Jayden Turner: Jiu-jitsu Training Partner and Medal Winner

Through Primate Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Tulsa, Turner has learned confidence, discipline, and how to have fun.

Jayden Turner once was a shy 7th grader who avoided sports and school activities because he had always felt that he could not compete with the other kids his age who were larger and stronger. And then Jayden was introduced to jiu-jitsu. At Primate Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Primate BJJ) in Tulsa, Jayden was taught self-confidence, strength, patience, discipline and, most of all, how to have fun. In a short three months after joining Primate BJJ, Jayden went on to win his first of many gold medals. His drive and discipline has helped him move from new student to go-to training partner at the young age of 12.

TK: How did you get into jiu-jitsu?

Jayden: I wanted to do a martial art, and my parents’ friends suggested jiu-jitsu. They told them it was great for kids.

TK: What is jiu-jitsu?

Jayden: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a self-defense art that was started by the Gracies (Portuguese Jiu-Jitsu) in Brazil. It mixes Japanese Jiu-Jitsu and grappling. I think it’s a fun hobby, and a great sport for anybody big or small.

TK: What has jiu-jitsu taught you?

Jayden: Jiu-jitsu has taught me that no matter how big or small, anyone can excel in the sport. It has taught me self-defense, and I have more self-confidence now.

TK: How has jiu-jitsu changed you?

Jayden: It has made me stronger, more outgoing, and helped me meet my best friends, Chase and Camden. It has taught me that you either win or you learn. You don’t ever lose.

TK: Have you competed in tournaments? What kind of medals have you won?

Jayden: Yes, in my first tournament, I won a gold medal. And I’ve placed silver, bronze and gold in several other tournaments since I started training in 2016.

TK: What is it like to be a “training partner” for new kids who join Primate BJJ?

Jayden: I think it’s fun to help other kids, and it’s helped me learn how to teach other people things, and helped me build my own skills.

TK: What advice do you have for anyone who wants to try jiu-jitsu?

Jayden: To never give up, even if it’s hard at first. It may seem boring sometimes, and sometimes it seems more fun, but keep trying because it always ends up more fun in the end!

TK: What other hobbies do you have?

Jayden: Playing the trumpet, reading and playing video games.

TK: Who inspires you?

Jayden: My coaches at Primate Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Matt and Kendall Vernon. Also my parents and stepparents.

TK: What are your plans and goals for the future?

Jayden: I want to open my own jiu-jitsu gym and earn my black belt. But first I want to go to college!

TK: A fun fact about you?

Jayden:  I grow my hair out long to donate it to children with hair loss. I’ve donated twice already.