Introduction:
At just 18, Ece Aşkar is making her mark in Turkish kickboxing, captivating thousands on social media with 34,000 followers and a million views on her top video. Her inspiring journey from a beginner in the sport to a rising star showcases her dedication and talent. Follow her story here!
ECE’S STORY
Three years ago, I made a bold decision that would change my life: I began kickboxing. Before this, I spent several years doing ballet, then tried my hand at basketball. But neither felt right for me. I was never really drawn to team sports; deep down, I knew I wanted something different. At 15, I started kickboxing, fulfilling a dream I’d had since childhood.
The day I first walked into the kickboxing gym; I felt an overwhelming excitement. I already knew I would be joining the class, and it was an exhilarating experience. Before this step, I had done extensive research on my coach, his gym, and his students to ensure this was the right choice. Once I made my decision, my family was fully supportive, even when it meant I had to switch from a public school to a private one to balance my sports training.
From day one, I knew I didn’t want kickboxing to be just a hobby – I wanted a professional career. My coach, Mehmet Mistik recognized this and supported me, pushing me to compete in tournaments after only three months of training. My first match was unforgettable. The adrenaline was intense, and I barely remember the three-minute rounds. But as soon as it was over, I realized I had found my path.
Kickboxing has brought immense benefits to my life. It has not only taught me how to defend myself, especially given the increased violence against women in my country, but it has also strengthened my confidence. The sport has allowed me to develop a sense of personal power that extends beyond the ring. I can now speak comfortably in front of people and face challenges with resilience.
Physical and mental challenges come with the territory, especially before big matches. The stress and adrenaline often make me feel nauseous, but the moment I throw the first punch, all the tension fades. My coach has always been my biggest supporter, reminding me that I’m young and have a long journey ahead. His faith in me has kept me going, even when injuries and setbacks tried to pull me down.
Despite my commitment to kickboxing, I never wanted to be a coach. My passion lies in the thrill of the sport itself, and I’ve chosen a different career path outside the ring. However, I continue to train with dedication, balancing my studies and sports with a training program we’ve designed together. In another year, I hope to be at an even higher level, both physically and professionally.
When I first started, I was hesitant to use social media to showcase my journey. My coach encouraged me to post about my championships and training sessions, saying it was essential to share my story. Although I was reluctant at first, I eventually began posting videos of my matches and training routines. One video went viral, reaching over a million views, and my follower count quickly grew to around 34,000. I don’t post for fame; I share my progress, hoping to inspire others and break down the misconceptions about martial arts. You can watch one of my latest training sessions [Here].
To anyone looking in from the outside, kickboxing might seem like an aggressive sport, but to us, it’s so much more than that. Just as a musician finds joy in playing an instrument, we find fulfillment in the discipline and artistry of martial arts. It’s empowering, and I encourage everyone to experience it at least once.
