Sensei Rom is a 2nd Degree Black Belt with Villari's Studio of Self Defense in Royal Palm Beach, FL. He is also one of our assistant instructors, having completed the Villari's Instructors College, and regularly teaches classes for our pre-schoolers, teens and adults. We sat Sensei Rom down to discuss his background in Martial Arts and to ask him what benefits and tips he has for aspiring Black Belts. Here are the results of that conversation.

Sensei Rom, how long have you studied the Martial Arts?

I have been at Villari's of Royal Palm Beach, Florida for approximately eight years. Overall, I have been studying Martial Arts for roughly 40 years.

Why did you begin studying Karate?

Originally, I started studying the Martial Arts because I had an interest, maybe even a fanaticism, in it at an early age. When I became a teenager, my parents signed me up for classes at a different style to help with discipline and control anger. I started at Villari's to help motivate my daughter to keep practicing and reach her Black Belt, a goal she has recently attained.

What motivates you to come to class each week?

It is a combination of factors that keeps me going to class. Among the factors are: 1) the camaraderie with the people in class; 2.) helps me work out and keep fit; 3.) expanding on the knowledge of the Martial Arts; 4.) increase self-defense ability; and 5.) to keep motivating my daughter.

Why did you decide to become an instructor?

I thought I would be able to help and motivate young and old students alike in getting fit physically, mentally and emotionally, as well as spread the values of Martial Arts. In addition, I thought I could help relay the importance of self-defense in an increasingly violent world.

What benefits do you personally get from studying Karate?

The benefits I receive from studying Karate are, of course, the physical fitness and self-defense. However, more importantly is the inner harmony that develops over time when practicing.

What is the best advice you can give your students?

The best advice I can give students is to always do your "personal" best. The Martial Arts are about self-growth, and not comparing yourself to someone else.

Why should children and adults study Karate?

The study of Karate is beneficial to children and adults as it increases confidence, patience, respect, self-control and self-discipline.

What goals do you hope to achieve in your training?

My long-term goal is to earn a Master's Rank in the system, and to see how far I can progress physically, emotionally and mentally. My short-term goal is to increase my skill, flexibility and conditioning.

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