Why Strong Heart Academy? Black Belt Explains

In this comprehensive discussion, we delve into the unique approach and philosophy behind our training programs at the Strong Heart Academy.

We explain the benefits of our specialized classes, which cater to various age groups, promoting effective learning and safe practices.

The conversation highlights our online resources and curriculum designed to enhance the learning experience for our students.

Furthermore, we describe the encouraging culture of our academy, our location, and how new students can get started with a free trial.

Please listen to get a deeper understanding of our unique approach to martial arts training.

Video Transcription

Meet Professor Mike and Strong Heart Academy

Hi, it's Professor Mike. I'm really excited to talk to you guys about what makes Strong Heart Academy different. I'm a third-degree black belt under Caio Terra, the 12-time world champion, and we are proud to be the premier school in the North Valley. We are surrounded by other schools, and I just want to point out why we are really excited to be here.

Our Long-Standing Presence

Experience and Establishment in the Community

I've had this academy the longest in this area out of all the academies. I'm the most established. I have more experience. I've been training longer than everyone around me. I have 23 years of experience, multiple black belts, and I also have multiple black belts teaching at my academy. We've been in these locations longer than anybody else too. So we're really established in the community.

Community Outreach and Stability

Reliable, Committed and Community-Centric

We also do outreach in the community. So we're not going anywhere. You know, this isn't something you're going to sign up for and it will be gone. We've been in business for almost 15 years. We were established in 2009.

Cleanliness and Hygiene

A Clean, Safe, and Welcoming Environment

Our academy is very clean, and you'll notice this when you walk in, it smells good. I don't know how many academies you can walk into where it smells fresh. Some people, like gym rats or old wrestlers, might not mind a gym smell, but for parents, you don't want to smell sweat. We always make sure our academy is spotlessly clean. We want it to be like Disney; clean, clean, clean.

Fitness Facilities and Amenities

Beyond Martial Arts: A Comprehensive Fitness Facility

We encourage people to bring water, but we also have a water fountain for refilling your drinks or for drinking from directly. We also have a gym in the back with a full weight setup. We have a squat rack, bench press set, and plenty of dumbbells. We have different barbells, kettlebells, and more.

Shower Facilities

Stay Fresh with our On-site Shower Facility

We just ask that you put your things away. We also have our own shower here. So if, especially for the morning people, you want to take a shower before heading to work, you have access to a shower here. We just ask that you wear shower sandals, and bring your own soap and towel, just like at any other gym, such as LA Fitness.

Class Arrangement

Optimal Class Structuring for Effective Learning

Our facility alone is much nicer than any around us. We also have two rooms with mats. We have a mat on the south side and a mat on the north side. This allows us to run two classes simultaneously. What that does is it allows us to break up all our programs.

Age-Appropriate Training

Separation of Age Groups for Effective Training

So you're not going to have a 20-year-old training with a four-year-old. Some of these academies around me have just one kids' program where they are all jumbled together. Now, you have to do what you got to do, which I understand. But if you think about how your child progresses in school, you know, back in the 1800s, there would be one schoolhouse and everyone's in one class.

Understanding Different Learning Capabilities

Catering to Diverse Learning Needs

But kids don't learn like that. So a four-year-old is not going to learn the same as a nine-year-old. And a nine-year-old is not the same as a 13-year-old. The size difference means they can't wrestle with each other - a four-year-old and a nine-year-old should not be wrestling together.

Age-Specific Class Structure

Our Unique and Age-Appropriate Class Structure

So we have separate classes. We break it up to four and five-year-olds, six and seven-year-olds. And then sometimes we allow seven to 12-year-olds in our last class, which is our kids' class. We have a Tiny Tigers for ages four to five, Mat Monkeys, which is six to seven, and then our older kids' class which is eight to 12.

Adolescents and Adult Training Classes

Classes for Teens, Adults, and Masters

And then from there, we have a teens' class, another class that is separated. So that's, you know, your 13 to 15, and then 16-17 year-olds, depending on their size, they can join the adult class. And then pretty soon I'm really excited because we're going to have a master's class. And I don't think anyone in the valley has this, but it's going to be 35 and older.

Master's Class

The Master's Class: For Mature Practitioners

So if you're, you know, in your 30s, late 30s, 40s, 50s, and just feel a little intimidated and don't want to go against a 20-year-old that's been doing this since they were a teenager, this class is going to be at a great pace for both men and women 35 and older. I'm really excited about that. Hopefully, we'll get that going in June. It's just a couple of weeks now.

Gi and No Gi Options

The Flexibility of Gi and No Gi Training

And we also have options for Gi and No Gi for adults. And those are just some of the things that kind of set us apart.

Our Unique Curriculum

The Strong Heart Academy Curriculum

What separates us so much is my curriculum. I have an online curriculum that is free. Okay, we have another one that is a paid option, but that's going to give you more options. You can look up anything you want. Gi, No Gi, yoga, foam rolling, everything. But our curriculum itself, every month you have access to one month of curriculum.

Lesson Breakdown

How Our Training Week is Structured

So you'll know what we're teaching every week. Okay. And basically, we break up our Mondays and Tuesdays and our Wednesdays and Thursdays. Every position is broken up. So let's say this week would be guard. We're working on guard at the beginning of the week, we're working on passing the guard the second part of the week or defense.

Reviewing the Curriculum

Optimal Learning through Curriculum Reviews

And it goes through every week, different position, offense, and defense. And you're going to have the option of watching it before you participate in class. So you're not completely lost. "What are we doing today?" Or if you didn't understand something, you can go back to those videos and rewatch them just to get a better understanding.

Continuous Learning

Rewatching and Understanding the Curriculum

Maybe we taught three things and you've only remembered one. If you want to know the other two, go back to the videos; it gives you that access.

Kid-Friendly Curriculum

The Kids' Curriculum: Learning with Peers

On top of that, we have a separate program that I filmed with my own children. That's the kids' curriculum. So, kids have a separate curriculum from adults, and they can watch other kids doing Jiu-Jitsu. I've found that kids don't watch adult shows. They watch shows with other kids in them. So, I wanted to make a curriculum that they can watch kids doing.

Easy Access to Requirements

Test Requirements and Student Info Access

I thought it'd be easier for them to understand. They have access to all that as well. And so, they also know what their testing requirements are going to be; that information is on their student info page. They're going to have all the requirements for all the tests. They're going to have all the videos set up for that as well.

Our Open Environment

Transparency and Clarity in Training Goals

So, there's never any confusion about our curriculum or what you're trying to achieve for each position. You will know what that is. It's not a guessing game. And we have such a friendly, open environment that everyone comes in and can ask questions of other students.

Collective Growth

Learning from Each Other: The Strong Heart Academy Way

Not just the professors, but my purple belts, my blue belts, and my brown belts. They're going to give you great advice and help you work through positions, and everyone is very patient.

Uplifting Each Other

The Power of Community in Skill Development

We're all trying to uplift each other together so that we can all get better together. If the people below you are getting better, then you are too. There's no one pushing them forward. You need people behind you. You need them to be pushing you forward.

The Principle of Sharing Knowledge

The No-Secret Techniques Policy

So if you're not willing to help the people behind you, you're not going to be able to push the people in front of you, because you're not getting better; you're holding back. We don't want to hold back information from anybody. There are no secret techniques here. Everything is explained, and you'll fully understand what you're trying to achieve here.

Aligning Goals

Understanding and Accomplishing Your Goals

And we want to help you through your goals. What are your goals when you come in? We want to help walk you through those goals.

Identifying Your Goals

The Variety of Goals Welcome at Strong Heart Academy

Is your goal fitness, self-defense, or simply to meet new people and learn a new skill? All of these are valid goals in our positive culture, where everyone is willing to help each other.

Building an Academy Culture

The Importance of Time in Cultivating an Academy's Culture

When you're starting with a new academy, there isn't a culture yet. It takes time to build a culture.

Invitation to Join

A Warm Welcome to Try Out a Class

We would love to have you guys come in and try out a class. We're located on the border of Scottsdale, at 30th Street and Union Hills. We're just two minutes from Desert Ridge and Scottsdale.

Easy Accessibility

Finding Us Made Easy

You can find us right off the 101 or the 51, whichever is most convenient for you. If you're in the North Valley, you can get to us in 20 minutes or less.

Trying Out the Academy

The Invitation to Experience a Free Trial

We would love to have you on the mat to see if we can meet your goals and make sure we align together. You can try out a free trial. We offer a free trial. Check out our website, StrongHeartAcademy.com, fill out the waiver, click on the link, and you're ready to go.

Connect with Us

For Any Questions, Feel Free to Reach Out

If you have any questions, you can ask us on our website or call us. We prefer that you try out a class to get a good understanding of our structure and to make sure it fits your needs.

Thank you.

Empower Yourself with Self-Defense Classes in Scottsdale, AZ

At Strong Heart Academy, we are dedicated to providing top-notch Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and self-defense classes in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Our expert instructors teach practical and effective techniques that empower individuals to protect themselves in various situations.

This blog post will guide you through the benefits of self-defense training and what to expect from our classes at Strong Heart Academy.

Benefits of Self-Defense Training

1. Personal Safety: Learning self-defense techniques can help protect you and your loved ones in potentially dangerous situations.

2. Confidence and Empowerment: Knowing how to defend yourself can boost your self-confidence and give you a sense of empowerment.

3. Physical Fitness: Self-defense training improves your strength, agility, and endurance, promoting overall health and well-being.

4. Mental Fortitude: Developing the ability to remain calm and focused under pressure is a valuable life skill gained through self-defense training.

5. Social Interaction: Joining self-defense classes connects you with like-minded individuals, fostering a supportive community.

What to Expect from Our Self-Defense Classes in Scottsdale, AZ

1. Expert Instruction: Our experienced instructors at Strong Heart Academy are passionate about teaching practical self-defense techniques based on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu principles.

2. Real-World Scenarios: We focus on realistic situations, such as personal attacks, home invasions, or street altercations, to prepare you for various scenarios.

3. Progressive Curriculum: Our self-defense program is designed for all skill levels, starting with foundational techniques and gradually introducing more advanced skills.

4. Women's Self-Defense: We offer specialized women's self-defense classes to address unique safety concerns and empower women of all ages and backgrounds.

5. Safe and Supportive Environment: Our gym fosters a welcoming atmosphere that encourages learning and growth for all students.

Join Strong Heart Academy's Self-Defense Classes Today!

Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced martial artist, our self-defense classes in Scottsdale, AZ, can equip you with the skills and confidence to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Enroll in our self-defense program at Strong Heart Academy today and take the first step towards personal empowerment.

Visit our website for more information on our class schedule and membership options.

What to Wear to No-Gi BJJ? A Comprehensive Guide

At Strong Heart Academy, we offer a range of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) classes in Scottsdale, Arizona.

One of our most popular offerings is no-gi BJJ, a form of grappling without the traditional gi (kimono) worn in other BJJ classes.

If you're new to no-gi BJJ or considering joining our classes, you might be wondering what to wear.

In this blog, we'll guide you through the essential no-gi attire and how to choose the best gear for your training.

The Importance of Proper No-Gi Attire

No-gi BJJ has specific requirements when it comes to training gear.

Wearing the appropriate attire not only ensures your comfort and safety but also helps you perform at your best during training and competitions.

In no-gi BJJ, you'll need clothing that provides flexibility, breathability, and durability, while also minimizing the risk of injuries.

What to Wear for No-Gi BJJ Training

1. Rashguards: A rashguard is a tight-fitting, moisture-wicking shirt made from materials like polyester or spandex. It helps reduce friction between your body and the mat, preventing skin irritation and mat burn. Rashguards also offer muscle compression, which can enhance your performance and recovery.

2. Shorts or Spats: For no-gi BJJ, you'll need shorts or spats (tight-fitting leggings) to wear on your lower body. Choose shorts with an elastic waistband and no pockets, zippers, or buttons to avoid injuries during training. Spats offer similar benefits to rashguards, such as compression and protection from mat burn. You can wear them alone or under your shorts for added coverage.

3. Groin Protection: A groin protector or cup is essential for male practitioners to avoid injuries during grappling. Many brands offer comfortable, low-profile options that won't impede your movement.

4. Mouthguard: A mouthguard is crucial for protecting your teeth, jaw, and gums during no-gi BJJ training. Choose a boil-and-bite or custom-fit mouthguard for optimal comfort and protection.

5. Athletic Tape and Joint Support: Athletic tape can help support your fingers, wrists, and ankles during training, while knee and elbow pads can provide additional joint protection.

Tips for Choosing the Best No-Gi BJJ Gear

1. Quality Materials: Invest in gear made from high-quality, durable materials to ensure long-lasting performance.

2. Comfort and Fit: Choose attire that fits snugly without restricting your movement. Look for moisture-wicking materials to stay dry and comfortable during training.

3. Style and Design: Personalize your no-gi attire with your favorite colors, patterns, or designs. Many brands offer a wide range of options to suit your preferences.

4. Trusted Brands: Shop from reputable brands known for their quality no-gi BJJ gear, such as Tatami, Venum, and Scramble.

Summary

Wearing the appropriate no-gi BJJ attire is crucial for your comfort, safety, and performance during training at Strong Heart Academy in Scottsdale, Arizona.

By following this guide and investing in quality gear, you'll be well-prepared for your no-gi journey

How Long Does It Take to Get a Blue Belt in Jiu-Jitsu? The Definitive Guide

Welcome to the Strong Heart Academy blog!

As a leading Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gym in Scottsdale, Arizona, we aim to provide valuable insights and resources to help you on your martial arts journey.

Today, we're going to answer a common question among aspiring BJJ practitioners: "How long does it take to get a blue belt in Jiu-Jitsu?"

This comprehensive guide will break down the factors that impact your progression and provide actionable tips to accelerate your growth.

Let's dive in!

The Journey to a Blue Belt: Understanding the Process

Earning a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a significant milestone, as it signifies your transition from a beginner to an intermediate practitioner. The time it takes to achieve this level can vary widely, depending on factors such as training frequency, personal aptitude, and the requirements set by your instructor or BJJ association.

The Average Timeline: What to Expect

On average, it takes about 2 to 3 years of consistent training to earn a blue belt in BJJ. This estimate assumes that you train 2-3 times per week and are committed to learning and applying the techniques taught in class.

However, this timeline can vary significantly based on individual factors. Some practitioners may reach the blue belt level in as little as 1 year, while others may take 4 years or longer.

Key Factors Influencing Your Progression

1. Training Frequency: The more often you train, the faster you'll develop your skills and understanding of BJJ concepts. Consistency is crucial – training regularly will accelerate your progress toward a blue belt.

2. Personal Aptitude: Some people naturally pick up techniques and strategies more quickly than others. However, persistence and dedication can help you overcome any initial challenges.

3. Instruction Quality: Learning from experienced instructors who provide clear, detailed instruction can significantly impact your progression. At Strong Heart Academy, our expert instructors are dedicated to helping you achieve your BJJ goals.

4. Competition Experience: Participating in BJJ competitions can accelerate your learning by exposing you to various techniques, styles, and levels of practitioners.

Accelerating Your Progress: Actionable Tips

1. Train Consistently: Aim for at least 2-3 training sessions per week to build a solid foundation in BJJ.

2. Set Specific Goals: Establish clear, achievable objectives for your training, such as mastering a particular technique or improving your overall fitness.

3. Seek Feedback: Regularly ask your instructors and training partners for feedback on your performance to identify areas for improvement.

4. Supplement Your Training: Consider adding BJJ-specific strength and conditioning to your routine to improve your physical capabilities and overall performance on the mat.

5. Study Outside the Gym: Enhance your understanding of BJJ concepts and techniques by studying instructional videos and attending seminars.

The Blue Belt Curriculum: Techniques You Need to Master

To earn a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, you must demonstrate proficiency in a variety of techniques and positions. While the specific requirements may vary between instructors and associations, the following techniques are typically included in a blue belt curriculum:

Fundamental Positions and Techniques

1. Basic Guard Passes: Master techniques such as the knee cut pass, stack pass, and leg drag to effectively pass your opponent's guard.

2. Sweeps: Become proficient in essential sweeps, including scissor sweep, butterfly sweep, and hip bump sweep, to reverse your position and gain control.

3. Submissions: Develop a strong foundation in fundamental submissions like the rear naked choke, triangle choke, armbar, and kimura.

4. Takedowns: Learn essential takedowns such as the double leg, single leg, and judo throws to establish dominant positions from the standing position.

5. Escapes: Master essential escapes from positions like side control, mount, and back control to regain guard or reverse the situation.

Concepts and Strategies

1. Guard Retention: Understand the principles of guard retention, including framing, hip movement, and grip fighting, to prevent your opponent from passing your guard.

2. Positional Control: Learn to maintain control and apply pressure from dominant positions like side control, mount, and back control.

3. Transitioning: Develop smooth transitions between positions and techniques to maintain control and create submission opportunities.

4. Submissions Chains and Defenses: Understand how to chain submissions together and develop solid defenses to protect yourself from attacks.

Benefits of Achieving a Blue Belt in Jiu-Jitsu

Earning a blue belt is not only a significant milestone in your BJJ journey, but it also comes with numerous benefits:

1. Improved Technique: Your progression to a blue belt reflects your mastery of fundamental techniques, which will serve as the foundation for more advanced skills.

2. Enhanced Problem-Solving: As a blue belt, you'll have a better understanding of the intricacies of BJJ, allowing you to strategize and adapt to various situations on the mat.

3. Increased Confidence: Achieving a blue belt boosts your self-confidence, both in your BJJ abilities and in other aspects of your life.

4. Leadership Opportunities: As an intermediate practitioner, you'll have opportunities to mentor and guide less experienced students, further solidifying your own understanding and skill set.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Blue Belt Journey

Can I get a blue belt faster if I train more often?

Training more frequently can accelerate your progress, as it allows you to develop your skills and understanding of BJJ more quickly. However, it's essential to balance your training with proper rest and recovery to avoid burnout and injuries.

How important is competing in tournaments for blue belt promotion?

While competing in tournaments is not a strict requirement for promotion, it can significantly impact your progression. Competing allows you to test your skills against a variety of opponents and gain valuable experience that can translate to faster improvement on the mat.

What should I focus on once I achieve my blue belt?

Once you've earned your blue belt, it's crucial to continue refining your fundamental techniques and start exploring more advanced concepts and strategies. Focus on developing a well-rounded skill set and seek out opportunities to learn from experienced practitioners and instructors.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, the time it takes to earn a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can vary widely, but with dedication, consistent training, and a focus on continuous improvement, you can accelerate your progress toward this significant milestone. At Strong Heart Academy in Scottsdale, Arizona, we provide top-notch instruction and support to help you achieve your BJJ goals. Check out our class schedule and join us on the mat to begin or continue your journey toward a blue belt and beyond.

What Age to Start Jiu-Jitsu and Why: A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome back to the Strong Heart Academy blog.

As a leading Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gym in Scottsdale, Arizona, we are committed to providing valuable information and resources to help you and your family excel in martial arts.

Today, we will discuss a common question among parents and prospective students: "What age should you start Jiu-Jitsu, and why?"

Let's explore the best age to begin training, the benefits of starting early, and how to find the right program for your child.

The Ideal Age to Start Jiu-Jitsu

While there's no definitive age requirement for beginning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, most experts agree that children can start learning the basics as young as 4 years old. At this age, children have developed enough motor skills and coordination to participate in structured classes and understand basic techniques.

However, it's important to find a program specifically designed for younger children, often referred to as "Little Ninjas" or "Tiny Tots" classes. These classes focus on building essential skills and values while incorporating age-appropriate techniques and games to keep kids engaged and having fun.

The Benefits of Starting Jiu-Jitsu Early

Starting Jiu-Jitsu at a young age offers numerous physical, mental, and social benefits, including:

1. Improved Physical Fitness and Coordination: BJJ training helps children develop strength, flexibility, and balance, which are essential for overall health and well-being. Research has shown that regular participation in martial arts can significantly improve physical fitness in children.

2. Enhanced Focus and Discipline: Jiu-Jitsu requires concentration and self-discipline, as students must learn complex techniques and strategies. This increased focus can translate to better academic performance and success in other areas of life.

3. Increased Self-Confidence: As children progress in their Jiu-Jitsu journey, they will develop a sense of accomplishment and pride in their abilities. This boost in self-confidence can help them navigate various challenges throughout life.

4. Development of Social Skills: BJJ classes provide a supportive environment for children to interact with their peers, fostering teamwork, cooperation, and communication skills. Studies have demonstrated that martial arts training can help improve social skills and decrease aggression in children.

Finding the Right Jiu-Jitsu Program for Your Child

When searching for the perfect Jiu-Jitsu program for your child, consider the following factors:

1. Class Structure and Curriculum: Look for a program that offers age-appropriate instruction, with a focus on fun, skill-building activities, and values like respect and discipline.

2. Qualified Instructors: Ensure the instructors are experienced in teaching children and have the necessary certifications and background checks.

3. Safe and Clean Facilities: A well-maintained training environment is crucial for your child's safety and overall experience.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, starting Jiu-Jitsu early can provide your child with a strong foundation for a lifelong love of martial arts and the numerous benefits that come with it. At Strong Heart Academy in Scottsdale, Arizona, we offer a range of children's Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes designed to help young students develop essential skills in a fun, supportive environment. Contact us today to schedule a trial class and begin your child's journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu: Truths of Strong Heart Academy

Strong Heart Academy’s 21 Truths for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

1. Train MORE than you think you can.

2. Control your opponent.

3. Always KILL.

4. Use angles.

5. If they don’t tap they nap or snap.

6. Be first, with attacks or take downs.

7. Take the high ground, always be on top.

8. The Guard is active, sweep, sub, stand.

9. Flow, Jiu-Jitsu means gentle. Sub hard.

10. Never grip hard until you attack.

11. Attack so your opponent must defend.

12. A counter attack should be revenge.

13. Always smash.

14. The present is the most important match.

15. Chokes are nasty, always with brutality.

16. Never telegraph your intention.

17. Breathe!

18. Jiu-Jitsu is live chess, you MUST think!

19. Know your ABC attacks completely.

20. Always be one move ahead.

21. Strong Heart means BREAK your limits!