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Shaping Futures Through Jiu-Jitsu in Lake Country

Our Journey to Lake Country: Building a Community Through Martial Arts

Hello!

 I’m Andar, a resident and enthusiast of Lake Country. In a heartfelt move back in 2017, my wife and I decided to leave Vancouver for the serene landscapes of Lake Country. Our goal was simple: to be closer to our loved ones and to provide our daughter with a nurturing environment surrounded by nature and family.

My journey as an instructor began over a decade ago, with a particular focus on teaching children. It’s been an honor and a privilege to observe firsthand the transformative power of Jiu-Jitsu in the lives of young learners. The discipline, confidence, and camaraderie it fosters among them are truly remarkable. Inspired by these changes, I’m now dedicated to bringing my experience, passion, and the values of Jiu-Jitsu to the youth in Lake Country.

My own path in Jiu-Jitsu started in early 2003, marking the beginning of a lifelong commitment to this martial art. Achieving my Black Belt in 2015 was a milestone that deepened my dedication to teaching and sharing this art. In December 2017, I was honored to receive my first-degree black belt, a recognition of my continuous growth and understanding of Jiu-Jitsu’s profound impact.

I am excited about the opportunity to nurture the potential of Lake Country’s youth through Jiu-Jitsu, sharing the lessons of resilience, respect, and personal growth that have shaped my life.

Early Beginning
early 2003
Devoted Gracie Barra member
Found my passion for teaching
Committed to the community youth
Family man
Lasting memories
3rd Degree
December 2023

We seek to train body, mind and spirit through the highest level of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instruction. We envision the art as a vehicle for individual development and the strengthening of the family spirit, going beyond the winning-losing or contest philosophy.

– Master Carlos Gracie, Jr. –

Master Carlos Gracie Jr

Brotherhood, Integrity, Development

In a lifetime dedicated to the growth and development of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Master Carlos Gracie Jr. has always guided his efforts and actions by the values of brotherhood, expansion, and integrity.

The values and principles that build Master Carlos Gracie Jr.’s personal philosophy have defined to a great extent the culture of Gracie Barra. 

Gracie Barra Logo

Why Jiu-Jitsu? Unlocking a Multifaceted Discipline

The Transformative Power of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) extends its benefits well beyond the mats, influencing every facet of your life with its profound impact. More than just a martial art, BJJ equips you with self-defense skills and a framework for tackling life’s challenges—be it weight management, stress reduction, or boosting self-confidence. This art form is universally accessible, inviting anyone eager to learn and grow, both physically and mentally.

Gracie Barra Lake Country instructors lining up.
Gracie Barra Jiu-Jitsu instructors wit student

Jiu-Jitsu Training: A Path to Mental Clarity and Discipline

Fostering Focus and Discipline Through Rigorous Training

The essence of Jiu-Jitsu training lies in its demand for unwavering mental focus. Achieving such focus requires daily dedication—consistent training, balanced nutrition, and the elimination of distractions. The discipline forged on the mats transcends into daily life, helping practitioners manage emotions like anger, cultivate patience, and treat others with respect. These life skills, honed through Jiu-Jitsu, become invaluable habits that enrich your personal and professional life.

Purpose and Fulfillment: Discovering Your Path Through Martial Arts

Finding Meaning and Satisfaction in Every Roll

Engaging deeply with Jiu-Jitsu often leads to discovering a sense of purpose and fulfillment that pervades daily life. This journey through martial arts becomes more than a hobby or a fitness regimen—it transforms into a source of personal satisfaction, offering clarity on your passions, strengths, and contributions to the world. When martial arts begin to resonate with you on such a profound level, it’s a testament to its transformative potential, signifying that it has indeed become a central part of your life.

Gracie Barra Jiu-Jitsu instructors with student

What People are asking about Jiu-Jitsu

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is the fastest-growing martial arts in the world, partly due to the popularity of Mixed Martial Arts and companies like UFC, where elite athletics demonstrates the highest leaves of Jiu-Jitsu.

Jiu-Jitsu is more helpful in defending yourself because it teaches students how to take down an opponent, control them on the ground, and work even against bigger opponents.

Jiu-Jitsu is the ideal martial art for women, and it’s tough to argue against that. It is one martial art with the lowest injury rate and the most effective for self-defense. It is the only practical self-defense that even a smaller person can learn to defend against a bigger and stronger opponent.

Jiu-Jitsu can work in a street fight when faced with just one attacker but is rarely helpful against multiple. The techniques you can learn in Jiu-Jitsu are highly effective for taking down a single opponent, halting them, and persuading them to give up through submission, chokeholds, and arm and shoulder locks.

Are you ready for your first Jiu-Jitsu class?

Gracie Barra Lake Country is an establishment that provides the equipment, classes, and trainers necessary to guide your child’s through their health and exercise journey. Becoming a member is easy! Come in for a tour or call us to know about our membership rates and options.
We look forward to seeing you!😀

Upper level of Tutrle Bay Plaza

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Starting in July 3rd

Girls Only Self-Defense Class

(ages 11 and up)

Wednesday

Time: 5:30 PM to 6:15 PM