We have many amazing people with interesting stories that walk into all our gyms! This member spotlight turns to Kim Cousins, brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, active competitor on the BJJ scene and super mum to not one, not two but three teenagers! Kim has competed at the Asian Open, the Pan Pacifics, Masters World Championships, AJJC (The Australian Jiu-Jitsu Championship), IBJJF Sydney Open and many more competitions. Thank you for all your support and help with our Women’s BJJ team Kim! Read on to find out more about this superwoman!
Occupation: Planning & assessing officer
Martial art: Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
How did you get into the sport?
My ex husband did BJJ back in the 90s. When we split up, I was looking for an exercise outlet to get me out of my garage and squat rack, and get me meeting some new people. Bjj seemed like the obvious choice.
What are your immediate training goals?
To land a clean take-down ?
What are your goals for the next five years?
To keep improving, and work on the weaker sides of my game. Lately I’ve been working on wrestling and am enjoying working on my stand up and No-Gi game.
Why do you love training at Absolute MMA?
The people and the skill level. I feel blessed to have the opportunity to be able to train in three world class facilities, all bringing their own uniqueness to my training.
What is your favourite move?
Bow and arrow.
Favourite workout/walkout song?
I have very eclectic music taste. My playlists include anything from Madonna to Black Sabbath to Depeche Mode. I do love some bad 80s dance though, much to my kids’ disgust.
Nicknames & Fight Names?
I’m sadly still yet to receive a Portuguese nickname ?
What do you like to do to relax besides training?
I love bikram yoga. While sweating in a 40 degree room for 90 minutes isn’t everyone’s idea of relaxing, I love it!
Who am I kidding? Food and alcohol (as in photo above) is how I really like to relax.
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?
I’m born and bred in Melbourne and love it too much to move. I come from a strong swimming family; my grandfather went to the Commonwealth Games and I grew up getting up at 4.30am to train before school. Now my kids are a bit older I’m planning to hit up the early morning classes in the New Year. I’m definitely a morning person!
What’s your favourite place to eat in Melbourne and your #1 dish recommendation?
I look after my kids full time and don’t get out much, so anytime that someone wants cook a meal for me, I’m hugely appreciative. (I’m happy to take any offers?)
If you could go back in time to your first martial art class, what would be the advice you give to your past self?
Don’t be so hard on yourself (I still struggle with that one!).
“Kim is a power house! She also fits more into a day then I fit into a week! I always love getting to partner up with Kim on the mats… her technical expertise and her sense of humour ensure it’s gonna be a good session!”- Maryanne Mullahy
“Kim is my hero! Whoever knows her history on BJJ and life will understand why she is my hero!”- Coach Thiago Stefanutti
“Kim is an awesome training partner, always smiling and full of energy. Trying to get out of her half guard is nerve-racking.”- Juliette Brillet
“I have heaps of admiration for Kim. Not only is she a total badass on the mat but she’s an incredible, genuine person. Absolute MMA are very lucky to have her as part of the team, and I’m very grateful to have her as a team mate! ?”- Hannah Gorman
“Kim has the kind of arms Gods envy. When you need support Kim will back you in anyway she can (arms included). My main training partner and a very dear friend and sister, she has pushed and challenged me on the mat more than she knows. Kim is both warm and giving. And I hope one day I can have arms like hers and be as awesome as she is on and off the mat.”- Apryl Eppinger
“Kim is such a powerhouse! Whether it’s jiujitsu, wrestling, lifting, yoga or cryotherapy, she’s always busy putting everyone else to shame with her seemingly endless energy and drive. She’s a supportive team mate, a frequent competitor and a good friend. You couldn’t ask for a better teammate.”- Natalie Hobbs