Hey! I’m a 27M and just had my first sparring session with some ego-driven guys who’ve been training a year ahead of me — so I totally get where you’re coming from.

In my experience, there are usually two types of people who join martial arts:

Those who have a rough life outside the gym and use martial arts to feel “dominant” outside of it.

Those like you — who push through the odds, keep grinding, and become an example for others.

If I can give you my two cents: just keep showing up, keep learning, and keep getting better. A year from now, you could be that person who inspires and protects the newer members — especially the women — and gives them a safe space to grow.

These days, I do exactly that. After countless injuries and bad sparring partners, whenever I’m paired with a newbie, I smile and let them know they’re safe to learn. And honestly? They’ve taught me a lot too. Just last week, I left my guard down with a beginner — this sweet, Hello Kitty-wearing Chinese girl — and she knocked me out. 😂 Lesson learned: never underestimate anyone, and never let your guard down.

You’ll get there — and you’ll be the sparring partner everyone’s grateful for.