Simon Carson is a professional mixed martial artist, elite coach and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu brown belt. We’ve got Simon to thank for starting up this great gym and community we are all call home- thanks boss! While he is always down for a laugh, when Simon steps into the cage, whether that be as a coach or as a competitor, he is all business. Read on to find out more about Simon!
What would you consider your greatest achievements in Martial Arts?
256th place in the Mongolian wrestling nationals.
What made you start Martial Arts?
After watching the American Ninja I wanted to learn how to throw ninja stars. Had to settle for punching and choking people.
How did you first get involved with Absolute MMA? (What industry were you in prior to Martial Arts? What made you change?)
I was previously in personal training and fitness and saw how most people I trained hated exercising. However when ever I did martial arts based training with them, most people really liked it and forgot they were exercising. I started Absolute MMA as a way for people to make positive health changes while doing something more fun than what most gyms offer.
Favourite workout/walkout song?
Do you really want to hurt me ? – Culture Club
Mantra/Quote to live by?
It is better to remain silent and have people suspect you are an idiot, than to open your mouth and confirm it.
If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Chocolate.
What do you like to do to relax besides training?
Learning – be that reading, doing online courses, watching documentaries or related to a new practical skill.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself!
I have a 12 inch ruler.
Who are the kind of people that you look up to and why?
People that are real, consistent, honest and the “real them” is consistent with their public/social media personas.
Have you ever worked a job outside of the fitness/martial arts industry? What were the highlights and lessons you learned?
Yes, I worked in the corporate world. Got some good lessons on what demotivates people.
What movie have you seen over 5 times?
Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy.
If you could go back in time to your first martial art class, what would be the advice you give to your past self?
Worry more about learning than winning.
During a Absolute MMA staff retreat a zombie apocalypse breaks out. You get separated with 3 AMMA team members. Who would be part your dream team and why?
Raph – As he maybe able to communicate with the Zombies and blend in.
Tao – I think he could forage for berries and stuff like that as he is vegan.
James Carson – Perhaps if someone came to kill me they may mistake him for me allowing me to survive.
‘No man can work, train, work, work, lift, train, work, then lift, like Simon can.’- Oliver Smith
“Simon is a complete smart ass and a excellent coach that puts his 100% effort and time into helping his students reach their full potential and goals. His dedication to the gym and his students definitely shows and is greatly appreciated by many. Simon has a excellent liver shot punch and he is definitely not afraid to use it.” – Lisa Kyriacou
“Simon has a wealth of knowledge and experience he has gained over years of competing in BJJ, MMA, Boxing, and Muay Thai. When you combine this with his extensive study in the field of human movement and exercise science makes him an asset for any athlete.” – Sam Hibberd
“Simon has been a mentor and friend for me over the years and I have learned a lot about business, life and about the dangers of crossing my ankles when I have someone’s back.” – Daniel Herbertson
“Some facts about Simon –
* Speaks Mandarin.
* The #1 person to go shopping with in China.
* Very bald.
* Sleeps 2 hours a fortnight.
* Has received MMA tips from John Kavanagh.
* Tuesday’s arms and back.. Does over a thousand curls. Feels a deep, deep burn.
* Loves physios. Hates chiros.
In all seriousness, we all owe Simon a great lot for having the vision and drive to start Absolute MMA. Simons trains harder than anyone (sometimes to his own demise) which is probably the reason why we have so many great classes scheduled at Absolute MMA!
He’s a great mentor professionally and an even better friend. I also once tapped him out with a triangle choke.” – Richard Lattemagi
Photos: Dogs of War Photography