I have been doing Judo since I was about 6. My father was a Judoka so were my bro's and sisters. My dad was big on Judo. So as a Judoka under the UK belt system I am a Brown (1st Kyu) and a Brown belt in BJJ. I also as a kid did the WIng Chun > JKD journey as a huge fan of Bruce. I think many of us did. Although I have not undertaken either for over 30 odd years.

I started BJJ much much later in the late 90's once it had come to the UK after being popularized and raised in awareness via the early UFC.

I spar MMA as well. But I am a very very lowly less than Journeyman in MMA. I prefer grappling arts. It suits my body type and size better. And whilst grappling is not without injury and pain. I fucking hate getting punched in the face. My nose has broken enough times over the years to make breathing fun at times. I do not recommend it. My hubby finds it cute luckily.

I only really spar gently these days. And mainly for cardio reasons. My days of being a punching bag for ranked amateurs are long gone.

And yes wholeheartedly agree. TMA or MMA or any derivative of are fantastic ways to keep fit, have fun and meet lots of interesting good people.

I think it something everyone should do.