I’m Zack
I have been training bjj for over 6 years and currently hold a brown belt under Richie “Boogeyman” Martinez out of 10th Planet San Diego. I have a life long passion for martial arts, fitness, and learning.
My Dad first introduced me to fitness through his own passion for bodybuilding and weight training.
I remember, distinctly at the age of 12, working out in my friend’s dusty basement using plastic weights and a 10lb barbell.
From then I began taking boxing lessons at my local PAL to gain some confidence and some self defense knowledge. As a tall, gangly teenager, I likely needed all the help I could get.
In my late teens, I began seeking out a martial art to try.
After taking several months of Aikido classes with my younger brother, I decided it wasn’t for me and was looking for a new martial art to try.
A friend who trained Brazilian jiu jitsu insisted that it is the best martial art so I decided it was time to give a shot.
I joined a gym near my hometown in New Jersey that was ran by a black belt under Renzo Gracie who was also a prominent wrestler in NJ.
Needless to say, I got smashed, very frequently, and I ended up quitting at about 4 months in.
Later after moving to San Diego, my younger brother decided to join bjj so I figured I might as well give it another shot, but this time I saw it in a whole different light.
After spending years trying to learn how to paint and draw in the classical styles, I approached bjj as more of an art form or similarly to learning a new language.
I tried to use the same principles, passion, and discipline I had for learning art with Brazilian jiu jitsu, and I haven’t looked back since.
I can’t imagine my life without BJJ.
After every class it feels like you are re-born.
Your brain has a reset from all the daily anxieties thanks impart to that 230 lb wrestler who somehow moves like a goddamn cheetah.
I’m a big fan of bjj instructionals, goal setting, and self learning. Hopefully, I can impart some of my basic knowledge, guidance, and passion to those interested in Brazilian jiu jitsu.
To read more check out our entire story shared on Starter Story here
Heavy BJJ Goals:
We intend to provide detailed, researched, and structured information and resources to those seeking bjj knowledge and growth.
Thanks for reading and see you on the mats!
Zack