On the Jiujitsu Field Notes podcast, John—an Olympic rower who competed at Rio and Tokyo—explains how he got into rowing at 15 through the Duke of Edinburgh award, progressed through trials and under-23 worlds, and entered GB training at Caversham after London-era retirements. He describes funding realities, the high-volume training approach, and how he earned Olympic selection, including Rio’s difficult conditions, making the final, and the emotional aftermath of finishing fifth. John contrasts Rio’s “bells and whistles” with Tokyo’s COVID-affected, underperforming campaign, then details his attempt to continue toward Paris, struggles after the Marathon des Sables-style Metro Marathon Challenge, team dynamics, and ultimately retiring in 2024 before starting jiu-jitsu immediately. He discusses competition nerves, the sport’s unpredictability, identity and mental health in transition, coaching work, becoming a new father, and anecdotes involving Kevin Dutton, Bruce Dickinson, and Ronnie O’Sullivan.
The journey from elite rowing to the mats of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu might seem unconventional, but for John Collins, it’s just another chapter of pushing limits, embracing change, and finding peace in new challenges. Once a formidable presence in the world of competitive rowing, where he represented Great Britain at the Olympic Games in Rio and Tokyo, John has since traded in his oars for a grappling gi, immersing himself in the art and sport of Jiu Jitsu. His story intertwines the disciplines of competitive rowing and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, showcasing resilience, adaptability, and the relentless pursuit of self-improvement.
The Olympian Experience
John’s career as a rower is marked by rigorous training, high-stakes competitions, and a deep connection with his teammates. Rowing, as he describes, is a demanding and relentless sport, requiring exhaustive physical and mental commitment. Training often spanned upwards of 170 kilometers of rowing weekly, complemented by intensive strength sessions. The routine was punishing, with many rowers like John battling through pain and injury, driven by the singular goal of Olympic glory.
Despite his achievements on the water, including reaching two Olympic finals, John’s story did not end with rowing. Inspired by his experiences in high-pressure competitions and guided by the lessons learned, John embarked on a new journey – one that would challenge him in unexpected ways.
The Shift to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
John’s introduction to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu came with the enticing allure of a different kind of challenge. Unlike rowing, where outcomes could be predicted through meticulous training and technique, Jiu Jitsu represents constant unpredictability. The dynamic nature of grappling, where combatants continuously adapt to each other’s movements and strategies, offers a stark contrast to the repetitiveness of rowing strokes.
John began his BJJ journey at the Roger Gracie Academy Marlow, a well-respected hub for martial arts enthusiasts seeking to hone their skills. His inaugural sparring session with a much smaller opponent quickly underscored the humbling complexity of Jiu Jitsu, reinforcing his commitment to mastering the sport.
At BJJ Marlow, John found parallels between his rowing past and his new passion. Both disciplines require dedication, a willingness to learn from defeat, and the mental toughness to persist through challenges. The camaraderie he previously found in rowing boats is mirrored on the mats, where fellow practitioners encourage growth and resilience.
Balancing Competition and Life Beyond Athletics
John’s transition from professional sports to recreational martial arts wasn’t just about staying active; it was a conscious choice to face life’s changes with grace and purpose. As a new father and coach, he has gracefully balanced training with his personal responsibilities, ensuring that family, career, and his love for Jiu Jitsu coexist harmoniously.
The discipline and structure John honed as an Olympian have seamlessly translated into his Jiu Jitsu practice, allowing him to thrive in a sport that values both strategy and adaptability. Though the environment is different, the core values of hard work and resilience remain unchanged.
John Collins’ journey from the Olympic stage to the Roger Gracie Academy Marlow serves as a testament to the power of embracing new beginnings. Whether on the rowing course or the Jiu Jitsu mat, his unwavering dedication inspires those around him to pursue excellence, face challenges head-on, and find fulfillment in the journey of personal growth.
