Back in the mid-90s, I found myself in Bochum, Germany, performing in the dazzling musical Starlight Express. It was my third time returning to the show, a thrilling chapter in my life, but something was missing. As much as the stage demanded discipline and focus, I felt a pull to reconnect with martial arts—a grounding force that had always shaped my resilience.
That’s when I was introduced to Arndt Mallepree and his brother, Peter. They weren’t just skilled martial artists; they were teachers in the truest sense, and they welcomed me into their world. Under Arndt’s guidance, I experienced martial arts in a whole new way. He introduced me to Kali and grappling, skillfully weaving it into his own system, Individual Fighting Concepts Mallepree. Training with him was rigorous, enlightening, and deeply inspiring.
Even then, Arndt exuded a quiet strength—a philosophy of perseverance that seemed to be the cornerstone of his life. He didn’t just teach martial arts; he taught lessons about overcoming obstacles, about rising to meet challenges with integrity and determination. What I didn’t know then was just how profoundly those lessons would shape the course of his own life.
Arndt’s journey into martial arts began as a child, stepping onto the mat for the first time at age five. His mother encouraged him and his siblings to train, and what started with Judo expanded into Ju-Jutsu, Taekwondo, Thai Boxing, Jeet Kune Do, and Kali. He was a seeker, learning from legendary figures like Guro Dan Inosanto and Sensei Erik Paulson. From them, he absorbed a powerful philosophy: life isn’t about right or wrong—it’s about understanding the consequences of your choices.
In 1995, Arndt took all he had learned and created a system of his own. Individual Fighting Concepts Mallepree wasn’t just a collection of techniques—it was a thoughtful blend of disciplines, designed for real-world self-defense. His system reflected not only his skill but his deep understanding of martial arts as a way of life.
But life has a way of testing us, and in 2013, Arndt faced the greatest challenge of his life. Eight traumatic strokes left him paralyzed, unable to walk or speak. Doctors gave him a 5% chance of survival. Most would have crumbled under the weight of such odds, but not Arndt. He embodied what it means to live strong.
Relearning how to walk, speak, and write wasn’t just a medical recovery—it was a testament to his indomitable spirit. He credits his martial arts training for giving him the physical resilience and mental fortitude to endure the grueling year-long therapy that followed. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it.
By the time he recovered, Arndt wasn’t just back—he was stronger, wiser, and more determined than ever. He resumed his work as a commanding officer of a homicide squad, taught Taekwondo to young students, and took on the role of Director of the Para Division of the German Taekwondo Federation.
A decade after his strokes, Arndt set a goal that most would have deemed impossible. In 2023, he competed in the World Para Taekwondo Championships in Mexico. For Arndt, it wasn’t about proving anything to others; it was a promise to himself—a commitment to rise above his circumstances and show the world that life’s setbacks don’t have to define its outcomes.
The road wasn’t without its challenges. Athletes in the para division undergo rigorous medical classifications, and for Arndt, the process was nerve-wracking. But he passed, and though there were no eligible opponents in his category, he stood proudly on that stage, claiming his first World Champion title.
That victory wasn’t just about a medal—it was a symbol of everything he had overcome. In 2024, Arndt didn’t just stop there. Competing against younger athletes in Bahrain, he claimed his second World Champion title. His victories were hard-earned, not just through skill but through sheer determination—proof that even in the face of daunting odds, one can thrive.
For Arndt, martial arts have always been about more than competition. They’re about respect, loyalty, and integrity—values that align deeply with the principles of Living Strong. He’s quick to say that respect is the most important of all: respect for every living being, for differing opinions, and for life itself.
Even now, as he prepares to defend his titles in the years ahead, Arndt’s focus remains on inspiring others. “Dream big,” he says. “You might achieve goals you never allowed yourself to dream of.” His journey is a lesson in embracing life’s challenges head-on, facing fear with courage, and daring to pursue greatness.
Martial arts, in Arndt’s view, is not just a discipline but a bridge—a way to connect people and foster understanding. He believes that if more people embraced the principles of martial arts, there would be less conflict in the world. Through his leadership in the German Taekwondo Federation, he’s paving the way for future generations, ensuring that others have the opportunity to rise and live strong, just as he did.
When asked what he hopes people will take away from his story, Arndt is humble. “In 2013, the physicians said I was dead. I had a 5% chance to survive. Nobody knows how I managed to survive, but I did. I fought my way back, step by step. If people see that it’s possible to achieve goals, even when the way is harder and longer, I’d be pleased.”
Arndt Mallepree’s journey reminds us of a simple yet profound truth: life’s greatest battles aren’t won on the mat or in the ring—they’re won in the choices we make every day. To stand back up. To take the next step. To keep going, no matter how steep the climb.
His story is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of respect, and the courage to rise, thrive, and live strong. And for that, we are all the better for knowing him.
A Note of Gratitude
Arndt, thank you for your friendship and for sharing your incredible story with me. Your journey is a shining example of what it means to live strong, and I am honored to help share it with the world.
To my community: let’s come together to celebrate Arndt’s achievements and his unwavering spirit. Share your words of gratitude and encouragement in the comments below. Let’s remind him—and each other—that the strength to rise above challenges inspires us all to live strong.
