Free Running Martial Arts – creativity, discipline and physical expression

UYCESponsorships

Free Running Martial Arts is a new program that encourages creative physical expression by bringing together the discipline of martial arts and the physicality of free running, with a focus on strength and conditioning.

While there are many youth focused activities available through local sporting clubs and theatre groups, the lack of activities outside those areas was a gap that Brett Balding from Flux Martial Arts, and Aleksei Bondarenko, of the Yarra Recreation Centre, felt important to address.

‘Research shows that young men often lack healthy physical interaction outside of sport so our aim is to foster new and accessible ways to enjoy physical expression that is natural and positive,’ says Aleksei.

The weekly 90-minute sessions will be offered over 12-weeks at the Yarra Centre and while it is expected the program will be attended by young men aged between 13 and 18 years of age, it will also be an inclusive space that welcomes anyone regardless of age, ability or gender.

‘Through learning the principles of free running and martial arts our youth develop the skills to not only overcome physical obstacles but also to overcome other obstacles they may encounter in life. By focusing on positive self-expression and physical training we can foster healthy interactions between participants developing robust social skills that in turn can be passed on to their peers,’ says Brett.

To keep the program accessible, sessions will cost $5 each. The funding received from the Warburton and Yarra Junction Community Bank® branches together with support from the Rotary Club of Upper Yarra makes this program possible.

For more information: contact the Yarra Centre on 5967 1675 or email coach@fluxmartialarts.com
Sessions start on Tuesday 17 April 2018 from 5 to 6.30pm.