Training body and mind

Heart and Soul Tae Kwon Do owners, Jakki and Steve Van Hemert. — Photo courtesy Jakki and Steve Van Hemert

Having recently opened in Fruitvale, Heart and Soul Tae Kwon Do is offering instruction in tae kwon do and hapkido, as well as fitness classes.

Master Jakki Van Hemert built the studio with her husband and co-owner of the business, Steve Van Hemert. She is originally from North Dakota, and has earned a fourth-degree black belt in tae kwon do as well as a third-degree black belt in hapkido.

While the main focus of the studio is on traditional martial arts (as opposed to sport competition), students interested in more competitive events may have the chance to participate in tournaments if desired. The space is also rented out to other recreation and fitness instructors in the community.

"The main reason for building the facility was that I wanted a place to call my own in order to teach martial arts on a continued basis without having to worry about losing the space or other priorities, but we soon found out there is an opportunity to rent the space as well," said Van Hemert.  "Our goal was and still is to make it a community friendly building."

To find out more, visit the Heart and Soul Tae Kwon Do website.