Paul Bourgoin: Martial Arts as a Way of Life
When you meet Paul Bourgoin for the first time, the last thing that crosses your mind is: “Let’s try provoking him and see how he reacts.”
Even though he’s never been in a real fight, Paul’s presence, self-control, and sharp gaze demand instant respect.
A 5th-degree black belt in Kyokushin Karate, Shihan Paul (the Japanese title for “master instructor”) holds a staggering level of experience in martial arts and self-defense. His personal motto—“To protect and serve”—is more than just a philosophy. It’s the way he lives his life. He is a cornerstone instructor at Centre Multisports, and a true master of his craft: mastering not only techniques and situations, but above all, himself.
“It’s in My Blood”
When Paul began teaching self-defense at Centre Multisports in fall 2017, he brought with him more than four decades of experience. Starting young with Kyokushin Karate, he didn’t just study it—he made it his lifestyle.
“It’s in my blood,” he says. “From the moment I wake up, I live my art. It’s in every move I make, in every thought I have.”
Initially drawn to martial arts after being bullied, Paul mastered control—of self, of others, and of unpredictable situations.
“With the knowledge I’ve acquired from many styles, you can dismantle a human body quickly. But I’ve never had to use it in real life—and that’s a good thing.”
At the core of his teachings? Emotional control.
Why Take a Class with Paul Bourgoin?
Whether it’s self-defense, Kickbox-Fit, or Box-Fit for teens and adults, Paul tailors his lessons to the needs of the people in front of him.
“If you're punching a bag, there’s a reason. Maybe you don’t realize it yet, but you’re learning to defend yourself. You won’t control a situation unless you can control your emotions,” he explains.
“If you signed up for self-defense, it means you’ve got something to heal. Everyone has a reason.”
With a background rich in teaching and training, Paul also acts as a kind of coach-therapist, helping his students understand the deeper motivations behind their training.
“I’m intense in training. I’ll push you like I was pushed. The only limits are the ones you set. If you fall seven times, you get up eight. You don’t quit. You can’t.”
Though he challenges his students, he always meets them where they are—and invites everyone to come try a free trial class.
“I don’t teach for money. I teach because it’s my passion. Because I believe in it. Because I know I can help change someone’s life.”
Living to Serve and Protect
They say we teach what we most need to learn. For Paul, teaching and learning are inseparable. Constantly curious, he’s always watching, reading, and seeking new knowledge—from videos, manuals, and real-life encounters.
“I keep learning. Every day, from myself, from others. It’s not just about improving my own technique—it’s about improving someone else’s situation.”
And this is what defines him. Beyond titles or belts, Paul trains not just for himself—but for whoever he may need to defend one day.
“I always train for two. Always. I’m hyper-aware of everything around me.”
During our interview, he deliberately positioned himself to keep the main entrance in sight. A small detail that says a lot about his personal code.
Every time he puts on his dogi and ties his black belt, it’s not to show off—it’s to embody his lifestyle:
“Anyone can wear a black belt, but few become one. What I’ve earned—no one can take that from me. Every time I tie my belt, it’s a gift from life.”
Above all else, Paul Bourgoin teaches the power of self-control and persuasion. Because to him, a silent victory will always mean more than a violent one.