Student of the Month(Adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Program): Chris G.

Hi Chris, please tell us a little bit about yourself.

I am married, have 2 children and I grew up in Pico Rivera, California. I went to Western New Mexico University and have a Bachelor’s Degree in Business. My main passion is Jiu-Jitsu but I also like golfing. I have been golfing since I was 9 years old. I also like listening to music, especially music from the 80’s and the 90’s. For over 30 years I have been a law enforcement officer.

What classes do you take and what got you interested?

Currently, I take the Jiu-Jitsu classes at Silanoe Martial Arts. Since I was a child I have been interested in Martial Arts. Back in the 1980’s I took Full Contact Karate and competed regularly in the ring, including at the Benny the Jet Urquidez’ gym in Van Nuys at that time. After the first UFC, I was amazed by Royce Gracie using Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to come out victorious. It was amazing to see a skinny lanky guy subduing people that were almost twice his size! It sparked my interest and I wondered who this guy was and what he exactly was doing. In 2011, I started my Jiu-Jitsu journey. I was able to find a Martial Art school that offered classes that fit in my schedule.

You have started training Jiu-Jitsu somewhat later in life, and on top of that, after recovering from of a previous injury: a torn ACL. Please share with us how you do this.

The ‘Jiu-Jitsu virus’ as infected me, even to the point that I don’t feel my best unless I train Jiu-Jitsu regularly. Not training Jiu-Jitsu for a week makes me miss it. Unfortunately, my busy work schedule forces me to take some time off every once in a while, but this helps me heal some of the minor aches and pains. There is no injury in the world that would prevent me from training Jiu-Jitsu entirely, simply because I could not imagine my life without Jiu-Jitsu.

Would you recommend Jiu-Jitsu to fellow law enforcement officers? If so, what are the reasons why?

Yes, I would without a doubt recommend Jiu-Jitsu to law enforcement officers, as a matter of fact, I recommend Jiu-Jitsu to everyone. The reasons are plentiful. I sincerely believe it is the fountain of youth. It keeps the mind and body going and I am convinced that this will result in people staying healthy and living longer. The mental and physical aspect is beneficial to everyone. For law enforcement officers, in particular, it will help them to remain calm so that they deal with in stressful situations.

Have you ever had to use Jiu-Jitsu in your professional environment?

Fortunately, I have not had to use it yet. I keep it in the back of my mind that one day I might have to while I am training Jiu-Jitsu. The training helps me to feel confident that I can control any possible situation when it calls for it. Think of for instance: arresting a suspect or assisting fellow officers to make an arrest.

It is apparent to us that you won’t be quitting anytime soon. What else can we expect to see from you in the future?

Yes, you are correct I am not going anywhere soon. I will be training hard and keep on competing. I am planning to keep on moving up in the belt ranks, and I am definitely not quitting before I receive that black belt.

Are you a Law Enforcement Officer and want to start being confident in your defensive skills?

Chris explained the benefits of training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as a Law Enforcement Officer. If you are ready to discover it as well click here for a Free Week Trial. Click here to find our schedule. Want to read more about our student base? Click here for more student interviews.