I started my jiu-jitsu journey with Leonel and the RJJ NTX family in June of 2019. At the time of this review, I have trained for a little over six months. Having been a former NCAA D-1 athlete myself, I have been exposed to many different coaches and styles of leadership throughout my athletic career. I can say with all sincerity that Leonel ranks at the top of my list of coaches in terms of knowledge/application of his craft. Leonel’s ability to simplify and communicate seemingly “complex” techniques and systems of movement is amazing.
While Leonel is a great instructor on the mats, I see him as an even better man off the mats. It goes beyond jiu-jitsu for Leonel and his family. This is their ministry. They genuinely care about you as an individual. The culture/vibe of this school is one of inclusion and family, it’s not a gym, it’s a school. Light vibe, HEAVY jiu-jitsu. Speaking from experience as a beginner, the higher ranked students don’t try to destroy the less experienced. Make no mistake, the training is intense, but there is a sense of “giving more than you take” in terms of training. The more experienced help the less experienced, a family vibe.
My three year old trains on Tuesday and Thursday. He always looks forward to going to class and playing with his friends. He has already had a couple instances at daycare, where another kid has tackled him and he was able to get out from underneath them and walk away unharmed. If you have kids, start them in jiu-jitsu as soon as possible. Not only will it benefit them by giving them the tools to physically defend themselves, but they will learn how to be gentle, respectful and a good listener. My son is still working on the good listener part. 😊
I hope this review encourages anyone reading this to come train, but especially the first-timer who is looking to start training. Starting anything new can be overwhelming and humbling. Stop putting it off, today is the day. Accept the fact that starting out you’re not going to be the best, you’re not going to know anything. There’s no pressure to perform. Accept the fact that regardless of your physical abilities, a smaller, “weaker” person will be able to control you in ways you couldn’t imagine, simply because they have been training longer. Everyone has a different “Why?” In terms of their motivation for training. Leo and the students of RJJ NTX will support you along the way. Show up, stay humble, and work hard. You will improve, just be patient, enjoy the process and follow the plan.
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Posted 6 years ago
