Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Seminar with Professor Pedro Valente



Me and Professor Pedro Valente - September, 2011

I recently attended yet another great seminar with Professor Pedro Valente in Columbia, South Carolina.  Valente Brothers Black Belt, Jack Walker, hosted Pedro over the weekend.  My son Benjamin was able to attend the Little Champs class on Saturday.  Pedro's session emphasis was on anti-bullying techniques.  He also taught the triangle choke using a great (and funny) story to help the kids remember the steps of the move. 

The adult session was held on Sunday from 11:00 to 2:00.  Professor Valente began the training with fundamental Gracie Jiu-Jitsu self-defense strategy and philosophy.  He then went on to discuss stand-up technique and appropriate levels of use of force when defending oneself.  He showed a very nice standing technique to control the center space followed up by a standing submission once the aggressor insists on continuing forward.  He also showed a variation that would apply to a potential multiple attacker situation.  The ground techniques consisted of control and striking positions from the guard and the kimura from the standard omoplata (shoulder lock) position.

The highlight of the day was at the end of the seminar when Pedro discussed more Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Philosophy.  He talked to us about his "7", "5", "3" way of life.  Coming from a Traditional Japanese Martial Art Background such as Nihon Goshin Aikido, many of these topics were a refreshing review for me as I have discussed these topics often with my Nihon Goshin Aikido Sensei, colleagues and students.  I have included the philosophies below.

7 - Tenets of Bushido
Rectitude (義, gi)
Courage (勇, yū)
Benevolence (仁, jin)
Respect (礼, rei)
Honesty (誠, makoto)
Honor (名誉, meiyo)
Loyalty (忠義, chūgi)

5 - Way of Life
Nutrition
Exercise
Rest
Hygiene
Positive Outlook

3 - Warrior Mindset
Zanshin - Remaining Mind
Mushin - Clear Mind
Fudoshin - Immovable Mind

Thanks again to Professor Pedro Valente for instructing us over the weekend.  I look forward to training with him again soon.

For more information about our Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, Nihon Goshin Aikido and Youth Anti-Bullying programs, please feel free to come by our academy to watch a class or try one out for free.  We can be contacted direct at 803.546.6079, senseicarter@gmail.com or at www.cartersacademy.com

My son Benjamin and Professor Pedro Valente

Triangle Choke and Pedro's "Story" to help kids remember each step.

Great Training.  Congratulations to those who were promoted!

Me and Pedro after the seminar.