Strength beyond stereotypes: Martial arts has turned me into a role model for younger students

March 3, 2026

By Natalia Hernandez
Staff Writer

I began training in martial arts at the age of 10 at my father’s request. His reasoning was that, as a girl, I might find myself in a situation where I need to defend myself against a man.

Regardless, I was eager to try martial arts because I thought it was an interesting sport, which I had been exposed to through one of my friends. I didn’t care how it would benefit or affect me, but it quickly became my passion. 

My martial arts training has opened my eyes to several fighting styles and has become an outlet, allowing me to step away from my responsibilities. It is a cathartic activity that not only teaches self-defense but also emphasizes physical and mental health. It can be a fast-paced, rigorous sport that instills a resilient mindset in students and encourages them to never give up.

Furthermore, martial arts creates a community unlike any other, where we all grow closer by helping each other and working hard.

Despite these positive attributes, being a female in a co-ed class can be challenging. When I first started training, many of the male students underestimated the other girls and me. I was only taken seriously after proving my unwavering determination to fight through any challenge I faced.

During my training, I often had to spar with a male, commonly one who was older, stronger and taller than me. There were times when the person I was sparring with would go easy on me because I was a girl, which always frustrated me. My ability to fight seemed to surprise them, and while their reactions initially amused me, they eventually became irritating.

Through their practice, all martial artists are empowered with confidence, discipline and strength. I let this fact push me to achieve goals that would put my male peers’ ignorant assumptions to rest.

After eight years of training at Zentai Martial Arts in North Arlington, I finally earned a third-degree black belt in Taekwondo. The process was not easy, as the exams I had to take to earn my rank sometimes felt impossible to get through. However, overcoming these obstacles motivated me to begin mentoring students ages 3-14 at the school.

When I first started training, many of the male students underestimated the other girls and me. I was only taken seriously after proving my unwavering determination to fight through any challenge I faced.

As an assistant volunteer, I have led drill lines and worked one-on-one with students to help them improve their technique. I have also led “mat chats,” where I introduce a new word each month, such as bravery, kindness and initiative, and then discuss how they can apply these concepts to martial arts and their daily lives.

It had been a dream of mine to guide the next generation of martial artists, giving them the same push I got as a child. It is especially rewarding to be a role model, particularly to the young girls who sometimes are in the minority in the class. Through my example, I hope to show them that no matter what stereotypes they face, they can always fight them, just as I so proudly have done.