Sensei Helen Rowe

Bio

My first experience of martial arts was doing karate for a year whilst at university. Later, finding myself in a desk job, I decided to take up martial arts again, to keep fit and to learn something new. Of the different styles on offer at a local leisure centre, I chose ju-jitsu, as it combined strikes, locks and throws, and seemed the most ‘street-wise’. Also it was the only club that wore black gis, which I thought looked cool. I am now still training and teaching at that same club 26 years later.

I am now a 4th dan black belt in Japanese Ju-Jitsu. I predominantly teach adult classes, although I have taught kids on occasion, and I have taken a number of students to black belt and beyond. I have also trained in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for 12 years and I am currently a purple belt. I hold a first aid certificate and a Level 2 Assistant Coach certificate from the British Ju-Jitsu Association.

I aim to ensure that students learn and practice techniques that can be applied to real-life scenarios, so that they can protect themselves and their families. We provide a toolbox of techniques and encourage each student to identify those that are most suited to themselves. I aim to ensure that every student reaches their ultimate potential, but most importantly, also has fun.

I have always been a big fan of martial arts films, particularly those of Jackie Chan. His films are a joy to watch, combining impressive martial arts and amazing acrobatics, but above all, they are fun. Also, I still think black gis look cool!