Sanishka Pillay

Kids in QuanWessels Martial Arts Baby Champs Kids Class

The Importance of Uniform

The concept of wearing a uniform is not new. In ancient samurai culture, warriors donned distinct armour that not only provided protection but also showcased their allegiance to a clan. Similarly, Shaolin monks trained in robes that symbolised their devotion to a monastic life of discipline and enlightenment. These garments reinforced a sense of identity and unified their wearers under a shared philosophy.

The Importance of Uniform Read More »

Wrestling: The Story of Humanity’s Oldest Combat Sport

The history of wrestling dates back thousands of years, with its origins rooted in survival, competition, and ritual. In ancient cave paintings in France, dating back nearly 15,000 years, we see some of the earliest depictions of wrestlers engaged in combat. Wrestling, it seems, began as a primal form of testing strength, skill, and endurance.

Wrestling: The Story of Humanity’s Oldest Combat Sport Read More »

The Rich History of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: From Judo to Global Phenomenon

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is one of the fastest-growing martial arts in the world, celebrated for its effectiveness in self-defence and mixed martial arts (MMA). However, the art’s evolution from its origins in Japan to what we now know as BJJ is a complex story of cultural exchange, adaptation, and innovation.

The Rich History of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: From Judo to Global Phenomenon Read More »

The Beginnings of Muay Thai: From Warfare to Martial Art

Muay Thai’s origins are deeply intertwined with the history of Thailand (formerly Siam as seen in the 13th century map above) particularly its military history. The art is believed to have developed as early as the 13th century, during the reign of the Sukhothai Kingdom (1238-1438). This period marked the early formation of Thai identity and the establishment of the kingdom as a regional power. Warfare with neighboring states, such as Burma, Cambodia, and Laos, was common, and the need for close-combat skills became vital for Thai soldiers. Muay Thai, or more precisely Muay Boran (meaning “ancient boxing”), was born as a system of unarmed combat that soldiers used when they lost their weapons in battle.

The Beginnings of Muay Thai: From Warfare to Martial Art Read More »

Two guys grappling

The Top 5 Most Comprehensive and Effective Martial Arts Styles

n the vast world of martial arts, some styles stand out not only for their history and tradition but also for their effectiveness in real combat situations, make no mistake, not all martial arts are created the same. These “complete” martial arts have been battle-tested and proven to deliver high success rates in various forms of competition, including mixed martial arts (MMA), self-defense scenarios, and even no-holds-barred environments like early Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) tournaments. In this blog, I’ll tell you about five of the most comprehensive martial arts systems: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Sambo, Muay Thai, Wrestling, and Judo.

The Top 5 Most Comprehensive and Effective Martial Arts Styles Read More »

Tribe Logo

TRIBE Martial Arts Foundation: Empowering Through Jiu Jitsu

Founded in 2019, the TRIBE Martial Arts Foundation aims to create sustainable solutions for women and children in impoverished areas who face daily struggles with gender-based violence, domestic abuse, and limited opportunities. TRIBE’s mission goes beyond teaching self-defense—it is about fostering empowerment, resilience, and growth so that these individuals can thrive, becoming valuable contributors to their communities.

TRIBE Martial Arts Foundation: Empowering Through Jiu Jitsu Read More »

Should children compete in Martial Arts competitions?

Should children compete in Martial Arts competitions?  Training and competition are two different but connected worlds, with one feeding into the other. It is imperative for your child’s learning and martial arts journey that they compete. Competition creates a new mind-set in training, and gives a child a tangible goal they can achieve using all

Should children compete in Martial Arts competitions? Read More »

Quan Wessels Children

10 Reasons Why You Should Keep Training Jiu Jitsu

If you’ve ever found yourself sprawled out on the mats after a grueling Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) session, wondering why on earth you signed up for this, you’re not alone. But before you take off your belt and tap out for good, let me give you 10 compelling reasons why sticking with BJJ is the best decision you will ever make. Spoiler: your future self will thank you.

10 Reasons Why You Should Keep Training Jiu Jitsu Read More »

Two boys stand in their fight stance before drilling a technique

Jiu Jitsu’s Benefits for Children

Throwing your wee angel into the world of double-leg takedowns and wrestling can be daunting for any parent, so first off, here’s to you Mom or Dad for being brave! We all want our children to grow with skills to defend themselves and develop healthy habits, and while these are definitely outcomes of regular BJJ training there are also a world of other social, emotional and psychological benefits for your child. 

Jiu Jitsu’s Benefits for Children Read More »

Shopping Cart