About
I started practicing karate when I was 12 and wrestling when I was 14, and have not stopped learning and training in martial arts since. I have over 20 years of experience in various martial arts (wrestling, jiu jitsu, MMA, boxing, Muay thai) at a competitive level, in addition to extensive experience with strength and conditioning training.
I enjoy that I can be active in my work, and that I can support my clients in maintaining an active lifestyle.
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Zack D.
Chris S.
Michael S.
Max O.
Fred S.
Wing M.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Before we get started, we discuss the clients' goals. What do they want to acheive? What do they want to focus on? Through this discussion, we make sure we're on the same page and we both know what to expect, and what we're working towards. I encourage open dialogue and active feedback, especially with new students as we ramp up training and get used to working together.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
My education has been largely hands-on; I've learned by doing. I have been competing in martial arts since the age of 14, first in freestyle wrestling (I was on the Brazilian Olympic team), and then in jiu jitsu, which I started at the age of 18 (I was a Pan-American champion in jiu jitsu). I got my black belt in jiu jitsu in 2013. I have also competed in amateur boxing, Muay thai, and mixed martial arts (MMA), with over 30 MMA fights. I have competed in several countries including the US, Brazil (my home country), Russia, Argentina and Chile. In the process of training for fights and wrestling competitions I have also gained experience in strength and conditioning, which I plan to build on this summer by obtaining my certification in personal training.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$100 if I go to the clients and $80 if the clients come to my studio.
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching jiu jitsu at an MMA gym in South Philadelphia when I moved to the US in 2012.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students of all ages and abilities, including men, women, seniors, children, and adolescents.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for a teacher who teaches you what you want to know, not what he or she wants to teach.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
First try to identify what your needs are. But if you need help figuring it out, a good teacher will help you get there.