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Why Choose Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

Why Gracie Barra?

Brazilian jiu-jitsu schools aren’t created equally. Much of this is due to the level of instruction that students will receive at a particular academy. McDojos exist in every martial art style. These schools tend to focus heavily on turning a profit than providing students with proper instruction. Many of these schools ensure promotions to the next belt level for a certain amount of money. Many schools can also become one of these because they’re forced to promote students to keep them enrolled.

There have even been incidents of unqualified jiu-jitsu instruction at different schools.  One UFC gym was recently criticised for hiring a fake black belt to teach jiu-jitsu classes. Gracie Barra goes to great lengths to ensure this doesn’t happen. Instructors are certified, as black belts go through a certification program. The curriculum taught at Gracie Barra academies are also standardized. Students receive the same baseline instruction regardless of which GB academy they walk into.

Gracie Barra has over 400 locations worldwide. Every Gracie Barra student has the ability to walk into any Gracie Barra academy and train. The curriculum is structured for student convenience.  This doesn’t mean you will get exactly the same lesson every time.  Each location may provide its own unique flair to techniques due to the instructors style of jiu-jitsu and teaching method.

Gracie Barra believes in the philosophy that jiu-jitsu is for everyone!  They offer a variety of different programs that will accommodate for your level.

Variety of Programs

BarraFIT

Perfect for current Yoga, MMA, Kickboxing, Crossfit practitioners looking for a holistic workout to supplement their current fitness program. BarraFIT offers a series of Jiu-Jitsu inspired programs that will enhance your practice and get you in the best shape of your life. Check out descriptions of the programshere; BarraFIT Flow, BarraFIT Strike, BarraFIT Performance, BarraFIT Drills, BarraFIT Self-Defense.

Barra Premium

The Barra Premium membership combines our Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and our BarraFIT programs. Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is Jiu-Jitsu for everyone. Whether you’re a veteran black belt or a first timer, Gracie Barra classes are designed to be fun and fulfilling for all levels.

Red Shield Founder

People who are familiar with Gracie Barra Jiu-Jitsu, know that it is more than a fitness solution. It is a way of life. The people you train with, become family that you can count on outside of the Gracie Barra gym. Knowing what Gracie Barra stands for, as we are building Gracie Barra Scottsdale, we wanted to offer pre-registered members more than just a discounted membership fee or a free uniform. We wanted to give our founding members something they can be proud of. That’s when we came up with the idea of Red Shield Founder membership. The following Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu programs fall under our Red Shield Founder Membership.

Future Champions

The Future Champions program at Gracie Barra is geared towards children from the ages of 3-15. In this program, they learn fundamental jiu-jitsu, along with values such as discipline and respect. These two qualities are critical in the development of kids.

Fundamental Program

In Brazilian jiu-jitsu, fundamental techniques are used from white belt to black belt. They will be the basis for your entire jiu-jitsu career. Similar to the way you learn basic addition and subtraction, which eventually leads you to calculus. This program takes someone with no jiu-jitsu experience and show them basic fundamental techniques.

Advanced Program

The advanced program builds on fundamental techniques and shows students how to begin to flow with their jiu-jitsu.  Students develop smoother transitions in technique and begin to gain a deeper understanding of Gracie Barra’s philosophy and the jiu-jitsu lifestyle.

Black Belt Program

The road to a black belt in jiu-jitsu is neither easy or short.  It can take well over a decade and few students ever reach the level of black belt.  These classes expose the student to cutting edge techniques and variations that they will not see in other classes.

No-Gi Classes

What is no-gi jiu-jitsu? It’s jiu-jitsu without the gi (duh). No-gi jiu-jitsu techniques are similar modified, because practitioners are no longer able to hold on to the gi. This forces students to utilize hooks and different techniques in order to submit an opponent. Since students lack the ability to grip the gi, no-gi jiu-jitsu tends to be a lot quicker paced and utilizes many fundamental jiu-jitsu techniques, which are often used in mixed martial arts.

Regardless of your reason for trying Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Gracie Barra has a class for you.

Learn About Gracie Barra Cedar Park
Gracie Barra Cedar Park is one of the most establish Martial Art school in Texas. If you are interested in trying Brazilian jiu-jitsu at Gracie Barra Cedar Park you can email staff@gbcedarpark.com
-Patrick J. Flores
@patjflores @bjjfotos

Why do you spend so much time to take your son to train jiu-jitsu?

"A Father asks the other – Why do you spend so much time and money with training, championships and running around getting your son to Jiu-jitsu?

The other father replies: Well, I have a confession to make to you: I do not pay for my son to train in Jiu-jitsu!

The other father replies: So, if you are not paying for your son to train then what are you paying for?

Well, answers the father of the athlete ...

I spend my time for those times when my son is so tired and he feels he wants to give up, but does not give up ...

I spend my time for the opportunity for my child to make lasting friendships.

I pay for the chance that he might have incredible coaches that will teach you not only about Jiu-jitsu the mat but on the struggle of life.

I spend time and money also for my son to learn to be more disciplined.

I spend time and money for my son to learn to take care of his body.

I spend time and money for my son so he can learn to work with others and be proud, supportive, kind, humble and respectful TEAM member.

I spend time and money for my son to learn to deal with disappointment and failure when he did not win or misses a move, even if he practiced a thousand times, but still looks up and is determined to do better next time ...

I spend time and money so my son learns to make and achieve his goals.

I spend time and money so my son can learn and takes hours and hours and hours of hard work and practice, to create a champion, and that success does not happen overnight.

I pay for my child may be on the mat, rather than getting involved with the wrong things ...

I could go on, but to be brief, I do not pay for him to train or fight, I pay for the opportunities that this amazing sport provides for my child to develop attributes that will serve for the good of all his life and give you the opportunity to bless the lives of others, respecting everyone and everything.

From what I have seen for many years, I find it a great investment.

And this is what I can leave to my children and to society.

6 Things You Will Experience as a White Belt

Your white belt is the beginning of your jiu-jitsu journey, so we thought we would give you some advice as you start on your journey. These are 6 things that helped me or that I learned along the way.

1. The Feeling of Pure Exhaustion
There is something euphoric after you’re done training jiu-jitsu. You’re simply tired. So tired that you can’t think of anything but the next breath of air. Being exhausted simplifies your thinking, to that of pure survival. This is a feeling common to many sports. Pushing the body to the limit and breaking point. You stop thinking about any problems you may have, and anything bugging you. You experience a level of exhaustion that leads you into a moment of sheer clarity.

2. The Feeling of Accomplishment
After you’re done with each jiu-jitsu session, you feel like you did something with your day. When someone asks you, “What did you do today?” You’ll never respond back with, “Nothing”. After a jiu-jitsu class, you’ll know you did something special. Some days you’ll learn an awesome new move, other days you will find yourself noticeably improving. Then, there will be days where showing up, is its own victory. One way or another, you’ll feel accomplished.

3.The Rush of Fighting
You’re opponent takes your back. They begin to wrap their arm around your neck like a snake. You tuck your chin, and defend. The adrenaline starts to really pump in your body as you attempt to defend and your perception of time begins to change. Seconds feel like minutes, and minutes like hours. It’s like no other rush.

4. Jiu-Jitsu Class Isn’t a Street Fight
Jiu-jitsu academies are controlled learning environments where students can learn a martial art in a safe environment. It’s the safest avenue for a student to realistically learn self defense and the art of fighting. Students will experience the rush of fighting and competition. A feeling some become accustomed or even addicted to.

5. An Overwhelming Desire to Get Your Blue Belt
As a white belt in jiu-jitsu, I remember wanting my blue belt more than anything in the world. Its a common goal among many new jiu-jitsu practitioners. The blue belt may only be the 2nd belt in the jiu-jitsu system, but it’s so much more than that. It’s the culmination of all those times you’ve been tapped out as a white belt. All those hours dedicated to learning how to hip escape properly. Not everyone who starts will make it to blue. Getting there is a difficult journey that all white belts must go through.

6. The Humility That Comes with the Art of Tapping Out
Humility – noun – A modest or low view of one’s own importance
Tapping out is a lesson learned on day one. For some, it’s the most difficult lesson to learn. For some, admitting defeat is tough to grasp. This is especially true, in those who lack humility. Don’t worry, a white belt in jiu-jitsu learns humility real quick. Its easy to grow an appreciation jiu-jitsu from this humility as several people who start jiu-jitsu decide to do so from the receiving end of the submission.

Everyone starts as a white belt. Even the Gracie family. There will be hurdles and challenges along the way, you can be certain of that. Overcoming those challenges will make it memorable. One day you may be a black belt. You’ll look back at your days as a white belt and smile because you realize it was just the beginning.

Learn About Gracie Barra Cedar Park
Gracie Barra Cedar Park is one of the most establish Martial Art school in Texas. If you are interested in trying Brazilian jiu-jitsu at Gracie Barra Cedar Park you can email staff@gbcedarpark.com
-Patrick J. Flores
@patjflores @bjjfotos

• 5 Things Parents Need to Know

  I’m not a parent. I’m just a purple belt who has a lot of experience with martial arts. I also have several years of jiu-jitsu under my belt. I’ve helped coach a couple kids classes and seen kids compete in tournaments. Parents put their kids into jiu-jitsu for many reasons. It could be to keep them in shape, develop discipline, or help grow confidence. All of which are great reasons to have a child start training in Jiu-Jitsu. Parents however should keep a couple things in mind while on the sidelines watching their children.

  

  1. Kids May not like Jiu-Jitsu at First
  As with many new sports or activities, kids might not fall in love with jiu-jitsu on the first day, or week for that reason. Its important for parents to know that this is normal for some kids. But I’ve seen first-hand students who have a rough start end up striving and really enjoying jiu-jitsu for years to come. We ask that you work with us to help make your child’s jiu-jitsu experience the best. Jiu-jitsu is a powerful sport that can give you a confidence and pride like no other sport.

  2. Don’t Hold Their Hand the Entire Time
  Its every parent’s responsibility to make sure that their kids are safe at all times. At times however, kids may build a dependency on having their parents come save them every time something difficult comes along. Slowly, as parents, you will need to let go and teach your children how to become self sufficient. Kids must eventually become adults and learn to problem solve on their own. Jiu-jitsu provides students with a safe environment to learn how to overcome difficulties and challenges. Take the opportunity to teach your kids this valuable life lesson. The only way to learn how to overcome challenges, is to go through challenges.

  3. Leave the Coaching to the Coaches and Professors
  I love seeing parents get involved with their kids jiu-jitsu. I also love seeing how excited parents get when their kid is competing or training. One recommendation I would have to parents is to not talk over the professors or coaches as they try to do their job. This is especially true in tournaments. Cheering on your child is encouraged, but providing advice on technique is the coaches and professors job. This is especially true if the parents have no actual experience with jiu-jitsu.

  4. Parents Should Try a Couple Classes

  

  Some parents have no idea how difficult jiu-jitsu can be because they’ve never tried it. I encourage and actually highly recommend all parents to take a couple classes, even if its just for a week. This will get them familiar with the intensity of jiu-jitsu, its technicality, and basic movements. You may find yourself to enjoy it, and continue learning. More importantly, its important for parents to know some of the fundamental techniques in jiu-jitsu. As I mentioned above, I love seeing parents engaged. I am however concerned when I hear parents yell something like “armbar” when not appropriate. By trying a couple classes, parents will develop their own appreciation not only for jiu-jitsu, but for what their children are doing.

  5. IT’S OKAY TO HAVE FUN!!!

  

  Yes, martial arts, like jiu-jitsu do teach children discipline and respect, just to name a few. However, it’s important to remember that kids will be kids and jiu-jitsu should be fun for everyone. It’s okay to take training seriously, but there needs to be a balance! Kids might burn out and decide the sport isn’t for them. Like all activities human beings do, regardless of age, there has to be a balance.

  If you have any questions, please ask your local coaches or professors. They do this for a living and have years of valuable experience to share!

  Learn About Gracie Barra Cedar Park

  Gracie Barra Cedar Park is one of the most establish Martial Art school in Texas. If you are interested in trying Brazilian jiu-jitsu at Gracie Barra Cedar Park you can email staff@gbcedarpark.com

• 4 Benefits of Jiu-Jitsu for Working Professionals

  

  Brazilian jiu-jitsu attracts people from many different occupations and walks of life. They take time off of their busy work schedules to train a couple days a week. Though working professionals can’t dedicate themselves to jiu-jitsu the way a full time competitor would, they can still walk away from every class knowing they bettered themselves.

  Exercise:
  Humans were not made to sit at a desk and stare at a computer all day. There are numerous studies that indicate sitting is becoming the new smoking. Emphasising the dangers of desk jobs. Unfortunately, many people today have occupations that force them to sit for extended periods of time. Exercise is a great way to combat the health risks of the typical 9-5. Training in Brazilian jiu-jitsu will improve ones cardiovascular endurance, strength, and overall flexibility. Exercise can also help boost energy levels, helping you become a more productive employee or leader.

  

  Clearing the Mind:
  Everyday in jiu-jitsu someone is trying to choke you. When taking this into account, much of life’s problems don’t seem as important. People who don’t train won’t fully understand the zen nature of jiu-jitsu. The physicality of jiu-jitsu is often all people see. They rarely consider the mental aspects of the sport. BJJ can simplify life. It will help you relax and put many worries in perspective. Having a clear mind at work will help you deal with issues. A clear mind maybe the right solution to deal with an unsolved problem or difficult decision. Even companies like Google offer BJJ classes to break up the busy workday and help employees relax.

  Networking:
  

  The jiu-jitsu community is huge. It is also an incredible networking opportunity. BJJ attracts people from all walks of life. Students slowly will develop a strong network of professionals and people they will eventually call friends. There is a layer of trust that forms among teammates making a jiu-jitsu network unique.

  Makes You a Better Person:
  Jiu-jitsu is difficult to become proficient at. Students must have the mental strength and toughness to get them through. It helps develop strong personalities. It also helps develop humility, a trait some would argue is lacking in today’s society. I think Joe Rogan said it best,“When you get good at something as difficult as jiu-jitsu, it will make everything in your life better.”