I am proud of the standard of student that we produce at the H&O clubs, and the open attitude to training at the clubs gives both instructors and students plenty of things to think about - we have as well as Ju Jitsu, we cross train in aspects of boxing, wrestling, judo, karate, ground-fighting, sparring and MMA (mixed martial arts).  I am a great believer in giving each student the tools for the job!

My training started in 1992 and I have reached the Grade of 3rd Dan.  I enjoy working with people and seeing the self confidence that students inevitably gain.  It gives me great pleasure to work with the children and I enjoy my own training (when I get the time).  I feel that it is important for women to be able to defend themselves and am very happy to pass on the skill that I have worked hard to attain – after all, my Sensei did the same for me.  I have worked with a number of Ju Jitsu partners over the years but have not concentrated on getting higher grades, just on improving my own work and that of my students.  I enjoy the weapons side of the training and like to teach this aspect as I feel that it enhances the combat skills, particularly in terms of stances and body positions.  Teaching the Junior class gives a lot of pleasure especially when the children do well at competition or on a Grading.  I look forward to many more years in Ju Jitsu. 

I started training in 1990 as a productive way to keep fit, and got hooked. I gained my first Dan  in 1997, shortly after which I also started training in Shotokan karate (currently 2nd Kyu). I view martial arts as an excellent outlet in our hectic lives, and it might just keep you safe too. In a confrontational situation, knowing that you are trained to cope better with any eventuality, gives you more time to explore a constructive result. As my Grandfather would say "Use what you have between your ears before resorting to what's on the end of your arms!"

I started Ju-Jitsu in July 1997 at Harlow then at Ongar, training under Sensei Earl Walker.  I passed my 1st Dan in December 2000, 2nd Dan in December 2003 and full coach in May 2005.  I have taken part in both National and International competitions winning a bronze medal in black belt random attacks in November 2003.   I believe that Ju-Jitsu is a very good all round Martial Art, and as it is technique rather than strength based it is suitable for everyone whatever their age, sex or height.  I am female, 146 cm tall (4’ 10”) and weigh approximately 46 kg (6 ½ stone) and have no problem throwing the guys.  Also being small I can assist the junior students who don’t have a partner to work with.

Alan is Senior Instructor at the Wanstead Club