The gym, which was introduced and opened about six years ago by Guam’s Cesar Whitt, is dedicated to sharing the art of Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Master Carlos Gracie Jr., founder of GB BJJ, states the art’s mission: “We seek to train body, mind, and spirit through the highest level of BJJ instruction. We envision it as a vehicle for individual development and the strengthening of the family spirit, going beyond the winning-losing or contest philosophy.”
The trainings consist of warm ups, stretches, drills, working on technique, and applying all that you have learned on the mats.
Mendiola defines GB BJJ as “self defense and exercise.”
He continues, “It is mainly self defense. It’s used to prevent weaker guys from getting bullied.”
When asked why he would encourage others to come, Mendiola replies, “It’s a new hobby for them to learn. The sport is not as well known yet.”
He describes how it only came to be known on Saipan in 2005.
He also tells Variety how the art started in Japan and made its way to Brazil where the local people put their own spin on it. Thus, GB BJJ became what it is today.
“It’s a mix of Judo and Jiu-Jitsu,” says Rusty Ada, also an instructor at the local GB gym.
Some of the benefits of training that the instructors mention are that you learn self defense, gain good health, will be able to balance your body better, and will also strengthen your self discipline. “If you don’t train everyday, you won’t get better,” comments Mendiola.
“It helps the well being of a person and lifts self esteem,” he adds.
Mendiola gives an example of a young boy who came in overweight but continued to return and persist throughout trainings. He lost weight, got into shape, and now is one of the best Jiu-Jitsu players at our local gym.
The students wear a Gi which is a type of kimono and the traditional attire of GB BJJ.
When asked what makes a good fighter, Mendiola says, “technique and commitment to the art.”
Trainings take place Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at their gym.
People of any age and gender are welcome to train.
