JWF: More than a team
Upon entering James White Fitness for the first time one might expect a very serious group of people, after all, its a gym specializing in combat sports. However, that expectation could not be further from the truth.
JWF is place created and maintained by a passion and love not only for Jiu-Jitsu, MMA and Muay Thai, but also for those within the gym who make up its ranks.
This passion is evident everyday from the moment you step in, from the second you enter those doors you will be greeted by smiles and warm welcomes.
Owners James and Samantha White are living embodiments of this enthusiasm
No matter the day of the week, when you enter the gym you can safely expect to see the two of them excitedly preparing to teach class. Their passion is not only evident in their words, but also their actions.
Each day they bring the same positive and uplifting energy as the day before. It doesn’t matter if you’ve been at the gym for a week or a year, they will treat you as one of their own, as part of their family.
With this comes an atmosphere of unprecedented learning and understanding, James is sure to instruct each person on the ways in which they can improve their craft on the mat.
When teaching a technique all eyes are on the center of the mat, moving with an almost rhythmic precision James will demonstrate the moves for the day. With the conclusion of each demonstration a clap will be heard on the count of three. Then it’s time to begin.
Being a combat sport does not mean aggression is key in Jiu-Jitsu, in many ways, technique and patience will carry you far further. James emphasizes the correct execution of techniques above all else.
This dedication to technique and the team are only a couple of factors in what has created one of the most successful gyms in the state and beyond.
There’s something undeniable about the culture that James and Sam have created in their gym.
You can practically feel it in the air.
Following Jiu-Jitsu class James will then transition over to kickboxing/Muay Thai class. Rather than the slams and slaps of the mat, you’re treated to the rhythmic beating of pads by punches and kicks.
The art of striking is a matter of nearly invisible details and split second reactions, something James stresses heavily. Each and every movement has to be made with an intent.
Time to clean up.
Each and every day we end together and James will wheel out a bucket and two mops. Without even a word most days, members of the gym will make their way over and begin cleaning down the mats and gear. There is an incredible respect for the space.
Each day after class when everyone has left James will begin to shut down the lights and lock up the doors, finally concluding what has been a long, but good night. The best part is, we get to do it all again the next day.
JWF is located at 1309 24th Ave SW, Norman, OK, United States, Oklahoma
REFLECTION
As I reflect on my blog post about James White Fitness, I can’t help but think about the difficulty of capturing the gym’s spirit in words. When I first walked into JWF, I had certain expectations due to its specialization in combat sports. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The passion and love that James and Samantha White have for their gym and its members is undeniable. From the moment you step in, you’re greeted with smiles and warm welcomes. It’s clear that the Whites treat everyone as part of their family, regardless of how long they’ve been at the gym.
The dedication to technique and the team is only a couple of factors in what has created one of the most successful gyms in the state and beyond. James is an excellent instructor who emphasizes the importance of correct technique above all else. His teachings create an atmosphere of unprecedented learning and understanding.
Another thing that struck me about JWF was the respect for the space. Every day after class, members of the gym would come together to clean down the mats and gear without even being prompted. This respect for the space creates an atmosphere of mutual respect and support.
Despite JWF being a gym specializing in combat sports, it’s not all about aggression. James stresses the importance of patience, split-second reactions, and nearly invisible details when it comes to striking. This creates an atmosphere of mindfulness and intentionality.
All in all, JWF is an incredible gym that embodies the passion and love that James and Samantha White have for their craft and their members. It’s a place where you can come to learn and grow, both as an athlete and as a person. And the best part? You get to do it all again the next day.
