Lee Morrison founder of Urban Combatives, UK
This is a long overdue review of one of the best UC/Self Protection Instructors in Australia! Jimmy Armstrong is a full-time Instructor on the International Circuit! This dude will become World renowned with future exposure, mark my words! Please check him out and give him the full support he rightly deserves! Lee Morrison
Jimmy is one of the top Reality Based self protection & combatives instructors in Australia. British born Jimmy has been in Australia for over 20 years, having established his well known and legendary Garage gym in Glen Waverley area of Melbourne under his school name of Raw Combatives
Raw Combatives currently offers specialized training in the areas of combatives, RBSD, martial foundations and stick fighting. They are qualified and proud to teach the following systems: Nasubukang Arnis, Urban Combatives, Protect Self Defence and BareBones Combatives.
Jimmy is now a full-time instructor on the international circuit having taught seminars and workshops all over Europe and many other parts of the world.
Jimmy is known for his freaky impact power, unique drill for impact dynamics as well as his ability to access an explosive level of immediate violence.
Jimmy Armstrong has appeared in numerous martial magazines across Australasia and has become one of the most well known and respected figures within the self protection world that side of the globe.
Jimmy was born and raised in Newcastle upon Tyne and like most young men of that era gained a lot of experience fighting on the streets whilst growing up. Fast forward to age 23, Jimmy loves to Melbourne Australia where he now resides with his family and runs his famous Garage school Raw Combatives in Melbourne.
Jim has trained in the martial arts since the mid eighties. He has studied many martial method’s, mostly Thai/Filipino along with a variety of Reality based methods of RBSD/combative training in Australia.
Jimmy is 3rd generation full UC instructor as well as an instructor in Senshido International and Nasubukang Arnis.
Jimmy teaches out of his garage school offering a variety of classes, including UC and hosts Lee annually when he comes over to Australia. More recently Jimmy has a lot more exposure within the combatives scene and is currently (June 2017) on his own European circuit of seminars after joining the international circuit.
Over the years the legendary ‘Garage’ has hosted many great instructors including Richard Dimitri, Deane Lawler, Nox tee (also a full UC instructor in Sydney) of HardNox Combatives among many others.
Apart from his crazy sense of humour and fantastic comedy moments, including the sidesplitting impression of an emu and a Angel fish (ask Jimmy) Jim is known for his awesome impact dynamics that seem to combine the double hip method, with some Chinese influence and a touch of Systema wiggle that combined make you absolutely want to shit when Jimmy hits you!
His impact power has to be felt to be truly believed! Outside of that his blend of UC as well as other studied methods combine to make up his BareBones Combatives curriculum, which is well and truly on the right track to combative efficiency! Not to mention Jimmys single stick work which is so linear and combative, it is frankly scary!
I cannot recommend Jim Armstrong enough to anyone, he is worth taking a trip to visit and train with wherever you happen to be in the world! Jimmy is a true warrior and a gentle, funny man. I’m truly proud to call him a friend and a brother. Jimmy is available for private training, seminars and workshops in Australia and can be contacted via his web site.
Richard Dimitri - founder of Senshido International, Canada
Though I totally understand why Jim keeps to Melbourne in the comfort of his garage working at grass root level; Jim, in my most humble of opinions is world class and should be on the road internationally sharing his wealth of knowledge as he is truly unique and in a league of his own.
I have learned much and am continuously learning but I haven't, especially in the last decade if not more, learned something new that would literally change both my training and life from another self defense instructor.
With the industry being flooded by "NEW" self defense systems and supposed innovators, Jim isn't simply regurgitating other people's materials in a nonsensical salad for the sake of creating a new self defense system, he brings something new and truly his own to the overflowing table of cookie cutter self defense systems out there.
Though I totally understand why Jim keeps to Melbourne in the comfort of his garage working at grass root level; Jim, in my most humble of opinions is world class and should be on the road internationally sharing his wealth of knowledge as he is truly unique and in a league of his own.
I have learned much and am continuously learning but I haven't, especially in the last decade if not more, learned something new that would literally change both my training and life from another self defense instructor.
With the industry being flooded by "NEW" self defense systems and supposed innovators, Jim isn't simply regurgitating other people's materials in a nonsensical salad for the sake of creating a new self defense system, he brings something new and truly his own to the overflowing table of cookie cutter self defense systems out there.
Brian Ebersole - Former UFC Welterweight Contender Sydney, Australia
What a fantastic system, based on principles of movement and mind. The focus being on efficient movement and making efforts for maximum effect. The mental aspect of combat is the difference in success or failure to execute, but also the effectiveness of the effort. Jim does a great job showing how INTENT can alter a result..... and Jim works hard to ensure his students are physically improving but mentally equipped to handle a confrontation. That’s something that many systems are missing, even in high level combat sports. I’ve met plenty of ATHLETES that want to fight. Yet seem unable to process the actual confrontation when it comes. Physically capable yet mentally shut down, impeded by the reality of a combat situation.
I can’t give a stronger recommendation than I give to Jim Armstrong. His process has led to pretty impressive results in his own training and that of his students.
Jarrod Boyle - former super heavyweight professional Kickboxer and owner of Tyger Tyger Fitness Training Melbourne, Australia
I first encountered Jim Armstrong when I interviewed him for Blitz Martial Arts Magazine some years ago. I was intrigued by many of his ideas, particularly that self-defense isn’t about physical techniques as much as developing the necessary mindset for action.
In training, Jim showed me how to generate a sickening amount of force, more than I had seen anywhere in my twenty years of experience as a pro kickboxer and full-contact karateka. I have been hit by many of the most powerful fighters both in Australia and the world and Jim is on par with the most powerful of them.
The most remarkable aspect of his approach is the fact that he operates from a basis of genuine care and compassion for other people. When you’re trying to lower yourself into the crucible of a life-and-death situation, you want it to be with someone you trust.
Jim is that person.
Chris Roberts - Founder of Safe International, Canada
Jim is the full package! He teaches the highest quality material, and presents in an unforgettable manner with his humour and charm, BUT can back it up if need be! World class combative instructor who I am proud to say I have trained with and is a friend!
Nox Tauakipulu - Founder of HardNox Dynamics Sydney, Australia
I’ve said this before and I will say it again - Jim Armstrong is the best Combatives instructor in Australia, and of all the instructors/trainers I’ve come across in my 25 year martial journey, Jim ranks right up there with the best of them.
Not only will you learn a lot in every session/workshop/seminar with Jim, you are also guaranteed to have a good laugh. On top of that, Jim is one of the best human beings I know and am honoured to call him a friend.
Phil Thompson - International Director, Protect Training Systems Aukland, New Zealand
Jim Armstrong is without doubt one of the best combatives, martial arts, and self defence instructors in in the industry. Period. Training with Jim is always a pleasure, a challenge, a learning experience, and a brilliant laugh, all at the same time. However, after 30 years of training I've learned that it takes far more than just physical skill or teaching ability to be truly "stand-out", it also takes a genuine, caring and inspiring individual. Jim is one of the best men I have the privilege of knowing. If you have the chance to train with Jim and his team, you will never look back.
DOUG TUCKER FOUNDER OF NASUBUKANG ARNIS Melbourne, Australia
I was introduced to Jim in late 2007/ early 2008 through a mutual friend. Jim had invited me over to his place one Sunday morning after he had finished teaching to give a brief demo of Arnis for his guys and a chat. Within the first 10 minutes of talking to him I realised I had found a kindred spirit who shared the same viewpoints about the martial arts and the same irreverent sense of humour – though I’d have to say that Jims has developed to a much higher level than my own! Even though he’s been training for over 30 years and I’ve known him for a little over 10, I’ve watched in amazement at how much and how fast this man has grown and changed as a teacher and practitioner of the martial arts in that time. His thirst for knowledge is surpassed only by his desire to improve the lives of those around him and make the world a better place. It’s been a pleasure to watch. After 37 years in the martial arts it’s becoming harder and harder to be impressed by people but with my hand on my heart I have to say that Jim is among a very select group of individuals whom I find truly inspirational. Asides from his undoubted abilities as a teacher and his unique way of being able to connect with his students so that they might assimilate his approach and methods more easily, he is one of the most honest, passionate and civil minded people I have ever met – and I mean that in the truest sense of the word. His students are a great bunch who are not only capable but respectful and friendly too who admirably reflect their teacher. It’s been my great privilege to have crossed paths with this man and call him a good friend and brother in the arts.
David Bardos - founder of ARMD, Wagga Wagga, Australia
Training with Jim Armstrong is not only a delight, but a journey to the pursuit of excellence. He embodies the belief that anyone can study martial arts, but not everyone can teach it. I am amazed by his ability to see things from new points of view despite the fact that he has been teaching for a long time. This is a true testament to harnessing the power of mental acuity, and Raw Combatives cannot get any "more raw" than that.
Daily endurance, emphasis on key principles, kindness, strength, optimism and the will to power. This is Jim Armstrong at his finest.
Damien Martin - founder of Southern Cross Martial Arts, Ballarat, Australia
Jim is simply one of the best in the game, and not just the 'game' of teaching real self defence skills, but the game of life. Keep up the good work!
Jeff Phillips - Founder Western Combatives and Krav Maga Sydney, Australia
Jim Armstrong is one of the most knowledgeable personal protection instructors around. He has a knack for being able to bring the best out in students and communicating his knowledge and concepts so it’s easily understood & achievable. Jim’s seminars are engaging and his light-hearted approach makes it enjoyable & it’s all done without the macho nonsense characteristic of this industry. I would highly recommend training with Jim or hosting him to anyone!
Tristan Kealy - Self Protection Academy Melbourne, Australia
I've been training in martial arts and other combative art forms since the age of six and I can honestly say that Jim is probably the most knowledgeable reality based self defence instructor that I have come across. His understanding, comprehension and application of the body and the way it functions and moves is second to none. He has a unique ability to observe a person performing a particular technique or function and immediately see and address what that person is doing wrong and most importantly how to fix it. Once Jim explains something to you it always amazes me how his way is simpler, more direct and more devastating in its effect.
If you want to learn how to become a better person, how to avoid conflict and if it does actually come to it, how to defend yourself in REAL world situations. Then Jim is the best person in Australia to go and see!!! Oh and you will piss yourself laughing the whole time!!!
Dean Howard - owner of Fit FX and combat8 Muay Thai, Melbourne Australia
I have just completed my first session with Jim Armstrong at Raw Combatives and I genuinely cant say enough good things about it. Jims ability to break down, explain and personalize not only techniques but the principles behind them is second to none. If you have the chance to get down to Raw or to train with Jim himself don’t miss out, he has an absolute wealth of knowledge and experience to pass on. Looking forward to more training at Raw Combatives. Thank you again
Eric Lemaire - founder of 1912 Personal Protection Liege, Belgium
Jim is one of the best Combatives instructors I have met in my career in this field, but he's way more than that! He's a brilliant human being with the ability to reveal the best in everyone he teaches. If you have the opportunity to train with him, do yourself a favor and go for it!
Tuomo – Police officer, Senshido instructor and Damiam Maia black belt Oulu, Finland
Just trained with Jim Armstrong. After 27 yrs of training and teaching around the world all I can say is that Jim is one of the best self defence and stick fighting instructors I have ever met. Tough fighter, great teacher, humble person and great human being in one package. If you ever have the chance to train with him; Do it. What a great experience!!
Jani Luukkonen – Police officer and founder of Elukkatehdas Helsinki, Finland
I attended Jim’s seminar this January 2017 at Oulun Kamppailuklubi. Jim has an astounding amount of knowledge to him and he's really passionate about passing it forward to his students. No holding back.
With years of experience in the field, Jim showed us that there is still much to learn about combatives, and life in general. Never ready, always a student.
I highly recommend attending Jim’s class or seminar if you have a chance. It will be well worth your time, money and effort. Just watch out for the low kick... it hurts like hell.
This is a long overdue review of one of the best UC/Self Protection Instructors in Australia! Jimmy Armstrong is a full-time Instructor on the International Circuit! This dude will become World renowned with future exposure, mark my words! Please check him out and give him the full support he rightly deserves! Lee Morrison
Jimmy is one of the top Reality Based self protection & combatives instructors in Australia. British born Jimmy has been in Australia for over 20 years, having established his well known and legendary Garage gym in Glen Waverley area of Melbourne under his school name of Raw Combatives
Raw Combatives currently offers specialized training in the areas of combatives, RBSD, martial foundations and stick fighting. They are qualified and proud to teach the following systems: Nasubukang Arnis, Urban Combatives, Protect Self Defence and BareBones Combatives.
Jimmy is now a full-time instructor on the international circuit having taught seminars and workshops all over Europe and many other parts of the world.
Jimmy is known for his freaky impact power, unique drill for impact dynamics as well as his ability to access an explosive level of immediate violence.
Jimmy Armstrong has appeared in numerous martial magazines across Australasia and has become one of the most well known and respected figures within the self protection world that side of the globe.
Jimmy was born and raised in Newcastle upon Tyne and like most young men of that era gained a lot of experience fighting on the streets whilst growing up. Fast forward to age 23, Jimmy loves to Melbourne Australia where he now resides with his family and runs his famous Garage school Raw Combatives in Melbourne.
Jim has trained in the martial arts since the mid eighties. He has studied many martial method’s, mostly Thai/Filipino along with a variety of Reality based methods of RBSD/combative training in Australia.
Jimmy is 3rd generation full UC instructor as well as an instructor in Senshido International and Nasubukang Arnis.
Jimmy teaches out of his garage school offering a variety of classes, including UC and hosts Lee annually when he comes over to Australia. More recently Jimmy has a lot more exposure within the combatives scene and is currently (June 2017) on his own European circuit of seminars after joining the international circuit.
Over the years the legendary ‘Garage’ has hosted many great instructors including Richard Dimitri, Deane Lawler, Nox tee (also a full UC instructor in Sydney) of HardNox Combatives among many others.
Apart from his crazy sense of humour and fantastic comedy moments, including the sidesplitting impression of an emu and a Angel fish (ask Jimmy) Jim is known for his awesome impact dynamics that seem to combine the double hip method, with some Chinese influence and a touch of Systema wiggle that combined make you absolutely want to shit when Jimmy hits you!
His impact power has to be felt to be truly believed! Outside of that his blend of UC as well as other studied methods combine to make up his BareBones Combatives curriculum, which is well and truly on the right track to combative efficiency! Not to mention Jimmys single stick work which is so linear and combative, it is frankly scary!
I cannot recommend Jim Armstrong enough to anyone, he is worth taking a trip to visit and train with wherever you happen to be in the world! Jimmy is a true warrior and a gentle, funny man. I’m truly proud to call him a friend and a brother. Jimmy is available for private training, seminars and workshops in Australia and can be contacted via his web site.
Richard Dimitri - founder of Senshido International, Canada
Though I totally understand why Jim keeps to Melbourne in the comfort of his garage working at grass root level; Jim, in my most humble of opinions is world class and should be on the road internationally sharing his wealth of knowledge as he is truly unique and in a league of his own.
I have learned much and am continuously learning but I haven't, especially in the last decade if not more, learned something new that would literally change both my training and life from another self defense instructor.
With the industry being flooded by "NEW" self defense systems and supposed innovators, Jim isn't simply regurgitating other people's materials in a nonsensical salad for the sake of creating a new self defense system, he brings something new and truly his own to the overflowing table of cookie cutter self defense systems out there.
Though I totally understand why Jim keeps to Melbourne in the comfort of his garage working at grass root level; Jim, in my most humble of opinions is world class and should be on the road internationally sharing his wealth of knowledge as he is truly unique and in a league of his own.
I have learned much and am continuously learning but I haven't, especially in the last decade if not more, learned something new that would literally change both my training and life from another self defense instructor.
With the industry being flooded by "NEW" self defense systems and supposed innovators, Jim isn't simply regurgitating other people's materials in a nonsensical salad for the sake of creating a new self defense system, he brings something new and truly his own to the overflowing table of cookie cutter self defense systems out there.
Brian Ebersole - Former UFC Welterweight Contender Sydney, Australia
What a fantastic system, based on principles of movement and mind. The focus being on efficient movement and making efforts for maximum effect. The mental aspect of combat is the difference in success or failure to execute, but also the effectiveness of the effort. Jim does a great job showing how INTENT can alter a result..... and Jim works hard to ensure his students are physically improving but mentally equipped to handle a confrontation. That’s something that many systems are missing, even in high level combat sports. I’ve met plenty of ATHLETES that want to fight. Yet seem unable to process the actual confrontation when it comes. Physically capable yet mentally shut down, impeded by the reality of a combat situation.
I can’t give a stronger recommendation than I give to Jim Armstrong. His process has led to pretty impressive results in his own training and that of his students.
Jarrod Boyle - former super heavyweight professional Kickboxer and owner of Tyger Tyger Fitness Training Melbourne, Australia
I first encountered Jim Armstrong when I interviewed him for Blitz Martial Arts Magazine some years ago. I was intrigued by many of his ideas, particularly that self-defense isn’t about physical techniques as much as developing the necessary mindset for action.
In training, Jim showed me how to generate a sickening amount of force, more than I had seen anywhere in my twenty years of experience as a pro kickboxer and full-contact karateka. I have been hit by many of the most powerful fighters both in Australia and the world and Jim is on par with the most powerful of them.
The most remarkable aspect of his approach is the fact that he operates from a basis of genuine care and compassion for other people. When you’re trying to lower yourself into the crucible of a life-and-death situation, you want it to be with someone you trust.
Jim is that person.
Chris Roberts - Founder of Safe International, Canada
Jim is the full package! He teaches the highest quality material, and presents in an unforgettable manner with his humour and charm, BUT can back it up if need be! World class combative instructor who I am proud to say I have trained with and is a friend!
Nox Tauakipulu - Founder of HardNox Dynamics Sydney, Australia
I’ve said this before and I will say it again - Jim Armstrong is the best Combatives instructor in Australia, and of all the instructors/trainers I’ve come across in my 25 year martial journey, Jim ranks right up there with the best of them.
Not only will you learn a lot in every session/workshop/seminar with Jim, you are also guaranteed to have a good laugh. On top of that, Jim is one of the best human beings I know and am honoured to call him a friend.
Phil Thompson - International Director, Protect Training Systems Aukland, New Zealand
Jim Armstrong is without doubt one of the best combatives, martial arts, and self defence instructors in in the industry. Period. Training with Jim is always a pleasure, a challenge, a learning experience, and a brilliant laugh, all at the same time. However, after 30 years of training I've learned that it takes far more than just physical skill or teaching ability to be truly "stand-out", it also takes a genuine, caring and inspiring individual. Jim is one of the best men I have the privilege of knowing. If you have the chance to train with Jim and his team, you will never look back.
DOUG TUCKER FOUNDER OF NASUBUKANG ARNIS Melbourne, Australia
I was introduced to Jim in late 2007/ early 2008 through a mutual friend. Jim had invited me over to his place one Sunday morning after he had finished teaching to give a brief demo of Arnis for his guys and a chat. Within the first 10 minutes of talking to him I realised I had found a kindred spirit who shared the same viewpoints about the martial arts and the same irreverent sense of humour – though I’d have to say that Jims has developed to a much higher level than my own! Even though he’s been training for over 30 years and I’ve known him for a little over 10, I’ve watched in amazement at how much and how fast this man has grown and changed as a teacher and practitioner of the martial arts in that time. His thirst for knowledge is surpassed only by his desire to improve the lives of those around him and make the world a better place. It’s been a pleasure to watch. After 37 years in the martial arts it’s becoming harder and harder to be impressed by people but with my hand on my heart I have to say that Jim is among a very select group of individuals whom I find truly inspirational. Asides from his undoubted abilities as a teacher and his unique way of being able to connect with his students so that they might assimilate his approach and methods more easily, he is one of the most honest, passionate and civil minded people I have ever met – and I mean that in the truest sense of the word. His students are a great bunch who are not only capable but respectful and friendly too who admirably reflect their teacher. It’s been my great privilege to have crossed paths with this man and call him a good friend and brother in the arts.
David Bardos - founder of ARMD, Wagga Wagga, Australia
Training with Jim Armstrong is not only a delight, but a journey to the pursuit of excellence. He embodies the belief that anyone can study martial arts, but not everyone can teach it. I am amazed by his ability to see things from new points of view despite the fact that he has been teaching for a long time. This is a true testament to harnessing the power of mental acuity, and Raw Combatives cannot get any "more raw" than that.
Daily endurance, emphasis on key principles, kindness, strength, optimism and the will to power. This is Jim Armstrong at his finest.
Damien Martin - founder of Southern Cross Martial Arts, Ballarat, Australia
Jim is simply one of the best in the game, and not just the 'game' of teaching real self defence skills, but the game of life. Keep up the good work!
Jeff Phillips - Founder Western Combatives and Krav Maga Sydney, Australia
Jim Armstrong is one of the most knowledgeable personal protection instructors around. He has a knack for being able to bring the best out in students and communicating his knowledge and concepts so it’s easily understood & achievable. Jim’s seminars are engaging and his light-hearted approach makes it enjoyable & it’s all done without the macho nonsense characteristic of this industry. I would highly recommend training with Jim or hosting him to anyone!
Tristan Kealy - Self Protection Academy Melbourne, Australia
I've been training in martial arts and other combative art forms since the age of six and I can honestly say that Jim is probably the most knowledgeable reality based self defence instructor that I have come across. His understanding, comprehension and application of the body and the way it functions and moves is second to none. He has a unique ability to observe a person performing a particular technique or function and immediately see and address what that person is doing wrong and most importantly how to fix it. Once Jim explains something to you it always amazes me how his way is simpler, more direct and more devastating in its effect.
If you want to learn how to become a better person, how to avoid conflict and if it does actually come to it, how to defend yourself in REAL world situations. Then Jim is the best person in Australia to go and see!!! Oh and you will piss yourself laughing the whole time!!!
Dean Howard - owner of Fit FX and combat8 Muay Thai, Melbourne Australia
I have just completed my first session with Jim Armstrong at Raw Combatives and I genuinely cant say enough good things about it. Jims ability to break down, explain and personalize not only techniques but the principles behind them is second to none. If you have the chance to get down to Raw or to train with Jim himself don’t miss out, he has an absolute wealth of knowledge and experience to pass on. Looking forward to more training at Raw Combatives. Thank you again
Eric Lemaire - founder of 1912 Personal Protection Liege, Belgium
Jim is one of the best Combatives instructors I have met in my career in this field, but he's way more than that! He's a brilliant human being with the ability to reveal the best in everyone he teaches. If you have the opportunity to train with him, do yourself a favor and go for it!
Tuomo – Police officer, Senshido instructor and Damiam Maia black belt Oulu, Finland
Just trained with Jim Armstrong. After 27 yrs of training and teaching around the world all I can say is that Jim is one of the best self defence and stick fighting instructors I have ever met. Tough fighter, great teacher, humble person and great human being in one package. If you ever have the chance to train with him; Do it. What a great experience!!
Jani Luukkonen – Police officer and founder of Elukkatehdas Helsinki, Finland
I attended Jim’s seminar this January 2017 at Oulun Kamppailuklubi. Jim has an astounding amount of knowledge to him and he's really passionate about passing it forward to his students. No holding back.
With years of experience in the field, Jim showed us that there is still much to learn about combatives, and life in general. Never ready, always a student.
I highly recommend attending Jim’s class or seminar if you have a chance. It will be well worth your time, money and effort. Just watch out for the low kick... it hurts like hell.
