John Johnston (a.k.a. JJ) started training in Lotus Self-Defense as a youth, in the summer of 1979. JJ trained in Spokane under Roy Harrington, and has attained the level of 5th degree black belt. JJ continues to help at the Spokane school, and also teaches self-defense and kickboxing at North Idaho College in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.

Besides studying Lotus, JJ has also studied boxing, wrestling (Roman Greco), and has just touched upon jujitsu. Through special Lotus training and other opportunities, he has been exposed to some Jeet Kune Do, Aikido, and Judo as well.