Above pic Marcelo "Brutus" Silveira and Dustin "Clean" Denes
Academy 1997 CARLSON GRACIE MIA - RIO Formando Campeões
Academy 1997 CARLSON GRACIE MIA - RIO Formando Campeões
CONFESSIONS OF A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu WHITE BELT
"How To REALLY Find The Best Gym !"
PRELIMINARY QUALIFICATIONS
Be Honest with yourself. You should have Incredible CONFIDENCE where and with whom you decide to learn from. Also look for VALUE Don't shop for a low-cost membership. You are better off paying more and receiving Superior Value. Where and with whom you'll train with is one of the Most Important decisions you'll make in your life. Be Smart!
NOW is the Information Age! Therefore, I highly recommend "PAY IT FORWARD" and gather as much Relevant information about an academy/instuctor as you can, before ever visiting a physical location. This step is imperative and will save your precious time.
Time wasted is time you'll never get back. Be wise.
Your SAFETY is Priority. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art that is physically demanding so there are always risks involved. Study and analyze throughout the entire process. Look for markers that give you a sense of security. For example, emphasis on an EGO-FREE Training environment, or advisory of a Clean Training environment.
Be Honest with yourself. You should have Incredible CONFIDENCE where and with whom you decide to learn from. Also look for VALUE Don't shop for a low-cost membership. You are better off paying more and receiving Superior Value. Where and with whom you'll train with is one of the Most Important decisions you'll make in your life. Be Smart!
NOW is the Information Age! Therefore, I highly recommend "PAY IT FORWARD" and gather as much Relevant information about an academy/instuctor as you can, before ever visiting a physical location. This step is imperative and will save your precious time.
Time wasted is time you'll never get back. Be wise.
Your SAFETY is Priority. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art that is physically demanding so there are always risks involved. Study and analyze throughout the entire process. Look for markers that give you a sense of security. For example, emphasis on an EGO-FREE Training environment, or advisory of a Clean Training environment.
As a white belt, even in the heat of battle, I felt security because my coaches cared about the students' health and well being.
From my experience, I recommend You strongly consider seeking out expert instuctors who have a Solid PEDIGREE, are battle-tested Experienced in real combat, and understand the Champion Mindset.
All sources of Lineage and Leadership Are Not Equal !
The lineage needs to be legitimate. The term Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has Brazil in it for good reason. Ask yourself: Did my potential teachers study Jiu-Jitsu in Brazil? If Not, who are they closely connected to that did? You'll SACRIFICE your valuable time, so You rightfully deserve to get it from the source. DO YOUR HOMEWORK Learn the lineage of potential instructors before joining a gym, also look at Accomplishments and Read what people have to say.
All sources of Lineage and Leadership Are Not Equal !
The lineage needs to be legitimate. The term Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has Brazil in it for good reason. Ask yourself: Did my potential teachers study Jiu-Jitsu in Brazil? If Not, who are they closely connected to that did? You'll SACRIFICE your valuable time, so You rightfully deserve to get it from the source. DO YOUR HOMEWORK Learn the lineage of potential instructors before joining a gym, also look at Accomplishments and Read what people have to say.
As a white belt, I had choices when I began my training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. I tried a few gyms, but only one stood out. For good reason, my instructors and the academy were direct lineage of Grand Master Carlson Gracie Sr. For this reason, I chose to train at CARLSON GRACIE MIA - RIO under the guidance of Marcelo "Brutus" Silveira, at first, then on to advanced class and fight training with his older brother Marcus "Conan" Silveira. In 1999, I started my studies abroad at the CLUB CARLSON GRACIE in Rio de janeiro, where my Conscious CHOICE of where to train was once again proven a smart choice.
A lot of people talk, but hats-off to the one's who take action and get answers from their own experience, and experienced leaders.
There is Nothing like EXPERIENCE. Take for example, a threat arises to you on the street, but a situation where your Jiu-Jitsu can very well make the difference, maybe even life or death. In that case, WIN and you live. Lose and you die. In such a moment...
The source of your information and discipline in training could be the most valuable thing you own.
BEWARE Most Black Belt instructors are Not qualified to teach Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu! That's The Truth.
There are Diamonds in the rough --Experts who have a wealth of experience in Jiu-Jitsu for sport at the Highest level AND experience in Jiu-Jitsu for real world self-defense and fighting, not just to survive, But To Thrive and WIN. The Diamonds are worth seeking out, maybe you'll get lucky and find one in range.
As a white belt, both of my teachers were excellent, one the master technician and the other an ultimate warrior. I feel fortunate to have experienced the best of both worlds. But remember, it all began with a Conscious CHOICE. Unlike the other options of where and with whom to train with, My Instructors were Really doing it! They took Action to evolve not only themselves, but The Demolition Team in sport competition and defending the name of Jiu-Jitsu in Real Fights.
There is Nothing like EXPERIENCE. Take for example, a threat arises to you on the street, but a situation where your Jiu-Jitsu can very well make the difference, maybe even life or death. In that case, WIN and you live. Lose and you die. In such a moment...
The source of your information and discipline in training could be the most valuable thing you own.
BEWARE Most Black Belt instructors are Not qualified to teach Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu! That's The Truth.
There are Diamonds in the rough --Experts who have a wealth of experience in Jiu-Jitsu for sport at the Highest level AND experience in Jiu-Jitsu for real world self-defense and fighting, not just to survive, But To Thrive and WIN. The Diamonds are worth seeking out, maybe you'll get lucky and find one in range.
As a white belt, both of my teachers were excellent, one the master technician and the other an ultimate warrior. I feel fortunate to have experienced the best of both worlds. But remember, it all began with a Conscious CHOICE. Unlike the other options of where and with whom to train with, My Instructors were Really doing it! They took Action to evolve not only themselves, but The Demolition Team in sport competition and defending the name of Jiu-Jitsu in Real Fights.
The Champion Mindset is something you'll need for saving your own life, but also for pushing through life's daily battles. Another topic of trend nowinday, talkers thinking they know what it takes, but have little or zero proven track record of success. I strongly consider you seek out instructors who emphasize the importance of a winning mindset. Even luckier, find a gym where the head instuctor has an in-depth understanding of the mindset needed to win at the highest level, as well as the ability to transfer the knowledge and lessons. This comes mainly from experience in competition, Jiu-Jitsu and/or Real Fighting.
As a white belt, thanks to the sport of wrestling, I walked through the door with a winning mindset. But rest assure, it was emphasized at the academy, not just for winning in sport competition and fights, but for Winning in LIFE.
As a white belt, thanks to the sport of wrestling, I walked through the door with a winning mindset. But rest assure, it was emphasized at the academy, not just for winning in sport competition and fights, but for Winning in LIFE.
Takedowns (wrestling and/or Judo) are an important part of any worthy curriculum. Reality is, 100% of fights will start on the feet! Takedowns need not, and should not, be the main focus of any curriculum, but they need be included to a certain degree. If you can't find any info about takedowns, see the academy/instuctor pictures/videos and look out for action on the feet! Then you can inquire further if and when you speak to someone in person.
As a white belt, even with a my long history in wrestling, takedowns were always practiced as part of the curriculum at CLUB CARLSON GRACIE. It was Freestyle Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu // hybrid traininig high-level clinch, wrestling and Judo mixed together, with takedowns for sport and real fighting.
As a white belt, even with a my long history in wrestling, takedowns were always practiced as part of the curriculum at CLUB CARLSON GRACIE. It was Freestyle Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu // hybrid traininig high-level clinch, wrestling and Judo mixed together, with takedowns for sport and real fighting.
FIRST BLOOD
When you finally step foot at a training local, a physical location, relax and soak up what you see. Too many people get uptight when the dice have already been rolled. These are the same people who relax when placing their bets.
For my experience is contrary to conventional wisdom I think you should strongly consider being relaxed on arrival. Reminder, They Qualified The Preliminary. You might now reap the reward of doing the HOMEWORK. The dice have already been rolled --Enjoy it! It's a lifetime commitment when you find the right place.. well it should be.
Relax. Listen more and Talk less. And sense for what? The Level of Respect that runs in the air. The dynamic can come from many angles ex people's attitudes, the ambiance, technique etc, so keep an eye out! Eyes peeled for a Fabulous entrance/exit! Students should always Bow - To Show RESPECT when entering or exiting the matspace. It's the academy's responsibility to teach this to the students. If students are not showing respect, it's an academy defect.
It's important to see Respectful delivery of the Lesson by an instructor who exercises a high-level of COMMITMENT Focused on the students and Productive with time, also Compassionate - caring and intelligent. Intelligence defined as an experienced understanding of body mechanics. This adds a SAFETY angle so to Maximize Training while at the same time Minimizing the Risk of getting hurt or injured.
CLEAN workspace mats gym etc is a sign of Respect and Care - shows that the academy is looking out for the well being of the students. Meticulous should be the mats before and after training sessions. It's not a Perfect world! Mat funk such as ringworm staph etc is a reality in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The academy/instructor must do all in its power to make sure of diligence in Cleanliness. Be on it! To make sure they are on it!
A quality academy also emphasizes to its students the importance of Personal Hygiene. It's a good feeling knowing that your training partners are washing their kimonos and taking care of themselves to support a Clean training environment. This includes an academy rule to be constantly followed up upon by instructors, Enforcement is necessary, to make sure students cut fingernails and toenails, and remove any/all jewelry before classes, so to avoid injury via lashing/cuts.
Clean Gym And Clean Mats Before and After training sessions.
For my experience is contrary to conventional wisdom I think you should strongly consider being relaxed on arrival. Reminder, They Qualified The Preliminary. You might now reap the reward of doing the HOMEWORK. The dice have already been rolled --Enjoy it! It's a lifetime commitment when you find the right place.. well it should be.
Relax. Listen more and Talk less. And sense for what? The Level of Respect that runs in the air. The dynamic can come from many angles ex people's attitudes, the ambiance, technique etc, so keep an eye out! Eyes peeled for a Fabulous entrance/exit! Students should always Bow - To Show RESPECT when entering or exiting the matspace. It's the academy's responsibility to teach this to the students. If students are not showing respect, it's an academy defect.
It's important to see Respectful delivery of the Lesson by an instructor who exercises a high-level of COMMITMENT Focused on the students and Productive with time, also Compassionate - caring and intelligent. Intelligence defined as an experienced understanding of body mechanics. This adds a SAFETY angle so to Maximize Training while at the same time Minimizing the Risk of getting hurt or injured.
CLEAN workspace mats gym etc is a sign of Respect and Care - shows that the academy is looking out for the well being of the students. Meticulous should be the mats before and after training sessions. It's not a Perfect world! Mat funk such as ringworm staph etc is a reality in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The academy/instructor must do all in its power to make sure of diligence in Cleanliness. Be on it! To make sure they are on it!
A quality academy also emphasizes to its students the importance of Personal Hygiene. It's a good feeling knowing that your training partners are washing their kimonos and taking care of themselves to support a Clean training environment. This includes an academy rule to be constantly followed up upon by instructors, Enforcement is necessary, to make sure students cut fingernails and toenails, and remove any/all jewelry before classes, so to avoid injury via lashing/cuts.
Clean Gym And Clean Mats Before and After training sessions.
As a white belt, I remember that our gym was really clean. From the front door to the back, mats and walkways, bathrooms and showers. The gym was always in clean condition. We worked so hard in that gym. Blood, sweat, and tears, but nothing left behind.
COMMUNICATION Like I said before, let them approach you. Let them make the first attempt at communication. Afterall, You'll have Paid it forward, already having done the homework on your end. It should be easy for you from here on out.
I strongly recommend that the topic of GOALS come up shortly after meeting/greeting. IF it's not presented to You. Go ahead and present it to them. Then make sure your Goals correlate with those of the academy. Not a perfect world, so no need pushing for the perfect match. But correlation should get things going in the right direction for the Team as a whole, for You the individual to achieve, and for the Academy/Instructor to achieve. Should be a Winning Relationship.
Lookout for the TEAM. This starts with the individuals. Lookout for kimonos that are clean and properly patched. Also lookout for Teamwork, Positive and Focused attitudes in unison. It's a strong sign to see upbeat students who are Proud to be a Part. In such an atmosphere is LOYALTY Students helping each other to Achieve Goals and Succeed, as individuals and as a Team.
As long as you did your HOMEWORK, and it feels right, give it a shot! Trust Your Gut Put it to the test with a week trial, or maybe even a month. If they only offer one class for Free, I strongly recommend express your serious interest in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and that you request an extended trial. Any quality academy should honor your request for an extended trial, if you feel it necessary.
First time I walked into the Jiu-Jitsu academy, before even becoming a white belt, I knew it was the place for me. Why? Because I did my homework. It's that simple. The rest is history. I got top quality studies/training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and built incredible relationships along the way. Once the dice were thrown, there was no holding back for me. Progressive to date.
Understand the risks involved, but also Make sure that your SAFETY is a Priority.
Back to basics, same triangle I learned when I was a white belt. Keep safe !
COMMUNICATION Like I said before, let them approach you. Let them make the first attempt at communication. Afterall, You'll have Paid it forward, already having done the homework on your end. It should be easy for you from here on out.
I strongly recommend that the topic of GOALS come up shortly after meeting/greeting. IF it's not presented to You. Go ahead and present it to them. Then make sure your Goals correlate with those of the academy. Not a perfect world, so no need pushing for the perfect match. But correlation should get things going in the right direction for the Team as a whole, for You the individual to achieve, and for the Academy/Instructor to achieve. Should be a Winning Relationship.
Lookout for the TEAM. This starts with the individuals. Lookout for kimonos that are clean and properly patched. Also lookout for Teamwork, Positive and Focused attitudes in unison. It's a strong sign to see upbeat students who are Proud to be a Part. In such an atmosphere is LOYALTY Students helping each other to Achieve Goals and Succeed, as individuals and as a Team.
As long as you did your HOMEWORK, and it feels right, give it a shot! Trust Your Gut Put it to the test with a week trial, or maybe even a month. If they only offer one class for Free, I strongly recommend express your serious interest in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and that you request an extended trial. Any quality academy should honor your request for an extended trial, if you feel it necessary.
First time I walked into the Jiu-Jitsu academy, before even becoming a white belt, I knew it was the place for me. Why? Because I did my homework. It's that simple. The rest is history. I got top quality studies/training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and built incredible relationships along the way. Once the dice were thrown, there was no holding back for me. Progressive to date.
Understand the risks involved, but also Make sure that your SAFETY is a Priority.
Back to basics, same triangle I learned when I was a white belt. Keep safe !
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