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Renowned kickboxing sensei helps fend off holiday pounds

Photo by Craig Chan

Sensei Misha Carter teaches her class a defensive kick used in kickboxing. The kickboxing class is held on Mondays and Wednesdays at 1:40 p.m.to 2:40 p.m.

During a break between classes one Monday afternoon, I decided to visit the 3000 Building to see what was stirring up in there. Once inside, I was drawn to the sound of blaring music and numerical rhythm counts. Peering in an open and inviting door, I saw nothing but pleasant smiles on participants’ faces as an intramural class ensued. The atmosphere was active, lively and animated. Even those stumbling to keep up with the pace of the music and rhythm of each simulated attack appeared excited and eager to learn.

One of the fastest growing intramural activities offered this quarter is kickboxing. The class grew from a handful of members to a crowded room of people struggling to find a spot to practice. Kickboxing is so enjoyable and refreshing, members don’t even know they are shedding pounds. Best of all, like all intramural activities, it’s fun and free to all student and college employees.

Kickboxing is an aerobic exercise that implements a series of safely controlled punches and kicks to work muscles all over the body. It is energizing, exciting and open to all levels of ability and fitness. The instructor for this intramural activity is Jeanne Misha Carter, or Sensei Carter, and her classes are held at 1:40 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays in Room 3025.

“This is Sensei Carter’s first quarter at Shoreline, and the response to her classes has been excellent,” said Athletic Director Ken Burrus. “[Her] 28-plus-year martial arts career is extensive.”

Carter has a number of accomplishments. Rated No. 1 in the Northwest and Canada in weapons, katas and musical weapons in karate, she is also in the National Blackbelt League’s Black Belt Hall of Fame. She is a national Amateur Athletic Union silver medalist and two-time Goodwill Games silver medalist. This four-time World Karate Association champion created the Power Spirit/Power Mind: Body Movement Program and founded the Pacific International Karate Challenge, which she has promoted for the last nine years.

Participants of kickboxing will definitely burn off those extra calories, sure to be gained during this holiday season, while simultaneously learning self-defense. Spaces are filling up with each passing session with those who wish to join in the kickboxing craze.

For information on tis or other intramural activities, visit Room 3033 (SCC gymnasium) or phone (206) 546-6994.