Joanna is an IBJJF World Champion in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu from 2017, IBJJF European Champion from 2018 and a 2018 UAE Grand Slam Champion. 

We met with Joanna to ask her all about her career, and achievements in BJJ, as well as her training and nutrition

Thanks so much for getting together with us Joanna! Can you tell us about your journey into martial arts?

I’ve been drawn to martial arts from a very young age. I used to watch Van Damme and took much inspiration from his film performance. I pretty much have always known that martial arts would be a big part of my life. 

Have you loved sports and being active?

I have, I would take up nearly every sport available, including kick-boxing, athletics, basketball, table tennis and volleyball to name a few. 

How do you find it being a female athlete in a sport that has been more male-dominated?

 It has definitely been challenging. Years back I was often the only female in clubs I trained at, but it strengthened me mentally now that I think about it. It was tough physically, as I’d more often than not come back home in pain and covered in bruises. There is a certain truth in the cliche that states: ‘What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger’, the only prerequisite being you just have to be ready for it, really. It takes a certain type of mentality to take that type of physical and mental challenge on board. 

What does a week of workouts look like for you?

At the moment I aim for variety. I mix it up, combining few Jiu-jitsu sessions, with one kickboxing and one boxing workout per week.  I add yoga and gymnastics to increase mobility, balance and flexibility. 

My workout during pre-competition time will change, adding focus on strength training and sprints. I have found resistance training strengthens the body and helps prevent injuries. 

And what does a typical day look like for you?

My first activity in the morning is a short meditation and stretch.

If possible, I try to add a 20 minutes’ nature walk either before, or between working hours. The rest of the day will really be about combining my own training and coaching. 

How important is focusing on your recovery?

Recovery is an integral part of an athlete’s life. Every training routine carries with it certain imbalances that continuously need to be addressed in order to maintain the body in a state of equilibrium. I work with masseurs and physiotherapists to achieve this. I also use natural supplements for recovery and relaxation like my favourite - Truth Origins Curcumin.

Do you meditate at all for performance?

I use meditation, visualisation and breathing techniques. I believe that strong mindset is crucial when it comes to athletic performance.

What are your hobbies/passions outside of MMA?

I love to travel and explore the world. There is so much out there to be discovered, and I can never get bored of venturing out to an exciting location I haven’t been before. 

What keeps you motivated?

The passion and love for Jiu-jitsu.

I see it as an incredibly powerful martial art with the potential to change peoples’ lives- it boosts confidence, teaches discipline and respect and it’s also a very humbling sport. Once you get to fully discover Jiu-Jitsu, you will realise how deeply philosophical and spiritual it is. 

Do you have any future goals you're working towards?

I would love to take my work online and offer supportive programs for students worldwide. I also see martial arts as a great empowering tool especially for females and this is where I focus my energy and I hope to continue this work on a larger scale. I’d like to be a source of inspiration to others and help people achieve their goals and change their lives in a healthy, positive way.