1st Dan Belt Black In Jujitsu.
Before I started Jiu-Jitsu, I had practiced Judo for some years, being introduced to it at school when I was around 12 years old. Growing up with two older brothers, I had always found it essential to have to defend myself!
I first saw Ju-Jitsu in action back in 1989, when I went to see my boyfriend take his purple-belt grading. I was so impressed by the art that I started training at his club the following week.
My Judo background helped me take to Jiu-Jitsu straightaway. After a few years of hard work, I was delighted to achieve my black belt, and am proud to be the longest-serving Female instructor at Total Self Defence Ltd.
Jiu-Jitsu is a superb all-round, practical form of self-defence, especially for a woman and I thoroughly recommend it. You do not have to be particularly fit to do it (although fitness will increase as you progress through the grades), and size does not matter! Women train with men, and this helps develop technique, co-ordination, strength and suppleness, as well as confidence.
Although a little older and creakier now, I still enjoy training and teaching when I can and my passion for the art is as strong. I feel it is essential to keep the skills I have; you never know when you might need them!