We had the good fortune of connecting with Valentino Solinas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Valentino, what do you attribute your success to?
The most important factor behind the success of my brand and the achievements in Classic Taekwondo lies in a holistic approach to training. This approach focuses not only on improving the physical aspects of martial arts—such as flexibility, strength, kicking techniques, strikes, and blocks—but also on enhancing overall health and conditioning. I work with people who want to get back in shape, as well as those who are looking to improve their flexibility without necessarily being involved in martial arts. Additionally, I help individuals who want to improve their kicking techniques whether or not they are practicing Taekwondo or any other martial art.

My lessons are primarily offered online, providing convenience and flexibility that allow you to train from anywhere in the world. You can easily fit training into your schedule, and each lesson is tailored to meet your personal needs and goals. The online format allows for detailed feedback and support, creating a virtual experience that maintains the same high standards as in-person lessons. Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness, flexibility, or martial arts skills, you can achieve your objectives with the convenience of training at home.

If you live in London, we can also arrange in-person lessons. However, many of my clients in London choose online lessons due to the convenience of training from home, especially in a large city where commuting can be time-consuming. That said, I do offer face-to-face training for those who prefer direct, personalized guidance. Additionally, many people travel to London from various parts of the world to train with me in person, seeking the unique experience and expertise I provide.

For me, the success of my brand is built on a strong foundation of discipline and consistency in training. Taekwondo isn’t just about mastering kicks, punches, or blocks; it’s about fostering mental clarity, resilience, and physical well-being. By combining conditioning exercises, flexibility training, and specialized techniques, I ensure that practitioners improve not only their martial arts skills but also their health and fitness. This balance has helped build a loyal community and a strong reputation in the fitness and martial arts world.

Furthermore, my approach involves personalized training plans that focus on each individual’s progress, helping them develop at their own pace while safely and effectively pushing their limits. This commitment to personal growth and improving both the body and mind is what sets my brand apart.

What should our readers know about your business?
My career has been shaped by a lifelong passion for martial arts, with a particular focus on classic Taekwondo and acrobatic techniques. What sets me apart is my holistic approach to training, which goes beyond mastering just the physical techniques. I emphasize the importance of flexibility, mobility, and overall conditioning in martial arts, ensuring that my students develop not only their fighting skills but also their health and well-being. I take pride in the fact that my training method helps individuals from all walks of life—whether they’re martial artists looking to refine their technique, people aiming to get in better shape, or those simply focused on improving their flexibility.
My journey to where I am today wasn’t easy. In the beginning, when I was eager to learn acrobatic techniques, I found that the resources and instructors I needed simply didn’t exist in my area. I had to take matters into my own hands, diving deep into self-study. I dedicated myself to learning everything I could, often studying in languages other than my native Italian—such as English, German, and Spanish—because many of the best resources were available in those languages. This process of self-education was challenging, but it pushed me to expand my knowledge in a way I never expected.
The challenges didn’t stop there. Throughout my career, I’ve faced the difficulties of running a business in a competitive field while maintaining the level of passion and dedication required to succeed. But with each challenge, I’ve learned valuable lessons. The most important lesson has been the importance of resilience and adaptability. I’ve learned that the key to success is never settling for “good enough”—you must always strive for improvement, be it in your skills or the way you approach your work.
What excites me the most is the opportunity to share my knowledge with others. Whether through online courses or in-person lessons, my mission is to create an environment where people can grow both physically and mentally. I’m proud of the positive impact I’ve had on my students’ lives. Seeing them improve not just in their technique but in their overall well-being is the most rewarding part of my work.
While my online teaching journey began well before the COVID-19 pandemic, it was during that time that the demand for online lessons skyrocketed. Today, I’ve relocated to London, where I live with my wife, Valentina, and offer private lessons to anyone eager to learn. Despite this, the majority of my work continues to be online. This allows me to reach students from all over the world—whether they are in India, Australia, the United States, Europe, and beyond—and provide them with the opportunity to train with me no matter where they are.
In addition to my online courses, I also travel the world conducting workshops. I’ve had the privilege of teaching in many parts of the United States, across various regions of Europe, as well as in Africa, Asia, and soon, I’ll be heading to the Middle East. I’ve been leading workshops for nearly 20 years, and these global experiences allow me to connect with martial arts enthusiasts from different cultures and backgrounds, broadening my perspective and strengthening my passion for the art. The opportunity to travel while doing what I love is an incredible gift, and it continues to inspire me every day.
I want the world to know that my brand isn’t just about mastering martial arts techniques—it’s about promoting a healthy, balanced lifestyle. I’m passionate about helping people become the best versions of themselves, not just through martial arts, but in all aspects of life. My mission is to empower others by sharing the lessons I’ve learned along the way and to inspire individuals to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1: Explore Iconic Landmarks
I would start by taking my friend to see **Buckingham Palace**, and then we’d take a relaxing walk through **St. James’s Park**. After that, we’d head to **Big Ben** and the **Houses of Parliament**. For lunch, I’d suggest heading to **Borough Market** for some delicious street food. To finish off the day, we’d go for a ride on the **London Eye** for stunning views of the city.

Day 2: Culture and Shopping
We’d spend the morning at the **British Museum**, and then head to **Covent Garden** for lunch. There’s always something fun going on there with street performers, and we could do some shopping too. For the evening, I’d take my friend to **Soho**, where we’d enjoy dinner and drinks at one of the cool bars.

Day 3: Historic London
I’d take my friend to visit the **Tower of London** and **Tower Bridge**, which are such iconic sights. After a delicious lunch nearby, we’d walk along the **Southbank** and stop by **Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre**. For dinner, I’d recommend **Dishoom** in Shoreditch, one of my favourite spots for Indian food.

Day 4: Parks and Relaxation
I’d start the day with a stroll through **Hyde Park**. Then, we could head to **Notting Hill** to explore the **Portobello Road Market**, which is always full of fun treasures. For dinner, we could try **Duck & Waffle** in the evening – the views of London from up there are amazing.

Day 5: Hidden Gems
I’d show my friend around **Leadenhall Market**, then we’d head to **Covent Garden** for a bit more exploring. In the afternoon, we could check out **Camden Market** for quirky shops and street food. To wrap up the day, I’d take my friend to a rooftop bar where we can enjoy drinks with a view.

Day 6: Fun and Relaxing
We could spend the day at **Regent’s Park** and then take a peaceful walk through **Little Venice**. For the evening, I’d take my friend to **Shoreditch** to explore the street art and try out some of the cool bars there.

Day 7: Last Day Adventure
On the last day, I’d take my friend to **Kew Gardens** for a relaxing stroll through the beautiful botanical gardens. Finally, we’d end the week with a drink at either **Sky Garden** or **The Shard**, where we can take in the breathtaking views of London.

This is how I would show my friend the best time in London, mixing the city’s top sights, great food, shopping, and plenty of fun!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Looking back, I am deeply aware that who I am today is the result of a series of events, people, and passions that have guided and motivated me throughout my life. My journey in martial arts began 37 years ago, when I watched my first Bruce Lee film. That moment was like a spark that ignited an unrelenting passion within me. It wasn’t just the action or the power of his movements that struck me, but his spirit, his philosophy, and his holistic approach to life and martial arts. From that moment, I understood that this would be my path. I began collecting books, studying every detail of his technique, his thinking, and his vision, trying to understand how I could apply the same dedication and passion in my daily life. Bruce Lee has been, and continues to be, an inexhaustible source of inspiration, a beacon that has guided me in my growth as a practitioner and as an individual.

But if I truly reflect on who has enabled me to get to where I am today, my thoughts immediately turn to my parents. Their sacrifices are the foundation of everything I have built. Every evening, until I became independent, without ever missing a beat, they took me to training, regardless of the weather conditions: cold, rain, snow, or heat. They never held back, always present, always ready to support me. This was not just a physical act of accompaniment, but an act of love, dedication, and commitment that taught me the true strength of unconditional support. Without them, without their constant encouragement and trust in me, I would never have had the strength to keep going during the hardest moments. Their example taught me the value of sacrifice and daily commitment, and gave me the foundation to build my career in martial arts.

Finally, I cannot fail to mention my Master, the Grand Master Son Jong Ho, a figure who has had a fundamental impact on my life and growth. Grand Master Son Jong Ho is much more than a Master to me; he has been and continues to be a guide, a source of inspiration that pushes me to improve every day. His passion for martial arts, his discipline, and his strength of will, even at the age of 80, are for me a living example of what it means to live a life with integrity, balance, and dedication. Even today, his encouragement motivates me to maintain discipline in my training, follow a healthy diet, and lead a balanced life for my physical and mental well-being. Every lesson he has taught me is a gift I continue to carry with me, not only in my training but also in my personal life. His presence in my life is a constant reminder that true strength is not only measured in muscles, but in the mind and heart.

Last but certainly not least, my wife, who has always believed in me and my abilities, and encouraged me to turn my passion for martial arts into a full-time career. From the very beginning, she has been a constant source of support and encouragement, even during times of uncertainty and difficulty. She has always reminded me that my dream is possible, that challenges are not insurmountable obstacles, but opportunities for growth. Without her unconditional love, unwavering trust in me, and relentless determination, I would not have had the strength to keep going. Thanks to her, I can now say that my work is not just a professional commitment, but a true passion that deeply fulfills me, allowing me to rise each day with peace and harmony, ready to give my best, both in work and in life. Her presence in my life has made my inner balance and the peace I now carry with me every day possible, and for that, I will be eternally grateful.

I am deeply grateful to all these influences, which have shaped not only my path in martial arts but also the person I have become. Every day, I strive to pass on these values and teachings to those who come to me, trying to ensure that they too can draw strength and inspiration from what I have been given. In this way, I can continue to pay tribute to all those who have made my journey possible.

Website: https://www.valentinosolinas.com/en/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valentinosolinas/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/valentino.solinas/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@valentinosolinas

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