Warrior Combat Gym in Waterloo is launching a new programme called Warrior Mindset, using martial arts to support teenage boys and help steer them away from crime.
The gym, on South Road, has been running for years and was taken over last year by owners Mike McGrady and Karen O'Connor after the previous owner died. It offers classes in MMA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, boxing, Muay Thai and kickboxing.
Karen said the gym has already helped young people who were being groomed by local gangs and county lines. "We've supported them to come off the streets and be a part of something, have a purpose. And we saw a difference after a few weeks. They're less tempted to be out there, and they're more tempted to be in here. It makes a big, big difference."
Transformation in Confidence
She described one young man who arrived with little self-worth or self-confidence and a history of not sticking to things. "After a few short weeks, the transformation was incredible. His fitness level has gone through the roof."
"He is here pretty much every day. All of the coaches are commenting on how much he's changed, not just physically, but also confidence-wise and his presence. He's more active socially, he's interacting with the group. It's a life changer for a lot of young people."
Warrior Mindset Launch
These experiences prompted Karen and Mike to launch Warrior Mindset. Karen said: "Warrior Mindset uses movement and martial arts to give people a supportive space to release some tension, learn and discover what they are capable of. We want them to experience that feeling of 'I can do this' and carry it into other parts of their lives."
The programme starts with young teenage boys, with ambitions to work with schools, community groups, care workers, and women's and men's groups. The first session is set for Thursday, November 5. Future places will be funded through the Open Door fundraiser, currently live on Spacehive.
Changing Perceptions
Karen addressed scepticism about using fighting as a way of helping people. "Most people view martial arts as an aggressive sport. But, martial artists are some of the nicest, calmest, most regulated people that you will ever meet. We're teaching people how not to fight, in a sense."
Mike said: "You're not going to teach someone in six weeks to be able to be a cage warrior, but you can teach them that there's a different route and a different direction that they can go in."
"We're not trying to change the world, but we are trying to change South Road. Some people just need decent role models."
