“I was twelve when I first started my martial arts journey. I was a smaller skinny kid most of my life. At a young age due to abuse I had my confidence stripped from me. I was initially inspired by Bruce Lee and other movie martial artists. I was drawn the idea of being able to defend myself but I felt I was physically unable. Regardless, at twelve years of age I started mowing lawns to get money for karate classes. After a few months of training I naturally felt empowered to stand up to my abuser. I’ll never forget the respect I instantly received once I stood up for myself and fought back. It was the oddest thing to understand back then but I was never abused again.

The importance of self-defense training cannot be overemphasized. The world can be a dangerous place. Learning to defend yourself and the people you love from those who would do you harm is an important part of staying safe and being a more confident person. As my path continued throughout the years I trained in various styles, including judo, aikido, kendo, kickboxing and kempo. To me something about them all felt incomplete. It wasn’t until I found bjj and Pistol Pete that everything made more sense. Bjj gave me a real world view on self defense that all the other martial arts didn’t give me. Bjj contains the tools needed for some of the worst possible situations you might find yourself in. The psychological benefits of self-defense training extend far beyond physical protection. By boosting confidence, reducing anxiety, improving focus, enhancing emotional resilience, and fostering a sense of empowerment! Martial arts saved my life. Let it save yours!”

Andreas is turning 61 and has won every major IBJJF tournament in every belt except black.

Andreas spends much of his training time with lower belts teaching them to smash their opponents.

“I came to Pete when i was 49 years old because I knew he could teach me how to save my life, but also win world championships. It was a great choice.”