Constant and never-ending improvement...

Misty Hanson ’s martial arts career began at the age of 12, when she enrolled in a Chinese Kenpo class after watching Sunday morning Kung Fu movies with her father.  Her study of Kenpo’s joint locks, self defense, and culture continued until her instructor moved away.

Wanting to continue her training, Misty followed a new path at age 14 with the American Society of Karate (ASK) under Bill Gray.  During this time, Misty won several competitions, and met such martial arts celebrities as Bill “Superfoot” Wallace, Don “The Dragon” Wilson, and Kathy Long, who inspired her to do her best.  In spite of a knee injury, Misty recovered to receive her Brown Belt at age 18.

Not long after, Misty discovered Jujitsu, and she studied that art under Leslie King of the American Jujitsu Kai.  Here, she learned throws, joint manipulation, weapons, and ground defense.  Misty entered several Judo and Jujitsu tournaments and once beat 2 black belts for a 2nd place win in Dallas while only holding an orange belt herself in that art.  She also added to her store of knowledge with seminars on Escrima, joint locks, wrestling, boxing, and self defense, and quickly became an assistant instructor for Mr. King, eventually reaching Brown Belt before he relocated.

After training at a Houston kickboxing school that also taught Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Misty discovered Jade Mountain Martial Arts.  While training in Paul Thomas’s grappling classes, she watched Sifu Whit’s Kung Fu classes as well, and felt drawn to the atmosphere, people, and arts of Jade Mountain.  Now, Misty is one of our most knowledgeable and experienced Assistant Instructors, and we’re extremely pleased to have her as a part of our team.

"Being a good listener can save a life. So I listen."

—Si Je Misty Hanson