John Geyston's Empowered Martial Arts Academy is "dedicated to changing the lives of people one person at a time, through martial arts education and coaching" in a "safe, comfortable and welcoming atmosphere" for preschool-age children through adults, according to its website.
The academy is named for Springfield native and owner John Geyston, who started teaching martial arts at age 19 in 1982 when his instructor offered him an opportunity to run an off-site program at Lincoln Land Community College. Rick Christie met Geyston in 1993 and credits him with much of the skills and training that led Christie to become a fourth-degree black belt; Christie became an instructor for Geyston's academy. Christie's son, Mason, began martial arts training under his father at just 4 years old and now serves as the general manager and head instructor.
Classes for basic training through advanced skills provide children, youth and adults the "attitude, discipline, and respect" needed to build confidence, Christie said. "The essence of martial arts training is to provide the self-confidence you need to walk away from a scenario – knowing you could handle it with no issues – without being fearful of a physical or verbal attack coming toward you."
The academy offers more than punching and kicking, Christie said. It's fitness, defensive technique and moral development. It includes opportunities not only for all ages but for diverse physical, mental, and social needs, including Gracie Jujitsu.
"We place a big hyper-focus on the youth of today, but we also have a thriving adult program," Christie said. He mentions participants' "successful weight loss journeys, self-defense training and a sense of belonging in a family setting that comes from everyone being dedicated to each other's success under the one dojo roof. We offer the building blocks to become an amazing person."
