Jiu-Jitsu and Strength Academy Hartford

The instructors at Jiu-Jitsu and Strength Academy never stop learning. They each put on their black belts one foot at a time, just like most everyday citizens, but they also carry certification in several training methods. During kobukai jiujitsu courses, Sensei Matthew Bryers reveals modern Japanese techniques that are often used by members of the military and SWAT teams. Alternatively, instructor Rafael Barbosa leads traditional Brazilian jiujitsu classes while demonstrating artful control of the style designed to disable larger attackers. Barbosa's fighting style has led many to refer to him as Formiga, the Portuguese word for "ant"—which suggests strength beyond his size and the possibility that he may have a few extra fighting arms.