Michael Hotchkiss believes there is a lot more to marital arts than self defense.
“The difference between internal and external martial arts is the use of chi,” he said. “Instead of the focus on fighting ability, that’s not the end all, be all; we’re trying to develop the whole person and to use this energy for developing your studies, or your job, to your full potential.”
Hotchkiss is the senior student and instructor of the Asian Internal Martial Arts Association. A student for 12 years, he said the RSO is in affiliation with the Cheyenne-based Wyoming Chapter of Modern Arnis Martial Arts, run by Dr. Tim Sheehan.
The RSO has been on campus for four years and is open to all who are interested. Classes are held every Wednesday night from 6:30 to 8:30 in the education building gymnasium. Hotchkiss describes the class demographic as extremely varied, from 60-year-old women to college freshmen.
Hotchkiss said he practices Sheehan’s philosophy of teaching a family-style of learning, as opposed to the common system of colored belts and advancement. He was given teacher status due to how long he’s been in the program.
Hotchkiss’s students said the value of the experience is well worth the time.
Eric Ogle, who has been in the program for a year, said the class has helped his health in many ways, including helping him to recover from a knee injury.
A common benefit for students is the stress relief they feel after the class.
Zach Wesley, a student of two years, said the class has taught him to “live his life more.” Wesley said the benefits of his training became more apparent the longer he stuck to the program.
Bennett Carv, a chemical engineering major, said he has learned how to focus on himself, as well as relax more easily. He credits the class for helping him improve his academics.
“It’s about mind and focus,” Carv said. “It’s not so much about being physically harmful to someone else; it’s all about learning to maintain.”
Those interested in attending the classes can contact Michael Hotchkiss at 307-286-8232.
