We have many amazing people with interesting stories that walk into all our gyms! This member spotlight turns to Jackie “Jax/Jackie Chan” Tan, who can be found in our striking classes and is easily recognizable with her red gloves and purple tinted hair! She’s colorful, confident and the keeper of time for all our rounds in Toohey’s Boxing classes. When you hear her voice ringing out “TIME!”…you know you’re getting a break and a well deserved rest. Read on to find out more about our sweet, sassy striker- Jackie!
Occupation: Creative Support
Martial Arts/Sports: Boxing and Muay Thai
How did you get into the sport?
A friend of mine told me to check out a gym with her and next thing I knew, I was hooked!
What are your immediate training goals?
Perfecting techniques and clinching more.
What are your goals for the next five years?
To work my way up to sparring classes and overall strength.
Why do you love training at Absolute MMA?
Why wouldn’t I love training at Absolute? From the moment I walk into the gym, the vibe is there for me. Just the whole social feel of it all and being able to train with people who are there to grow their skill sets or just to get their workout in for the day. Everyone is so sweet and willing to help you grow whether you may be a beginner or a pro.
What is your favorite move?
Hooks for Boxing, Right kicks and elbows for Muay Thai.
Favorite workout/walkout song?
Currently: Carmouflage Rose – Wildflowers, Tamia – Leave it smokin, Buddy – Trouble on central, DJ Snake – Taki Taki.
What do you like to do to relax besides training?
Watch Taiwanese drama’s, Netflix, hikes, aerial yoga and travel mainly.
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 grew up in Malaysia for half of my little life then migrated to New Zealand and grew up in Auckland till I graduated. I moved to Los Angeles then San Francisco right after then traveled the world for almost 2 years. Life happened, and I was running out of money, so I moved back home to New Zealand for a year to be with family and saved up to travel all over again. After another year of travelling and volunteering, I decided to move to Melbourne for a few months, but a few months grew to a year and I just never left.
Who are the kind of people that you look up to and why?
Strong, kind, independent, open minded, friendly and just a down to earth person whoever it may be. I always strive to be a better version of myself on a daily basis, and I respect human beings who can be their true selves and respect one another. You should always treat people the way you would like to be treated. Finding the strength within is the hardest and yet the best part of the journey.
What’s your favorite place to eat in Melbourne and your #1 dish recommendation?
Dodee Paidang is the best Thai spot in Melbourne so far. Their “Som Tum” is a legend. I’m not a huge fusion fan but Lucy Liu is one of the spots I would recommend for sure.
If you could go back in time to your first martial art class, what would be the advice you give to your past self?
Chill out and be patient. Work on your techniques and don’t be afraid, you will be a pro in no time.
“Jackie is fun girl to be around…she funny girl, and friendly. She always training hard and be on time.”- Coach Laos Toohey
“It’s always a great session when you see Jackie in a class. Her attitude and upbeat personality is highly contagious. Plus she has some killer dances which is a good distraction.” – Karman Moodley
“Jackie is one of the most determined ladies I know both in and outside of the gym. Having started at Absolute MMA together, I’ve seen her push herself out of her comfort zone and work hard to progress and improve her technique. Within the space of a year she has nailed the high kick, by asking for advice on her technique, practicing before and after class and pushing herself each week to do better than the last. Not only is she one tough cookie but underneath her tough exterior is the most sweetest, loyal and loving souls you’ll ever meet.”- Priya Johal
“Don’t let this lady’s resting stone face scare you off – come up to level 10 at 5.30pm and you’ll see J-Tan busting moves and cracking jokes in between the combos. One of my faves – always making training fun and putting up with whatever my ‘training mood’ might be for the day… what more to ask for! Lots of love J-Tan, you da best xx”- Linnea Waestberg