Vikram, age 14, has been training in martial arts at Asphalt Green since 2013. From the beginning, he has enjoyed the mental and physical challenges he faces in the sport.  

 

His father, Richard, says Vikram has progressed quickly due to his drive and dedication. He has gained significant strength, endurance, agility, and flexibility from his training. But perhaps more important than physical gains, he has grown emotionally and mentally as well. Richard believes many lessons his son learns on the mat spill into other areas of his life.

 

One of those lessons is accountability, which is part of the 12 Pillars of Champion instilled in students each month.

 

“Vikram has always had an intrinsic sense of accountability, which has certainly been increased through his martial arts training,” Richard says. “A strong sense of accountability helps someone exercise good judgment, make the right decisions, and avoid poor choices.”

 

Vikram realizes parents, coaches, or teachers will not always be watching every move. To get the results he desires, he has to put in the work, even when others are not looking.

 

“Martial arts has helped Vikram approach challenges in school and in his social life calmly and with more confidence,” Richard says. “He has learned that while everyone suffers setbacks, effort, hard work, and taking responsibility for behavior and performance are very important and will pay off.”  

 

ASK THE ATHLETE: VIKRAM

Q: How would you define accountability?

A: Accountability is being responsible for and accepting the outcome of your actions.

 

Q: How do you use accountability in martial arts class?

A: One example is when a coach gives a combination, technique, or exercise for me to do during class. I am accountable to properly do the action, even when the coach is not looking, in a way that helps my training as well as my fellow students’ training.

 

Q: How has practicing accountability helped you improve in class?

A: Practicing accountability has improved my focus, allowing me to learn new techniques more quickly and thoroughly.

 

Q: What do you love most about martial arts? 

A: I like the physical training as well as the mental aspects of martial arts. The strategy interlaced with the strength and movement make for an interesting, challenging activity.