One 8th Degree Black Belt and 14 National Champions rise from Roseville

On Oct. 8 and Oct. 9, the Moo Do Taekwondo Association held its National Testing and Championships at the Citrus Heights Community Center in Citrus Heights. Among the Black Belt testers was Master Amitis Pourarian, owner of THE STUDIO Martial Arts & Fitness in Roseville. At age 45, Pourarian tested for and successfully achieved the rank of 8th Degree Black Belt, making her one of the youngest female high ranks in the world. "Becoming an 8th degree means more responsibility and leadership," Pourarian said. "This is a great way to show by example how consistency is the key to success. My goal is to continue to inspire people, especially girls and women, to do martial arts, be self reliant and empowered." Pourarian's success that weekend didn't stop with her 8th degree, as 14 of her students won National Championship titles in Poomsae (forms), sparring and weapons. The champions, ranging in ages 9 to 58, are all black belts at THE STUDIO Martial Arts & Fitness under Pourarian and her staff of instructors. THE STUDIO Martial Arts & Fitness is located at 8200 Sierra College Blvd., Suite D in Roseville.