Brian Burnham - Elite-MMA Instructor

In the past what had caused you not to take martial arts?

I was very overweight, almost 280 pounds, could not do a pushup, and was afraid of being embarassed in front of the class. 

Is this your first time taking martial arts and what classes do you take? 

I took Tae Kwon Doe as a child for a couple years but this is my first time doing martial arts as an adult. I mainly just focus on Jiu Jitsu, whether it be Gi or No Gi, Fundamentals, Advanced or Endurance. 

If you had any concerns about joining Elite MMA, what helped you with your decision?

My lifelong friend, Clint Russell, had been training at the Baytown location for years. He was a Groomsman with me in my Sister’s wedding a month before I joined and he showed me some techniques which really peaked my interest.  

Since you have been part of Elite, please share what you have been able to accomplish?

It has changed my life in so many ways. Elite MMA/Jiu Jitsu has helped improve my confidence, relationships with others, mental health, health, ambition, the list is endless. I got one promotion at my old job and recently started a new job that was a huge step up for me. 

I met the girl of my dreams and recently had my first child, Audrey, as well as getting my own house. I have an entire support network of friends and coaches, who feel like family, and that would do anything for me. 

I don’t believe any of these things would have happened if not for Jiu Jitsu and the tools I have developed as a result of training. 

I also lost nearly 100 pounds the first 6 months of training and kept it off for a few years, though I have gained some of it back.