continue to learn to "take life in stride." I can bounce back from difficulties while remaining calm and alert. Problems are not insurmountable; they can be solved with patience, and with help from others. The greatest lesson martial arts have given me is that I not only continue to learn who I am, but also, I discover, daily, my purposes in life. Master Clark introduced me to martial arts, but I learned quickly that I only get out from my training what I put in to it. Now that I am a 3rd degree black belt, my love for martial arts is greater each time I step foot on the dojo floor. In conclusion, Master Clark has given me much more than an education in martial arts: meeting and keeping new friends; learning from top teachers from around the world; thinking in terms of concepts instead of techniques; encouraging me to study under the best teachers in other martial arts such as Pekiti Tirsia Kali. If you are in the Frederick area, and you want to try out martial arts, give American Karate Academy a try. There are other great martial arts studios in and around the Frederick area, but if you want something more than a basic martial arts training, check out Master Clark's program. read more