Maria Quijalvo - Ultra MMA Aldershot - Ultra MMA

Maria Quijalvo – Ultra MMA Aldershot

Signing up happened by chance, honestly. Just casually browsing, and suddenly, I found myself hitting submit to join the event. Deep down, I always wanted to try something like this.

Mind Charity for Mental Health means a lot to me. Dealing with mental health struggles, going through ups and downs with depression for years, it really took a toll on my life. This year, I finally sought proper treatment, and Mind’s resources played a big role in helping me out. It’s a slow process, but counselling and therapy have been game-changers, giving me strategies to fight mental illness. I still have a way to go, but progress is happening.

Inspired by friends who did UWCB, I signed up for Ultra MMA. Training at Shin Kick in Guildford was tough but cool. Being the only girl in the group, training with tougher, heavier men was kind of scary, but it pushed me to work harder and get stronger. Amidst training, I got some sad news about a good friend battling cancer. This fight was for him; he had my back during my struggles with depression, and it’s my way of giving back to him.

My advice? Just do it, don’t overthink. I recommend it to everyone! Mistakes happen during training, but the key is not to dwell on them, just keep going.

Taking part was a big achievement for me, I am so proud of myself.