RICKSON GRACIE SEMINAR-NASHVILLE TN, APRIL 2010
Nashville’s original Gracie Jiu-Jitsu school, Zanshin Dojo, was visited for a second time by the master, Rickson Gracie, on April 3rd. His visit coincided with the opening of the school's new location at Next Level Fitness in Nashville, Tennessee, which made the grand opening even more of a special event.
As with most Rickson’s seminars, all spots sold out on the first day the class was announced. Those who were lucky enough to attend reviewed self-defense and what would appear to be “basic” positions but with details that Rickson refers to as “invisible” techniques. These details are the building blocks that define his remarkable abilities as a martial artist and have made him someone who many consider to be the finest practitioner of jiu-jitsu on the planet. Rickson also talked about his father’s life, demonstrated breathing techniques and talked about his overall philosophies about life and training in martial arts.
He told the students that he never practiced or fought MMA. He fought Valé Tudo which had far less rules and was basically a street fight in a ring. Aside from his naturally sharp instincts as a fighter, he credits his success to Gracie Jiu-Jitsu with it's self-defense foundation as he learned from his father, Master Helio. As a no holds barred fighter, he said that he only utilized jiu-jitsu in his game plan, never cross training as is standard with today's MMA competitors. He explained however, that his focus with his students, is not making MMA fighters, but teaching ways of becoming "invincible" through proper jiu-jitsu technique, attitude and always putting oneself in the most comfortable and connected position against their opponent. He concluded saying, that by utilizing these jiu-jitsu methods, one can lead a more productive and fulfilling life and ultimately offer more to society.
The students all left feeling tremendously motivated and inspired to assimilate their new tools and and concepts into their game.
Rickson black-belt Eric Silver hosted the five-hour seminar in Nashville. Assisting was longtime friend and Humaita black-belt, Renato Barreto. For more on the seminar, check out the news page at, ZanshindojoNashville.com - Rickson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu & Wado-Ryu Karate .