My name is Brian Baker, I am currently a 4th Degree Black Belt.
I trained under Olympian, Master Barb Kunkel, and have found that teaching has become a passion of mine. I love working with kids! More importantly, I love inspiring students to be their best! I have had the opportunity to be surrounded by the best of the best in the Taekwondo world!
I have a unique approach to balancing discipline and confidence with a very positive style of teaching of looking for the best in the kids I teach.
On a personal note, I underwent huge back surgery several years ago.
After my surgery, the Neurosurgeon told me it is not "if" but "when" I will have my next surgery so I am not doing all the sports I once loved like mountain biking, skiing, and 4x4ing, etc.
My Taekwondo teacher assured me she knew how to work with people with injuries and said I needed to listen to my own body and make decisions best for me, but she would push me to help me reach the potential I never knew I had!
(Master Kunkel had personally blown out both knees before competing in the Olympics, so she had first-hand experience on how to take it one step at a time yet push enough to still reach my potential.)
My Doctors are extremely thrilled at what Martial Arts has done for my recovery!
I used to only be able to kick at my knee level, but after training, and gaining strength, I can now kick above my head! I feel I am in great shape and I am very grateful Taekwondo was my solution to getting my life back.
I am now the healthy husband and father I always wanted to be! When they say Taekwondo is not just a sport, it is a way of life, they mean it! You can do this at any age, even after major back surgery! I am living proof!