Gracie Barra MMA in Dana Point

Gracie Barra MMA just opened up their new facility in Dana Point. We had the chance to attend the opening day celebration and grab a quick Q & A with Prof. Flavio Almeida the head instructor at Gracie Barra Dana Point

What influenced you to come to Orange County?

California is considered nowadays the epicenter of MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The sport has became really popular in the US and specially here I South California. More and more people are discovering on the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu an activity that can bring more balance to their lives and to the lives of their families. As an instructor, being able to improve the lifestyle of the people from our communities has been the biggest reward I could ever expect.

How does MMA change a person’s view on life?

I am not an MMA fighter and consider myself more of a Martial Artist specialized in grappling.

Fighting – in a broader definition – is as natural to human beings as eating or drinking. It is a basic human need and a natural impulse that allows us to survive; or thrive towards the realization of our dreams. Simulating a real fight under controlled circumstances allows individuals to reconnect and understand themselves more fully. They learn to read their instincts and fuel action with passion for survival, combining logic with intuition for the achievement of their goals. They learn that the basic principles for success on the mats are the same for success in life.

 The application of Gracie Jiu Jitsu transcends the practice of chokes, joint locks, immobilizations, throws, and strikes. A true Gracie philosophy prepares men, women, and children for life, showing them paths to a healthier life and the most effective use of physical, mental, and spiritual strength. Eating well is Jiu Jitsu; taking care of your body is Jiu Jitsu; saying no to cigarettes, alcohol, and drugs is Jiu Jitsu; and so is keeping a close bond with relatives and friends

What set Gracie Barra MMA apart from other clubs?

I have the utmost respect for all those people and organizations who contribute to the growth of our sport. I believe if they have students it is because they are adding value to their lives and that is what really matters.

I believe Gracie Barra has found a perfect balance between safety, intensity, and effectiveness of the techniques being thought. Anyone who comes to our schools can expect and very friendly and family oriented training environment in which instructors and students are fully engaged in helping each other out on their long journey of mastering Brazilian jiu-jitsu

 Is your club expensive to join?

No. All our students find it cheap actually. We have classes every day and they can train as much as they want

Where do you want to see the sport going in the next couple of years?

I really believe on the value Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and martial arts can add to people’s lives. For kids it can be a big help in complementing parents and school education.  For adults it is one of the best ways for them to reconnect with themselves and engage on an activity that will make them more physically fit and mentally stronger. In the years to come I would love to see more and more people involved with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It is still a marginal sport even if compared to other martial arts like Karate.

How long have you been training?

I have been doing BJJ for over 17 years. I was 13 years old when I started

What are the keys to becoming a successful MMA student?

For MMA students I would say they should have strong ground game because BJJ gives you great defenses. For BJJ students I can say the key is consistency. You have to come to the mats as often as you can.

Does MMA promote violent fighting?

No. It is the opposite actually. The well run programs and schools focus on developing one’s character and appreciation for your training partner and responsibility with the techniques learned are core values of martial arts in general. One should try to understand their own personal philosophy before joining the program

Any future plans for Orange County?

This is a great place and I love South OC. My plan is to be in San Clemente and Dana Point teaching my students supporting other GB schools close by.

Gracie Barra Dana Point

Blue Lanthern Plaza
34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, CA.
Phone: (949) 769-4663

For further information contact them at info@gbdanapoint.com