Dave Solomon
Instructor
Whilst it’s not my main profession, I spend most of the day sitting in front of a computer, so doing something so physical is a welcome relief. I love doing martial arts because it is fun, challenging, keeps me in great shape, and teaches me valuable skills that could one day save my life. I personally can’t see a better way to keep t!
Martial arts has also helped me improve my confidence hugely, I am no longer that timid boy when I was younger. I could never have imagined that I would be taking part in such an activity! Whilst it can seem like a violent and aggressive sport, I can speak from my own experience and of other students that it really can be hugely beneficial in providing confidence and, perhaps surprisingly, self-control and discipline.
I have made so many great friends at the club to the point that I see it as a family. It might seem strange given that we put on boxing gloves and hit each other (with control of course!) but we’ll all go out for drinks afterward and it is a great way of resolving problems!
2ND DEGREE BLACK BELT
I was always very shy and small when growing up and afraid of any sort of confrontation. I used to hate seeing people fight. So this was partly the reason why I decided to take up Martial Arts. Also like most boys I loved the idea of being a martial artist so when I was around 17 I finally did a few classes. But it wasn’t until I was 21 when I and my great friend Tim Starke decided to join Fighting Fit and I haven’t looked back! (Nor has Tim!)
I was hooked from day 1 and spent a number of years training at Epsom under Steve Ray progressing through the belts. Eventually after around 7 years and have to train very hard in the later stages I got my 1st-degree black belt. This was easily one of the hardest but also proudest moments in my life.
I continued onto 2nd degree and became an instructor and now teach two classes at Tooting. After 15 years I am still as keen as ever. I have taken part in a number of competitions and won several medals and trophies.
What Students Are Saying
The instructors are extremely approachable, knowledgeable and friendly. The system is very relevant for today in terms of skills, competitions, self defence and offers different martial arts within the same club. Students and instructors are respectfull and its a great place to get fit, learn a martial art and self defence. Great for kids, woman and men of any fitness or skill level. A lot of families also attend, perfect distraction from the phone or tablet!
The instructors are helpful and encouraging, I am middle-aged, overweight and not very fit but never feel embarrassed because of the welcoming ethos. Tony has always been very encouraging and supportive, he loves getting people fitter and giving them the skills to defend themselves.
Super friendly instructors, the sessions are fun & full of life, all the kids enjoy it, my two kids were shy and lacking confidence but now I see a lot of improvement, will definitely recommend FIGHTING FIT to my friends & family