Certifications
• Certified Professional Martial Arts Instructor through the Martial Arts Teachers Association
(MATA), following the teachings of John J. Graden.
• NRA Certified Instructor for Pistol and Rifle.
• NRA Certified Chief Range Safety Officer (National).
• USCCA Concealed Carry Instructor.
• USCCA Home Defense Instructor.
• North Carolina Concealed Carry Instructor (NCDOJ Certified).
• South Carolina Concealed Carry Instructor (SLED Certified).
• Certified Muay Thai Fitness Instructor, recognized by the National Exercise and Sports
Training Association (NESTA).
• Certified Mixed Martial Arts Conditioning Coach, accredited by MMACA/NESTA.
• Certified Personal Trainer, holding a certification from NESTA.
Biography
Jay Henderson is the Chief Instructor at Legacy Martial Arts & Fitness, known for his extensive
expertise in martial arts and fitness instruction. With a diverse educational background and a
remarkable list of martial arts achievements, Jay is a dedicated and certified professional martial
arts instructor who is passionate about helping others develop their skills and achieve their fitness
goals.
Education:
• Bachelor of Science Degree in Information Systems Engineering from Johnson C. Smith
University.
• Master of Business Administration in Management from Strayer University.
Martial Arts Achievements:
• Black Belt 5th Dan in KI DO KAI KEMPO under the guidance of Grandmaster Patrick
McDaniel.
• Black Belt 4th Dan in Lotus Self Defense, recognized as a System Head within the United
States Martial Arts Federation (USMAF).
• Black Belt 1st Dan in United States Taiho Jutsu, accredited by the United States Ju-Jitsu
Federation ® (USJJF).
• Taboada Balintawak Eskrima, Jay holds an impressive Level 6 COA in this discipline, under
the mentorship of Guro Thomas Cohen.
Jay’s dedication to martial arts and fitness instruction is further underscored by his Life
Memberships in both the United States Ju-Jitsu Federation ® (USJJF) and the United States Martial
Arts Federation tm (USMAF). His leadership as the System Head of Lotus Self Defense within the
USMAF showcases his commitment to martial arts excellence and safety. Jay combines his
educational background in Information Systems Engineering and Management with his martial arts
expertise to create a unique and effective approach to training, making him a valuable asset to
Legacy Martial Arts & Fitness and the broader martial arts community.