Today we’d like to introduce you to Rodrigo Almeida.
A native from Espírito Santo, Brazil, Rodrigo came to the U.S. in 1995, when he was 18 years old with the goal to learn music at Berkeley School of Music in Boston, MA! At that time, all he knew was that Berkeley was the best school of music and had no idea of what life had reserved for him something that would change his life to better in many ways. It was in 2003 when Rodrigo came to meet the one person whom would introduce him to a new passion, a new chapter of his life. His name is Master Jean Kleber, head instructor and founder of Kimura Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu School, USA.
Rodrigo has been learning techniques of BJJ from Master Jean Kleber since the very beginning of the school (2003), where self-defense, exercise, self-esteem, are only part of what one will learn. Kimura BJJ School has a solid philosophy that’s been around for many years and bringing people together every day!
Throughout the years with Kimura BJJ School, Rodrigo Almeida, also known as “Digão”, he has been and still is an active competitor, representing Kimura BJJ in tournaments such as NYBJJF, Grapplers Quest, NAGA Fight, IBJJF, bringing home many victories!
Within the years in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Master Jean has also introduced and trained Rodrigo “Digão” to be a refined and efficient instructor in order to carry on the school’s philosophy in the best way! At that time (2005), Rodrigo was still a blue belt whom would assist in the beginner’s classes alongside with their head instructor.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has definitely not been easy as it may look or sound, especially when it comes to martial arts education, where most people don’t realize what goes on behind the scenes. I don’t blame anyone for not knowing, they are guests, not to be involved, They are just to enjoy the benefits of the classes and I’m glad to provide, to share!
I don’t really like to call it struggles but obstacles, in which life has plenty for us all, but my passion for the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu makes it so much easier and enjoyable!
It’s not easy to run this type of business on a single person for the physical and financial part of the business, meaning, it’s like Heaven when you have someone to do the financial transactions and you can just run your classes. But that’s not where I’m at yet!
Sharing space with another activity can always be an obstacle as for the limitations of scheduling, as well as not being able to make direct decisions (fixes, arrangements for events,etc.). In my opinion, it makes things go a little slower.
So far I still share space where I hold the classes and every day it’s a learning process.
“Wish well to others as much as you would like to have it back from them!”
Kimura BJJ Revere – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
We are a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu school, which is the type of martial art where one learns about using leverage, immobilization of an opponent, and manipulation of the body joints. It also includes manipulation of the airways of an individual (chokes techniques).
Our school has been in the town of Revere, MA for over 1 and half year and it’s the only one in town with a variety of classes ranging from kids classes, adults (men/ women). We are best known for our very focused on teaching the details of the techniques shown and in the basics because I believe that building a strong foundation is the key to success!
I’m most proud of have spent, so far 14 years as student of the art of BJJ, as its also referred to, and to have the opportunity to share my knowledge, to have the privilege to share this great art that has kept me in the better path of life than it could’ve been if I hasn’t initiated in it!
It is a great reward to me when I am giving the opportunity to make a positive impact in someone’s life when they come in to try our classes!
One of the greatest thing about the classes is that one doesn’t need to be in shape, don’t need to be an athlete and most of all, it doesn’t matter if you are big or small, strong or not!
Let’s not forget, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is based mostly on leverage, some strength, manipulation of joints, and your will, not only to learn but to understand!
“I will see you on the mats!”
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
My proudest moment so far is that I’ve been able to build up the students in our classes, giving them as much quality and attention despite the obstacles of keeping up!
It’s great to see when you can make a difference in other people’s lives!
Pricing:
- $100. Monthly ( 3 classes weekly)
Contact Info:
- Address: 796 Broadway, Revere, MA 02151
- Website: kimurabjjrevere.wixsite.com/kimurabjjrevere
- Phone: Phone #: (617) 938-8710
- Email: kimurabjjrevere@gmail.com
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/1340596982623828/photos/a.1340615239288669.1073741827.1340596982623828/1905064712843716/?type=3&source=44
Image Credit:
Tommy Yuk, Jyoti Gupta
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