Take a look at our January newsletter!
OVERCOME LIFE’S OBSTACLES WITH BRAZILIAN JIUJITSU INSIDE THE 30-YEAR JOURNEY OF MASTER JACARÉ AND ALLIANCE JIU JITSU
There are few situations in life where you can get beat up for a couple of hours and enjoy every minute. But that’s exactly what Brazilian jiujitsu (BJJ) feels like to me — challenging, intense, and deeply rewarding. As a personal injury lawyer, I know how
one of only six people to earn a black belt from Rolls Gracie, one of the sport’s greatest technical innovators. After launching his own school in Brazil, he moved to Miami in 1995, opening Alliance Jiu Jitsu. The following year, he moved to Atlanta to grow Alliance, which has since become one of the most prominent BJJ schools in the U.S. They have grown to over 300 affiliated schools throughout 30 countries, developing many great competitors. “I was a pioneer in teaching this jiujitsu style. We didn’t have this style of Brazilian jiujitsu in the entire south U.S. Now, we have quality jiujitsu from New York all the way down to Florida, and that’s a big step in my journey.” A Community When he first created Alliance, Jacaré wanted to find a way to train total beginners into competition- ready fighters if that was the path they wanted to take. His program teaches the fundamentals for at least six months before students advance to intermediate lessons and then the advanced level in about a year. Alliance has since developed programs for children, teenagers, and women. Jacaré says anyone can do BJJ. You don’t need special abilities or experience; you just need to show up on the mat. “We need to have the guys with the DNA to fight, to compete, to be top line, and we also have people who have a different journey — a mother who wants to go there for health, to be part of the community and to take their kids to learn jiujitsu, to learn self-defense, to interact with people, to get better.”
Wrongful Death Serious Injury Trucking Accidents Auto/Motorcycle Accidents Drunk Driving Accidents Pedestrian Accidents Giving your pain a voice.
important it is to take an active role in our health, especially when people are recovering from a serious injury. Just like on the jiujitsu mat, you will have to overcome obstacles, be in uncomfortable positions, and find the strength to work your way out as you heal. This month, I want to introduce you to Alliance Jiu Jitsu, the gym where I train. They’re opening a new, state- of-the-art facility here in Atlanta this January. Owner and founder Romero “Jacaré” Cavalcanti is one of the most respected figures in the sport, trained by the legendary Rolls Gracie. I caught up with Master Jacaré recently to talk about his incredible journey, passion for BJJ, and the new gym. Meet Master Jacaré
Boating Accidents Injury on Property Negligent Security Slip-and-Falls Premises Liability
“Jiujitsu is my passion. I went down several times in my life, and jiujitsu taught me these lessons: how to be stoic in these moments, how to support life, and the resilience that my old Master Gracie taught me.”
BJJ has been everything for Jacaré since he was 11 years old. He grew up in the same neighborhood
Alliance focuses on creating a community filled with support and training at a student’s own pace.
as the famed Gracie School, where he was trained by the family that created BJJ. He’s
Continued on Page 3 ...
JANUARY 2025
BarryTPR.com ▴ 404-803-3585
1
NOT-SO-SWEET TOOTH
SUGAR’S SNEAKY SIDE EFFECTS and drugs over and over again. Well, we’ve seen the exact same thing happening with sugar.” Sugar addiction can have a particularly devastating effect on men, as a study of nearly 23,000 males over nine years revealed a link between the consumption of sugary drinks and a heightened risk of prostate cancer, according to the National Library of Medicine. Deceptive Delights While we’d expect a doughnut or a fudge brownie to be packed with sugar, some of the supposed healthy foods and drinks we enjoy are just as bad for us. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that some protein bars, canned fruits, yogurts, granola products, ketchup, and salad dressings could contain added sugars. Take the time to read food labels, and you’ll be shocked. Suppose you absolutely must satisfy your taste for sugar. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, you can try eating whole fruits — for example, mashing a banana into your bowl of oatmeal instead of reaching for a spoonful of the white stuff — and stevia as alternative sweeteners. No matter how you do it, reducing your sugar intake is essential in ensuring your long-term health.
When did you last sit down, grab a spoon, and eat a heaping pile of sugar? If the thought makes you wince, you may be surprised to learn
how much sugar you actually consume but don’t realize it. Here are startling facts about the potential dangers of this popular additive. The Sweet Road to Addiction Most of us think of sugar as the sweet stuff we add to our coffee or grapefruit, but we consume it in many forms. While some fruits and dairy products naturally contain sugar, processing makes many foods on store shelves loaded with added sugars. According to neuroscientist Nicole Avena, over 80% of items found in supermarkets contain sugar — with beverages like energy drinks and iced teas among the unhealthiest. In addition to being linked to diabetes and cardiovascular disease, high sugar consumption impacts how we think as much as how we feel. Avena cautions that sugar can be just as addictive — if not more — than illicit drugs. “One of the hallmarks of drug addiction is this release in dopamine that occurs, and that’s why people often get hooked,” she told ABC News. “They end up getting addicted and feel this compulsion to use alcohol
BUILDING A POST-INJURY ROUTINE Small Steps, Big Gains
Rebuilding your life after a serious injury can feel like a daunting task, but it’s also an opportunity to rediscover your strength and resilience. Finding the proper fitness or wellness routine that suits your needs is a powerful step toward your recovery, both physically and emotionally. Whether it’s gentle stretches, daily walks, or more vigorous exercise, listening to your body and using proper form as you heal after an accident is essential. Here are some tips to help you safely build a fitness routine that supports your healing and gives you the self- confidence to move forward. Protect yourself with proper form. No matter what form of exercise you prefer, it’s essential to use the proper form when getting back into a fitness routine. Before you begin to work out, review the correct form for any exercises you will be doing in relation to
your injury. Remember to keep your spine long and relax your shoulders. A physical therapist or medical provider can help you determine what exercises are right for you as you recover. You should start with exercises that are less challenging than your routine before the injury. You may want to limit the amount of weight you use or the range of motion. It’s better to start small and incrementally adjust your exercises as you get stronger. Listen to your body. Listen to your body as you work out. Pain is a sign that something is wrong, and you may need to adjust your technique. If your injury site hurts during physical activity, stop and evaluate if there is something you can do to adjust form or try another type of exercise. When you notice pain, try to limit your range of motion or decrease the weight you’re using. Professionals,
like physical therapists or trainers, can be excellent resources for creating a routine that will help you heal without experiencing pain. As you get into a fitness routine, stretch before and after working out and stay hydrated. Rebuilding your strength after an injury is a journey that requires patience and attention to your body’s signals. By taking small, consistent steps and choosing routines catered to your injury, you can heal and move forward stronger than ever.
BarryTPR.com ▴
2
... continued from Cover
A New Chapter For almost 30 years, Jacaré and his team at Alliance have trained countless competitors and individuals, helping to bring the sport of BJJ to the U.S. But Jacaré isn’t done yet. He wants the new school in Atlanta to be one of the most beautiful BJJ facilities in the world. The new building will be able to host multiple classes at once, offering even more programs with top-of-the-line equipment.
“I can’t talk enough about the benefits of jiujitsu. It benefits me in all aspects of life, and that’s the only thing I’ve been doing all my life. Each human being in jiujitsu
“We don’t force the students to do anything. The competition is a lot more with yourself than with others. We don’t compare ourselves with other people. Each student has their own goals and their own spiritual journey.” BJJ is a total-body workout that improves strength and flexibility and teaches valuable self-defense skills. It builds cardiovascular endurance and balance. Beyond the physical benefits, it also teaches patience, character, and mental toughness. Jacaré said people from all walks of life have benefited from BJJ, and they have worked to create a network of support for those who are learning the sport. “Jiujitsu now is more like a sense of community, with a lot of study on all the other things (non-physical) to develop the individual not only on the mat but also outside the mats.”
has their own journey. You’re writing your own book. No one can write for you what you will leave as your legacy.”
Charlie Barry
Alliance Headquarters will host a soft opening of their new Atlanta school on Jan. 6.
Rendering of the new Alliance BJJ facility
Jacaré said all BJJ masters get to a point in their lives where they are no longer the top dog on the mat. Though he’s retired, he has no plans of ever stopping when it comes to BJJ and teaching others.
Ready to hit the mat? Alliance Jiu Jitsu is giving away three free introductory lessons . Bring this newsletter in and claim yours today! For details, follow them at Facebook.com/alliancehq . JANUARY GIVEAWAY
TAKE A BREAK
▴ 404-803-3585
3
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
5447 Roswell Rd. NE Atlanta, GA 30342
BarryTPR.com 404-803-3585
INSIDE
1 The Journey of a Jiujitsu Legend 2 Sugar’s Hidden Dangers
Form, Function, and Healing
3 January Giveaway! 4 The Power of Planning
Something to Look Forward To
Why Small Plans Can Make a Big Difference The Happiness Hack
When life feels overwhelming, or you just aren’t feeling your best, it can be difficult to find hope or joy. Sometimes, the best medicine is a little self-care in the form of simple activities and treats that you enjoy most. One of the best ways to boost your mood is by planning something to look forward to. Whether it’s a favorite movie, a new painting class, or a tasty latte, prioritizing things that bring us happiness can empower us with hope. It’s like adding a bright spot in the future, making the tough days more manageable. What do you love? Your plan doesn’t have to be grand or complicated. Start by identifying activities that make you happy or that
interest you. Do you love comedy movies or enjoy going to concerts? You might sign up for an improv class or buy tickets to see a play. It can be anything that brings a smile to your face. Plan it. Once you know the activity, start planning. Our busy lives sometimes lack time for the little things that make us feel good. Treat your happiness like a necessary appointment and get it on your calendar. Spending time with your loved ones and friends also has a wealth of benefits for your mental health, so decide whether you want someone to join you. By planning to do things that bring you joy, you’ll feel more hopeful, balanced, and better equipped to handle whatever life throws your way.
4
Published by Newsletter Pro ▴ NewsletterPro.com
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator