Method MMA’S MEMBER SPOTLIGHT OF THE MONTH

• PengYiqiong 
• Occupation :Auditor 
• Age: 33

Meet Sammi, one of Method MMA’s fiercest white belts. She recently had an outstanding performance in her first Gi competition at the GCJJF in Shanghai, where she competed in the White Belt Gi Women’s Division (64kg, Master 1) and took home the gold medal！

Sammi joined the team last July, initially to accompany a friend until she realized her own passion for jiu jitsu. She can usually be found on the mats during weeknights, training both Gi and NoGi. We’re super thrilled to have Sammi with us and are looking forward to witnessing her grow (and smash more competitors!) along her journey!

Training Experience

Q: Which class is your favorite and why?

A: At first, I started with Gi classes, but later gained an understanding of ‘NoGi’ techniques. I find the variety of grips and positions in Gi training intriguing for controlling and submitting opponents. 

Q: What’s your favorite BJJ technique or move?

A: Spider guard

Q: How have you seen yourself progress since you started?

A: I’ve learned a great deal, particularly about human anatomy (body?). Through consistent training, I’ve also noticed significant improvements in my fitness.  

Q: What has been the most challenging aspect of your training?

A: My endurance has been a weak point; I need several rounds of rest after each sparring session.

Community and Atmosphere

Q: Who are your favorite training partners and why?

A: Jiang 14, she introduced me to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and she is also my first training partner.

Q: How have the coaches at Method MMA impacted your training journey?

A: The coaching team at Method provides very detailed and clear explanations of techniques during classes, which helps me better understand and learn the relevant skills.

Q: Can you share a memorable moment or achievement since joining?

A: During my first Wednesday evening sparring class, right after a wrestling session, I was wearing just nogi gear. I didn’t know much about nogi techniques, and most of the sparring partners were bigger guys, so I hesitated to join in and ended up sitting on the sidelines to watch. Charlotte noticed and kindly took off her gi top, inviting me to spar and introducing me to the other training partners. I’m deeply thankful to her!

Disclosure

Q: What were your first impressions of the gym and the community?  

A: The gym is very clean and tidy, with a relaxed atmosphere.

Q: Share a fun fact about yourself that your gym mates might not know?

A: I have four cats at home.

Q: How was your first competition experience?

A: I was super nervous before it began, but once the match started, I totally forgot about it.

Q: How did you feel winning the first match?

A: I felt really happy! My match didn’t start until after 6 pm, and it was my first time competing. I was nervous all day before the match. After it ended, my mind was both 

excited and exhausted.

Q: What were you thinking about during the match?

A: I reminded myself to stay calm and control my opponent before making my moves.

ABOUT THE COMPETITIONG

Q: Was it a Gi or No-gi competition?

A: It was a Gi competition.

Q: What advice would you give to white belts competing for the first time?

A: Focus on protecting yourself—safety comes first, competition second.

Q: Will you be competing again in the future?

A: Definitely, I plan to keep competing!

Beginner

Q: How have the beginner classes helped you in your BJJ journey?

A: They have helped me understand various basic concepts, positions, and guards in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Q: What advice would you give to someone just starting their BJJ journey?

A: Learning to protect oneself and training partners is essential for maintaining long-term physical health.

Q: What should new members expect when they join Method MMA?

A: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a discipline that requires both quick application and long-term accumulation of skills. Here, one can rapidly learn many practical techniques but also needs sustained dedication over time.

Personal Insights

Q: What benefits have you experienced from training at Method MMA (physically, mentally, socially)?

A: I’ve discovered a sport that I really enjoy. After each class and sweating it out, I feel refreshed and revitalized. Through consistent training, I’ve also noticed improvements in my overall physical condition.

Q: What keeps you motivated to train regularly?

A: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is an endless learning sport, with new insights gained from each class and training session.