Profile of Presenters
Sabumnim Mary Young – 4th degree
Florida, USA
Mary Young joined Gordon Martial Arts in 2012, where she became the Student Manager and later an instructor. Her martial arts journey, however, began several years earlier while living in North Carolina. While her two children were in school, Mary began training at a local martial arts school and eventually found herself teaching Jiu Jitsu to children. Once she caught the instructor bug, she began seeking out opportunities to learn wherever she could.
Mary’s interest in fitness is both professional and personal. Earlier in life, poor eating habits and a lack of exercise led her to weigh nearly twice what she does today. Deciding that enough was enough, she began what would become a complete lifestyle change and eventually a career helping others improve their own health and fitness.
Beginning in 2002, Mary worked extensively in the fitness industry and earned certifications in personal training, CrossFit, group fitness, and numerous specialty programs. Her training and continuing education have covered subjects ranging from youth and senior fitness to nutrition, eating disorders, prenatal fitness, strength training, cycling, aquatic exercise, and other group-fitness disciplines.
Then there is running.
Mary’s idea of “going for a run” is somewhat different from that of most people. Her endurance résumé includes the Boston Marathon as well as ultramarathons with distances reaching 100 miles. Over the years, she has combined that experience with her fitness background to help everyone from beginning runners preparing for their first 5K to experienced competitors working toward a personal record in the marathon.
Her own experience with major weight loss has also given her a perspective that cannot be learned from a certification course. She understands both the physical work and the mental challenges involved in making significant, long-term changes.
Mary also spent several years as an elementary-school teacher before ultimately leaving the classroom to return to Gordon Martial Arts. Today, teaching remains a common thread throughout her life – whether she is helping a new student find confidence, working with experienced martial artists, or using decades of fitness knowledge to help others become stronger and healthier.
Martial Arts Highlights
- 4th Degree Black Belt – Hapkido (2023)
- 3rd Degree Black Belt – Combat JuJitsu (2024)
- 1st Degree – Krav Maga (2022)
- 2017 Gulf Coast Martial Arts Championships – Adult Black Belt Self-Defense Champion