Velez Jiujitsu

10/09/2026

07/17/2026

Around the academy, everyone knows him as Juanito. His positive energy is contagious, and after training with Javi since 2019, he’s become one of the people who makes everyone feel welcome the moment they step on the mats.

We spoke with Juanito about his journey and these are some of his thoughts:

One of the biggest changes in his life happened long before he earned any belts.

“Before I started training I was 233 pounds. Now I walk around at about 185. I was also able to reverse a prediabetic condition.”

For Juanito, Jiu-Jitsu has been about much more than fitness.

“I attribute confidence, focus, and commitment to family and health from training with Javi.”

One of the moments that meant the most to him was realizing others believed in him before he believed in himself.

“They encouraged me to continue because they saw progress in my performance on the mat that I never saw.”

His approach to training is simple. His favorite submission?

“The one that works on that opponent in that moment.”

And when it comes to Gi or No-Gi?

“They are equally crucial for me and the development of my skill set.”

On the days motivation is low, he leans on the people around him.

“The camaraderie between my training partners keeps me coming in.”

Looking back, his biggest lesson is:

“Consistency and patience are key.”

His advice for anyone thinking about starting?

“If you’re already considering it, you already made up your mind… just get started.”

We asked Juanito simply, “Why do you train?”

“Martial arts brings out the best in me.”

That’s what it’s all about. 💪

07/16/2026

Recognition is something that’s earned—not something that’s expected.

In jiujitsu, it’s easy to confuse being around with making an impact. Showing up matters. Helping your teammates matters. But there’s a difference between contributing because it’s convenient and going out of your way to make your academy better.

The people who leave the biggest mark aren’t asking, “Has anyone noticed what I’ve done?” They’re asking, “How can I help?”

When your motivation becomes recognition, you’re training for approval instead of growth. But when your motivation is to improve, serve your teammates, and strengthen your academy, respect tends to follow naturally.

The irony is that the people who earn the most recognition are usually the ones who aren’t chasing it.

Do the work. Be consistent. Contribute because it’s the right thing to do—not because you’re keeping score.

Respect isn’t requested.

It’s earned.

07/10/2026

•STUDENT HIGHLIGHT•

Eddie has been training for nearly 6 years. Between 20 years in the New Jersey Army National Guard, serving as a Sheriff’s Officer, and being a SWAT operator, he’s built a career around service, discipline, and protecting others.

We spoke with Eddie about his journey and these are some of his thoughts:

When asked why he trains, his answer has evolved over the years.

“At first it was to learn how to defend myself without striking, now it’s a tool I use for mental health.”

“Jiu-Jitsu is a gateway to physical, emotional and mental health. The mats tell you about yourself.”

His career was one of the reasons he started training in the first place.

“If I can control you without striking you, it’s a win for everyone.”

That mindset has given him confidence both on and off the job.

“I’m more confident in my abilities to defend myself and anyone around me.”

Physically, the transformation has been just as meaningful.

“I was focused on strength training and not so much on cardio. Now my body feels balanced with strength, size and stamina.”

One of his proudest moments came when years of hard work were recognized.

“When Jav promoted me from a 2 stripe white belt to a blue belt. I felt seen by my coach and by my peers.”

His favorite attacks? “Any type of arm bar,” although he admits that “the crucifix” is his favorite position because of the many attacks available from there. And when it comes to Gi or No-Gi?

“Gi all day!”

What keeps him showing up?

“I think about my peers. It may not be a good day for me, but it can be a great day for them and I want to contribute to that.”

Looking back, the advice he’d give himself is simple:

“Patience. You’re going to get tapped. You’re going to have a stretch where you think you’re not improving. It’s ok. It’s part of the journey.”

And for anyone thinking about starting?

“Stay calm. There’s always going to be someone better than you.”

That’s what it’s all about. 💪

07/08/2026

One of the hardest skills to develop in jiujitsu isn’t a submission or a guard pass.

It’s staying calm.

When you’re stuck under pressure… stay calm.
When your first attack fails… stay calm.
When you’re tired, frustrated, or defending a bad position… stay calm.

Panic leads to mistakes. Composure creates opportunities.

The athletes who improve the most aren’t always the fastest or the strongest—they’re the ones who can slow their minds down when everything around them feels chaotic.

Jiujitsu constantly reminds us that being calm isn’t the absence of pressure.

It’s the ability to think clearly in the middle of it.

Master your emotions, and your technique will follow.

07/03/2026

•STUDENT HIGHLIGHT•

Drew has been training for almost 10 years and has become one of the staples of our academy. Whether he’s helping newer students, competing, or pushing the pace in class, he leads by example every time he steps on the mats.

We spoke with Drew about his journey and these are some of his thoughts:

One thing he’s never questioned is the support around him.

“Every time I step on the training mats or the competition mats I feel supported… and I’m always proud because every day I’m 1% better.”

Before Jiu-Jitsu, life looked very different.

“I allowed life and fitness to slip away from me… until I found jiu jitsu and it helped reel me back in, allowing me to re-find myself.”

The biggest lesson he’s taken off the mats is simple:

“There is always an answer for every problem. Stay calm and figure it out.”

His favorite submission? “Only one logical answer… the D’arce.” And when it comes to training, it’s No-Gi all day.

What keeps him coming back?

“Consistency is king. Show up even on your worst day.”

Looking back, he’d tell himself to “just have fun” and remember that “not everything shown will work in my game.”

His advice for anyone thinking about starting?

“Just do it. Walking through the doors will be the hardest thing to do, but will be one of the best things you could ever do for yourself.”

We asked Drew simply, “Why do you train?”

“It’s therapeutic.”

That’s what it’s all about.

07/01/2026

Teaching isn’t just about showing techniques.

It’s about doing the work before you ever step in front of a class.

Every detail should be questioned. Every position should be tested. Every concept should be understood—not just because it worked once, but because you know why it works.

Good instruction is built on research, experience, and continuous learning.

The best coaches never stop being students. They’re constantly studying, refining, and challenging what they know so they can give their students the best information possible.

When people trust you with their time and their development, “good enough” isn’t good enough.

Do the research. Test your ideas. Keep learning.

Your students deserve nothing less.

07/01/2026

Women’s Open Mat 💪🖤

There’s something different about a room full of women who show up to challenge themselves, support each other, and grow together.

Whether it’s your first class or you’ve been training for years, this is your chance to get quality rounds, meet new training partners, and be part of an amazing community.

•Saturday, August 15th
•10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
•685 Lincoln Highway, Iselin, NJ 08830
•Free with a signed waiver

Bring your gi, bring a friend, and come experience what the Velez Jiujitsu community is all about.

All academies. All affiliations. All skill levels are welcome.

Let’s fill the mats.