Combat/Self-Defense Training The combat/self-defense training at SwiftKick Martial Arts focuses on teaching effective striking and grappling techniques. The goal of this type of training is to provide students with the skills necessary to defend themselves from stand-up, clinch (stand-up grappling), and ground (grappling) positions. In order to progress in rank, students are expected to demonstrate appropriate physical execution and conceptual understanding of techniques based on their age and rank level. The combat/self-defense training at SwiftKick Martial Arts is taught in a fun, informative, and safe manner. At the intermediate level and at higher ranks, students engage in “live” training in order to develop higher levels of proficiency in their skills. In “live” training, students learn how to use their techniques in simulated combat/self-defense situations. The training mechanisms used in “live” training often consist of sparring, grappling, and role-playing situations. “Live” training allows students to practice what they have learned in a safe environment with instructors and trusted students present. At these levels, students begin to develop the confidence and skills necessary for survival in self-defense situations. Adults and even young students are also taught “street smarts” techniques appropriate for their age and belt rank. Students are taught how to avoid self-defense situations by being aware of their surroundings and learning to consider consequences prior to making decisions. The combat/self-defense training at SwiftKick Martial Arts also increases fitness, strength, balance, and endurance. The most important aspect that our students learn at SwiftKick Martial Arts is that the techniques and skills learned in class are used only as a last resort and students should avoid confrontations at all costs.

Traditional/Contemporary Training SwiftKick Martial Arts still values many traditional aspects of the martial arts. SwiftKick Martial Arts recognizes that many traditional styles of martial art are not effective in combat situations, but sees great value in teaching these styles for their artistic and creative aspects. The traditional/contemporary training at SwiftKick Martial Arts provides training in skills such as forms (both traditional and contemporary extreme and creative forms), advanced jumping and spinning kicks, weapons training, martial arts tricking, gymnastics, performing, board breaks, and much more. Students are taught about a variety of different martial arts that originate from all over the world. The traditional/contemporary aspect of our student’s training encourages creativity, focus, and self-control. SwiftKick’s Demonstration Team uses the martial arts as a performance venue. Students are taught how to perform to music using a variety of fun and flashy martial arts tricks to entertain and “wow!” audiences. The Demo Team consists of an elite group of students of all ages who have demonstrated outstanding perseverance, dedication, and attitudes in class. SwiftKick’s Competition Team uses the martial arts as a sporting venue to compete in National and International Tournaments. SwiftKick Martial Arts maintains communication with a variety of Tournament Promoters in order to give our students the opportunity to attend tournaments around the US.

Martial Arts Experience: Brian has been a student in the martial arts since the age of 3. He has studied and trained in many styles of martial arts and performing arts. His training includes a mixture of American Boxing, Muay Thai, American Kickboxing, Tae Kwon Do, Jiu Jitsu, Judo, Kali, Aikido, Japanese Karate, Chinese Wushu, and Demonstration/Performing martial arts.

Brian became a Nationally Certified Martial Arts Instructor at age 17 in December of 2001 and received his most recent rank of Third Degree Black Belt in July of 2005 at the age of 20. Brian has been teaching martial arts for over six years and has extensive experience working with children and adults of all ages and skill levels.

Demo Team: At the age of 17, Brian started a Demonstration and Performance Team that has performed in a variety of venues throughout Southern California. Some of the Demo Team’s performances around San Diego County have included the San Diego Gulls Half Time Show, the Wild Animal Park, Del Mar Fair, San Diego Riptide, The Kids Expo at Qualcomm, “Say No To Drugs” Shows at local Schools and a variety of Street Fairs in San Marcos, Escondido, Rancho Penasquitos, Rancho Bernardo, and 4S Ranch.

The Demonstration Team has competed in both the National and International competitive martial arts circuits. Their awards include two First Place Trophies at the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Cup KA Open and at the Long Beach International Tournament and one Second Place Trophy at the San Diego Grand Nationals.

Education: During his undergraduate education at San Diego State University, Brian obtained an extensive education in psychology. His senior Undergraduate Honors Thesis was a literature review on self-esteem entitled “Don’t save us, we’re not drowning.” The negative impact of the self-esteem movement on the current generation. In this project, Brian reviewed a wide body of research concerning both self-esteem and the self-esteem movement. In May 2006, Brian defended his thesis to a panel of experts in the field. As a result of his research, Brian has adopted a more effective model for developing competence and self-esteem among children. Brian’s thesis has been published and is available in SDSU’s library.

Brian is a member of Phi Eta Sigma, Phi Kappa Phi, Golden Key, Psi Chi, and Mortar Board Honors Societies and he is a member of SDSU’s University Honors Program. He graduated Suma Cum Laude with a B.S. in Psychology. Brian is currently enrolled in the MBA program at SDSU.

Recent Endeavers: Brian founded SwiftKick Martial Arts in January of 2007. Brian’s teaching methods and unique training styles have been greatly influenced by both his education in psychology and his extensive training in the martial arts. The SwiftKick Martial Arts curriculum is designed to teach students of all ages effective combat and self-defense training, to provide an enjoyable and educational experience in a variety of traditional and contemporary martial arts, to instill valuable life lessons, and to build confidence and character.

Pictures:

Coming Soon!

“The mission of SwiftKick Martial Arts is to provide martial arts education and training as a method to improve people’s lives by building strong bodies and confident minds resulting in wise lifestyle choices and a solid foundation for all their endeavors.

We encourage our students and their families to identify and utilize their own knowledge, skills, and abilities to help improve their lives and the lives of others, strengthen families, and build strong communities.

SwiftKick’s guiding principle is that martial arts is not limited to physical competency, but develops wise thinking and right action thus creating a lifelong advantage for the student.”

Email:   Brian Cowell