I've never really had a passion until I stepped foot into this academy. I've never done any sports, hated exercise and now I've caught the Jiu-jitsu bug and consistently train 4-5 times a week, sometimes twice a day. I brought my four and a half year old daughter here to learn a martial art and from the very first self-defense technique Professor Albert showed, I was thoroughly captivated. It was so simple yet so effective. A few months afterwards, my husband started to train. Six months after that, I just couldn't resist any longer and wanted to be on the mat as well. Now, my younger daughter is doing jiu-jitsu as well, so it's a whole family affair.
LINEAGE: Grandmaster Helio Gracie (one of two founding fathers of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu) -- Master Carlos "Caique" Elias (7th degree coral belt) -- Professor Albert Alvarado (2nd degree black belt). It doesn't get much closer to the horse's mouth!
CURRICULUM: Adults: Basics (Gi), Advanced (Gi), No-Gi, Self-Defense, Fight Simulation. Judo and wrestling techniques are incorporated to enhance the Jiu-Jitsu. Kids: Basics, Juniors, Bully Prevention.
INSTRUCTOR: One of the most important elements to choosing a Jiu-Jitsu academy is the instructor and Professor Albert is definitely one of the best. This man is passionate about Jiu-Jitsu and passionate about growing and empowering his students. A 2nd degree black belt in Jiu-Jitsu who's been practicing for over 20 years, he's taken on Judo (now a brown belt) so that he can enhance his Jiu-Jitsu and share that knowledge with his students. He is professional but down-to-earth, structured but fun, detailed and provides the "why" but also explains how it all fits into the big picture. He is whatever type of instructor he needs to be based on the needs of the student. He senses what would bring out the best in the student and coaches accordingly. He is absolutely great with kids and cultivates a safe and positive training environment.
CULTURE / TRAINING ENVIRONMENT: I feel so fortunate to have such awesome training partners. Every single person here is friendly, super supportive and willing to go above and beyond to elevate each other. Thank you to Professor Albert for setting the tone and everyone else for contributing to the amazing and infectious energy.
FACILITY / CLEANLINESS: A newer building, newly renovated space with a modern feel and air conditioning! The place is immaculate - mats are swept and mopped daily, the bathroom is always clean and fresh smelling. Being a female that trains with a bunch of sweaty guys, a clean facility helps tremendously!
I highly recommend Jiu-jitsu and especially Caique Jiu Jitsu Walnut Academy to anyone. Perfect trifecta: get your exercise in, have fun and learn to defend yourself! read more