Makowski

SAXONBURG — R.J. Makowski's journey in martial arts began long ago. His years of dedication recently led to an impressive milestone.

The 2004 Knoch High School graduate was promoted to Master Instructor at the American Taekwondo Association's International World Championships in Little Rock, Ark., July 10.

Owner of Makowski's Martial Arts Academy in Sarver, he achieved the level of Sixth Degree Black Belt two years ago, a prerequisite for the title of Master Instructor within ATA.

“This has been a great experience,” Makowski said in a press release from the event. “Many people have made it possible and I am thankful to each of them. There is still more to do and I am excited about continuing the journey.”

Prior to traveling to Arkansas, Makowski had to execute a 4.7-mile hike of Turtle Peak in Nevada. The climb consists of a 1,500-foot ascent in the final 1.35 miles to the summit. He completed that challenge last February, but the most challenging requirement to become a Master Instructor was yet to come.

He began a three-day fast July 6, during which he was allowed only water. Prior to eating again, he took part in physical workouts that lasted eight hours. That span included individual workouts and sparring, which included a session with combat weapons.

“After not eating for that long, you're actually mentally sharp,” said Makowski. “You know what you have to do, but the body is slower to react. That was the most challenging part. It's all about surviving in the moment.”

Makowski was one of 74 in Arkansas hoping to reach one of four levels — Master Instructor, Senior Master Instructor, Chief Master Instructor or Grandmaster Instructor. Many of the hopefuls came from all over the world, including Asia, Europe and South America.

“You're really able to develop relationships with people,” said Makowski. “You're all going through the same physical and mental hardships and that creates a camaraderie. We support each other because we're all working toward the same thing.”

Makowski became involved in martial arts when he was 7-years-old.

“I earned that first black belt and my attention turned toward competition,” he said. “By the time I was 16, I knew I wanted my future to be in martial arts. I opened my first school when I was 18.”

His craft offers Makowski much more than the benefits of staying active and fit.

“The two biggest benefits for me would be goal-setting and self-confidence,” he added. “As a kid, I was shy about being in front of people. Martial arts make you step outside your comfort zone and you become used to having the spotlight thrust upon you.”