We recently connected with John Henderson and have shared our conversation below.

John, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. How do you feel about asking friends and family to support your business? What’s appropriate, what’s not? Where do you draw the line?

Honestly, asking friends and family to support Legacy Martial Arts and Fitness has been one of the more delicate parts of building this business. On one hand, they’re the people who know me best and have seen the sacrifices, the sleepless nights, and the passion I’ve poured into creating a space that empowers others through martial arts, fitness, and personal growth. On the other hand, I never want anyone to feel obligated or guilt-tripped into supporting what I do.

I believe it’s absolutely appropriate to invite friends and family to support the business—whether that means showing up to an event, sharing a social media post, referring someone they know, or just asking how things are going. Support isn’t always financial—it can be emotional, verbal, or even just showing interest. What’s not appropriate is expecting them to be your main clientele or placing pressure on them to constantly “buy in.”

For me, the line is drawn at expectation. I’ll present the opportunity—like “Hey, if you know someone looking for a great martial arts program for their kid, send them my way”—but whether or not they act on it is completely up to them. No hard feelings. Support should come from a place of genuine belief in what you’re doing, not obligation.

At Legacy, our goal is to build something bigger than just a business. We’re building a community and a culture. And if someone from my inner circle wants to be a part of that journey, they’re always welcome. But I’d rather earn their support through impact than expect it just because of our relationship.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

My name is Jay Henderson, and I’m the Owner and Chief Instructor of Legacy Martial Arts & Fitness, located in Huntersville, North Carolina. I’m a lifelong martial artist, a certified firearms and defensive tactics instructor, a strength and conditioning coach, and a youth mentor. But more than anything, I’m someone who believes deeply in the power of discipline, community, and transformation—both physical and mental.

My journey began when I was 10 years old, training under Professor Jack J. Gentry, who became not just a martial arts instructor, but a true father figure and mentor in my life. He trained my father, my brother, and me. That legacy of discipline, empowerment, and community changed our lives forever. Professor Gentry taught us that martial arts isn’t just about fighting—it’s about leadership, character, and becoming your best self.

Over time, I earned black belts in several disciplines, including Ki Do Kai Kempo, Lotus Self Defense, Taiho Jutsu, and others. I’ve spent over 20 years in the fitness and self-defense world, working with everyone from beginners to competitive athletes, from children needing confidence to adults seeking personal transformation.

At Legacy Martial Arts & Fitness We offer:

Martial arts programs for kids, teens, and adults (with roots in Kajukenbo, Kempo, Hapkido, and Arnis)

Legacy Combat Kickboxing (our high-energy fitness-based striking system)

Private and group self-defense training

Firearms safety and concealed carry instruction

Strength and conditioning coaching through Legacy Elite Performance

Youth mentorship, character development, and leadership programs

Seminars and community outreach, including anti-bullying, women’s self-defense, and team building for schools and businesses

At our core, we help people:

Build confidence and discipline

Develop real-world self-defense skills

Reach their fitness and wellness goals

Navigate mental and emotional challenges through structure and community

Keep their families safe

Find purpose and belonging

For parents, we’re a trusted partner in raising respectful, focused, and resilient children. For adults, we’re often the place they turn to when they want more than just a gym—they want growth, skills, and accountability.

I’m proud of the legacy we’ve created and continue to build. I’m proud of the kids who started in our Tiny Tigers program and are now teen leaders. I’m proud of the single moms who walk in uncertain but leave empowered. I’m proud of the men and women who’ve lost weight, gained confidence, and even saved their own lives through the skills they’ve learned here.

I’m especially proud to now serve as the Head Coach of the U.S. Martial Arts Team – Carolina, continuing to grow our reach and represent our students on national and international platforms.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

What helped me build my reputation within my market is a mix of authentic relationships, consistency, community impact, and staying true to my purpose.

First and foremost, authenticity has been key. I didn’t start Legacy Martial Arts & Fitness to just run a business—I started it because I wanted to give people what martial arts gave me: confidence, structure, and a sense of purpose. People can feel that. Whether it’s parents trusting me with their children, or adults coming in to change their lives, they know I’m not just selling a program—I’m delivering a promise.

Second, consistency and professionalism have played a huge role. We show up on time. We follow through. We create a structured, safe, and welcoming environment. When someone walks into our space, they immediately notice the attention to detail, the cleanliness, the energy, and the way we treat people. That kind of consistency builds trust—and trust builds reputation.

Also, I’ve made a point to build deep roots in the community. I’ve spoken at schools, partnered with other local businesses, supported youth sports teams, and even created The Guardians Advocate, a nonprofit supporting middle school athletic programs. We’re not just in the community—we’re part of it. That local presence makes people feel connected to our mission.

Another big factor has been word of mouth and student success stories. When parents see their child develop confidence or self-control, they tell their friends. When someone drops 30 pounds or overcomes anxiety, they share that. That organic growth is more powerful than any paid ad.

And lastly, legacy matters. My martial arts lineage is deep. I was trained by a man who helped raise me, Professor Jack J. Gentry, and I honor that legacy in everything I do. People respect that I’ve lived the life I teach. I’m not new to this—I’m rooted in this. That long-term commitment stands out in a world that’s often about quick wins and shortcuts.

At the end of the day, reputation is earned. And mine has been built on service, substance, and showing up for people—day in and day out.

We’d love to hear about how you keep in touch with clients.

Before anything else, I make it a point to know our students and their families. I learn their goals, their challenges, and their “why.” When people feel seen, they feel valued. That emotional connection builds trust and loyalty far beyond the mat. It’s not unusual for me to check in on a student if they’ve missed a few classes or to celebrate a kid’s birthday with a shoutout or small surprise.

We use social media—especially Facebook and Instagram—as a way to stay connected, highlight student achievements, and share motivational or educational content. We’re not just posting promotions—we’re telling stories, showing progress, and reminding people that they’re part of something meaningful.

We also send regular email updates and newsletters, including:

Class announcements or schedule changes

Upcoming events, seminars, or tournaments

Highlighted student stories or testimonials

Self-defense and fitness tips

New program launches

We routinely ask students and parents for feedback through surveys and casual check-ins. If something’s not working, we fix it. If people want more of something, we figure out how to provide it. That two-way communication makes them feel like partners in what we’re building.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.legacycharlotte.com
• Instagram: @legacyclt
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/legacycharlotte

Image Credits

Mrs. Myeisha Henderson – Program Director
Mr. Shelton Henderson – Lead Instructor
Mrs. Melinda Spears – Assistant Instructor