46 year old guy here. Body is broken down from years in military. Multiple injuries and surgeries. Trained before, but was injured. Came into Ralph Gracie a few months ago. My goals are to make this part of my life, learn offense and defense, lose some pounds, and lower my BP.
I have a very high respect for those who train BJJ. I am usually good at things, but this is extremely challenging. I struggle with most moves, I lack flexibility, and I gas out quick. But whatever, I enjoy it. I enjoy the sweat and feeling after class. Watching my partners train is so inspiring.
Professor Bob is excellent. A highly accomplished 5th Degree Black Belt. He has taken the time to roll with me occasionally. It is incredible his skill level. He could do anything he wanted to me, regardless of my intent. Feeling that and seeing that is beyond impressive. He is compassionate and very detail oriented. He treats me with respect and ensures I don’t get hurt.
For anyone on the fence. Just come in. Take that step. Take it slow. Settle in. Enjoy...
Read moreGreat local jiu jitsu academy for kids and adults. All lessons taught by a legit bjj black belt, Professor Marcelo Lucena. After a 9-year hiatus from the sport, I was looking for a nearby school with a convenient schedule to resume training. I was always making excuses -- work was too busy or I was too tired -- but thankfully my son was at the age that he could join the kids program. That motivated me to recommit to jiu jitsu and to stick with it.
My son is learning the meaning of hard work and grit, composure under pressure (literally), and challenging himself to follow instructions independently. All things he will need to succeed in his generation. Prof. Marcelo provides all his students with a steady push to do better each and every day. The adults program is safe and has good training partners of all belts, sizes, and ages. There's never a perfect time to start or resume training, so if you're on the fence, just step in the door and give it a try. You'll be...
Read moreI moved back to Mission Viejo 3 years ago after being raised here and was very happy to find Professor Marcelo and Ralph Gracie Mission Viejo. I trained Jiu Jitsu for a number of years before moving and I was looking for a Jiu Jitsu school with a warm and welcoming environment, friendly students, an outstanding kids program, and amazing Jiu Jitsu instruction. I found all of these in Ralph Gracie Mission Viejo and now my 7 year old daughter and 9 year old son train here and they love it. More importantly, my wife and I can see the positive impact Jiu Jitsu has on our kids. I would highly recommend for kids, adults,...
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