The Unexpected Start
My Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey began in 2012, a path that unfolded in ways I never could have predicted. Epic MMA opened across the street from my office in Central, Hong Kong, and I jumped into the world of grappling with both feet. Within just six months of starting, I was awarded my blue belt - a milestone that, at the time, seemed to arrive too quickly. This rapid progression left me grappling with doubts; I didn't feel deserving of the belt. It wasn't just about the techniques I was yet to master, but a deeper understanding of what being a blue belt truly meant.
The Year of Growth
2013 marked a pivotal year in my journey. I had been a blue belt for about a year and was still wrestling with the weight of the belt around my waist. Seeking to deepen my understanding and skills, I traveled to Brazil to train with our Professor, Rodrigo Medeiros, and the esteemed BJJ Revolution team. It was here, on the mats in Brazil, that I started to feel comfortable in my blue belt. Training in the birthplace of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, I absorbed not just techniques but also the culture and spirit of this martial art.
An Inspirational Moment at Carlson Gracie Academy
A defining moment of my journey occurred at the famous Carlson Gracie Academy in Copacabana. Accompanied by Tim Credeur, one of Professor Medeiros' black belts, I witnessed something extraordinary. After a gruelling training session, Tim promoted one of his brown belts to black belt. Observing this promotion, feeling the reverence and emotion in the room, sent chills down my spine. It was at that moment that the significance of each belt promotion, the depth of the journey, truly resonated with me.
Embracing the Learning Curve
As a blue belt, my focus shifted to exploration and learning. It was a period of discovery, absorbing as many techniques as possible, understanding their nuances, and adapting them to my style. More than the techniques, it was about cultivating an open mind, a receptivity to the endless lessons Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu had to offer.
Understanding the Belt Journey
One key realization during my blue belt phase was that every belt level is a unique chapter in a student's Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey. It's a personal path, varying for each individual. The duration at each belt level shouldn't be a concern; what matters is the growth and experiences gained along the way. Belts, while milestones, are not the end goal. They mark significant points on our path, but it is the journey - with its challenges, learning, and personal transformations - that is truly rewarding.
Embracing the Gentle Art
As I reflect on my blue belt journey, it dawns on me that embracing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with an open heart and mind is what sustains our passion for this gentle art. The belts will come and go, but the love and respect for the art, the continuous learning and evolving, that is what stays with us. Each belt is a reminder of where we've been and an inspiration for where we're going.
To each of you on your own BJJ journey, remember this- cherish every moment on the mat, every challenge faced, and every lesson learned. Your journey is unique, and each step, each belt, is a testament to your growth and dedication. Keep rolling, keep learning, and most importantly, keep enjoying this beautiful art form that is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
-Alex
Start with the Principles
Our conceptual curriculum — fifteen principles written by the SHBJJ coaches, in the order we teach them.
Read in order