Ryan Healy

Ryan Healy

How long have you been training?

14 years

Why did you begin training?

I’ve always been a fan of mixed martial arts. At first I wanted to learn how to defend myself. Once I started training, I started to realize the benefits of living a martial arts lifestyle.

What encourages you the most about your practice?

The idea of staying relevant. You can never know enough. You always have to keep learning. It never stops.

What challenges you the most?

Having a learning disability, school was always a challenge. Listening and staying focused in a class environment has always been a struggle.

How have you evolved as a result of it?

Learning Jiu Jitsu has taught me what type of student I am. I am a hands-on learner. When I start to struggle in other aspects of life, I know it’s all part of the process. When I used to get frustrated easily, I believe Jiu Jitsu has helped me maintain a better level of patience.

What is something that you learned about BJJ that was unexpected?

I learned that Jiu Jitsu is very mental, not just physical. You have to be humble to become good at Jiu Jitsu. When I first started, I thought I was fighting. Really, it’s a game of composure and seeing things before your opponent does.

Any notable accomplishments, interests or facts you’d like to share?

Being a touring musician, it’s great to have JiuJitsu in my back pocket — always knowing I have a strong level of self-defense when I enter random cities.