As a father with a strong interest in combat sports, this parent wanted to find an environment where his sons could develop their skills while staying fit, healthy, safe and focused. 

His sons already had experience across different combat sports, so choosing the right gym mattered. After researching Ronin and learning about the coaches and their experience, he brought his sons along to train. 

From the beginning, he valued the openness of the coaches and the way they communicated with him about his sons' development. He felt listened to as a parent and appreciated that his sons were also encouraged to express their views, discuss their goals and take responsibility for their own progress. 

Over the years, he has seen significant changes. His sons have developed their Muay Thai skills, fitness and performance, but for their dad, their development outside of the sport has been equally important. He has watched them become more confident, focused, committed and responsible young men, developing communication, resilience and important skills for their future.  He also values the diversity within Ronin and the opportunity for young people and families from different backgrounds to train alongside one another. 

But the journey didn't stop with his sons. 

Watching them train encouraged their dad to think about his own health and fitness. He eventually began training himself and noticed improvements in his energy, fitness and wellbeing. Sharing the sport also gave him another way of spending meaningful time with his sons. 

As his involvement grew, he began volunteering as a strength and conditioning coach, using his knowledge to support students with their fitness and physical preparation. 

He has also trained to become a judge at combat-sport events, allowing him to contribute beyond Ronin to the wider combat-sport community. These opportunities have helped develop his own confidence, communication and decision-making skills and given him a strong sense of being trusted and valued. 

What began with a father looking for the right place for his boys has developed into a journey involving the whole family from participation and personal development to volunteering, leadership and giving back to others. 

In his own words: 

“Come and join the gym. You will not look back, and you will not regret it. The time and commitment you give your children now will produce results in the future because they are the future. Parent of Students

Journey so far:

Family Engagement • Confidence • Fitness • Positive Role Models • Life Skills • Volunteering • Leadership • Giving Back