GERARD WELCH

Why I Started Training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

I first stepped into a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) class while training at a MMA gym. I wanted to see what it was like to fight—but safely. 🥋 What I didn’t expect was how humbling (and eye-opening) my first class would be.

I came in strong and athletic, doing well in striking classes, but when I sparred with a blue belt who was smaller and less athletic than me… I learned strength isn’t everything in BJJ. A few months later, I rolled with a black belt and saw firsthand how skill, technique, and experience completely dominated strength.

That moment lit a fire in me. I vowed to become a black belt one day. Fast forward 10+ years of on-and-off training, and I’m proud to say I’m a 3-stripe brown belt on the journey to black belt!

BJJ has not only made me more prepared for real-life emergencies but has also taught me the value of patience, humility, and persistence. I still love striking and teaching beginners how to punch and kick, but BJJ is the ultimate tool to close the gap in any self-defense scenario.

Whether you're just starting your self-defense journey or looking to refine your skills, I’d love to help you get started. DM me or comment below if you want to learn more about private lessons or group training! Let’s roll!