We have many amazing people with interesting stories that walk into all our gyms! This member spotlight turns to Carmen, one of our super strikers who is always looking to improve, whether that be through her Muay Thai, or in her one-on-one training with Coach Daniel Howard. She’s an amazing cook, makes delicious pierogies (check out her business here: www.grandmasgirl.com.au) and has assisted fight team members such as Albert Xavier with nutrition and meal prep. Read on to find out more about Carmen!
Occupation: Financial Controller / Business Owner
Martial Arts/Sports: Muay Thai
How did you get into the sport?
Well, it all started off in Richmond when I lived across the street from Tao’s old gym. Hearing people train everyday through my bedroom window made me curious. I decided to go for a trial one Saturday morning and the rest was history!
What are your immediate training goals?
Be consistent and be better than I was yesterday.
What are your goals for the next five years?
Be fit – both physically and mentally.
Why do you love training at Absolute MMA?
Great community, positive people, supportive network.
What is your favourite move?
Spinning elbow! Definitely looks better when other people do it though!
Favourite workout/walkout song?
Humble – Kendrick Lamar
What do you like to do to relax besides training?
Yoga, watching food shows/documentaries and hitting up markets.
Can you tell us about where you’re from and any interesting stories growing up? If you’re not originally from Melbourne, how’d you end up living in Melbourne, Australia?
Fun fact: I used to be over 200lbs in grade 8! I grew up with my grandma in China till I was 6 years old and I was always overfed. That didn’t stop when I moved to Canada and it went slightly out of control (ha). In grade 9 I went on a serious diet and lost 60lbs in one year and just kept working out and eating better to slowly shed the weight. I ended up in Melbourne after quitting my corporate job and backpacking solo for a year. Ran out of money and ended up in corporate again but in Melbourne! Figured I might as well make some money and do some traveling on this side of the world! And besides what’s there to not love about beaches and hot weather all year long… (and then I realized I’d moved to Melbourne.. ha!)
Who are the kind of people that you look up to and why?
People who are driven and would do anything and everything to achieve their goals. I find it extremely difficult to always stay focused so I really admire people who can do it and kick some serious goals.
What’s your favourite place to eat in Melbourne and your #1 dish recommendation?
San Telmo for a big hearty treat – anything and everything is amazing here.
Moroccan Soup Bar for the chickpea bake.
Loving Hut for a good catch-up spot with tasty vegan options – definitely get the laksa.
If you could go back in time to your first martial art class, what would be the advice you give to your past self?
Be patient and have fun!
“She is one fierce chick! What can I say…..when she walks into the room, you know she is a pro with those striking kicks and those meal preps. When we partner up together she makes me want to push myself to the limits with a mean strike back. She encourages you to do your best and always supporting on the side lines where ever she may be. I am glad to have her on my side whether it may be us joking around or focusing on our techniques while laughing at each other. Beast!” – Jackie Tan
“Yeah, she’s alright.”- Dan Howard, Coach
“Carmen is fun to be around with as a student she always will learn to do a new thing she always ask you if something she want to learn and she learn fast always be on time when the classes start.” – Laos Toohey, Coach
“Carmen! This gorgeous lady actually helped me learn some of the basics in Muay Thai when I first joined. She was always patient when teaching us newbies and really supportive. If you ever need a hand in nailing the power behind your kicks – give her a yell. Just keep that guard up. Oh and when she’s not ripping it up in the gym this girl makes delicious pierogis for her catering business! This woman is unstoppable!”- Priya Johal
“Carmen is a beautiful, genuine soul and a woman of the world. No challenge is too great for her, making her an awesome training buddy and friend.”- Alyra Bartasek
“Not just another cool chick, this multi-talent can do much more than kick. Cooking mean meals is also her game, and part of her Absolute fame. A beautiful kind soul, she always makes your heart feel whole!”- Linnea Waestberg