Every Month we pick a Student from the Academy as ‘Student of the Month’ and asked them a few questions of how has Gracie Jiu-Jitsu benefited them in their life mentally and physically as well as what impact has it made in their lifestyle so far. Many of our students come from a variety of different backgrounds and each with a different goal but ultimately, to learn the number one most important thing, SELF-DEFENSE, as most fights will most likely end up on the ground willingly or unwillingly.
This is Loo Chee Chuan! Not only one of our most dedicated student but also one of the oldest students that we have presently, and although he may be 40 years young that is not what you will experience when training with him as he will show you who’s younger haha. Read our interview with him below to get to know him better and follow him on social media.
Name: Loo Chee Chuan
Age: 41
Belt Rank: White belt (1 stripe)
Years of Training: 4 months
Other Martial Arts Experience: Krav Maga (Civilian)
Occupation: Civil Servant
Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/verticoastro/
I have always been interested in martial art but due to my busy work schedule, I didn’t have time to take up any until I posted to other work location and a friend of my recommended Gracie Jiu Jitsu as I’m looking for a gym to learn one. Also other than trekking, photography, lifting and running, I can take up martial art as another alternative way to keep myself fit and mobile.
2. HOW AND WHY DID YOU START JIU-JITSU?
I have always wanted to learn some ground defense as a way to protect myself. If something should happen, at the very least I will be able to protect myself and others until help arrives. My other reason is to keep myself fighting fit.
3. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT GRACIE JIU-JITSU?
Everything! The 36 techniques of the Gracie Combatives® and also ‘rolling’ with the instructor and fellow members has given me a lot of opportunities to practice my newly learned techniques and to perfect them. The people here are humble and willing to guide me along. So, there is no pressure ‘rolling’ with the higher belts or seniors as they are always there to guide us, correct us and show all the little details to execute our techniques.
4. WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE TECHNIQUE?
Trap and roll, Elevator Sweep, Headlock escape 1 and 2.
5. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE WHO’S STARTING OUT JIU-JITSU?
Patience is key! Starting out as a new student will be a little bit confusing in the beginning. Try to attend the classes as often as you can and you will begin to understand the whole picture. Also, start slow and don’t stress yourself because you didn’t understand or remember certain things/details. Certain movement, techniques or some small little details need a few session to fully understand how it works. Also, study the Gracie University online videos before the lesson. It will help a lot!
6. HOW HAS JIU-JITSU BENEFITED YOU?
Jiu-Jitsu is another way to keep me mobile and fit.
7. FAVOURITE QUOTE/PHILOSOPHY?
Favorite word in the dojo – Roll light or Roll slow.
8. FINALLY, I WANT TO SAY?
Glad that I have the chance to train Jiu Jitsu and hopefully I’ll be able to practice this art until old age.