An emphasis on discipline

In true Karate Kid fashion, a new Albany martial arts instructor is instilling the importance of positive attitudes as well as good technique in his students.

Albany Fight Fit instructor Daniel McGrath, who has been teaching martial arts for the past 15 years, said attitude was just as important in life as it was in the martial arts.

"I want to teach them the right attitude in the gym and hopefully that will show at home and school," he said.

Mr McGrath said he wanted to teach his students correct discipline for all areas of their lives.

"There is time for fun and there is time for discipline," he said.

"Before I grade the students I ask their parents about their attitudes at home and school and they won't get their next belt unless personal integrity is shown in all areas."

Parent and martial art student Stacey Drew said her two sons - Hudson, 6, and Tyson, 14 - had responded well to Mr McGrath's approach.

"It makes them want to do better," she said.

"It is something that they will carry with them through life."

The gym, which teaches students from age five to adults, opened in early January with a handful of members but has grown quickly to now boast about 70 members.