I began my fitness journey in April of 2018. I was...

I began my fitness journey in April of 2018. I was overweight, sad, and recovering from a toxic relationship. Right from the start I was welcomed with smiles and encouragement. Michael O'Connell was the first coach to give me the assurance that if I put in the work, with time I would see the results. My goal was to lose 10lbs before my 30th birthday. At first it was a struggle, as a single mom of two with many hardships it was difficult to make the commitment. Some days I would cry in my car in pain, sore, and wanting to give up. But I had amazing coaches that always pushed me to succeed. By the time my birthday came I lost 20 lbs. I lost the weight and gained confidence in myself. John Wai Martial Arts is a place that can help you achieve your goals on and off the mat. After I lost the weight I learned so much about myself. I then decided to join the second season of their 8 week Fight Camp fitness challenge. This was a journey to educate yourself on how Mixed Martial Artists eat, train, and live during a fight camp to prepare for a fight. We were expected to complete Boot camps, Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, Muay Thai, Sanshou, and Kick Boxing and a strict diet and Fight Camp Homework. I was nervous at first, but Osei and Tamer told me they would be there for me every step of the way. After 8 weeks I lost weight and gained muscle. I experienced tough days and good days but it was a great experience. My first exhibition fight was against the juggernaut himself Osei Xavier. That man is a beast and a great mentor. He has been a rock for me through my toughest days and always pushed me to be a better person and fighter. I loved the experience so much that I joined the 3rd season of fight camp and had to fight against Tamer Mahfouz he was also my lead coach and great friend during this season. This fight camp was a different this time around. I was more focused on making sure that I could prove to my coaches that I could improve on my technique and strategy in a fight. I was very proud of this fight. It meant so much to me and I gave it my all. This fight ended up landing me in an article in the sun - sentinel. As a women in a very male dominant sport it meant a lot to me. It provided me the opportunity to show women of all shapes, sizes, and nationalities that if you work hard and never give up, you can do anything. I joined one more season of fight camp for their 4th season. I had a great experience and fought against Paul Zarella our Boxing specialist. What a challenge!! He is such a great coach and I appreciate what I learned from this fight. The best part about my whole experience is the friendships and bonds I have made throughout the past two years. They are my family. Forever in my mind and heart. I appreciate John and his wonderful family. I love all my coaches Martin, Nato, Daniel, Maurice, and David, and all the staff they are all well knowledged and NEVER let you give up. So anyone who is looking for change, this is the place you have been looking for. It's is the best decision I ever made.

With Love,
Liza "The Phoenix" Soler