We had the good fortune of connecting with Ka’imi Kuoha and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ka’imi, what do you attribute your success to?
As a self-defense trainer, what makes me successful is the success of my students. Many of them come to me with no martial arts or even athletic training. When I show them what they are capable of and teach them skills they can use in real-life situations, I see their confidence grow. As we practice drills together, they get stronger, more focused, and they push the boundaries of what they thought they could do. It is always my hope that they never find themselves in danger, but I know that if they are attacked, the skills I teach are effective. A few years ago, one of my young students was attacked in a park shortly after we began working together and using the techniques she learned, she was able to defend herself and escape. What I teach can save a life and that’s what gives me purpose.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
A training program is only as good as the people behind it. With Othentik Gym, you’ll have a mentor rather than a traditional trainer. These professional athletes and dancers are highly skilled in their fields and are uniquely qualified to design breakthrough programs that deliver not only results but dramatic improvements in quality of life. We can pair you with a mentor that matches your fitness goals in your preferred discipline. Choose from Athletic Training, Dance, Martial Arts, Pilates, and Yoga. We now offer live interactive classes online. I am excited to constantly evolve with such an amazing group of athletes, we are a team and a family! “Easy” doesn’t exist in the business owner’s vocabulary. Don’t get me wrong, there have been a multitude of challenges along the way. The key to success, the way to push through is “adamant refusal.” What conditions or circumstances or limits do you adamantly refuse to accept? My personal superpower and one that I believe has led me to success is the determination which is by definition, firmness of purpose. When you lose sight of the purpose it is then that you waver. You need to have a big emotional purpose that gives you the motivation to not give up…and then refuse to accept that it can’t happen. If there’s one thought that I could leave with others it’s that you can take nothing that you have received-only what you have given: a full heart enriched by honest service, love, sacrifice, and courage. This thought is my daily goal as a brand and who I am as a business owner.

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
There are so many amazing places in San Diego. The first restaurant on my list is Grains Cafe on Adams Avenue. I eat plant-based meals and this vegan restaurant is sure to impress all lifestyles. A trip over to the beautiful Sunset Cliffs in Ocean Beach and a little commute to Coronado island for a beautiful jog along the boardwalk would truly be a day full of sights and good vibes. Lastly James Coffee is a laid back gem tucked into Little Italy’s India street. My recommendation is a vanilla latte with oat milk 🙂

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Men have to see women not as competitors, but as partners. It is about being part of a team. All are equally important. I’d like to send gratitude to my partner Israel Palacio who champions my strengths and supports my success. There are a few diamonds in the rough and I am forever grateful to have found one.

Website: www.othentikgym.com
Instagram: @othentikgym @othentikproductions @kaimikuoha
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Image Credits
Othentik Productions