White Belt.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has completely change my life since start Augest of 2022. Here is a project of my story on the mats. 🥋
Why did you begin Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
In August of 2022, I was really in a dark place in life. Because of injuries on my knees and legs from years of skateboarding, I couldn't really skateboard like I used too, and for years that was my escape and what kept me out of depression. Life without was ruff and different, I didn't have my way of release anymore. Luckily, one day my brother Ajay and I were having a cup of coffee and I was telling him about all the problems mentally and spirually I was having because I couldn't skate too much anymore. That's when he told me about BJJ and told me he had been doing it for about six months and he think it'd help me with all the issues I was having. So I attended a trial class, and I fell in love instantly with the martial art. Since, I've now gained two stripes on my white belt.
A picture of Ajay and I the day I offically became a member of CJJF, our Jiu-Jitsu Academy.
How has Jiu-Jitsu changed your life?
- Self-Esteem: Before Jiu-Jitsu, I was really struggling with my self-esteem and personal identity, because skateboarding was my whole identity, I never knew anything else, I didn't know what communitity I belonged to anymore. Luckily, just like skatboarding, the communitity was just as good. And luckily, it helps raise your self-esteem because it always about constant improvement, not only on the mat, but in life as a whole.
- Confidence: Learning how to defend yourself can be a major confidence booster. But even if you never find yourself in a dangerous situation, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu will give you the confidence that comes with knowing you can handle yourself in any situation. As you progress in BJJ, you’ll develop a greater sense of confidence and self-esteem. The sport’s physical and mental challenges will help you feel more capable in all aspects of your life. This will also translate into other sports as well.
- Builds Character: The grapplers I know are some of the most humble, respectful people I’ve ever met. Hence the name “gentle art.” There’s something about going toe-to-toe with someone that builds character like nothing else can. If you want to become a better person, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu will help you get there.
My Professors
Jonathon Hunter
Professor Jon is the owner of the CJJF HQ in proper and one of the best. He is a role model for me and freak of nature on the mat.
Artur Filipe
Never met anyone more determined, focused, and disiplined at improving everyday. He is a absolute monster.
Gaberiel Varella
Professor Gaberiel is one of the funniest guy and wisest guys I know. He one of the most genuine and nobel person I know. His jiu-jitsu is unmatched.
My First Competetion
"MY BROTHERR!!" MY BROTHER!
On the mat Artur was my professor and instructor. But in the gym and in life he is a brother a heart.
"What are those cards?" Attendence.
Man just look at Professor Jon just living his best life. Loves his job and his students.
"Man you lost?" Yup but better I learned.
One of the biggest and greatest things you will learn in Jiu-Jitsu is that you have to lose a whole lot to learn where your weaknesses and improvements lie. Luckily that's what you learn on day one and just get reminded everyday you train.
