Today we’d like to introduce you to Timothy (Tim) Loomis.
Hi Timothy (Tim), please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I began martial arts at the age of 8. From the moment I stepped on the mat, I knew “this was for me!” In those days (the late 60s) most kids were doing baseball, basketball, and football while I was on the mat earning my first Black Belt at the age of 12.
Nearly 60 years later, I co-own a studio in Twinsburg, OH. I’m an 8th Dan Black Belt in Jiu-Jitsu, and Grand Master, 10th Degree, of Yi Ran Dao kung fu. My main personal training these days is T’ai Chi Ch’uan. I, and many of my students, have travelled to China twice visiting and working out with the legendary Shaolin Monks and Daoist Monks of Wudang Mountain. Our thriving school in Twinsburg offers classes for kids (5+), teens, adults, and senior adults in Minna Jiu-Jitsu (a self-defense), Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Kung Fu, and T’ai Chi Ch’uan.
Professionally, I graduated from Kent State University with a BBA in Computer Science. I worked in the factory automation industry for many years, then the IT world later. I retired from my professional life almost 30 years ago and founded my first martial art school. Until that time, I was teaching with my Jiu-Jitsu Grand Master at his school in Mayfield Heights for 27 years.
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?
Our martial art school has changed a lot over the last 30 years. We’ve moved locations around Twinsburg multiple times through economic downturns and the devastating affect of COVID. But, we’re now on stable ground in a wonderful space in Twinsburg’s main shopping plaza. As martial artists do, we hung in there and are positioned to continue into the next generation of future martial artists.
At the end of the day, the most important thing to me and my staff of instructors is that we can continue to present our training to those interested in learning. My wife often asks me, “how long are you going to do this” thinking I might retire some day. Though I’ve slowed down a bit, I can’t see myself ever stopping.
As you know, we’re big fans of Twinsburg Academy of Self-Defense. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I co-own the Studio with my partner Frank Charlillo who I’ve known for over 50 years. Both of us have a passion for teaching and enjoy introducing kids to martial arts. Our teens and adults come to us to learn self-defense skills and to get back in shape.
We two are a couple of the most highly ranked instructors in the NE Ohio area. We have a reputation for excellence and for presenting “real-world” self-defense training. Our school offers 4 complete programs of martial arts: Minna Jiu-Jitsu, Brazilian Jiu-JItsu, Kung Fu, and T’ai Chi Ch’uan. Whether the student is looking for a quick self-defense course or to attain a Black Belt themselves, our studio is the place to come in the NE Ohio area. We Want You!
I am frequently hired by area Corporations to present self-defense sessions for their employees. I have worked for Cross-Country Mortgage, Smythe-Cramer, Key Bank, Nestles/Stouffers, and many other fine NE Ohio companies.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
I was very lucky, at the age of 8, to find my “thing.” Many people never find it. Martial arts has always been a way of life for me and after 60 years I still get a thrill every time I step on the mat. Maybe you’ll get the same thrill I get. Call us (330) 237-9594 and come give it a try.
Pricing:
- $49 4-Week Starter Special
Contact Info:
- Website: https://theacademyofself-defense.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TwbSelfDefense
