Get To Know Our Club Members
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is for everyone! Check out how some of our members found themselves on the mats, what set backs they have faced and why they're addicted to this art of motion.
Club Member: Guy
1 Stripe White Belt
Year you started training: 2019
What first drew you to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?
I heard about it on Rogan and saw a photo in the Outlook newspaper. I've always wanted to learn a martial art or self defense. Then Georgi, a member, told me to go so I did!
What has been an unexpected benefit of your training?
I've discovered a passion I didn't know I would have and it's been an anchor of sorts during hard times. I am also getting better at thinking under pressure, both physically and mentally.
What has been your biggest challenge training?
Mat time; ensuring I can rep effectively to nail down the details. Hopefully as time and business goes on, there will be more opportunities for my schedule to work with class. Wish I could go every day! {Insert hand drawn love heart here}
What is something you have learned about yourself throughout the process of learning Jiu Jitsu?
I'd get destroyed in a fight. But also, I've learned I really enjoy using both my mind and body in this kind or practice. I enjoy the physics of how it works, as well as the creative side of developing your own game and style.
Club Member: Jeff
1 Stripe Blue Belt
What first drew you to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu:
I was never interesting in marital arts until one day a friend of mine, Nino, asked me to go try a class with him. It was so hard in the first few classes because some of the more advanced members were intimidating and we had so much to learn. But after two weeks with the help from great coaches and members we saw progress and that's when this became more interesting.
What has been an unexpected benefit of your training?
The unexpected benefit for me is that I am more in charge of myself now. Before, I was a very sensitive and hot headed person. I almost always tried getting into fights. Because of Jiu Jitsu I learned how to control myself and the anger inside of me. I learned how to walk away without hurting somebody.
What has been your biggest challenge training?
The feeling of getting stuck. Sometimes in your Jiu Jitsu career you will get to this point that you feel you are not progressing. I overcame mine by attending class regularly and overcoming my goals.
What is something that you have learned about yourself in the process of learning Jiu Jitsu?
Jiu Jitsu is not just a marital art. It's a great investment, good for your brain and an excellent exercise to keep you in shape. I also I like the feeling of being able to share the knowledge that I have aquired from my coaches to the newer members.
Club Member: Megan
White Belt
Year you started training: 2019
What first drew you to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?
The Women's Class Self Defense Class was a great motivator to keep coming to Jiu Jitsu. There is no judgement toward your age, skill or size. They just want you to enjoy yourself.
What has been an unexpected benefit of your training?
How great I feel once I master a new technique. I didn't think I would feel so different!
What has been your biggest challenge training?
Trying to learn new moves for my body type. Adjusting what is being taught so I can finish the move correctly.
What is something you have learned about yourself throughout the process of learning BJJ?
That it doesn't matter what your size is or how physically active you are, this can be for everyone. Everyone here is family.