Jiu-Jitsu for the Whole Family
Train together. Grow stronger together. Our Jiu-Jitsu program at My Family Karate teaches practical self-defense, respect, and confidence for kids, teens, and adults.
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Marcel Borja is the Head Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Instructor at Family Karate Academy, where he provides structured instruction for teens and adult students seeking Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as a traditional martial art. The focus of his instruction is based on a practical self-defense system rather than a sport competition. His martial arts training began in 1990 with the study of Shotokan Karate, and he holds black belts in both Shotokan Karate and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu lineage traces to the Helio Gracie side of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu under the umbrella of UFC veteran, Master Joe Moreira.
With over 25 years of professional teaching experience, Marcel brings a systematic, principle-based approach to instruction that is well suited for adult learners. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and a master’s degree in Education, has taught mathematics at multiple levels, and uses his academic background to guide his Jiu Jitsu instruction. This background in education affords Marcel to present Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu concepts clearly, logically, and with purpose.
Marcel’s teaching emphasizes honesty, humility, courage, intelligence, cooperation, and self-discipline. He teaches Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as a means of personal protection, problem-solving, and character development rather than purely competition. His goal is to help adult students develop confidence, awareness, and technical skill while cultivating virtues that support excellence both on and off the mat.
The Benefits of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) offers far more than a fighting art; it is a comprehensive system of self-development that strengthens the body, sharpens the mind, and builds character. At its core, BJJ teaches individuals how to control and defend themselves through leverage, timing, and technique rather than size or strength. This makes it an effective and accessible form of self-defense for adults of varying ages, body types, and athletic backgrounds.
Physically, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu improves functional strength, flexibility, balance, and cardiovascular endurance. Training involves natural, full- body movements that enhance coordination and body awareness while reducing the risk of injury when taught progressively. Unlike many high- impact activities, BJJ can be practiced well into adulthood, making it a sustainable lifelong discipline rather than a short-term fitness trend. Mentally, BJJ develops problem-solving skills, focus, and emotional control. Every training session presents dynamic challenges that require calm decision-making under pressure. Students learn patience, humility, and perseverance as they adapt to adversity and refine their skills over time. This mental discipline often carries over into professional and personal life, improving resilience and confidence.
Beyond physical and mental benefits, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu promotes strong values and community. Respect, cooperation, and self-discipline are foundational to training, fostering an environment of mutual growth rather than ego. As a martial art, BJJ encourages responsibility, self- awareness, and ethical use of skill. Through consistent practice, students develop not only the ability to protect themselves, but also a character marked by confidence, humility, and excellence in all aspects of life.
