Chris Maher

Brown Belt 2nd Degree

Chris Maher’s martial arts journey began in Grade 9 when he entered the world of boxing. As he delved into disciplines like kickboxing, Hapkido, and Krav Maga, it was Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) that truly captivated him.

During a Krav Maga grappling session, Chris found himself paired with a skilled female blue belt in jiu-jitsu, who showcased her dominance over him. This eye-opening experience led him to reevaluate his capabilities and motivated him to ensure he could handle any serious situation.

In 2011, Chris embarked on his BJJ journey at Boxing Works Sydney under the guidance of Romolo, earning his Blue Belt in 2015. Competing became an integral part of his journey, resulting in victories such as Silver at the 2016 NSW Summer Cup and Gold at the 2016 Sydney Cup, both as a Blue Belt. In 2018, he progressed to a Purple Belt under Romolo at Roleta Ju-Jitsu.

Chris firmly believes in the importance of competition in BJJ, as it allows practitioners to test their skills and uncover their true capabilities. In mid-2020, he relocated to Brisbane and joined Arte Suave, and continued to compete.

In 2021 he clinched the gold medal at the 2021 QLD State Championships. Later that year, Chris proudly attained his Brown Belt at Arte Suave, solidifying his commitment to ongoing growth and mastery. His journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of martial arts and his dedication to sharing his knowledge with others.

Motivated by his personal growth and inspired by his two daughters training at Arte Suave, Chris decided to become a martial arts instructor. His classes focus on practical techniques honed through years of experience. Emphasizing guard techniques and top pressure, he tailors his teachings to suit his students’ needs, adopting a structured approach that encompasses attacking positions and corresponding escapes.

Chris’s advice for first-time competitors is to master executing an armbar from the guard position while being ezekieled by an opponent. This challenging technique proves invaluable in crucial moments.

Reflecting on his earliest memory of BJJ training, Chris vividly recalls the thought of “I’m never going to get this…” However, his determination and persistence allowed him to overcome doubts and embark on a journey of continuous growth and improvement.

Arte Suave stands out for Chris due to its friendly atmosphere, fostering camaraderie among members. Head coaching staff with unparalleled expertise and excellent training partners make it an exceptional environment for learning and progression.