Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. Self defense is important; it can literally be the difference between life and death. If you want to become well versed in how to defend yourself against possible attackers, visit Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Chandler in Chandler, Arizona!

The Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Difference. Unlike some schools, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Chandler focuses first and foremost on the self-defense side of jiu-jitsu. Gracie Jiu-Jitsu isn’t concerned with whether or not you can win trophies in the sport. Instead, they desire that, if someone decides to target you, you’re able to return to your family—healthy and happy.

What’s more, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu believes that there can be a difference between jiu-jitsu as a sport and as a self-defense choice. While they’re virtually the same in reference to technique, the mentality and desired outcome is different. In the sport, you’ll focus on winning by beating other people.

With self-defense, however, you win by protecting yourself AND returning safely to your family. The philosophy at Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is that it’s not about beating others. It’s more like someone isn’t going to beat you. As you get older, that has to be your philosophy. Gracie Jiu-Jitsu’s owner, Michael Stinson, says, “If you think you’re going to play the young man’s game against the young man, your kind of fooling yourself.” You can, however, stop a young man from beating you by simply not playing his game. At Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, that’s a big part of what they do!

Meet the Owner. As an older teen, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu’s owner, Michael Stinson, wasn’t living the healthiest lifestyle. He was doing things that could have gotten him arrested. Michael ended up getting jumped by three guys and, being skinny, Michael didn’t know how to fight. Luckily, the attackers only wanted to scare Michael, not necessarily hurt him. Even so, Michael decided that he never wanted to be in that position again.

Michael was always bullied, but he was small and smart. It took him until age 18 to decide he could do something about it. Michael escaped from the lifestyle he was in and began getting better jobs. He ended up moving to Arizona, met his wife, and then started a business and a family.

Michael says, “So as a result of getting attacked, it basically changed everything for the better in my own life. I started Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Chandler because I wanted to do that for others as well.”

How it Began. Michael opened his school one year after 9/11 happened. That was a big moment for him because he was on his way to an event with one of his teachers. In fact, Michael was on one of the very first planes to leave the ground after the hi-jacking happened. Before the event Michael attended, they had an “intention ceremony” and Michael made the intention of starting his own school. He had no money and no idea where to begin, but one year later Gracie Jiu-Jitsu opened its doors and has been operating ever since they opened in 2002!

All Ages. While Gracie Jiu-Jitsu’s programs are technically for 5-year-olds and up, they do individually evaluate 4-year-olds. In most cases, 4-year-olds can do it, but the parents have to be understanding that the student might not progress as quickly until they reach age 5.

True Family Business. Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is a true family business. Michael’s twin daughters, Zoe and Willow, both train and help in the school. Michael’s wife, Lori, will soon leave her job and begin working at the school, too.

Let self-defense at Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Chandler help you better your life! Contact them today and ask about their 10 day Free Trial!

Call them at (480) 756-2323.

Visit the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu website.

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Reviews

“We were so new to martial arts and were very unsure of which dojo to choose… when we walked in the door of Gracie we were welcomed with open arms. We loved watching the class before us. Michael is awesome with the kids. They have a blast and truly learn some absolutely amazing life long skills. I am sad that I did not put them in jiu jitsu sooner. Truth be told we were skeptical until the girls came home and started practicing on Dad… let’s just say…money WELL SPENT!” -Ashley R.

“My Wife and I stopped by earlier this month to check out Arizona. They welcomed us with open arms and we had a lot of fun! We can’t wait to move down there and get back on the mats soon! :)” -Hung N.

“The kids love coming to classes! It is positive atmosphere and not only are they learning jiu jitsu, but also life skills!” -Dara M.

“Great self defense training and fantastic learning environment. Jiu jitsu is the king of martial arts and this is the place to learn it” -Casey C.

“This place is great if you want to learn practical Brazilian JiuJitsu. Mike is an awesome coach that is very knowledgable. Great place to train at!” -Kimberly D.

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