Local Instructor Captured Martial Arts Gold (w/VIDEO)

Marco DiScipio began practicing the Korean martial art Tang Soo Do 30 years ago because he wanted to learn how to fight.

Now a master with world championship medals under his blackbelt, DiScipio said the philosophy of self-discipline and balance has entered his heart.

As the lead Tang Soo Do instructor at Salem Street Studio, DiScipio looks to guide his students along a similar path of redemption.

At age 52, DiScipio won a gold medal last month at the Tang Soo Do World Championships in Cardiff, Wales, as the oldest competitor in the adult division.

Able to smash a brick with his bare hand and to stand on broken glass, DiScipio said the mental toughness required for such feats of strength can benefit anyone, including children in his after-school program.

"I've seen the results of people staying with Tang Soo Do," DiScipio said. "The gains that they make personally are astounding."

The mental balancing required of the great masters of the martial arts is also an integral part of the practice of Yoga.

Nancy Mahoney, who shares with DiScipio, teaches the "gentle practice" of Kripalu Yoga.

"I did it because I had an injury," Mahoney said. "It was also a spiritual awakening."

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