testimonials

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

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Training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under the Luiz Claudio Competition Team at the Monkey Bar Gym has been a great experience.  In typical Monkey Bar fashion, the Jiu Jitsu classes are no cakewalk yet are tailored in a fashion that allows people of all shapes, sizes, sexes, ages and athletic abilities to learn and apply the techniques taught in class while getting a great workout to boot.   I am thoroughly impressed with the non-ego driven attitudes of the students and instructor which make it a very un-intimidating class to join.

Thales Blaso, instructor, adds to the positive experience through his skill, patience, work ethic and sense of humor.  Thales is an extremely motivated and skillful instructor who is very good at identifying details beginning students tend to look over, correct them and explain the proper technique in such a way that it sticks.   He is very accessible, trusting and cultivates a team attitude for both students planning to compete and those interested in learning Jiu Jistu for other reasons.   This is exemplified by the additional classes he offers and the activities (movie outings, watching UFC) he organizes outside of class which develops friendships amongst students and creates a more cohesive team.

I can’t say enough about the Monkey Bar, Thales and the Luiz Claudio Competition Team.   The experience as a whole has been wonderful and I look forward to future training sessions and gatherings.

Jordan Glover

I started Brazilian Jiu Jitsu last year, about this time, and from that moment on, I was taught  exclusively from Thales Blaso.  He is an extremely knowledgeable and patient instructor.  He answers any and all questions, makes sure all in class completely understand the lesson, and can perform the position/move effectively before moving onto the next lesson.  What struck me most about him, though, is his inviting personality.  From day 1, he treated me like an old friend.  That ability to make folks feel welcome, and at ease, really helps the student learn more quickly, and absorb the lesson more completely, without fear or embarrassment of making a mistake.  While he encourages the student to compete, he gives those who choose to compete, as well as those who don’t, the same one on one attention.  The classes he teaches are both challenging to all physical levels, and relevant to all stages of Martial Art experience.  So, take it from me, stop by and introduce yourself, watch a class, or jump right in a class, you will be impressed with both Thales’ teaching style, and his knowledge of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu!!!

Jon Tollefson