Staying home can't stop the kids at True Balance Karate

Schools are closed and activities are canceled, but karate students in Downers Grove are still kicking and blocking their way to black belt. While they can't train together in the studio at True Balance Karate, instructors Sue and Paul Helsdon are bringing the studio to them, virtually.

"I was supposed to test for my black belt last weekend, but the test has been postponed until it's safe," says Isaac Broadnax, 12. "I've been doing karate for five years and I'm going to keep practicing so I'm ready. We try to have indomitable spirit, and this is a chance to show our spirit." Broadnax, his parents, and younger sister have been participating in class three times a week at home via Zoom. "We do have to be careful we don't trip over our dog," says 8-year-old Amelia Broadnax.

True Balance Karate launched their online interactive martial arts program in March, allowing hundreds of students - from beginner to black belt - to maintain their training routines from home during the COVID-19 shutdown.

"We're parents and we know it's a challenge for families to learn and work from home. We're committed to keeping our students active, engaged, and entertained. And it has to be fun," says master instructor and fourth-degree black belt Paul Helsdon.

Almost 150 youth and adult students tested for their next rank via ZOOM, and the Helsdons offered curbside belt pickup, maintaining social distancing guidelines. "It's important that people still feel progress and accomplishment through this crisis," says master instructor and fourth-degree black belt Sue Helsdon, who owns TBK with her husband.

"It's awesome TBK is making so much effort to promote normalcy, not just for the kiddos, but for us parents, too," says Megan Anderson. Her daughter Alexis, 12, will be testing for black belt as soon as the test can be rescheduled.

The virtual classes also include character development and leadership skills to help students grow personally. "All of our students are receiving extra social emotional learning with our 'True Character' program and 'Circles of Leadership' training program. There's been no greater need than right now," Sue says.

"We want to be a beacon of light in this crisis," says Paul. "This is about community."

True Balance Karate is offering two weeks of free online lessons. Learn more at truebalancekarate.com.