Students taking Karate at FAU are required to bow before their instructor before they can begin kicking and screaming — not only for a grade, but as a show of respect upon entering or leaving the classroom.

Students enrolled in the class are challenged to develop respect and self-discipline. They are learning the basic techniques of karate, as well as the moral principles and history of the martial arts.
“Students [who take Karate] stay in great shape, develop awareness, and learn life skills that would help in a dangerous situation,” said Wendell B. Stephen, professor of the Karate class.

There are two practical exams for PEM 1441, each worth 25 percent of the grade, while attendance and participation is worth 50 percent. Each test has a specific number of techniques to learn and skills to achieve that students are required to perform. The class is offered each semester on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 12 p.m. in The Burrow on the Boca campus.
“I’ve had students fail my class because they just didn’t show up. Give your best effort. Do that, and you’ll develop yourself,” said Stephen.

According to Stephen, the hardest part of the class is developing balance skills and incorporating them with karate techniques.

The martial arts are aimed toward life-preservation and self-defense. Each class period is divided into three sessions: warm-up and stretching, practice of basic techniques, and self-defense maneuvers and situations.
“It’s my first class of the day, and it prepares me for the rest of the day,” said Ryan Spinelli, a sophomore exercise science major.

Each class begins with a period of silent meditation used to clear the mind of distractions and prepare students to learn.
“I’m here spiritually, beyond being here physically. Professor Stephen has something to offer, and gets right to the heart of the matter. When I’m performing karate, his blood runs through my veins; I’m just a servant, and it’s such a privilege to have him as a professor. He is the real deal,” said Cyrus Davarmanesh, a senior mechanical engineering major.

It is traditional and important that all karate chops, punches and thrusts are accompanied by a loud yell, which sounds like “Aaeeoo!” It has a dual effect, giving students additional mental and physical momentum to frighten their opponents.

The students are advised to watch themselves in the mirror. They should twist their feet, rather than being flat-footed, when throwing a punch, and always put their weight on the balls of their heels. When throwing punches, their shoulders should turn a little bit. In their stance, they need to make sure that there is space between their feet.
“Practice makes perfect, especially with karate,” said Samantha Middlestead, a sophomore undecided major.

Karate not only keeps the body fit, it also strengthens your mind and enhances concentration.
“Karate is a fun experience, and a great way to release stress. I’d definitely recommend taking this class,” said Natalia Gallegos, a sophomore mechanical engineering major.

The true “Mr. Miyagi”

Wendell B. Stephen is more than your average karate instructor

Stephen has been kicking for almost 35 years. He has been a black belt for over 20 years and has been teaching ever since.

He owns three Karate and Boxing Centers in the Boca Raton area, and teaches eight classes a day.

“I can give you the knowledge, but you need to have the spirit,” said Stephen, referring to his karate philosophy.