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.
The student for this month is our chill/cool brother, Dao Wen! Read our interview with him below to get to know him better. Enjoy the read!
Name: Phang Dao Wen
Age: 20
Belt Rank: White Belt (3rd Stripe)
Other Martial Arts Experience: None
Occupation: Pre-Enlistee
Social Media:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/paranoid97/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/daowen.phang
1. INTRODUCE YOURSELF.
2. HOW AND WHY DID YOU START JIU-JITSU?
Stumbled upon it on the internet years ago and instantly felt like it’s something I would like. Suitable for me too since I’m a pretty small guy. But didn’t think of actually joining classes for it until I found out there is an actual CTC in Singapore.
3. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT GRACIE JIU-JITSU?
Firstly it’s great for self defence. I also like the fact that it’s like a game of chess where it’s more brain than brawn and a lot of the time it requires you to feel it out and improvise.
4. WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE TECHNIQUE?
Triangle Choke & Rear Naked Choke
5. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE WHO’S STARTING OUT JIU-JITSU?
6. HOW HAS GRACIE JIU-JITSU BENEFITED YOU?
I’ve learned to defend myself properly and at the same time not hurt the other party. It has also made me into a more composed person as a whole and learn to have conviction in whatever I do.
7. FAVOURITE QUOTE/PHILOSOPHY?
Never stop learning, because life never stops teaching. The more you seek the uncomfortable, the more you will become comfortable. When life puts you in tough situations, don’t say “Why me?”, just say “Try me.”
10. FINALLY, I WANT TO SAY?
Thanks a lot to head instructor Dan and all the fellow members of the CTC in helping me out and shaping me into a better GJJ practitioner and as a person. I wouldn’t be where I am today if not for all of you all even though it has only been awhile since I joined. Thanks everyone!! Keep it playful!!
