Vilcu brings karate expertise to Brandon
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 30/12/2024 (262 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
For Justin Vilcu, a member of the Canadian Armed Forces, martial arts is more than just a sport — it’s a way of life.
A first-degree black belt, Vilcu has been immersed in karate since the age of five, growing up in Saskatchewan where his family runs a karate club.
Now, he’s sharing his wealth of experience as a karate instructor at Brandon Fitness Combat Academy located at 545 Pacific Ave., to teach both children and adults the transformative power of martial arts.
Justin Vilcu, a member of the Canadian Armed Forces, shares his experience as a karate instructor at Brandon Fitness Combat Academy in Brandon. (Abiola Odutola/The Brandon Sun)
Vilcu’s journey in martial arts has taken him across Canada. While his foundation is rooted in karate, he has expanded his skill set with muay Thai training in Kingston, Ontario, and bits of kung fu and other disciplines learned during his travels. His goal, he said, is to blend his diverse knowledge into a comprehensive program that teaches more than just physical techniques.
“It’s not just about throwing punches or kicks,” he explained. “It’s about utilizing your body to its fullest potential and learning what it is to defend yourself while having the discipline to do it.”
Vilcu’s decision to join Brandon Fitness Combat Academy stemmed from his admiration for the academy’s commitment to martial arts, which includes boxing and Jiu-Jitsu programs. His addition of a karate program brings a new dimension to their offerings, emphasizing a holistic approach to personal development.
“What you take here, you can apply back at home — whether it be discipline, commitment, or showing that you can stick to something,” Vilcu said. “These lessons are invaluable in the real world, whether you’re competing, applying for jobs, or pursuing careers in the military, police force, or paramedics.”
For Vilcu, martial arts is also about mental strength.
“Without a quiet mind, your body falls apart,” he said, highlighting how martial arts fosters focus and resilience.
Beyond individual growth, Vilcu sees martial arts as a family activity. “It’s not just a sport; it’s a lifestyle that families can embrace together,” he said.
Vilcu’s passion for martial arts and his dedication to teaching are evident as he works to instill these values in his students at the academy.
“By combining my extensive background with a commitment to the Brandon community, I hope to inspire others to embrace martial arts as both a physical and mental discipline,” he added.
» aodutola@brandonsun.com
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