"I started training Arakan approximately 6 years ago, only really because my son had just started training and I thought it would be good to have something in common, as well as a fun way to keep fit. I wasn’t particularly concerned about self-defense because I had never really felt the need for it, and in the beginning I was probably more concerned about improving my fitness-test results than learning how to protect myself.
However it wasn’t too long after this that our house was broken into one night, whilst my family and I were all asleep in our bedrooms. It wasn’t until the morning that we realized what had happened, and that all of us had slept through the whole thing. Thankfully there was no harm done and only a bit of money stolen, but the next morning I can remember thinking how lucky I was that I slept through and didn’t wake up and have to confront the burglar - because I wouldn’t have had a clue what to do or how to handle myself, let alone protect my family…..and that’s when my attitude towards training changed.
Now, after many years of private and group lessons, some advanced weapons training, a few home invasion seminars and 3 other family members that train Arakan – look out if you ever try to break into our house!
"
- Aaron McBain
"There have been moments during my training where old daunting memories have been evoked; these are both challenging and confronting. Training in Arakan Martial Art has given me the tools to manage these memories and situations – making me increasingly more determined to pursue my training and reap the rewards"
- Aida De Demko
"My primary reason for learning self defence was of course to learn how to protect myself. However, once I started I realised it was about so much more than that. Not only do I have the skills to protect myself physically, it has also changed my mindset helping me to become more confident, aware and alert which has enabled me to grow as a person."
- Ally Serediuk
"Arakan Martial Art is giving me the confidence to believe that I could kick someone's butt if I really needed to! It’s also a really great workout. I have so much fun at training and I really look forward to each lesson."
- Andrea Blazkova
"Training in Arakan Martial Art allows me be prepared for situations if they get out of hand. It has helped my fitness and self confidence, by training in a fun and friendly atmosphere with wonderful, encouraging people."
- Anita Marie Abrahamsson
"Every woman NEEDS to do Arakan Martial Art. It will give you great inner confidence to be able to handle unwanted situations and best of all...it's a whole load of fun!"
- Anya Van Den Brink
"I started training in Arakan Martial Art initially for fitness and for fun (as I was becoming quite bored with the gym) but this has expanded beyond my wildest dreams. I feel very confident when I am by myself as the self defence training that Arakan provides is easy to learn, very practical and very realistic."
- Ashleigh Gerathy
"Not long before I started training in Arakan Martial Art I was held up in a pharmacy. I realised then that I had absolutely no idea of how to deal with this type of situation. Arakan is helping me to explore and develop another side to myself and I love the fact that if I ever felt threatened I might now have some idea of what to do. Starting Arakan is probably the best decision I have ever made."
- Cherie Stace
"I started training Arakan in 2011 as a fun way to spend some time with my wife where we could both learn a skill and meet new people. I started off with one private and one group lesson per week which quickly turned into 3 to 4 lessons per week because I enjoy it so much.
As an executive in a large business I face daily challenges in meeting the needs of staff and hundreds of customers which puts me under a lot of pressure. Arakan has given me a physical outlet for a lot of these pressures which helps me manage my stress levels.
As the training can be quite physical, Arakan has also helped me learn and push both my mental and physical limits which enables me to be more focused and clear headed when making decisions in my professional life. I’ve also met a lot of great like minded people through Arakan who are really positive and motivated."
- Chris Bradd
"To me, training in Arakan Martial Art is like buying insurance for my car or my house. I bought an insurance for my safety, at any time. I am my own bodyguard and what I have learnt will stay with me forever. My self-confidence has grown so much, I feel a lot more safe and in control."
- Danielle Cherrier
"When I started Arakan, I was a stressed out, overweight businessman who was very unhealthy and was close to going on medication for high cholesterol. After 3 months of training I lost weight, was much fitter and doctors informed me I no longer needed to go on medication.
I have been training for over 3 years now and have literally gotten my life back. I am now fit, healthy and strong both mentally and physically. I feel 15 years younger and have found that I no longer feel stressed about anything in life.
My relationships, work and all other aspects of my life have become much richer and successful and this is due to the unique and complete way Arakan instructors help you to grow stronger in mind and body.
The instructors are personal, caring and extremely dedicated to helping you unlock your true potential."
- Dave Mason
"Initially starting Arakan for fitness and self defence for myself and my wife, I didn't fully appreciate how practical it could be. Then after a few years the art starts to open up and you see where you may be in a few more years and enticing glimpses of the years after that.
Being taught by amazingly dedicated instructors amongst a diverse range of willing students without ego is a great and humbling experience.
"
- Guy Abrahamsson
"I just wanted to thank you for sending such a inspirational instructor to teach my son Andrew.
Grant Cosgrove came a month ago to start to teach my son Andrew Arakan.
I have only praise for Grant, he is not only kind and patient but has great knowledge.
My son is enjoying his sessions immensely, I have noticed changes in him since starting with Grant. He has grown in confidence in such a short time."
- Jenni Kinson
"I began Arakan Martial Art to learn to physically fight for myself. A year of training has increased my confidence, energy, awareness, fitness and conditioning. I’ve met great people, made new friends and attended seminars which test my skills in real-life situations. Each week I love rocking up and getting into my lessons with Instructors Jayson Osborne and Mark Boulten who challenge, inspire and train me to function outside my comfort zone. Quite simply, I never want to stop training!"
- Leisa Collins
"As a freelance photographer I am often on location at homes and businesses at night and meeting people for the first time. I carry heavy and expensive equipment and training in Arakan Martial Art has increased my strength and improved my awareness considerably by understanding my environment and any possible dangers."
- Linda Nogal
"
My Name is Lyle Wayne Davies, I am 54 years old
I started my journey in 2015.
My journey started when I shared some medical results with my son. I had been diagnosed with cirrhosis of the Liver, ultimately if untreated it would lead to further health complications and diminished quality of life. I asked my doctor what was the cause, I was told it was related to me being over weight (Girth Size). I asked what treatment I needed. I was told "Just lose weight".
I spoke to my family about my condition and what the doctor said. My eldest son , who also does Arakan, said "I have just the thing for you".
My first experience with Arakan was at a bring a friend night with the Master. My second was with Jono. I attended my complementary with Jono at Helensvale. That day I had 7 teeth removed. I didn't want this to stop me from turning up for my first lesson. 14 months on and I have lost the weight I needed to, thanks Serps/Corey. I had my annual medical (in June 2016) and have been given the all clear.
Initially all I wanted to do was lose the weight, I got a lot more.
Since joining Arakan I have
Lost weight (not sure how much but took 65mm off my waist)
Improved flexibility, fitness, durability, humility.
I understand that Arakan is a Martial Art, but I have seen positive changes in so many family members and friends because of those precepts and principles taught; more as an extension to the self defense that Arakan offers.
My wife, Jane, has seen the results of my Arakan experience.
Jane has started her own Arakan journey. I can see the difference it has made in her already.
I am grateful to our son for recognising a need and caring enough to share Arakan with us.
I didn't know anything about Arakan prior to my son starting his Journey.
I am grateful to Rob for the Legacy he is creating and would be honored to share my own experience.
"
- Lyle Davies
"My husband was away for work for weeks at a time and I was alone a fair bit. I wanted to feel safe on my own and be able to protect myself and Arakan Martial Art met this need perfectly and it continues to give me the techniques to be able to protect myself."
- Marcia Neaves
"
My son Deklan is a naturally kind and gentle boy, who as an only child has never had to endure the competition and ruff and tumble of other siblings. Reading how daunting and challenging schools can be these days I was very keen to get him involved in self defense but wasn’t sure what was going to be the best fit for him.
In a chance encounter at a community fate we saw the Arakan stand and after talking to the guys I was really impressed with how friendly the team was and how passionate they were to get Deklan into his first lesson. And here is the part that grabbed me the most, the training is done outdoors in parks and school grounds while wearing shirts and shorts and everyday shoes, now that’s real life training. We booked in straight away for our complimentary lesson and Deklan couldn’t wait to get started.
On the day of his first lesson Deklan was quite nervous but Ryan his instructor made him feel completely relaxed and the lesson was a great mix of training and learning through fun games. At the end of the lesson Deklan ran straight up to me and asked if he could do more training tomorrow and the next day, which was a sure sign he loved it. He has now been training for over 3 years and as much as Arakan is about learning self defense and getting fit I have seen Deklan grow in confidence, co-ordination, self respect and self belief.
Deklan now jumps at every opportunity to do extra lessons and group training and he totally loves going to school holiday training days and he wears his Arakan uniform with absolute pride.
I can honestly say I have been totally impressed with how Arakan has taught him practical, useable skills in real life environments and we look forward to many more years involvement with the Arakan family.
"
- Mark Sculley
"As a woman I am responsible for my own safety and Arakan Martial Art has given me the confidence to be able to defend myself if the situation arises. I started Arakan for weight loss and I achieved this, but I also gained so much more along the way; my journey has been incredible and I would recommend every woman give Arakan a go as it has changed my life. The ride is truly worth taking..."
- Mhari Bain
"
I am a student in Sydney. Aaron Moses is my instructor. Being a business owner with employees myself, it is always good to hear when your clients are happy with the service being provided. I have to say I started Arakan in feb 2018 only doing one day a week. Now just five months later I training 3hrs a week. I would have to admit a lot is due to Aaron’s motivation.
When I started in feb I was still smoking and doing almost no exercise. With Aaron’s always positive attitude and motivation I haven’t had a smoke for 4mths. I also now am running and doing regular exercise. I am fitter than I was in my 20’s or 30’s.
I look forward to every lesson and just feed off Aaron’s can do attitude.
I am not a person that usually does this and didn’t want to make a big deal about it. But I really feel that management there and especially Rob needs to know how good of a job Aaron is doing in Sydney.
My life has improved so much since starting Arakan training.
"
- Michael Cooper
"About a month or so into my training, I was in town on the way to the taxi stand after a night out, when a guy started to verbally abuse me from behind as he had mistaken me for someone else (as he was calling me another name!!). I turned around as my Instructor Jayson Osborne had taught me to be square to your opponent. As he continued to verbally abuse me I asked what his problem was and to go away! He threw a swing at me where I responded with a last resort cover then dropped him with a straight palm. When I awoke the next day I realized that if I hadn't learnt a last resort cover then things could have been a hell of a lot different! The thing I've learned most is that you’re never going to know when a situation is going to arise but the amazing skills and confidence you learn from Arakan can adapt to any situation you may encounter in your life even if you have just started out. Now I've been doing it for a year I have learned many more skills to help deal with those situations and it will only grow as I continue on my Arakan journey…"
- Nick Stowell
"A very good friend of mine held a party for his 17 year old son and my wife and I offered to help out with the general party stuff. All was well up until 9:45. A group of uninvited teenagers (party crashers) approached the front gate and despite of being told several times that the party was closed and that they would not be let in, the group got louder and started to climb on neighbouring fences.
I started to get surrounded by 5 or 6 of them holding open cans and bottles yelling abuse, my adrenalin started rising and I started to pick out my targets (just in case). Then it happened, a push…it was immediately answered by a back fist (guy in front of me), slight turn to the left and followed by a straight palm (guy to my left), it connected quite well and caused a bit of a domino effect. The rest of the group cleared out quickly and started to throw cans and bottles at us; luckily no one was hurt. Eventually the police arrived and scanned the area for those who started this mess. "
- Oliver Ihle
"Great Company and my Instructor Jayson is exceptional to work and train with. I have trained several different styles in my security career of 27 years and I find Arakan to be the most effective and professional by far.
In my business you have to be constantly at the top of your game and one step ahead and this style allows me to achieve that.
"
- Paradise Security Aust, M.D Andrew Csabi
"My fiancée and I were in Brisbane on a Saturday night to celebrate her 30th birthday. After a great night of drinking and frivolity we went to get a taxi back to a friend’s place, with whom we were staying. As with the Gold Coast the taxi queue it was lengthy but eventually our turn came. I let the girls go first as our friend was getting in the front to direct the driver. My fiancée got in the back behind the driver and as I opened my door a guy game from nowhere and shoved me to the ground. He then tried to get into the cab with the 2 girls pushing my fiancée across as she tried to stop him. I jumped to my feet, ran over, grounded myself and hit him with a straight palm and an elbow combination. He fell to the ground and I jumped in the taxi. I have only had approximately 2 months of Arakan teaching but I instinctively knew what to do following my Instructor’s advice. Arakan gave me the confidence, technique and power to protect both my fiancée and our friend. "
- Paul Duffy
"I was at the bus stop down from my house waiting to go to the gym, when a car pulled up. A guy jumped out of the car and told me to leave my ex girlfriend alone (I had been asking her to see my son). I told him to go away and stop bothering me but I knew that when he mentioned my ex there was going to be trouble so at that stage I got myself ready for anything. He then threw a right hook punch which I saw coming so I bridged it, stepping in at the same time with the right elbow then stepping back with the hammer. I tried to link it with a palm strike but I missed because I had already knocked him out with the hammer. I then got ready because there were more people in the car. They jumped out and began apologising to me saying not to hit them, and that they just wanted to get their friend so they grabbed him and drove off. After that I was excited about what I had done and how easy it was considering he was much bigger than me."
- Paul Mills
"I attended a work function. I left to head home to my wife and our new baby and for no reason I was jumped on from behind. I dropped this attacker as well as two of his friends who started throwing punches at me. Thanks to Arakan Martial Art and my Instructor for teaching me the necessary skills, and for giving me the confidence to handle these guys, and to get me home safely to my family."
- Phillip Pearce
"As a sole proprietor who works alone during the day, I felt it was time to take responsibility for my own safety and learn a new skill.
Arakan Martial Art looked like a fun way for me to start achieving my own fitness goals and has proved to be challenging, and very rewarding. A big thank you to the Arakan team for such an amazing experience so far"
- Phoebe Bignell
"I decided to start my Arakan Martial Art journey when I came to the realisation that I had absolutely no clue what I would do if I was to find myself in a threatening situation. I now have the confidence and a continually growing set of skills at my disposal in order to defend myself if required."
- Rebecca Adam
"I originally started training Arakan Martial Art out of curiosity back in June 2010. I was new to the Gold Coast, had always wanted to try a martial art and saw the sign for the office just around the corner from where I was living.
Previously I had spent years at various gyms and had sought costly personal trainers which kept me reasonably fit but i decided I may be better spending the money to learn how to defend myself should the situation ever arise.
What I discovered from Arakan Martial Art was so much more. Of course it provides all the fitness and conditioning one would expect from a martial art however it is the "fight logic" that really differentiates the art. You are taught to assess your environment and use it to your advantage. This includes not only aspects such as where to position yourself in a certain situation but also how to deal with obstacles a situation may possess. There are a multitude of different locations where the art is trained that cater for everybody e.g.. nightclubs, home invasion, In your car, dark alleys, wide open areas, parks, beach etc.
Another important aspect to the art is the culture within the club. Ego is left at the gate. All of the instructors are very humble which stems from the top and is evident throughout the club. As everyone's journey is their own, you are only asked to do what you are capable of and you are only challenging yourself.
On a personal note I have found Arakan Martial Art gives me a release from the day to day pressures of work, which in turn has allowed me to become a calmer person and think more rationally.
It never matters how bad my day has been walking into a lesson, I always walk out exhausted, full of knowledge, relaxed and with a smile on my face.
"
- Robert Mackay
"I originally started training in Arakan Martial Art as a form of self defence when there was a rise in attacks on women on the Gold Coast.
Being a small lady (all of 45kg), I knew that I would be an easy target for uncomfortable or life threatening attacks so I decided to take action and learn a form of martial art / self defence.
It has not been a year yet in my Arakan journey, but looking back I have never regretted the choice I made to learn this life changing skill. An added bonus is also becoming fitter and stronger than I’ve ever been before. I am much fitter physically and mentally than I could ever be, and this is just the start (still an Arakan baby), looking at life in a more positive way.
I highly recommend all women to learn self defence. From a woman’s point of view, it is a rewarding and empowering feeling to be able to be in control and take control of an uncomfortable or life threatening situation through the skill of martial arts / self defence"
- Saroeun Grantham
"I thought men’s fitness was simply cardio and strength, but in my late 30’s I realised the mind was equally important. My body was semi-fit but my mind was unchallenged thus making my entire body fatigued. Looking for fitness, with a purpose, I was introduced to a Burmese martial arts called Arakan. This practical and adaptable martial arts focuses on self-defence and promotes fitness and health. Three years on, my body and mind are physically and mentally stronger. For me, the money spent on Arakan has been an investment in my health. Arakan’s mantra is Power/Focus/Confidence. Instructors taught me Power comes within, Focus comes from a strong mind and commitment, and Confidence comes from overcoming struggle because only then do we feel success. Men’s health definitely requires a physical presence but more importantly a strong mind. Everything stems from our mind, whether it be our words, actions, reactions or beliefs. I will always be grateful for the culture AMA promotes with people’s health"
- Shane Grubb
"Since I started Arakan Martial Art in 2010 it has helped me to feel safer and not to panic as much as I did in the past. In this time I have gained confidence in myself knowing that I am able to protect myself when I go jogging in the evenings, early mornings and in situations that may occur in the future. It has raised my awareness of when another person is showing aggressive tendencies. I have also learnt to read situations better and hold my ground."
- Sharnee Burraston
"
I have been doing Arakan regularly since 2006, and I originally joined out of a starry-eyed idea of martial arts after viewing far too many movies.
The interesting thing is that while the fighting system is absolutely amazing, the gains I have made in other areas of my life have actually overshadowed the technical skills I have been taught. I've now been committed to Arakan longer than anything I've done in my life, (other than my marriage!), and it's certainly not because I have aspirations to become a professional cage fighter or something.
I cannot emphasise enough what it is like to regularly be around positive, motivated, and success orientated people. This extends from the instructors all the way down to the students.
These are people who live highly disciplined lives day in and day out and have strong character and convictions. Over a period of time I've noticed that my language, my outlook on life, and the way that I interact with others has changed. Problems now become challenges to be overcome, and I now have a very large network of friends that I was certainly missing before.
People ask my what Arakan is like, and why they should do it. It's extremely difficult to summarise, and I just tell them that it's the best thing I've ever done. Our whole family trains, and my children have been learning since they were 3 years old.
Becoming fighting fit is great, but becoming a better human being is awesome.
"
- Steve Gregory
"I’m in Barcelona in Spain at the moment, and was walking back to my hotel at 2am about half an hour ago. It’s known as a city of pickpockets and thieves, but the area where I was seemed ok. As I turned a corner, quite a large guy (well bigger than me) in a hoody came up of out the subway and stood in front of me motioning at my leather jacket. I couldn’t understand what he was saying, but I got the general idea. He tried to grab at me a couple of times, then swung a punch. I bridged his punch with my left hand and stepped straight in and backfisted him directly to his jaw. Josh would have been proud! I know he didn’t understand a word but I actually said the completely badass words “I trained ten years to meet you, is that all you’ve got!”
He stumbled back and took off running back into the subway. I was not even worried at the time, it was just like all the training but easier. I had no idea how automatic everything would be! My heart wasn’t even beating fast after, I was just annoyed. It wasn’t until I got back to the hotel just now that I realised what actually happened!
Thank you. I got to keep my leather jacket and out of hospital.
"
- Steve Gregory
"Since starting in late 2009, Arakan Martial Art has truly inspired me on a day to day basis. It has made me feel incredibly empowered and confident.
I now wholeheartedly believe in myself and my abilities, be it physical or mental! Having dealt with some nasty bullying issues from the past, this is what pushed me to train harder and faster, never wanting to become the victim again.
Today I am loud and proud thanks to Arakan and the amazing people involved!"
- Tim Pitchford
"Arakan Truly has given me a sense of purpose and meaning. Not only does it keeps fit, healthy, confident and safe, Arakan also gives me a huge amount of happiness. I laugh so much with my instructors and students and have some of the best relationships within the club, it takes alot of trust to allow someone to throw deadly strikes to the mark and know they will pull them up at last minute! I see the other instructors who have wives or girlfriends train and their kids train and it's just their life, and it's keeps them happy and healthy. This art is way more than a martial art. It can become a home if you are open to it and you can do this until you’re old and always learn something new! Sometimes I get home at 12 at night and get up at 5am to teach or I drive down the coast 4 times a week but it's all worth it for what Arakan gives me, I'm so proud and honoured to be a part of the club and get to do this."
- Tom Wilson
"I’ve sat to write this so many times and deleted more than I’ve written, either my words are too emotional or they just don’t capture the man that is Robert Kyaw.
The end of 2006 I started my journey with Arakan.
I thought I’d be learning a Martial Art, Robert Kyaw taught me about life.
He taught me the value of myself and ignited a fire that I previously hadn’t discovered, he gave me skills to protect myself and project my energy in a way I don’t attract harm in the first place. Robert showed me the value of community and being a part of such an incredible club I’ve always felt supported and loved whilst being stretched outside my comfort zone because Robert strives to bring out the best in you and show you just how much you’re capable of, even when you’ve lost faith in yourself, Robert’s belief in you continues.
Training Arakan Martial Art has been the only ‘exercise’ I have ever committed to and although I have had periods of training less I have never quit. The skills I learn and use in my everyday life are far too valuable for me to ever stop learning.
In the time I’ve trained Arakan I’ve discovered my life’s passion and live it everyday, the skills Robert has taught me opened my heart and mind and connected me to myself, helped me to work through trauma I had experienced and allowed me to use the experience to help others.
I will be forever grateful to have met Robert Kyaw, I consider him to be one of the most influential people in my life and am blessed to have him as an Instructor and a friend
Thank you for all that you do and all that you are Rob
I love you"
- Tracey McMahon