An Interview with Professor Kimberly Bowser: Competing, Coaching, and Building the Next Generation
At EDJ School of Jiu Jitsu, we believe that Jiu-Jitsu is about far more than medals and championships. It is about personal growth, lifelong learning, and helping others become the best version of themselves. Few people embody that philosophy better than Professor Kimberly Bowser.
As a world-class black belt competitor and a dedicated instructor, Professor Kim continues to inspire students on and off the mats. In this interview, she shares her thoughts on international competition, the mindset of a champion, her long-term vision, and advice for anyone considering their first tournament.
What is it like competing in another country?
Competing internationally is an experience unlike any other.
“There is something really special about hearing so many different languages being spoken around you,” Professor Kim explains. “It reminds you that Jiu-Jitsu truly connects people from all over the world.”
Among all the events she has competed in, the IBJJF European Championship remains her favorite.
“Europeans has a completely different atmosphere than any tournament in the United States. You face competitors from countries you normally wouldn’t compete against, and the energy throughout the event is incredible. Every time I compete there, I leave feeling inspired.”
For Professor Kim, traveling overseas isn’t just about winning matches, it’s about experiencing different cultures, testing herself against world-class athletes, and growing through every competition.
How important is the will to win?
Mindset plays a huge role in competition, but Professor Kim believes it’s only one piece of the puzzle.
“If you don’t believe you can win, or you don’t truly want to win, you’ve already put yourself at a disadvantage before you even step onto the mat.”
At the same time, she emphasizes the importance of humility.
“You can have the strongest desire to win, but sometimes your opponent is simply better that day. Maybe they understand the techniques more deeply, have better timing, or execute their game plan more effectively.”
Rather than seeing those moments as failures, she sees them as opportunities.
“That’s actually one of the most exciting parts of competing. Every loss gives you something to improve. Every challenge shows you where you can grow.”
What are your goals in Jiu-Jitsu?
Professor Kim’s vision extends far beyond her own competitive career.
As an athlete, she continues to pursue some of the sport’s highest accomplishments, including:
- Reaching the No. 1 IBJJF black belt ranking in her division.
- Winning the IBJJF World Master Championship.
- Completing a Black Belt Grand Slam.
- Continuing to compete and challenge herself for as long as possible.
But her greatest passion lies in coaching and developing others.
“I want to share, teach, mentor, and encourage students of all ages from young kids to adults.”
One of her biggest long-term goals is to guide a group of young students who have trained with her for years all the way to black belt as teenagers and young adults.
“Watching them grow not only as athletes but as people is something I’m incredibly excited about.”
She is equally passionate about expanding the EDJ Women’s Team and creating more opportunities for women and girls to discover the benefits of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
“Ultimately, I want to help people build confidence, overcome challenges, and achieve goals they never thought were possible.”
What advice would you give someone who wants to start competing?
Professor Kim encourages every student to experience competition at least once.
Her advice is simple:
Choose an event and give yourself four to eight weeks to prepare. During that time, focus on building confidence through consistent training and visualization.
She also recommends spending additional time drilling outside of regular class.
“Pick a couple of positions or techniques that feel natural to you and become really good at them. Build your game around your strengths first.”
Most importantly, she believes competitors should always remain coachable.
“No matter what level you’re competing at, stay humble and stay hungry.”
Finally, she reminds students that true champions aren’t defined only by victories.
“The true champion knows how to win with humility and lose with grace.”
More Than Competition
Whether she is standing on top of the podium or coaching students from the sidelines, Professor Kimberly Bowser continues to demonstrate what Jiu-Jitsu is truly about: continuous growth, resilience, service, and helping others reach their full potential.
Her journey reminds us that success is measured by the lives we impact along the way.
