Mileyni Rivera, one of PDG’s two wonderful PRP Directors, has a secret side. Though she has her Bachelor’s in Psychology and her Master’s in Community Mental Health Counseling, she has another talent outside of mental health: karate. 

A long time karate student, Mileyni has her black belt and enjoys sparing (one-on-one) with other karate students.

“What I like most about it,” Mileyni explains, “is that you have to analyze your opponent’s stance while also strategizing what you’ll have to do to score a point.”

Karate – a Japanese martial art practiced as early as 1879 – was originally hemother’s idea. Mileyni remembers that she and her brother were excited to start, thanks to popular characters like Jackie Chan and Bruce Lee; “We wanted to be cool like them!”

Her favorite part of karate, however, isn’t just how cool it makes her. The martial art brings people together to challenge and grow as one group. The feeling of family is hard to find in other clubs or activities, and fosters a great support system – as well as a good exercise habit!

Mileyni has many accomplishments under her belt – literally! – but her favorite story comes from the last competition she attended. Being the only girl in her division, she would have automatically won. However, the instructor and referee agreed to make the competition co-ed so more students could compete. Some instructors didn’t think this was a good idea and Mileyni overheard one telling his student to go easy on her. Instead of being swayed, Mileyni gritted her teeth and decided to show the others what she was capable of. 

The match began. After Mileyni scored several points, her male opponent stopped holding back. Despite his best efforts, Mileyni was able to beat both men in her division and earned first place – much to the shock of the instructors. Mileyni was ecstatic and loved being able to prove others wrong about their stereotypes. 

Karate has over 100 million practitioners worldwide and may soon be included in the Olympics. It’s one of the most popular martial arts, thanks to its movie-inspired fame and the amazing community it cultivates. 

If you’re interested, use Google to find a location near you – many gyms or karate centers offer a free class to see if you’re interested.

“This is a great way to get your exercise in,” Mileyni says, “as well as learn techniques that are helpful in the outside world.” 

Try it out today!