The Art of Starting Over: What USPSA Shooting Taught Kenny Florian
It’s not often you hear a 5th degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, former UFC fighter, and one of the most respected martial artists in the world say they’re starting from scratch. But that’s exactly what Kenny Florian has been doing—and documenting—as he steps into the world of USPSA competitive shooting.
In a series of videos on his YouTube channel, Kenny brings viewers into his early journey as a shooter. But this isn’t just about targets and trigger pulls. This is about how real growth happens.
"There’s something really humbling about putting yourself out there in a new discipline. It reminds me how powerful honest self-assessment and principle-based learning really are."
— Kenny Florian
Just like in jiu-jitsu, shooting competitions demand calm under pressure, strategic movement, and rapid decision-making. Kenny breaks down his performances—not to judge himself, but to understand. What went well? What didn’t? And most importantly, what can be improved moving forward?
Mastery Is a Mindset, Not a Destination
Whether you’re on the mat or on the range, Kenny believes the key to progress isn’t perfection—it’s the ability to:
Reflect on your mistakes without ego
Learn through repetition with intention
Train according to principles, not just flashy moves
Stay present in high-stress situations
These truths are what make martial arts—and any skill—transformative. It’s also why Kenny now teaches weekly No-Gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes at A+R Tactics in Charlotte, NC, built around these exact concepts.
Train with Kenny Florian Weekly in Charlotte
If you’re looking to level up your jiu-jitsu, supplement your martial arts training, or reignite your passion for learning with a world-class instructor, this is your opportunity. Kenny’s classes are designed for intermediate and advanced students (blue belts and above), and focus on principle-based truths—the real foundations that hold up under pressure.
