Professor Ivan José Rocha Araruna é faixa-preta de Jiu-Jitsu, graduado no ano de 2010. Ele conversou com a reportagem do GRACIEMAG.com sobre o panorama da arte marcial nos EUA, em especial em sua região, na Flórida. Confira os melhores momentos do bate-papo.

GRACIEMAG: Professor Ivan, please tell us about your journey and your role at Gracie Barra Citrus Park in Tampa, Florida.

IVAN ROCHA: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has been my life’s work for over two decades. Throughout this journey, I have dedicated myself not only to technical excellence, but also to using Jiu-Jitsu as a tool to transform lives. At Gracie Barra Citrus Park, I serve as the head instructor and leader of the academy, overseeing athlete development, competition preparation, and the overall growth of our community. My mission has always been to build more than strong competitors — I strive to help develop disciplined, confident, and resilient individuals.

In a relatively short period of time, GB Citrus Park has shown remarkable growth. What do you believe has driven this success?

Sustainable growth is never accidental. It comes from consistency, trust, and genuine commitment to people. When students join our academy, they quickly understand that they are becoming part of something bigger than just a training facility. We have built an environment based on discipline, respect, technical excellence, and family values. This culture has allowed the academy to grow significantly while maintaining high training standards and strong personal connections with every student.

Your athletes have achieved good results in major competitions across the United States. How do you approach athlete development?

Competition results are a reflection of structured preparation and long-term development. I emphasize technical precision, strategic intelligence, mental resilience, and discipline under pressure. Every athlete develops differently, so my coaching is highly individualized. What makes me proud is not only seeing students on podiums at prestigious tournaments, but witnessing their personal growth — learning discipline, confidence, and perseverance through Jiu-Jitsu.

Beyond competition, how has the academy impacted the local community in Tampa?

The impact goes far beyond medals. Our academy has become a place where children gain confidence, adults improve physical and mental health, and families strengthen their bonds. We have helped students overcome insecurity, anxiety, lack of discipline, and sedentary lifestyles. For many families, Gracie Barra Citrus Park has become a second home. That community impact is one of the most meaningful aspects of my work.

You have also become known for your work with women and children. Why is this important to you?

Women and children represent one of the most powerful transformations we witness through Jiu-Jitsu. For women, training often develops confidence, self-defense skills, and mental strength. For children, Jiu-Jitsu builds discipline, emotional control, respect, and resilience from an early age. Creating a safe, positive, and empowering environment for them is one of the most important responsibilities I have as an instructor and leader

What legacy do you hope to leave through your work in the US?

My greatest goal is to leave a legacy of excellence, integrity, and positive impact. I want to be remembered not only for producing successful athletes, but for helping build stronger people and stronger communities. If, through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, I can positively influence lives and inspire future generations, then I know my mission is being fulfilled.

 

• Follow professor Ivan, here.

 

A black belt trained at Gracie Barra, Professor Fabrício Lopes has specialized in honing instructors and helping them teach Jiu-Jitsu in the clearest way possible. GRACIEMAG.com chatted with the black belt mentoring specialist about how he has analyzed the new generation of instructors in so many academies around the world.

GRACIEMAG: Championships are attracting more and more fighters, the sport is expanding, and there are academies in every major city on the planet. And will instructors be able to keep up with this demand?

FABRÍCIO LOPES: I believe the biggest challenge is that being a good practitioner and being a good instructor are completely different skills. Many people become technically proficient, but teaching requires communication, observation, patience, leadership, and the ability to adapt to different types of students. The fact that someone can execute a technique masterfully doesn’t mean they can explain it in a way that others can understand and apply.

Is learning how to teach then a different field altogether?

Yes. There are other challenges. For example, many younger instructors develop in an environment where information is abundant. Today, anyone can watch techniques online. The challenge lies in helping future instructors organize this information, understand the fundamental principles, and transmit them effectively. Teaching is not about showing what you know. It’s about helping others learn.

In your view, what has changed in instructor training?

Ten years ago, many instructors developed primarily through observation and experience. You learned by spending years on the mat, assisting in classes, and gradually taking on more responsibilities. Today, instructor development has become more structured. Many organizations now have formal instructor programs, educational resources, and systems designed to help trainers improve their teaching skills. At the same time, students have changed. Today’s students expect more explanations, more structure, and a clearer understanding of why things work.

What do qualified instructors need to have to avoid disappointing their students?

As instructors, we need to be able to communicate effectively with children, adults, competitors, recreational athletes, and people from diverse backgrounds. The role of the instructor today is broader than ever. Technical knowledge remains important, but communication and leadership have become equally relevant.

How do you identify a young person with the potential to become a well-rounded instructor?

The first thing I notice is curiosity. Future instructors are often those students who ask questions, pay attention to detail, and genuinely want to understand the art rather than just collecting techniques. I also seek humility and consistency. Teaching is a long-term responsibility. Someone who is trustworthy, respectful, and willing to keep learning often has more potential than someone who is merely talented.

Is there another important quality?

Yes, empathy. The best instructors care about helping others evolve. They like to see other people’s success. Technical skill can be developed over time. Character, patience, and a desire to serve others are often stronger indicators of future teaching potential.

What is the most important principle when training talented instructors?

In my view, it is the ability to help them understand that teaching revolves around the student and not the instructor. Many beginning instructors focus on demonstrating their own knowledge. Excellent instructors focus on making information accessible to the people in front of them. I encourage future instructors to develop the ability to observe, listen and adapt. Each student learns in a different way. The instructor’s responsibility is to find the best way to convey the same principles to different individuals. The goal is not to create instructor-dependent students forever. The goal is to train independent thinkers who, over time, are able to help other people.

What was the most common mistake in training instructors in recent decades?

From my studies and research, I believe there was a general idea that technical excellence automatically generated excellence in teaching. In previous generations, many instructors learned by imitation. They copied what their teachers did and repeated the same methods. While this produced many excellent practitioners, it sometimes left gaps in communication and instructor development. Often, students were expected to simply figure things out on their own over time. Today, we understand that teaching itself is a skill that must be intentionally developed. The best instructors know how to preserve the traditions, values, and technical standards of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, but they also recognize the importance of communication, mentorship, and structured learning. In my opinion, the future of the art depends on training not only better athletes but also better teachers.

>> To learn more, follow Professor FABRÍCIO LOPES on Instagram, here: https://www.instagram.com/flopesjj/

A student of the respected master Pedro Sauer, Curran gives back everything he learned at his Jiu-Jitsu academy in Illinois. His learning as an athlete and fighter has been a vital factor in the growth of his submission-only Jiu-Jitsu event, with a simple and powerful motto: “Athletes first, always.”

At 48 years old, the MMA “Big Frog” fought from 1998 to 2016, and told GRACIEMAG.com what he has learned, and taught, as the organizer of the Jeff Curran Invitational (JCI) event.

GRACIEMAG: What was the most valuable thing you learned from your master, Pedro Sauer?

JEFF CURRAN: I have had many big lessons I have learned from Pedro Sauer. But one that always comes to my mind when I am teaching or going through hard times is that things can always be worse.

When was that?

Back when I was a purple belt. I was visiting him in Salt Lake City at his academy, and I was going through some financial troubles, I was struggling with my work/business/athletic career as well as some student issues. After knowing what I was going through, Pedro asked me to train and tapped me God knows how many times and tossed me all around the mat. I was in tears because my confidence had been stripped away from me and on top all I was going through. Anyhow, in true Pedro Sauer fashion he put his arm around me as we sat tired on the mat and he said “Just remember Little Jeff: things can always get worse”.

A powerful lesson, indeed…

Yes. It was a very good moment for me after I had settled down because I thought deeply about that comment. It also made me laugh so it snapped me out of my current mental state and into a fresh one.

Jeff “Big Frog” with master Pedro Sauer.

You have around 55 MMA fights in your career, right? Did you fight big tournaments with the gi, as well?

Yes. I had many memorable moments in the Gi. Also during my purple belt days I was set to face a former teammate who was more mature than me and had been having more formal training. It was the semifinals of the 2000 Pro Ams in Raleigh North Carolina, something like that. I was so nervous yet confident. Most on the team thought I was in over my head but I locked in and was able to put him to sleep in front of his new professor and of course in front of Pedro. That was me realizing that I was capable of stealing the show no matter who it was. My confidence went way up and that fueled that next charge in my early career.

Which fight marked you the most? Maybe the one that taught you the most lessons?

This is a good question and I could choose from 50 different MMA fights that ring a bell but I had a fight against Ryan Ackerman for the Shooto America’s belt back in early 2000’s. I trained so hard, I trained with all my top guys. That hurt me because I didn’t catch those guys in triangles much in training because they knew my game. So, after I caught the first triangle at the end of round 1 and he survived, I stood up and I could barely walk. I was so fatigued from squeezing the triangle. I continued to catch him multiple triangles throughout the fight and now the chokes were weaker and weaker as the time went on. I won the Belt via unanimous decision, however the big win was to realize that I should have been sharpening my offense on lower level guys who don’t want to tap easy. It taught me to really find value in all your training partners.

And what would be the differentiating factor of your event, JCI?

There is a few things that are unique to JCI ruleset. First of all we have regulation time of 7 minutes (10 for title fights and main events) and 3 minute OT for regular bouts and 5 minute OT for title fights/main events. At the end of regulation, the referee will flip a coin to determine who gets to choose the starting position of the OT round. Top (inside closed guard), Bottom (playing closed guard), Neutral (from the feet).

At the end of regulation if there was warnings for stalling during the match, the referee has the choice to give the coin toss to your opponent. This keeps people from stalling because they don’t want to lose a 50/50 chance at picking the start position.

And what happens then?

Well, after the OT round ends, if there is no winner, the 3 mat side judges score only the OT round to determine the winner. Threatening submissions and mat dominance are key to victory for the most part. So far, we have had great success with these rules but myself and my referee staff meet regularly to discuss little nuances that could make the rules set and/or judging criteria more and more clear.

Your motto is “Athletes first, always.” How does this translate into practice in the tournament?

“Athletes first, always” means every decision we make is built around giving competitors the best possible experience. That starts with fair, meaningful matchups based on experience — not just belt rank. Our rules push action and create clear outcomes, so athletes always have a real chance to win. We also prioritize professionalism—tight scheduling, high-level referees, and a well-run event—because these athletes put in serious time to prepare. On top of that, we focus on presentation and exposure, making sure every competitor feels valued. At the end of the day, if the athletes feel respected and proud of their performance, we’ve done our job.”

Which event treated you best in your vast and successful career?

I really loved the WEC days. Although the staff was for the most part the same as UFC, the experience in WEC felt different. It was an entity of its own but powered by the Zuffa machine. I loved everyone from drivers/assistants all the way up the line to Reed Harris, Dana White, Sean Shelby, Joe Silva etc. And everyone in between. They were special days back then.

As an athlete, have you experienced any curious instances of mistreatment or organizational failure anywhere?

My whole purpose in my organization, the Jeff Curran Invitational (JCI) is to provide fair opportunity to the athletes. That isn’t the case in some organizations. I have felt used, taken for granted and at times even set-up for failure from a number or organizations. Fighting is a dirty business and attracts a lot of people without the best intentions unfortunately. So although it’s called Mixed Martial Arts, the martial arts respect is often left out of the equation. JCI is not a corporate machine, it’s a small tight team of people I believe in and trust and they all see my vision clearly. To put the Athletes First!

What can viewers on your YouTube channel expect?

So far we have had two successful events. Our livestream is clean, our event moves forward steadily and our match-ups are awesome from start to finish. Some up and comers, some local heroes and some top of the food chain competitors. We have five title fights including two women’s match-ups and three mens. If anyone wants to get a glimpse behind the scenes before May 9th, they can watch Episode 4 of Jeff Curran: Martial Life @jeffcurraninvitational YouTube channel.

Professor da Alliance Key Biscayne, em Miami, com títulos mundiais pela IBJJF no currículo, Lucas Araujo é a prova de que a resiliência no tatame, aliada a uma preparação meticulosa, pode superar qualquer adversidade. Lucas personifica a união entre a excelência competitiva e o propósito de formar alunos de caráter exemplar, ensinando disciplina e respeito através da arte suave. Prepare-se para descobrir os bastidores de uma rotina de alta performance e os planos de quem não busca apenas acumular medalhas, mas sim elevar o patamar do “estilo de vida” que define a nossa comunidade, valorizando o processo tanto quanto a linha de chegada.

GRACIEMAG: Você costuma dizer que dar aulas de Jiu-Jitsu é o seu grande talento e propósito de vida, certo? Quais os benefícios que um professor de Jiu-Jitsu oferece à comunidade onde ele atua?
LUCAS ARAUJO: Foi através do Jiu-Jitsu que encontrei uma forma real de contribuir para a formação das pessoas e impactar positivamente a comunidade onde atuo. Um professor de Jiu-Jitsu oferece muito mais do que técnica. Ele ajuda a formar caráter, ensinando disciplina, respeito, autocontrole e resiliência. Esses valores aprendidos no tatame se refletem diretamente na vida pessoal, familiar e profissional dos alunos. Além disso, o professor cria um ambiente seguro e estruturado, especialmente importante para crianças e jovens, fortalecendo a autoconfiança, prevenindo o bullying e promovendo o desenvolvimento físico e emocional. Quando bem conduzido, o Jiu-Jitsu se torna uma ferramenta de educação, inclusão social e construção de uma comunidade mais forte e saudável.

Além de professor, você tem uma carreira vitoriosa como competidor. Quais foram as suas principais conquistas e o que você aprendeu com elas?
Além de professor, sempre mantive uma carreira ativa como competidor, que foi fundamental para a minha formação dentro e fora do tatame e me manteve atualizado nas técnicas. Entre as principais conquistas estão dois títulos mundiais No-Gi, três títulos Pan-Americanos, três campeonatos brasileiros e pódios em campeonatos de altíssimo nível, tanto de kimono quanto no sem kimono pela IBJJF, maior e mais respeitada confederação mundial no Jiu-Jitsu, competindo entre os melhores atletas do mundo. E também permaneci como primeiro do ranking na minha divisão nos anos de 2022 e 2023. Essas conquistas me ensinaram muito mais do que vencer. Sempre ouvi um ditado popular que diz que o importante não é a linha de chegada, mas sim a caminhada. Quando somos jovens, nem sempre conseguimos compreender o real significado disso. Eu mesmo achava que essa frase servia como consolo para quem não havia conquistado grandes resultados. Com o tempo, porém, aprendi o que esse ditado realmente nos ensina: a importância de valorizar o processo. Um dia, nossa força para competir vai diminuir, as medalhas vão acabar enferrujando na parede, e o que realmente permanecerá serão as experiências vividas, os amigos que fizemos pelo caminho, os obstáculos superados e todas as memórias construídas ao longo da jornada.

Voltando ao trabalho à frente do dojô, qual é o segredo para transformar um atleta mediano num grande campeão?
Hoje em dia temos acesso a praticamente tudo: diferentes métodos de treino, estratégias de preparação física, dietas, estudos e inúmeras formas de chegar ao mais alto nível de uma competição. Os recursos estão disponíveis para todos os atletas. Na minha opinião, o que realmente diferencia um atleta mediano de um grande campeão é a capacidade de abdicar. Quanto maior a disposição para abrir mão de conforto, distrações e atalhos, maiores são as chances de alcançar o topo. O sacrifício diário e a disciplina constroem um senso profundo de merecimento, que é decisivo nos momentos mais difíceis. Quando o atleta acorda cedo, treina todos os dias sem falhar, segue a dieta com propósito, descansa como um atleta de alto nível e cuida da recuperação com seriedade, ele cria algo que ninguém pode tirar: a certeza do trabalho bem feito. Não dá para mentir para si mesmo. E é justamente essa convicção que, diante da adversidade, faz o atleta se tornar maior do que o desafio. Mesmo que os resultados demorem, mais cedo ou mais tarde esse processo transforma qualquer atleta comprometido em um grande vencedor.

Você está sempre treinando com ótima performance contra a garotada da sua equipe. Quais são os macetes para os atletas da divisão Master fazerem bonito contra os atletas adultos?
Nessa fase da carreira, o atleta da divisão Master precisa entender que fisioterapia e musculação já fazem parte do treino tanto quanto o tatame (risos). A carga de treino não pode mais ser a mesma de quando tínhamos 20 anos, então o caminho passa por inteligência e estratégia. Recomendo um treino periodizado, elaborado por um profissional de alta performance, além de trabalho constante de mobilidade e sessões regulares de recuperação, como fisioterapia, sauna, crioterapia e tudo o que estiver ao alcance para manter o corpo saudável e competitivo. Agora, a dica de ouro é simples: contra os mais novos, use a experiência e a regra a seu favor. Sempre que puder, dê aquela “amarradinha”, controle o ritmo da luta e faça o tempo trabalhar para você — mas sem esquecer da punição (risos). Experiência bem usada continua sendo uma grande vantagem no tatame.

Qual é a frase motivacional que você gosta de repetir para você mesmo quando está passando por uma situação difícil na carreira?
Eu não tenho frases motivacionais pré-estabelecidas. Mas, se fosse para escolher uma, seria algo que sempre digo aos amigos: “o próximo campeonato é sempre o melhor.” Gosto dessa frase porque ela funciona nos dois sentidos. Quando venço, ela me lembra que sempre existe espaço para evoluir e performar ainda melhor na próxima competição. E quando o resultado não vem como eu esperava, ela me ajuda a virar a página rapidamente. Ela reforça a ideia de que sempre há uma nova oportunidade logo ali, sem tempo para ficar preso ao que já passou. Essa mentalidade me mantém em movimento, focado no processo e motivado a melhorar continuamente. Para mim, é simples: o próximo campeonato é sempre o melhor.

Como você se define como professor de Jiu-Jitsu?
Eu me defino como um professor que acredita no Jiu-Jitsu como ferramenta de transformação. Meu papel vai muito além de ensinar técnicas: é formar pessoas, respeitando o processo individual de cada aluno e mantendo um ambiente seguro, disciplinado e positivo. Acredito que o professor deve liderar pelo exemplo, dentro e fora do tatame. A filosofia da minha escola segue os princípios da Alliance Jiu-Jitsu: excelência técnica, ética, disciplina, respeito e evolução contínua. Trabalhamos com metodologia, atenção aos detalhes e alto padrão técnico, mas sempre valorizando o trabalho em equipe, a humildade e o senso de comunidade. Acreditamos que o sucesso individual é consequência de um ambiente forte e bem estruturado, onde todos crescem juntos. Para se tornar um professor relevante, o primeiro passo é nunca esquecer de onde veio. Um bom professor jamais se distancia da mentalidade de faixa-branca: curiosa, humilde e aberta ao aprendizado. Ele precisa ser o primeiro a estudar, a se atualizar constantemente e, acima de tudo, manter a mente aberta para novas técnicas e conceitos, evitando se tornar obsoleto. Outra regra fundamental é entender que o professor de Jiu-Jitsu é, de certa forma, um guardião da arte suave. Ele recebe esse conhecimento para preservar, desenvolver e transmiti-lo à próxima geração, estando sempre pronto para servir. Nesse sentido, o papel do professor é quase o oposto do papel do atleta. O atleta, em muitos momentos, precisa ser mais individualista, competitivo e até orgulhoso para performar no mais alto nível. Já o professor vive para o coletivo: ele se doa, compartilha, forma pessoas e precisa cultivar a humildade constantemente, mantendo a consciência de que sempre há algo novo a aprender.

Quando alguém hesita em treinar Jiu-Jitsu, o que você costuma dizer para convencer essa pessoa a vestir o kimono e começar a jornada na arte suave?
Normalmente eu digo que o Jiu-Jitsu não exige que a pessoa esteja pronta para começar; ele ajuda a pessoa a se tornar pronta ao longo do caminho. Não é sobre força, idade ou experiência prévia, mas sobre disposição para aprender e evoluir. Além disso, o Jiu-Jitsu tem uma característica única: ele se adapta ao praticante. Cada pessoa consegue treinar e evoluir dentro das suas próprias condições físicas, limitações e objetivos. Por isso, sempre existe uma forma segura e eficiente de praticar, tornando a jornada acessível, contínua e possível para qualquer um que decida dar o primeiro passo.

Você também tem experiência no ensino da arte suave para agentes de segurança pública nos EUA. Fale um pouco sobre a relevância dessa parte do seu trabalho.
Os Estados Unidos, como uma das maiores potências do mundo, sempre tiveram uma visão muito pragmática sobre eficiência e resultados, e com o Jiu-Jitsu não foi diferente. O país abraçou a arte suave de forma impressionante, e a cada dia mais americanos passam a praticar ao perceberem os benefícios reais e o valor que o Jiu-Jitsu oferece. Como forma de gratidão por todo o cuidado e respeito que a sociedade americana tem com a nossa arte marcial, vejo o ensino do Jiu-Jitsu para agentes de segurança pública como uma maneira de devolver isso à comunidade. Trabalhar com policiais de Key Biscayne e Miami-Dade, além de bombeiros e agentes de segurança, é a forma que encontrei de contribuir com aqueles que diariamente cuidam da nossa segurança. O Jiu-Jitsu oferece a esses profissionais mais confiança e controle em situações de alta pressão, ajudando em abordagens mais técnicas, conscientes e respeitosas, além de melhorar a gestão de situações críticas. Um dos maiores ensinamentos da arte suave é a capacidade de se manter confortável no desconforto, algo essencial para quem atua na linha de frente. Dessa forma, esses profissionais, que já estão entre os mais preparados do mundo, passam a ter acesso a uma ferramenta eficiente de defesa pessoal, tornando não apenas suas próprias vidas mais seguras, mas também toda a comunidade ao seu redor.

Qual é o seu grande objetivo para o futuro da carreira?
Vejo a carreira no Jiu-Jitsu como dois caminhos que podem evoluir juntos. O primeiro é o do atleta. Ainda quero continuar competindo nos maiores eventos do mundo, não apenas em busca de resultados, mas para inspirar outras pessoas a acreditarem no processo, na disciplina e na longevidade dentro do esporte, mostrando que é possível manter alta performance com consistência e propósito. O segundo caminho é o do professor, que para mim representa o verdadeiro propósito da arte suave. Quero continuar difundindo o Jiu-Jitsu pelo mundo, levando seus valores para além do tatame e ajudando a construir comunidades mais fortes. O Jiu-Jitsu ensina respeito, autocontrole e compaixão, porque leva o praticante a se conhecer melhor, a entender seus limites e suas qualidades. Um ser humano que se conhece e reconhece suas limitações tende a respeitar mais o próximo e a ser mais seguro de si mesmo. É assim que evitamos conflitos desnecessários e contribuímos para uma sociedade melhor, construída a partir de pessoas mais conscientes e equilibradas.

Roberto Traven and Wellington Megaton during IBJJF’s World Masters. Photo: GRACIEMAG Files

At Jiu-Jitsu Con 2025, Masters competitors didn’t just show up — they took over.

More than 6,550 athletes battled at Master Worlds, making up 55% of all participants. The message is clear: the Masters divisions are no longer the sidelines of the sport — they’re leading the way.

But every Masters competitor also knows the other side of the story: you train for months, feel sharp in the academy, and yet under the bright lights of competition, the nerves creep in. Suddenly, the game you trust disappears. You walk away frustrated, thinking: “That wasn’t me. I can do so much better.”

This is the exact problem that Gustavo Dantas — 6th-degree black belt, Master World Champion, and founder of The BJJ Mental Coach — has been studying for over a decade. And it’s why he created something brand new: The BJJ Mental Coach Masters Community.

A Movement of Authenticity More than a program, this is a movement built around a single, powerful word: authenticity. The goal is simple yet profound — to help competitors over 30 bring their true selves to the mats, free from nerves, fear, or the pressure to be someone they’re not.

Inside the Masters Community, athletes will find:

• Full access to all courses & e-books

• Monthly live classes with Gustavo Dantas

• Exclusive interviews & content

• Group coaching opportunities

• A supportive peer community of Masters athletes who “get it”

This is where training, mindset, and life intersect. It’s where your hard work in the academy finally translates into authentic performance in competition — and growth far beyond the mats.

To mark the launch, The BJJ Mental Coach will premiere a free webinar on YouTube:

Master BJJ Competitor vs. Overtraining Saturday, Sept 20, 2025 – 8:00 AM MST The BJJ Mental Coach YouTube Channel

In the session, Dantas will share lessons from his “How High Can You Fly?” project — a nine- month challenge where he competed in all four IBJJF Grand Slams — and reveal how overtraining nearly cost him his authenticity on the mats. You’ll discover how to recognize the early signs, avoid the trap, and build a sustainable path forward.

“The BJJ Mental Coach is not me — it’s a movement,” says professor Gustavo Dantas. “It represents the belief that world-class performance starts with a world-class mindset. But more than medals, it’s about becoming the most authentic version of yourself — in Jiu-Jitsu and in life.”

Learn more at www.thebjjmentalcoach.com or follow @gustavodantasbjj.

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“My mission is to help athletes recover safely and return stronger, without relying on tools or machines, just the clinical touch of hands and anatomical knowledge,” says black belt Marcio Carvalho, a trained massage therapist specializing in techniques such as myofascial release and trigger point therapy. Leading Carvalho Performance Therapy, Marcio spoke with the GRACIEMAG team about the most common injuries among Jiu-Jitsu athletes and the secrets to healing them. Check it out!

Besides practicing Jiu-Jitsu, you specialized in treating injuries of fighters…
MARCIO CARVALHO: My journey began with a passion for Jiu-Jitsu and a relentless pursuit of growth, both on and off the mat. Over the years, I’ve witnessed many training partners struggling with injuries and chronic pain. This inspired me to deeply study massage therapy, focusing on techniques like myofascial release and trigger point therapy. Today, my mission is to help athletes recover safely and come back stronger, relying solely on the clinical touch of hands and anatomical expertise.

What are the main benefits of massage therapy?
Massage therapy extends far beyond mere relaxation. It accelerates muscle recovery, alleviates pain, enhances mobility, and prevents injuries. For athletes, it serves as an essential support system to keep their bodies prepared for intense training and competitions. Additionally, it positively impacts the nervous system, helping to reduce stress and improve focus.

What are the key tips for a fighter to overcome an injury?
The first tip is to respect the body’s healing process. Often, athletes rush back too soon, risking further injury. Another important piece of advice is to seek personalized treatment from professionals who understand the unique demands of the sport. Lastly, maintaining a positive mindset focused on recovery can make a significant difference.

What is the most common injury among practitioners of BJJ?
The most prevalent injuries occur in the shoulders and knees, primarily due to twisting and pressure movements during sweeps, falls, and submissions. Overtraining without sufficient recovery time significantly contributes to these issues.

What is the motivational phrase you like to repeat to your clients when they are dealing with a challenging injury?
The mind commands the body. A strong mindset accelerates healing. I often say, “Every pain has a purpose, and every injury is an opportunity to return more aware and stronger.” This perspective helps athletes view recovery as an integral part of their journey, not as an obstacle.

What are the main mistakes you observe in the BJJ community regarding injury treatment?
One major mistake is ignoring pain or attempting to “train through the injury,” treating it as a temporary inconvenience. Another issue is self-medication or excessive ice use without proper guidance. Additionally, many athletes delay treatment until they experience significant functional limitations.

What are your goals for the future of your career?
I aim to expand my clinic, Carvalho Performance Therapy, to better serve athletes in the DMV area (DC, Maryland, Virginia) by offering an exclusive sports rehabilitation protocol. I am also developing a unique manual therapy method tailored for combat sports, which will be transformed into a course to train other professionals in the field.

Daniel Mérola Ignacio, 25, grew up on a mat. Son of black belt and famous referee Sérgio Ignacio, he was raised in the traditions of the Gracie family, and was accompanied from his earliest training by his godfather, Renzo Gracie.

It was Master Renzo who guided him throughout his entire training — from the loose kimono he wore as a child to the black belt he earned with merit and honor.

More than a disciplined and technical athlete, Daniel found his true calling in teaching. From a young age, he began leading classes and seminars, with emphasis on his work with women and children, where he combines sensitivity, clarity and confidence. He believes that Jiu-Jitsu can be a powerful tool for personal transformation — today, his greatest goal is to make this transformation accessible to everyone.

In addition to teaching at gyms for a variety of audiences, Daniel has a unique role in the area of ​​training focused on security and self-defense. He studied Business Administration, balancing his studies with training, classes and seminars, and is now a partner in one of the most respected security training companies in Brazil.

On a daily basis, he instructs private and public security professionals, helping them with the technical, physical and emotional development necessary for their roles. He is also a guest instructor at institutions such as the Special Resources Coordination of the Civil Police (Core), the Army Paratroopers group and Acadepol, the training academy of the Civil Police of the State of Rio de Janeiro.

In one of the most complex urban contexts in Latin America, his contribution is recognized by colleagues and authorities as a rare differential for someone his age.

Daniel’s trajectory in competitive Jiu-Jitsu is marked by significant achievements that demonstrate his excellence. In 2022, he was the Brazilian No-Gi vice-champion by the IBJJF. The following year, he won the gold medal in the black belt heavyweight division at an international CBJJO event. Also in 2023, he was champion of the “King of Rio”, a tournament promoted by FJJ-Rio, the first Jiu-Jitsu federation in the world. In 2024, he won the Rio International Open No-Gi championship in the black belt super heavyweight division, promoted by IBJJF.

These achievements are always combined with hard work inside and outside his company. But, according to him, these are just a few steps on his path. The next steps? Taking his knowledge to new frontiers — inside and outside Brazil.

GRACIEMAG: Do you still remember how you took your first steps in the kimono?

DANIEL IGNACIO: I can barely remember my first day on the mat; it’s as if I had always been there. I feel that Jiu-Jitsu has been present in my life since day one, because I was blessed to have a father who always put the ideals of Jiu-Jitsu as a model of education to guide me inside and outside the academy. My early contact with Jiu-Jitsu is due to my father, Sérgio Ignacio, and my godfather, Renzo Gracie. When I was around 3 years old, I started judo, and soon after I moved on to Jiu-Jitsu — and then also to wrestling. Wrestling is so popular in the United States, and I lived there during my childhood, so it is also a fight that is part of my trajectory.

How did that passion for Jiu-Jitsu prevail?

I always knew that Jiu-Jitsu was my greatest passion. I grew up on the mat and in a family-run security training company, where we used Jiu-Jitsu to teach self-defense. In addition to having the encouragement and inspiration of my father and godfather, I was lucky enough to have a mother who always went out of her way to take me to and be present at all training sessions, fights and competitions from a very young age. Without her dedication and love, it would have been impossible.

How did you feel when you became a black belt?

My journey to black belt was long. From white belt to black belt, it took over 16 years of walking. The evaluations for changing belts always followed a rigorous process: the first step was to be actively training Jiu-Jitsu; then, I had to know all the techniques corresponding to my belt at the time, as described in the book by Renzo and Royler Gracie – a book where the techniques are separated by belt. I also studied the contents of the book by the great master Helio Gracie on Jiu-Jitsu and self-defense. With this knowledge consolidated and having already completed the appropriate time, I went through a technical and performance evaluation in which I had to defeat more senior and bigger opponents to earn the next belt. Since my father and godfather Renzo always encouraged me to participate in the best seminars and train with some of the best in the world, my evolution never stopped.

And how was your phase as a brown belt, about to receive the black belt?

At that stage, I chose to compete in the CBJJ Brazilian Championship while still a brown belt, to end that stage in the best possible way. I ended up winning silver medal and the title of Brazilian vice-champion. After that, I traveled to the Renzo Gracie academy in New York, where I spent a month training intensely. I owe much of who I am and what I believe in to my father and Renzo. I couldn’t be more grateful for, as we say, having learned straight from the source. I was extremely privileged to have access to so many influential names in the Gracie lineage from an early age, and I made sure to take advantage of every opportunity that was given to me. After that month, I finally “graduated” as a black belt. It was a remarkable day, full of emotion, in which I realized how worthwhile each stage of the journey was. It is not an easy path, much less a quick one; it teaches the value of perseverance and patience. There is no shortcut to becoming a black belt, the only way is to never give up.

And what about your work focused on public and private security?

Our company has been in business for over 35 years. This legacy has been passed down from my grandfather to my father, and from my father to me. The company’s motto is something I will carry with me for the rest of my life and intend to pass on to my future children: “Fight and win!” It’s a short phrase but full of meaning. Giving up is not an option. In addition to the technical knowledge of self-defense and Jiu-Jitsu, we try to convey this message every day: the path is tough, but through struggle comes triumph — and it’s this belief that drives us forwards. Today, I have been practicing Jiu-Jitsu for almost 20 years, which seems like a lifetime. However, I know that this journey is just beginning.

What have you learned as a competitor?

In the championships, I learned a lot about self-control and how to deal with my emotions — whether they were good or frustrating. I learned how my mind and thoughts control my body and the decisions I need to make in milliseconds. Therefore, it doesn’t matter if there were hundreds of hours of training, weight training and good nutrition — your mind needs to be focused, calm and positive, or it’s over. Jiu-Jitsu teaches us to respect our opponents before anything else, because arrogance is the fastest way to defeat — and the truth is that we can learn from everyone. It doesn’t matter the color of the belt, the age or the weight: everyone can have something to teach us. It’s amazing how much I learn teaching young children — whether about Jiu-Jitsu or about the worldview.

What is your approach when teaching Jiu-Jitsu to children?

I love teaching children, they have a lightness, purity, and a special outlook on life. I try to bring a little of their positivity into my personal life. At this stage of life, they are like sponges and absorb everything we go through, so we need to be careful about what we say and how we can help build their self-esteem and self-confidence. The approach with little boys and girls has to be subtle. Jiu-Jitsu is introduced in a light and fun way. It can’t be a boring class with extremely technical movements. It is a balance between technique and leisure time. Therefore, children’s training must be fun, but disciplined. We want children to have fun, but we also want them to learn respect, discipline, and self-defense. Understanding that Jiu-Jitsu is a form of defense and not attack is essential.

Medal received for contribution to police education, in Rio de Janeiro.

What is the main goal of teachers who deal with such young students?

Our team always seeks to teach the importance of boys and girls being self-confident and, at the same time, humble. We teach them to keep their distance from problems and to deal with them with determination and with their heads held high. Many children are there because they want to learn or because they have suffered some kind of trauma. At this age, Jiu-Jitsu is important to create a secure, fearless, confident child with good self-esteem, in control, prepared and respectful. Jiu-Jitsu, therefore, is essential to prevent bullying, both to prevent it from happening and to prevent the child from being a target of it. We work on this a lot with the children, teaching them all the necessary techniques so that they are able to defend themselves.

Where did you learn to teach kids?

To convey all of this in a light and pleasant way, we use several different techniques and methods. I acquired much of this knowledge in a special course for BJJ instructors taught by Master Leão Teixeira, a national reference in teaching Jiu-Jitsu to children. It was in this course that I had the opportunity to teach and increase my experience with them. Today, I already meet teenage students who I taught a few years ago, when they were children, and they are very grateful for how I was able to participate in their personal development. I can’t wait to see, in a few years, that my work has led to the development of better adults, with character and confidence.

What was the greatest lesson in overcoming adversity that you learned in Jiu-Jitsu?

There was a tournament I competed in where I had been sleeping very badly for days, in the hospital, with my wife admitted. Then, I tore an ankle ligament in the first few minutes of the fight. My body was exhausted, my mind was very worried about her health, and I had not trained for weeks due to various personal issues. Furthermore, fighting with a torn ligament is excruciatingly painful. Even so, I did not give up and ended up submitting my opponent, taking the gold medal to the hospital. These moments show you that the Jiu-Jitsu we learned from the Gracie family goes far beyond fighting — it is a life lesson. Because, in life, we will almost never have the ideal conditions to achieve anything. We have to work with what we have, do our best and believe that it will be enough. This tenacity and determination are what change someone’s life — it is what defines the type of life they will have.

Have you seen Jiu-Jitsu change the lives of young people with problems?

I have students who have truly changed their lives thanks to training. They left behind drugs, excessive drinking, and harmful influences that were holding them back. They started to believe in their own potential, to make better choices, to have discipline and routine — and this took them to places they never imagined they could reach. These life changes that I witness every day, through Jiu-Jitsu, are certainly what impacts and motivates me on this path.

When did you discover your calling to teach?

Since I was 12 years old, when I would go to the training company where I work today to accompany my father to his classes. That’s how my grandfather taught him, and he taught me. My father is a natural teacher, and I was always amazed to see how easy it seemed for him to speak to so many people and to build a clear line of reasoning, so that everyone could follow and assimilate. Like my father, I believe that I have always had a calling to teach and help; I have always had the patience and clarity to guide my students’ progress. But what I have learned over time is that when we master a subject, have the humility to learn even more about it, and teach with love and attention, we can become good teachers. After a few years of being forged within the company as an assistant, I started teaching officially in 2019, when I already felt more ready and prepared. Since then, I have done everything to be the best teacher possible.

Daniel Ignacio and his special silver medal at Brasileiro da CBJJ. Photos: GRACIEMAG

What does it take to be an effective BJJ instructor?

I believe that teaching is closely linked to empathy: knowing how to put yourself in someone else’s shoes and understand how they will receive the message you want to convey. Each student has a different story, cultural, family and personal context. Teaching requires connecting with students and understanding their needs in order to understand the best way to deliver the message. The language, the level of difficulty, the demands, and many other aspects of teaching adapt according to the type of student on the other side. Understanding this was essential to give a good class and be understood. Classes for laypeople, for police professionals, for children, men or women: all have their own specificities and deserve specific care.

What are your self-defense classes for women like?

Unfortunately, we live in a sexist world, where women always have to fight harder to feel heard, respected and, most importantly, safe. Jiu-Jitsu, for almost a hundred years, has always proven to be an excellent tool for giving women some of the self-confidence and security that society takes away every day. It is something I recommend to all women I know, of all ages. Knowing how to defend yourself is essential for all of us, but especially for women, who are often targets of barbaric crimes, both inside and outside the home. For my specialization, I went to the reference for women’s Jiu-Jitsu, the Gracie Kore school of champion Kyra Gracie, a renowned black belt with books on the subject. Kyra has made it her main mission to bring Jiu-Jitsu knowledge to women in a way that they feel quite comfortable and safe absorbing it. I took a professional course in teaching Jiu-Jitsu to women, using the Gracie Kore methodology, where I learned a lot about how to conduct classes in a way that makes women feel valued, respected and confident. I learned there how to create a comfortable and inclusive environment for everyone on the mat.

Have you ever taught female police officers? What is that experience like?

Yes, I had the opportunity to teach Jiu-Jitsu techniques applied to women’s self-defense at the Civil Police Sports Center in Rio de Janeiro. In this class, we had female police officers and also the “Empoderadas” group, a sensational group that fights violence against women, very inspiring and necessary. It was a great experience, where I was able to teach strong women how to have more ways to defend themselves. I intend to continue learning a lot in this area, since I really want to help women in the best way possible. As a man, I understand that there are nuances in women’s lives that I don’t experience firsthand, so it’s important to listen in order to understand.

How important is Jiu-Jitsu for the security forces, in Rio or in the world?

Training agents goes far beyond simply being technically ready for a conflict. Thanks to Jiu-Jitsu, agents are shaped with self-control and self-confidence, capable of dealing with real situations calmly, clearly and ethically. My greatest responsibility is to make these professionals better trained, so that they can protect themselves and the population. This training is both technical and mental. A good security professional, trained in Jiu-Jitsu, can transform a potentially lethal situation into a non-lethal one, saving and sparing the lives of others. A police officer trained in Jiu-Jitsu, in many situations, does not need to use a firearm to defend himself, which offers security that goes beyond carrying a weapon. Thus, Jiu-Jitsu can be used to prevent the escalation of conflicts, where, through technical control, we can protect both the security agent and the citizen. All of our training is adapted to the realistic environment of the public or private security forces for which we are offering this training.

How does your knowledge of real-life situations help your results as a fighter in sports Jiu-Jitsu?

I like to fight forward, always looking to takedown and submit. My preparation routine involves always training and being active, whether it’s with heavy training, drills, weight training or teaching classes. A good fighter must always be ready and prepared. Ever since I got my brown belt, I’ve been focusing on Jiu-Jitsu without a Gi, or “No-Gi” abroad. I saw a greater similarity there with our daily lives and with self-defense, since we don’t have the Gi to hold on to and control is much more difficult. I believe that every Jiu-Jitsu practitioner should test themselves in an official competition at least once. We discover a lot about ourselves when we’re on the mat, in the middle of an arena full of opponents. We learn to deal with pressure in a different way. Our mindset should be to always want to evolve and learn, to always be prepared for combat, and to know how to deal with victory as well as defeat. The main thing is to feel trained and always learning. This gives you a sense of accomplishment before the fight begins, and this feeling is more than essential to winning. Without it, you are already defeated.

What are your goals today as a teacher?

When we breathe Jiu-Jitsu, we learn that our discipline is not just a sport; it is a lifestyle. Today, I don’t think about training athletes to win championships. I want to build strong and confident people who, through Jiu-Jitsu, achieve a better life and become better people. I want to combine my academic background in Business Administration from IBMEC, my command of the English language and my knowledge of self-defense to work globally. I want to develop educational programs, help expand Jiu-Jitsu around the world and train students with the principles and values ​​I believe in. And, with all this, I want to continue to be active in high-level competitions, because I learn and evolve a lot in each one. I hope to be able to inspire others, just as many veterans have inspired me to be who I am. Thank you very much to everyone for the opportunity.

Daniel among his father and his godfather Renzo, at Renzo Gracie Academy in New York. Photos: Personal Archives

For the past decade, EDJ Academy has been a foundation of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu excellence, cultivating champions on and off the mats. Founded on the principles of discipline, perseverance and community, the academy has grown into a hub for individuals of all backgrounds to learn, grow, and connect through the art of Jiu-Jitsu, fostering a strong sense of community and personal development.

EDJ Academy was born from a passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and a vision to create a training environment that balanced high-level instruction with a welcoming community. Its founder, Juan Pablo Garcia, a seasoned competitor and instructor with nearly 30 years of experience in the sport, took on the mission of not only producing athletes but also building a culture that nurtures personal growth and development.

“Feeling beyond blessed and grateful as we celebrate 10 incredible years of our academy”, says JP Garcia. “What started as a dream has grown into a strong community, a family, and a place where we lift each other up, push past our limits, and grow together on and off the mats. This journey wouldn’t be possible without our students, instructors, families, and supporters— each of you plays a huge role in making this academy what it is today. THANK YOU for trusting in our vision, showing up, and making this place feel like home”.

From its humble beginnings, the academy quickly became recognized as a trusted center for learning and development. With an emphasis on fundamentals, structured curriculums, and mentorship, students of all levels found a home at EDJ Academy, whether their goal was to compete at the highest level or to build strength, improve fitness, and self-confidence through Jiu-Jitsu.

Building champions, on and off the mats

One of EDJ Academy’s proudest achievements has been its impact on the competition scene. Over the years, the academy has produced IBJJF World Champions, Pan American Champions, and European Champions, proving that its methodology and training structure are among the best. However, beyond the accolades, the academy takes the most pride in the character development of its students.

With a focus on discipline, teamwork, and leadership, the academy has helped shape individuals into successful athletes, instructors, and even school owners. The journey of many students who began as white belts and evolved into black belts and mentors within the academy is something we take great pride in, built on a strong foundation.

Beyond competition, EDJ Academy has cultivated a strong affiliation network, spreading its philosophy and teaching methods to multiple locations. The academy now has affiliates and has grown significantly in Ecuador, Colombia, Nicaragua, Chile, Germany, Turkey and USA, expanding its reach and impact across the globe. With more than 30 black belts developed under its banner, EDJ Academy continues to build upon its lasting impact in the Jiu-Jitsu community.

Additionally, the academy has remained committed to innovation, incorporating online learning resources for affiliates, instructor development programs, and specialized curriculums for kids and adults. EDJ Academy continues to evolve while preserving the essence of the sport, with strong support for the IBJJF and its mission to uphold the highest standards in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competition and education.

The academy also hosts annual training camps, bringing together students and affiliates from around the world to train, learn, and grow together. Professor JP maintains a close relationship with school owners and all students, providing guidance in various areas, including competition, coaching, and business development. His mentorship has been instrumental in shaping not only high-level competitors but also successful instructors and academy owners.

“We also celebrate some incredible promotions, such as our new two black belts Wilbert Vasquez and Evelyn Song. Huge congrats to years of dedication, hard work, and passion. To everyone who has been part of this journey — past and present — THANK YOU. This is just the beginning, and we’re excited for what’s ahead. Here’s to another decade of growth, success and unforgettable moments on the mats!”

The next 10 years

As EDJ Academy celebrates its 10-year anniversary, the journey is far from over. With new generations of students and instructors rising through the ranks, the academy is set for even greater achievements. Plans for future expansion, enhanced training programs, and continued community outreach signal that the next decade will be just as impactful as the last.

As the team reflects on its first decade, one thing is certain—this is just the beginning.

If you would like to get in touch or learn more about Professor Juan Pablo and the team, visit www.edjassociation.com.

Matheus Cunha in action during an IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu tournament. Photo: Personal Archive

Currently competing and training in Texas, United States, Matheus Cunha, a Jiu-Jitsu black-belt, discovered a pleasant surprise in the sport. Initially, when he started at 11 years old, his goal was to lose weight, but the identification with that environment made the kid realize that he wanted to go further. Today, at 24 years old, Matheus is improving his technique at 413 Jiu-Jitsu, a team led by athlete and professor Pedro Rocha, which is preparing to assemble the 2025 competition team. Matheus is one of the members of this select group.

After taking his first steps in Jiu-Jitsu as a child with master Roberto Godoi, in Barueri, São Paulo, Matheus’ journey in the sport took another direction after he became a blue-belt, when the first opportunity for sponsorship arose with a trip abroad.

“As a blue-belt, I had the opportunity to be sponsored by Frota Academy, in Switzerland, and I took my first international trip when I was 16. I did a camp in the country and then competed, as a Juvenile, in the IBJJF Euros. It was a great experience.”.

Since then, Matheus’ dedication has given him the chance to broaden his horizons through Jiu-Jitsu. Today, after spending some time in Texas, he feels more mature, but with the same desire to improve as the 16-year-old who visited Switzerland for the sport.

“My routine in the United States consists of training only. I train three to four times a day, varying between physical preparation and Jiu-Jitsu. I’m going to all the Opens here in the country and I intend to do super fights, in addition to participating in the Pans and in the Worlds, Gi and No Gi, IBJJF competitions, and in the AJP Tour Grand Slam, in Dallas.”.

In June of last year, Matheus was promoted to black-belt, beginning a more challenging chapter as a Jiu-Jitsu competitor. The 2025 season has already begun for him. At the end of January, he competed at the IBJJF Dallas Winter Open, Gi and No Gi, a high-performance competition. On that occasion, the black-belt placed well on the podium in both modalities and left the tournament with two silver medals. A warm-up for the promising months to come.

No Jiu-Jitsu, a eficácia de um golpe depende da execução correta de diversas minúcias técnicas. Como várias pequenas peças que formam uma grande engrenagem. É por essa perspectiva que, hoje, quero compartilhar com você os ajustes fundamentais de um dos meus golpes favoritos: o armlock, uma das técnicas mais eficientes e versáteis da cartilha do BJJ.

Com a execução correta, o armlock pode ser aplicado em várias situações durante o combate. Além de mim, grandes nomes do Jiu-Jitsu também utilizaram e utilizam a técnica do armlock para se consagrar nas competições.

Kyra Gracie
• Uma das mulheres mais bem-sucedidas no BJJ, Kyra utilizou o armlock diversas vezes em sua carreira, especialmente em lutas de alto nível em campeonatos mundiais.

Marcus Buchecha
• Embora Buchecha seja conhecido por sua diversidade técnica, ele também conquistou vitórias importantes utilizando armlocks, especialmente em transições rápidas a partir do controle lateral ou montada.

Roger Gracie
• Roger é amplamente considerado um dos maiores competidores de BJJ de todos os tempos. Ele é conhecido por suas finalizações clássicas e precisas, incluindo armlocks. Um de seus títulos mundiais foi conquistado com um armlock, mostrando sua maestria em posições básicas.

Rodolfo Vieira
• Rodolfo, conhecido por seu estilo agressivo e domínio absoluto, finalizou várias lutas em campeonatos mundiais com armlocks, aproveitando seu controle absoluto por cima.

O armlock clássico pela guarda

1. Controle dos braços
Da guarda fechada, seu objetivo inicial é controlar o braço do oponente que será atacado. Para isso, segure o punho dele com uma mão enquanto, com a outra, domine o seu cotovelo. Puxe o braço em direção ao seu peito, criando um ângulo desfavorável para ele.

2. Quebra de postura
Com as pernas fechadas ao redor da cintura do oponente, puxe-o para baixo, trazendo sua cabeça em direção ao seu peito. Esse movimento quebra a postura dele, dificultando qualquer tentativa de defesa.

3. Ajuste do quadril
Um dos detalhes cruciais é o ajuste do quadril. Gire o quadril para o lado do braço que será finalizado. Para isso, coloque o pé oposto no quadril do oponente, criando espaço para girar.

4. Controle da cabeça
Passe sua perna por cima da cabeça do oponente, posicionando sua panturrilha contra a nuca dele. Isso é essencial para limitar os movimentos e evitar que ele se levante.

5. Finalização
Cruze as pernas, mantendo o joelho bem próximo ao braço do oponente. Segure o braço que está sendo atacado com as duas mãos, mantendo os polegares voltados para cima. Puxe o braço para si, enquanto eleva o quadril para cima, aplicando pressão no cotovelo.

Observações Importantes:

• Posicionamento dos pés: não cruze os pés durante a execução do armlock, pois isso reduz o controle sobre a postura do oponente.

• Atenção ao ângulo: quanto mais perpendicular você estiver em relação ao tronco do oponente, maior será a alavancagem.

• Velocidade vs. Controle: muitas vezes, iniciantes tentam executar o armlock rapidamente, mas priorize sempre o controle para evitar erros e contra-ataques.

• Defesas comuns: esteja ciente de que o oponente pode tentar se levantar ou empurrar sua perna para escapar. Por isso, mantenha sua panturrilha bem firme contra a nuca e ajuste a pressão constantemente.

Reflexão pessoal
Como faixa-preta e competidora, eu vejo o armlock não apenas como uma técnica ofensiva, mas também como uma ferramenta pedagógica para desenvolver fundamentos, como ajuste de quadril, controle de postura e precisão de movimentos. Sua simplicidade técnica o torna um golpe universal, enquanto seus detalhes transformam o básico em arte.

Espero que este artigo inspire você a praticar e refinar essa técnica. Afinal, no BJJ, cada ajuste faz toda a diferença.

*Luciane dos Santos Silva, faixa-preta e bicampeã mundial de BJJ.

What benefits does a Jiu-Jitsu instructor offer to individuals and the community where they work?
EDUARDO INOJOSA: In addition to spreading the fundamentals of self-defense, respect, and discipline, we, Jiu-Jitsu instructors, empower individuals in terms of healthy living, both physically and mentally. I refer to encouraging self-confidence, self-control, and enabling people to overcome adversities. We motivate students to adopt positive values, fostering resilience and better decision-making under pressure—not only on the mat but also in daily life.

Besides teaching Jiu-Jitsu, you have a successful career as a competitor. What have been your main achievements, and what have you learned from them?
For me, it was during my purple belt in 2007 when I won the IBJJF Brazilian Championship, one of the first major competitions I entered. I was also the runner-up in the black belt category in 2015. In 2017, I realized a dream by becoming the champion at the Brazilian Team Championship, representing Ribeiro Jiu-Jitsu. I also stood out in the AJP Grand Slams in Rio in 2021 and 2022. Throughout this journey, I learned a lot about discipline and resilience, as preparing for and participating in these competitions requires athletes to be in top form, both physically and mentally, and to always work with a long-term perspective.

What is your main goal for the future of your career?
My goal is to focus on training for competitions and return to competing, as this will enhance my skills as a black belt and help me practically demonstrate what I teach my students in class. Competing allows me to gain much more knowledge and accelerate my evolution. As we know, knowledge never ends; there’s always something new to learn in the gentle art.

When someone hesitates to train Jiu-Jitsu, what do you usually say to convince them to put on the gi and start their journey in the gentle art?
First, I try to listen to the person and understand their goals so that I can identify how Jiu-Jitsu can add positive values to their life.

Who is your greatest idol in your career, the person who serves as a guide in your major decisions? Why?
My idol is my fellow countryman Xande Ribeiro. Because of all he has achieved and represents for Jiu-Jitsu, he is a humble man who has never changed his way of being due to success. I was already a fan of his in 2016 when I had the privilege of spending a lot of time with Xande. I learned a lot from him during training. He is a great reference as an athlete, businessman, and person.

What motivational phrase do you like to repeat to yourself when going through a difficult situation?
“Never give up; you are one centimeter closer than you were yesterday. Today is a new day. I can!” Moreover, my family and those I love motivate me more than anything. If they are well, healthy, and happy, that’s all I need. I just know that everything will turn out fine.

How did the name of the school come about?
We chose this name because Jiu-Jitsu is infinite, always evolving. That’s also how I approach my teaching career. I’m constantly studying and striving to specialize further. I’ve taken finance courses to manage the school as a business, and, of course, pedagogy courses on the mat, like the Winners Method developed by Master Wendel Ribeiro, which focuses on a specific methodology for teaching children. I do everything possible to provide the best for our students and the community of Saint John’s in northern Florida.