We have many amazing people with interesting stories that walk into all our gyms! This member spotlight turns to Priya, one our multi-talented ladies who works across Mixed Martial Arts, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu AND Muay Thai. That’s dedication and a half! Priya always has a smile for everyone and it is always a pleasure seeing her in class (check out our Facebook page for a video of her takedowns!). Read on to find out more about Priya!
Occupation: Channel & Communications Manager
Martial Arts/Sports: Muay Thai, MMA & BJJ
How did you get into the sport?
Back home in NZ, some friends invited me along and I was hooked!
What are your immediate training goals?
Perfecting my technique, and learning how to get more submissions.
What are your goals for the next five years?
Improving my performance in sparring sessions and overall strength
Why do you love training at Absolute MMA?
The social atmosphere! I’ve made so many lovely friends here, everyone’s so kind and always willing to help you learn. I also love the discipline, stress release and immediate gains you see from each session.
What is your favourite move?
So I have a few; arm bars (BJJ), superwoman punches (MMA) and elbows (Muay Thai).
Favourite workout/walkout song?
Right now Hermitude the Buzz, although have you guys heard of Will Smiths new jam – Esta Rico? Sorry not sorry.
What do you like to do to relax besides training?
Puppy sitting! Netflix, reading, cooking, gardening, exploring and newly converted to camping.
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 was born in Melbourne, but I grew up in New Zealand. Leaving NZ in early 2014, I backpacked around the world for just over 1.5 years, exploring over 30 countries. I also had the opportunity to briefly live in China and Colombia and eventually ran out of money exploring Europe! On my way back to NZ I ended up stopping over in Melb to visit my friend for her birthday and I just never left! Best decision ever!!
Who are the kind of people that you look up to and why?
Determined, disciplined, kind-hearted, passionate people. I’m a fan of Joe Rogan, Tim Ferris, Elon Musk, Amal Alamuddin Clooney, Leonardo DiCaprio, Tony Robbins and my fav Chrissy Teigan because they all have aspects of the characteristics I personally admire and endeavor to achieve in myself. I’m lucky enough to also work for a company that shares my values – “Leave this world better than you found it” — Jain Mission
What’s your favourite place to eat in Melbourne and your #1 dish recommendation?
Teta Mona in Brunswick for Lebanese food, must try the Makanek.
Billy’s in North Fitzroy – Ice cream – Vegan Chocolate is where its at – trust me.
If you could go back in time to your first martial art class, what would be the advice you give to your past self?
Relax, it’s okay if you’re not a pro within a few months, it takes time and practice. Keep showing up and putting in work!
“My girl! My life! She always walks into the gym with a gorgeous smile and you wouldn’t even know that this chick is a beast when she hits those mats. From boxing to Muay Thai and now her main is rolling over all over you! Them sexy thighs can get you down and low real quick.”- Jackie Tan
“Priya is one of the kindest people I know. She always wants to learn more, be better and try new things. We can see how much of an ambitious achiever she is in the time she invests into Muay Thai, BJJ and MMA!”- Carmen Harvey-He
“This little cutie is rolling through the weeks – always with a smile on her face. Walk down the steps of the CBD gym and you can be sure to see a smiley Priya waving at you from the mats – even if she’s in the middle of a choke or catching some punches. It’s people like Priya that makes you get to the gym even on the days when you’re not quite feeling it. She is an absolute legend – a true gem!”- Linnea Waestberg