Meet martial arts instructor Kathy Freeman

Kathy Freeman, 40, has been a student of Korean martial arts for seven years and an instructor at Chajonshim Martial Arts Academy for four. Although she has a first-degree black belt, Freeman considers herself a lifelong student and is currently training for her second-degree black belt.

What drew you to martial arts?

“A friend of mine wanted to do it. I followed her along and got hooked.”

What about teaching martial arts?

“My instructor said, ‘You can do it.’ You need to pass on the knowledge.”

What are the key principles?

“Health and exercise, knowledge and spiritual awareness, confidence. We also have a set of ethics — loyalty, confidence and obedience.”

Any tips for fending off bullies?

“When you’re confronted, you need to make them aware that you’ve got the confidence to stand up to them ... but fight only when unavoidable, and always with honor.”

Your favorite martial arts movie?

“It’s probably a cliche, but I like ‘The Bruce Lee Story’ with Jason Scott Lee.”

Any advice for martial arts novices?

“Stick with it. It’s tough at first.”

Who would win in a showdown, Chuck Norris or Steven Seagal?

“Chuck Norris. Steven Seagal has one move and he can’t act. But Jet Li would take them all.”

The quote you try to live by is ...

“Enjoy every moment. There’s a poem I read in a book that says, ‘Go silently through the chaos.’ I try to do that.”