IRIS SMOOT/Acorn Newspapers IN SELF DEFENSE- Michelle Scheck of Camarillo takes down Jennifer Neel of Simi Valley at Jason Flame's Tang Soo Do University martial arts class in Moorpark.

For 10 local mothers who ardently practice the Korean martial art of Tang Soo Do, working hard to achieve their black belts has turned out to be a great way to maintain their belt size.

Though the path to reaching the karate milestone is filled with bumps, bruises and sore muscles, it's worth it, according to Danielle Unterberger, who, like the nine other moms, trains at Jason Flame's Tang Soo Do University in Moorpark.

"Studying karate has changed my life in many ways," Unterberger said. "I've learned the value of setting and achieving a goal and I've gained confidence and focus to help me with life's daily challenges."

Unterberger began her training at the local martial arts studio about three years ago and is now an instructor at Jason Flame's Simi Valley studio. Having achieved black belt status, the 36-year-old is now looking toward the next step up: a second-degree black belt.

Most karate moms prefer to stand on the sidelines, cheering as their children kick, punch and spar. But this group of Moorpark moms decided to take a different path.

"I initially signed up for karate because my kids were taking it and I thought it seemed like a great way to work out that would never be boring," said Kathleen Driscoll, the first of the group to earn her black belt in Tang Soo Do. "How true that turned out to be."

Shannon Markham, 37, began to take karate lessons four years ago so she could be involved in an activity with her two boys. She's currently preparing to test for her black belt.

The many rewards of taking karate, Markham said, include not only the challenges the sport brings but also the friendships she's made over the years working hard with the same group of women.

The group practices together Tuesday and Thursday mornings and enjoys lunch together after class. While they started out as simple acquaintances, they've grown to be close friends as they all strive to earn a black belt.

"We are one big karate family. I wouldn't trade this experience for anything," Markham said.

In addition to preparing themselves physically, black belt candidates must also work together as a team to complete three community service projects. In addition, attendance at several seminars and visits to other karate studios are required before they can participate in the final test.

On the way to success, the Moorpark karate moms have earned the respect of their mentors.

"We have a very dedicated group of moms," said Rod Busby, head instructor at the Moorpark studio.

As with any form of martial arts, Tang Soo Do can be very demanding physically. But, according to the group, learning how to defend oneself from attack is empowering.

"You get punched, kicked, thrown around and mentally tested every time you take a class," said Driscoll, 44. "But we are stronger because of it and we aren't afraid of much."

Jennifer Neel, 38, a green belt student, can't hide her enthusiasm for the sport.

"It s not very often you can kick and throw someone to the ground and not only will they still like you, but they will give you tips on how to do it better," she said.

Having trained in Tang Soo Do for 4-and-half-years now, Alicia Laurentowski is preparing to test for her black belt in December. The sport has benefited her in numerous ways, she said.

"It's made me a better mom and wife and given me a great outlet for stress," Laurentowski said.

As they worked out in the studio in downtown Moorpark on Tuesday morning, nine women and two men were beginning to break a sweat.

They kicked, punched, sparred and dropped to the ground to do a series of pushups while alternative rock music blared in the background to power up the training session.

"With kids we want smiles but with adults we want sweat," said Busby, prompting the women to pick up the pace.

Roger Mortara, 63, began taking karate lessons last April after his doctor told him he needed to exercise.

He's earned his yellow belt and said he looks up to the women in his class who've all achieved much higher ranks.

Seven-year-old Sarah Neil and her brother take lessons at the studio. Sarah was there Tuesday watching her mother, Bonnie, who has a red belt, practice on the mat.

"Karate makes me feel safe," Sarah said.