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Sue King (martial artist)

Sue King is a British martial artist, coach and instructor known for her adaptive style of Jujitsu.

She holds a 7th Degree Jujitsu black-belt, one of only a handful of female martial artists ever to reach this rank in the UK.

Sue is also a fully ordained Buddhist Monk

Early life and background

Sue King's martial arts journey began as a teenager in Liverpool when she joined a local self-defence course teaching basic jujitsu.

Sue studied at the Lowlands for seven years achieving Shodan in 1990 under the late Soke Robert Clark, 9th Dan & founder of the World Jujitsu Federation (WJJF).

In 1993 Sue left LJJA and begin training with Eric Marshall Sensei, 8th Dan founder and head of Bugei Ki Ryu Ju Jitsu. Sue remained with BKR until 2005, achieving the grade of 4th Dan.

Martial Arts Career

King's martial arts background is diverse, encompassing training in traditional Jujitsu, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), Sambo, Judo, Escrima (DOPKFS), and Yang and Sun style Tai Chi. She has extensive experience in practical self-defence, shaped by real-world application during her time working as a bouncer and in close protection. This hands-on experience influenced her teaching philosophy, which emphasizes adaptability and understanding one's body in high-pressure situations.

In her teaching, King encourages students to "find what works," allowing for personal interpretation and application of techniques. Her seminars focus on practical self-defence and mental resilience, drawing from her cross-training experience and her Zen spiritual roots.

Teaching and Team Mushin

King is the founder of Muga Mushin Ryu Jujitsu and the head instructor at her Liverpool-based dojo. She also leads Team Mushin CIC, a Community Interest Company dedicated to providing accessible training opportunities. Through her school and Team Mushin, she offers affordable classes, operating on a volunteer basis and reinvesting all funds into the community. The school also runs scholarship programs aimed at supporting those facing financial or social barriers.

King teaches internationally and has been a headline tutor in Norway, where she is highly sought after for her workshops and seminars. Her international reach reflects her dedication to sharing martial arts beyond borders.

Community Engagement and Advocacy

King is passionate about using martial arts as a tool for positive change in the community. Through her school, Muga Mushin Ryu Jujitsu, and Team Mushin CIC, she runs several community outreach programs, including affordable classes and scholarships for those facing financial or social barriers. One notable initiative includes her annual Christmas movie night for children, which serves families affected by social isolation and anxiety in the L11 area. These programs are funded entirely through donations, and all funds raised are reinvested into the local community. King’s approach to teaching emphasizes not only physical resilience but also mental strength, and she encourages students to use martial arts as a pathway to personal growth and empowerment.

Advocacy and Mental Health

A key aspect of King's work is the connection between martial arts and mental health. She has developed online courses focusing on the mental health benefits of Jujitsu and advocates for martial arts as a pathway to self-discovery and overcoming adversity.

Public Speaking and Workshops

King is an experienced public speaker, delivering talks and workshops internationally on topics such as martial arts, mental resilience, personal growth, and overcoming adversity. She has been a headline tutor at martial arts seminars in Norway and regularly hosts events at her Liverpool dojo. Through her Warrior Monk Podcast, she extends these conversations to a wider audience, exploring the intersection of martial arts, philosophy, and mental health. King's work has been recognized in mainstream media, with appearances on BBC North West Tonight and BBC Sportsday. She is also the creator and host of the Warrior Monk Podcast, where she explores topics related to martial arts, mindset, and personal growth.

Personal Life

Rooted in Zen philosophy, King integrates mindfulness and meditation into her practice. Her teaching extends beyond physical techniques, emphasizing personal growth and mental resilience. In 2014, she was ordained as a Buddhist monk with StoneWater Zen, which is part of the White Plum Lineage.