Meet Jacob Brinnand | Martial Arts Master

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jacob Brinnand and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jacob, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Hello everyone, my name is Jacob A. Brinnand, and I am what you would call a lifelong martial artist. I’ve dedicated myself to the pursuit of mastery in the martial arts, both personally and professionally. Some people never aspire to teach—they just want to excel at fighting. Teaching, however, is a very distinct skill. It’s not simply about getting paid to train; it’s about patience, breaking down complex concepts into digestible parts, and building students up from the ground up.

To illustrate, imagine trying to teach a three-year-old. This isn’t a hypothetical—I have three-year-olds in my classes, alongside five-year-olds who’ve never played a sport. You have to approach it like a meditation, distilling advanced techniques into their simplest forms and presenting them in a way that’s both challenging and enjoyable.

Then there’s the business side. I once thought that you needed complete mastery over martial arts to own a gym. But after studying under four high-level masters for over 20 years, I found that business acumen was just as essential. In fact, we signed up 120 students without leveraging my credibility as a martial artist—just solid business practices. Running a martial arts school requires a fusion of teaching excellence and business management: teaching with patience and clarity, and operating a sustainable business.

Managing work-life balance has been a journey, but it’s all about refining both skills and systems. Teaching gives me purpose, and running a business teaches me resilience. With time, I’ve come to see balance as adapting to what’s necessary for each part of the journey.

When I was graduating high school, I was told, “Do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life.” I took that advice to heart and set out on a lifelong mission to one day become a master of martial arts. This passion has guided my life, and while it hasn’t always been easy, it’s given me purpose. The journey has been challenging—training under four high-level masters, teaching students of all ages and levels, and learning the ins and outs of running a business.

Finding balance has been an evolving process, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Each day brings its own learning and growth, and it’s been a testament to the idea that pursuing what you love isn’t always effortless but makes every step worthwhile.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My martial art is a blend of tradition and modern application, a journey that’s evolved with years of testing, adapting, and blending styles. What makes it unique is the fusion of traditional martial arts with a solid MMA and kickboxing foundation. I believe that sparring is essential right from the start—it’s the ultimate test of technique and mindset. While traditional martial arts often delay sparring, I teach my students to spar early on, then show them how the techniques and principles of traditional arts elevate their skills. It’s about proving that tradition has a powerful place in today’s world, offering depth beyond technique.

Getting here wasn’t easy, and that’s where the greatest lessons lie. I didn’t run from challenges; I adapted and transformed. I’ve faced criticism, even threats, for promoting traditional martial arts. Some people are closed off, stuck in the idea that their art is the best, but I’ve always stayed open, willing to test, fail, and grow.

The journey has taught me resilience, patience, and the power of putting your head down and focusing on the path. In time, things began to align as if by synchronicity. It took 20 years to break into the industry, but when success came, it was like everything I’d worked for clicked into place all at once. My message to the world is this: visualize your success, strive for it, and fight for it with patience. The universe supports those who reach for something greater and are willing to put in the work to make it happen.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Here’s a condensed 5-day adventure for an unforgettable week with my best friend:

Day 1: Cultural Exploration
Morning: We’d start at the Teo Chew Chinese Buddhist Temple—a serene experience with stunning architecture and peaceful energy.
Afternoon: Next, we’d visit the Indian Temple in Sugarland, where the colors, carvings, and atmosphere bring a sense of spirituality and wonder.
Evening: Dinner at a Chinese all-you-can-eat buffet for a laid-back, flavorful end to the day.
Day 2: Culinary and Cultural Immersion
Morning: Start the day in the Mahatma Gandhi District, exploring Indian markets, picking up some spices, and maybe tasting fresh Indian sweets.
Afternoon: Lunch at a favorite Mediterranean spot for delicious shawarma and falafel.
Evening: Dinner in Chinatown, enjoying classic dim sum and the vibrant, authentic flavors of traditional dishes.
Day 3: Fun and Games
Daytime: We’d spend the day at Andretti Indoor Karting & Games—kart racing, arcade games, and laser tag, bringing back the joy of childhood.
Evening: Dinner in the Filipino Food District, trying dishes like adobo, lumpia, and a sweet halo-halo for dessert.
Day 4: City Vibes and Quiet Moments
Morning: We’d start the day with a quiet walk at a nearby nature spot, enjoying the fresh air and time to chat.
Afternoon: Head downtown to explore the city, checking out local shops, some street art, or a small gallery.
Evening: Dinner in Little India for bold flavors and rich, authentic Indian dishes.
Day 5: A Farewell Feast and Reflections
Morning: A relaxed morning revisiting any favorite spots from the week.
Afternoon and Evening: Finish with an epic farewell meal at an authentic Southeast Asian restaurant, savoring every last bite and toasting to a week well-spent.
This itinerary brings out the best in authentic cultural experiences, amazing food, and a mix of peaceful and playful moments. It’s all about sharing the things I value most with someone close to me.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely, I’d love to give a shoutout to the incredible teachers and mentors who’ve shaped my path. In every story, article, or write-up, I make sure to honor them, as I owe so much to their guidance and wisdom. I dedicated my life to learning from them and following their advice, and they are truly the foundation of everything I teach today.

First, there’s Great Grandmaster YC Wong, a true master of Kung Fu, who taught me the value of precision and tradition. Then, Great Grandmaster Crispulo “Ising” Atillo, the incredible master of Atillo Balintawak Arnis-Eskrima (Original Saavedra Style), whose depth of knowledge in the Filipino martial arts left a lasting impression. Kathy Long, a five-time world champion kickboxer, pro fighter, MMA expert, and Kung Fu San Soo master, was a huge inspiration in the art of endurance, focus, and resilience. Finally, Rene, a Navy SEAL who served during the Cuban Missile Crisis and is a master of Pentjak Silat and Wing Chun, taught me the importance of versatility and courage.

Each of these teachers poured their experience, dedication, and expertise into my journey. Only after years of dedicated learning did I develop my own methodology, blending their teachings into a system that I now openly share with others. They are, without a doubt, the reason I am where I am today.

Website: https://premiermartialarts.com/texas-houston/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pmabarkercypress/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PMABarkerCypress

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/premier-martial-arts-barker-cypress-no-title?osq=premeier+martial+arts+barker+cypress

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@PremierMartialArtsBarkerCypres

Image Credits
Premier Martial Arts. Barker Cypress. Jacob A. Brinnand.