8 months ago, my kids, now 9 and 11, did a trial lesson and joined Gracie Barra Mt Lawley. 3 weeks later, after watching the great teaching, lessons and atmosphere, I did a trial lesson and joined too. At 47 years old. 8 months later I have lost 17kg, feel lighter, fitter and more confident in many aspects of my life.
There are many great aspects to Gracie Barra; the Professors, the rolling cycle of curriculum, the academy culture and the flexible schedule for training. I especially enjoy seeing how respectful the kids become.
My kids enjoy the way the physical warm ups and positional training are played as games that encourage teamwork and fun. My daughter especially loves that she gets to spar using the technique she just learned. My son especially enjoys learning from the different Professors and coaches. Both my children are more confident within themselves, fitter and more active at home, as well as having something we all have in common.
I joined because I enjoy watching a Master teach. The Professors (black belts) at Gracie Barra have years of practical experience, deep knowledge and well expressed passion for Jiu Jitsu. Over the years, I have learned from and competed nationally with award winning singers and musicians and Gracie Barra Mt Lawley really has that high quality performance level in the teaching, curriculum and culture.
After a while, I realised that all the upper belts I roll with are generous and effective teachers too. The Professors encourage giving each other feedback and work at developing confident and effective leaders and teachers, as well as high quality Jiu Jitsu players.
I have had a number of congratulations from upper belts who recognise that the earliest stripes on your belt represent challenges and changes in your personal life as well as Jiu Jitsu development and dedication.
The curriculum rolls through a 16 week cycle, so you thoroughly become immersed in the content and become more and more effective at learning and practising as you go.
I was concerned before I joined about my fitness and potential injury. I researched a number of over 50 Jiu Jitsu players YT channels and found strategies for fitness and negotiating with rolling partners. It really has been a great social and wellbeing experience. I haven't had an injury, and am far fitter than I have been in a long time.
Jiu Jitsu has given me an easy motivational reason to change my diet and lifestyle and has been excellent for creating a new aspect of tighter and meaningful connection with my kids.
I definitely recommend booking a trial lesson, or even just making a time to come in to watch a lesson for you, your partner or your kids. Professors Mohamed, Leah, Mathias, Teco, as well as Amanda and coaches Danny and Marco at Gracie Barra Mt lawley are welcoming, thoughtful, friendly and get to know you well. See you on the mat!
Simon
Posted 1 year ago