At what club do you train?

South Woodham , Chelmsford , and Basildon when I get the chance

When did you start training?

Autumn ’95…… !

Why did you choose Ju Jitsu over other martial arts?

I had a very good friend who told me about Ju Jitsu, and I decided to give it ago

Did you do other sports/martial arts before Ju Jitsu?

Never really considered myself as sporty what-so-ever! Prior to training with Sensei Ian, I never felt confident enough to try anything because of my asthma.

Tell us about your first Ju Jitsu class.

Very scary! –I had a lot of misconceptions about martial arts in general, and didn’t really know what Ju Jitsu was about. The first Ju Jitsu I saw on the mat was two brown belts training for their impending Black Belt Grading! –Terrifying! Luckily the white belt wasn’t as bruising!

When did you think about getting your Black Belt?

When I first started training it seemed like an impossible achievement. It was only at Green Belt that I started to really get the hunger and self belief to go the whole distance.

Was it difficult to attain?

The hardest thing I found was the mental barriers I would build up once in a while! –Getting up early on Sundays, going to that extra training session in the week, and revising!

What does a “black Belt” mean to you?

Personally, it is a real bench mark for my life. I feel everything is an achievable goal now. It has taught me to work hard to get what I want, and not to short change myself in anything I do. ‘Black Belt’ means ‘You’ve learnt the basics, now do it Left-handed with style!’

Ever had to use Ju Jitsu for real?

Nothing serious, but I hope that I never have to. Luckily my mouth has a 10th Dan in getting out of problems!

Do you enter martial arts competitions?

I try to enter as many competitions as possible. Especially any abroad. Nothing better than representing Wakarishin/BJJAGB abroad

Has Ju Jitsu changed your life in any positive or negative way?

In a very positive way! Apart from all the above stated, it has given me the opportunity to travel to America , South Africa , and across Europe ! –And I have done this in the company of some fantastic people. I have been lucky enough to make so many great friends through training.

What do you see as the advantages of Ju Jitsu?

Technically, it a very good all-round style. Close quarters/stand-up/on the ground techniques. It is a fantastic training tool for mind and body. Obviously it was nice to see the Gracie’s using /developing Ju Jitsu to win so many UFC’s. A very good example that a small person with good technique can overcome a big strong person to win!

How much time does your training require?

As much as I can spare! There is so much to do. Not only learning new syllabus, but also revision is very important.

If you could advise a beginner on one thing about Ju Jitsu what would it be?

Wipe your feet before you get on the mat!!! Seriously, I would advise to keep an open mind, respect your Sensei and training partner(s)


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