Ultimate Self Defense: Making our kids stronger

“We found a way forward.”

On a chilly Wednesday evening, more than two dozen kids from the neighborhood gathered at Marine Park to train with Andrea Muccini from Ultimate Self Defense.

They ran obstacles, jump and kick, punch bags, play old fashioned tug of war and mainly have fun. This group of ninjas have been training in the park during the pandemic. With safety guidelines in place, they’ve met in the heat of the summer and throughout the cold and snow of the winter.

“Our motto during all of this has been, ‘we found a way forward,” said Andrea. “Kids are resilient and will train in all sort of weather. It helps to build grit and strength and also manage the ups and downs of life.”

For over 20 years Andrea – a black belt -has been teaching martial arts and fitness to the community of South Boston and beyond. Her energy is infectious and it shows in her hands-on teaching style. She helps kids build confidence, overcome obstacles and fear, and build strength. Her classes leave a lasting impression not only on her students but their parents too.

“Ultimate Self Defense has been transformative for my son. When Johnny started he was either crying in the corner or being silly and messing up class. Now he’s given opportunities to lead,  physically stronger and shows a real interest in learning each class. Sensei Andrea emphasis on building leaders, strong character like being a strong teammate are the true benefits of this program. She also makes sure to have fun, like buying all the kids ice cream at Castle Island and going sledding, said Courtney Sheppeck who’s son Johnny is a student.

When asked about taking self defense classes from Andrea, Johnny Sheppeck, 7, was impressed by her agility. “She can fall down and get up a lot and basically she’s very flexible.”

Ultimate Self Defense offers fitness, traditional martial arts training, and sport of Judo for ages 3 to adult.  Teen and adult classes focus on strength, improve core and posture, fitness and stamina for all cross training sports.

Classes take place outdoors on Monday and Wednesday 5:00pm and 6:00pm and Tuesday and Thursday 5:00pm. $15 drop-ins and monthly rates available.

On Friday at 5pm, Andrea offers Inferno Hot Pilates which is a high intensity interval training with low impact based on Pilates principles.

You can learn more by visiting the Ultimate Self Defense website.  Make sure to follow Andrea on Instagram for the latest updates.  Any questions you can reach out to Andrea by emailing her here at [email protected]

Sidenote:

Back in 2019 Andrea won a gold medal at the World Masters Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Tournament in Las Vegas. She won the Master 6 Division in the Light Weight Class. Andrea is legit!