IF YOU dislike intense physical activity yet dream of being physically fit, committing to exercise can be a challenge. But martial arts is different from the common gym exercise.
It is, instead, a commitment. When you commit to martial arts, you commit to mastering an art. You commit to mastering a skill. You commit to making fitness a lifestyle.
At the same time, you will achieve the body that you dream of having. Such was my experience at Strive Fitness Davao.
Strive Fitness is a boxing gym in Davao City that, apart from boxing, offers various classes such as muay thai, jiu-jitsu, zumba, circuit training, and taekwon-do for kids. Your P1,500 monthly membership fee is inclusive of instructors, access to all classes and free use of basic gym equipment.
I learned about Strive Fitness Davao through social media when I searched for decent, yet reasonably priced gyms near me. A four-kilo weight gain prompted my search. Strive Fitness Davao is owned by Davao-born Joachim Milana, a martial arts enthusiast.
Milana, 30, says he started training formal boxing and muay thai at 17 years old. He continued to go to training in different gyms for the next decade.
In an interview, Milana said it was in these years that the idea of "putting up a gym with the vision of helping more people live healthier lives and promote an active lifestyle" developed into a dream for the young martial artist.
He shared that he envisions Strive Fitness Davao to be regarded as the best boxing gym in the city. He also wants the gym to be an avenue for people's lives to change through fitness, regardless of age, ability, status, or background.
Having had an earlier taste of martial arts in muay thai and arnis classes in college, I knew that enrolling here would be the best thing for me because I knew that I would not just be doing simple exercise -- which I foresaw I would get bored with easily -- but I would also gain a skill and master an art.
In my mind the words, "Exercise is brief, but skill could last a lifetime" echoed. After previously declaring dislike of physical exercise, I now look forward to going to the gym at night after work and even on Saturdays.
I am also beginning to see improvements in my body. I have lost weight, my waist, arms, and calves are noticeably smaller, and I feel lighter and happier. All these I owe to the generally positive vibe I feel in the gym.
It is also a great way to bond with my workmates who are now my gym buddies. We've also gained new friends with other gym goers there. Indeed, it is a community that I deeply value.