Hidden Gems: Meet Jon Porter of BlackBird Martial Arts And Self Defense Academy

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jon Porter.

Jon, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
When I was growing up I was always a fan of action movies, specifically with Jean Claude Van Damn and Jackie Chan. When I turned 14 I joined a summer martial arts and self defense program at Massillon Self Defense Academy. I was not expecting to immediately be hooked. For the next few years I trained and developed a true passion for martial arts. By the time I was 18, I had earned my 1st degree blackbelt. I told my instructor my goal was to one day open and run my own gym to extend the skills and knowledge with the next generation. After briefly teaching at the YMCA and the local rec center, I attempted to open my own place at just 19 years old and it lasted a whole 3 months! I felt like it wasn’t going to happen as life went on and I got busier, becoming very discouraged. I had moved on to other things and slowly slipped away from working toward my goal. Several years later at 28 years old, the passion and drive I once had as a teenager came back and I began working towards being more organized and prepared to take another shot at it. Now 7 years since, I am the sole owner and instructor at BlackBird Martial Arts and Self Defense Academy, loving every second of it!

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It’s been a long and tough journey. When I first opened my dojo there were not any students signing up or transferring. Then the unexpected happened with covid. Which made a business like mine, especially being so new, almost impossible to stay open. During this time many established martial arts schools did close down. For the first 4 years I was open, I only had 3 students total. I worked a full-time day job, while teaching in the evenings just to pay the rent for my business in hopes of staying open. It was very difficult financially, but I made some sacrifices, and all the hard work and extra hours have paid off. We now have a strong foundation of students, who I am very proud of.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At BlackBird Martial Arts we specialize in traditional martial arts, modern self defense and personal safety. I am a local small business that provides martial arts and self defense classes to both kids and adults. We have classes for ages 5 and up covering everything from street self defense to competition training, as well as weapons training and self defense seminars for private groups, businesses and individuals. I am proud of my brand because it’s unique and one of a kind as represents strength and fearlessness in which I strive to instill into my students. We are not a chain brand. It is local and my students and parents feel as if they are my own family.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Martial arts is great for everyone, physically, mentally and emotionally. You can start at any age and learn something no matter where you are in life. It brings about peace and respect to anyone who is training regardless of the style. There is a unity and mutual respect amongst all martial artists.
If you are interested in classes, reach out to your local dojo and ask questions! If you are in our area feel free to contact us! Thank you!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Blackbirdfitness.us
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbmasda330?igsh=aHhvMm1iZTh3aWFx
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17unNgzGs5/