Even when faced with two opponents rushing in to assault him simultaneously, Mr Cobb moves a half-step backward at the last possible moment, and in one fluid motion, sends the attackers flying in opposite directions. It is not until he demonstrates his third or fourth Aikido move that you start to realize he is not hitting or kicking anybody. And it is not because these imaginary opponents are two of his young students.

“There’s no punching, no kicking…we don’t teach fighting,” he states. Even when he speaks, this former bodyguard to entertainment world celebrities like Linda Hamilton and Luther Vandross, exudes a peaceful confidence that makes his powerful stature almost unassuming.

Perhaps that is the reason why, in his current profession as a professional bounty hunter, he has talked suspects into handing him their loaded guns and charmed dangerous criminal fugitives back into custody without even using his handcuffs.

“In Aikido, we teach the way to redirect the opponent’s strengths and power to dominate him,” Mr Cobb explains. “You’re totally in a defensive mode where you are using joint locks, wrist restraints, and movements that immobilize an attacker.”

The way for Mr Cobb has not always been a peaceful one, however. It was not until about 16 years ago that he discovered this ancient Samurai art of discipline and self defense. For another 16 years prior to that, it was well within his constitution to really kick the daylights out of someone who invaded his space, or the space of one of his famous clients.

“I came from a background where I was taught to neutralize a threat as soon as possible,” he said, “which was usually with one punch.”

He remembers clearly the day a friend of his invited him to a Danbury youth center where he witnessed, “…a frail, 110-pound guy in his mid-60s doing some amazing stuff,” with the tough, streetwise youngsters who were gathered there for their weekly Aikido lesson.

“He said attack me with anything you’ve got,” Mr Cobb recalled. “So I said to myself, ‘I’d better take it easy on him…I’ll just give him a little kick…’ and two seconds later, I found myself four or five feet in the air.”

For several minutes, the 250-pound bodyguard tried every move in the book to get his hands on the slight, unflappable instructor. “But I couldn’t touch the guy. So by the end of the session, I decided to start training with him,” Mr Cobb said.

During the ensuing years, Mr Cobb advanced through Aikido training, learning the skills, becoming proficient first with the Bokken (wooden sword) and graduating to master the razor-sharp steel Samurai sword.

And along the way he discovered himself becoming more and more peaceful and self-aware.

“Aikido is centuries-old,” he said. “But we still teach it as the way…we try to develop self-respect and confidence. It’s not just self-defense, but the way to become in harmony with one’s self.”

These ancient Aikido principles are what Mr Cobb wants to impart upon students who sign up for an upcoming class he is planning to teach for the Newtown Parks and Recreation Department this fall. He hopes to see a wide range of participants who may either be seeking a healthy way to decompress from life’s everyday stresses, or those looking for a relatively nonviolent way of handling themselves in potentially violent confrontations.

“I have worked with students as young as 6,” the multiple black belt said. “At this age we realize that kids still very much have a mind of their own. But we teach them to begin directing their energy, and get their young minds to focus on themselves. We look at the children and use the skills they already have to help develop their abilities.”

Along with the centuries-old Samurai techniques, including a lesson with the Bokken, Mr Cobb will begin leading his students to discover their own inner power. “They’ll learn the Aikido restraints, but they’ll also master breathing control like in meditation.”

The two students who joined Mr Cobb for his demonstration and interview both espouse the value of Aikido, especially to younger or more rambunctious types.

Roney Santos began his instruction under Sensei James nearly two years ago, when he was introduced to the art. Today, he is a constant promoter of Aikido among his family and virtually anyone he meets.

“Today I’m a lot more peaceful then I was when I first started,” said the soft-spoken 16-year-old. “I’m more at peace with myself.”

Roney believes that Aikido can be a great benefit to developing self-confidence and humility, especially in children. His student partner, 15-year-old Marlen Gonzalez, is completely engaged in the philosophy that is such an integral component of Aikido.

“I was at a point in my life where I needed to gain inner peace,” Marlen said. “I decided to pursue a martial art, and I was drawn to the philosophy of nonaggression. You learn how to be nice without being weak.”

She thinks Aikido may be one of the best ways for young women to develop their individuality, without being influenced by peer pressure to act, dress, or talk to their teachers or parents in a disrespectful manner.

“This class can definitely help young girls develop a sense of self confidence and strength,” said Marlen. “Once you learn the art of Aikido, it’s always with you. You encounter situations and deal with them effectively. You don’t realize how much inner power you have.”

Mr Cobb hopes his Aikido training will attract young people who may have a bit of an attitude or who think they have something to prove by acting out inappropriately.

“As I drive around town I see a lot of kids hanging around. Too many of them get into trouble because they succumb to peer pressure. Kids will often try to please their friends because it’s more important than the trouble they can get into.” Mr Cobb said. “I want to make a difference to these young people. They need to feel they are doing something positive…they need to be doing things to benefit the community.”

Many of his younger students have not only gone on to earn honors in high school and college, but have gone on to become industry professionals and community leaders.

“That’s why, even when I see a former student in the store, I ask to see their report cards,” he said. “I want some feedback on how they’re doing, I want to hear they are respecting their parents and serving their community.”

Mr Cobb’s Aikido Classes are beginning September 27, and run Mondays and Thursdays from 6 to 7 pm for 6–12-year-olds, followed by an adult class from 7:15 to 8:15 pm for ages 13 and older. Tuition for the eight-week session is $190. Newtown residents have exclusive access to the classes up to one week before they commence, with any remaining available spots opened up to nonresidents for an extra $25 per-person fee.