Featured affiliated academy: Lore Martial Arts, Turkey

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Lore Martial Arts, Turkey

Where is the gym located?
Our gym has no building. It’s a nomadic outdoor dojo in Antalya, Türkiye. So we don’t have a single location. We have spots we love, like parks and beaches. We can change locations when needed, or just because we want to. These days, we do our technical training in Erdal İnönü Park, Lara, and our Open Mats at Konyaaltı Public Beach. After the Open Mats, we love swimming in the sea.

How many people train there?
Average 15 on the mat. But our community is much bigger and it’s getting bigger. Antalya is a tourism city and the circulation of local and global people is incredible.

Is the gym growing – if so by how many new members each month or year?
Definitely! Every day more and more people are messaging us or watching our trainings and getting inspired and deciding to try it.

Moreover, our story, political stance, and philosophy are attracting attention from people around the world. Now, a different coach comes to the seminar every week to support us. We fired 1 coach, and now we’re like a team with 1,000 coaches.

I can’t say how many members we have actually, because we are not a traditional gym that records, charges and monitors its members. We are just a living, organic community, a group of free-spirited people who like to meet and train on certain days and times.

What are the highest and lowest belt grades training?
White to black, all kind of BJJ enthusiasts.

When did the gym open?
We founded the team in January 2025. Becoming a fully open-air dojo is relatively new.

Lore Martial Arts, Turkey

Some facts about you:

(I’m not a coach, and I’m only a white belt. However, being a cultural anthropologist, understanding the dynamics of social interaction, being good at interpersonal communication, and enjoying creating things with my friends has led me to find myself doing this.

I’m not the team’s coach, but I am the one who takes on the responsibility of making things happen. Perhaps you could call it an opinion leader, like a tribal chief. Chiefs look like leaders, but they actually handle the crap that no one else wants to deal with.

I also want it to be known that I don’t do all of this alone. I share the management of all this hustle and bustle with my dear wife. We achieve this thanks to the hard work and patience of even our 3-year-old daughter.

In short, I want to emphasize that our team is not run by a single person in authority, but by a BJJ family and the solidarity of the entire community.)

Name: Erdem Erdem
Age: 35
Belt: White
Profession: Cultural Anthropologist
Years in BJJ: 1
Other martial arts: Just BJJ
Currently living in: Antalya, Türkiye
Originally from: Antalya, Türkiye

Lore Martial Arts, Turkey

Please tell us the story of how your gym came into existence
We kicked out our bully black belt coach and left the gym as a whole team, which ignored our complaints about hygiene, excessive heat, lack of air and illnesses. We decided to continue as a completely nomadic outdoor open-air dojo. So this makes us a handful of Creontes? :D Who gives shit. We live in Antalya. This city is best for doing this.

All our classes are free and open for gentle souls. Open for anyone who respects the community.

We meet all our needs through community-based solidarity. The team relies on donations. These donations could be money for new mats, cleaning supplies, etc., or seminars, even social media support. Of course, none of this is mandatory; it’s voluntary.

This has become more than just a dojo. It’s become a protest stance, a philosophy of life, against the despicable behavior and relationships we want to eradicate, both in the BJJ world and in the rest of life—bullying, dictatorship, narcissistic personality patterns, cult dynamics, gatekeeping, and so on…

Tell us about the people that train in the gym – who are they?
I can say that we are a multicultural team. As far as I know, our youngest is 18 and our oldest is 56. We have people of all ages, professions, and moods: Turkish, Russian, Ukrainian, British, Chechen… University students, baristas, statisticians, tour guides, anthropologists, hospital attendants, IT specialists, chefs…

My biggest dream is that one day a chiropractor, a physiotherapist, a masseur or someone with a similar profession will join us.

Why do they train in Lore Martial Arts, Turkey?
I think BJJ is a form of escapism. In my opinion, it’s similar to reading science fiction or fantasy. Turn off the switch in your head, escape to a place you love to escape to, think about nothing else for a while.

We also have friends who are interested in competitive sports.

At the end of the day, I can say that progressing in a challenging endeavor is incredibly rewarding.

The most important thing about us is that we prioritize camaraderie, the essentials of community, and the fascinating aspect of building a culture together, both on and off the mat. I think it’s a community people love to be a part of.

BJJ is also a great way to burn calories.

What are some of the challenges of running a BJJ gym in general, and in your area specifically?
Because we don’t have a fixed location, three times a week we tie 45 tatami mats to the roof of our car, drive to the training site, set up the mat, clean up before and after training, stack the mats again, load them into the car, take them home, and carry them to the basement. When we say nomadic, we don’t just say it for fun. In a country whose foundations were laid by nomads, we know what nomadism means, and we fully implement these dynamics.

Before all this, we leave my 3-year-old daughter with my mother, and then we go back and pick her up.

Imagine doing all this, plus video shooting, editing, social media management, and so on, as a second job while both husband and wife work full-time jobs and raise children.

Every other problem is surmountable. This is the challenging part. Despite everything, we will keep doing it until we can’t anymore. We love this thing we’ve created and our friends. It gives our lives meaning.

How do you see the future for BJJ in your area?
Seeing how much interest and support people from all over the world show us gives me hope for the future. We’ve planted a seed, and I believe we’ll grow it into a mighty tree.

We believe that all our efforts will transform Antalya into a city of BJJ tourism. We want to inspire others and pioneer a new generation of sports culture. We want to support our stakeholders in this sport and engage in friendly competition with new initiatives.

Let’s not forget that all of this stemmed from the city’s only black belt believing he could treat people however he pleased because he had a monopoly. He never considered that people wouldn’t prefer him if a second black belt came to the city. Moreover, people didn’t even wait for another black belt to come to kick him off the team; they chased after a white belt. Everyone, learn the lesson here. BJJ isn’t just a sport. It’s a team effort. This is a matter of sharing culture.

So, we’re hopeful. Even though we are a small, very new and unconventional team, it is clear that we have contributed to the formation of a new generation movement, both for ourselves and for BJJ.

What’s the best thing about Lore Martial Arts, Turkey?
We are a nomadic outdoor dojo. We are an unorthodox and experimental team. We did not bow to tyranny. We train under the sky, near the sea, breathe with the trees, roll on the grass, laugh with the people we love…

There is nothing like seeing how impressed and delighted people from all over the world are when they visit our mat with what we have created.

What would you recommend Globetrotters to see in your area apart from the inside of your gym?
Come and touch the spirit of this city. I can say that. I don’t need to say everything else Google can say.

Come join us! Share this experience with us. ,Come to give a seminar to us, come to take classes with us. Support us, become one of us. We’re waiting for you!

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Thanks for sharing! If you’d like to visit Lore Martial Arts, Turkey you can contact them here.

Featured Travellers: Anton Ibsen & Hektor Danielsen – BJJ Globetrotters

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Anton Ibsen & Hektor Danielsen - BJJ Globetrotters

Age: 19 (Hektor) & 20 (Anton)

Belt: Blue (Hektor) & White (Anton)

Profession: We both just finished high school.

How many years in BJJ: 2.5 years (Hektor) & 1.5 years (Anton).

Other martial arts: Hektor has done wrestling for around 8 years, and Anton has trained karate for around 2.5 years.

Where do you live: Frederikssund, Denmark

Where are you from: Denmark

Other fun or curious information you would like to share: Hektor’s dad has been training MMA for 20 years, and recently changed his focus to BJJ where he has a purple belt. In Denmark, he’s our coach every Wednesday. Therefore, the three of us often spend time together, both for training, competitions, and relaxing.

Anton Ibsen & Hektor Danielsen – BJJ Globetrotters

What inspired you to travel and train?
Both of us have a big urge to go on adventures, and in recent years both of us also picked up a big passion for BJJ. So one day, after training in Hektor’s garage, we watched a traveling video and agreed that we would do the same, just with BJJ as our main focus. This is because we’ve previously experienced connecting in a different and special way with other passionate BJJ people, when we meet them on the mats.

Tell us about your most recent trip and what’s next – where have you been and where are you going?
Our most recent trip is the past 4 days we’ve spent in Oostkamp (Belgium), living and training with Maksym Witkowski. Leaving Denmark, we put up a post in the BJJ Globetrotters Facebook group where we described our trip and asked if anybody was willing to let us train with them. Among others, Maksym reached out and offered us to sleep in his guest room and train. Maksym has his own small BJJ gym in his garage, and therefore host several training sessions a day. So the last 4 days we’ve lived here in Oostkamp and trained BJJ twice a day with Maksym and his training partners. It’s been a great and very educational experience to train with all his skilled students, while spending time with Maksym and his student Keenan outside of the gym.

Now we’ll go to Brussels for two days and rest after all the tough training sessions at Maksym’s. After Brussels, we will go to Paris for two days to watch UFC, party, and join some open mats, and from there we will move down through the east of Europe to Istanbul, where we’ll catch a flight to Thailand on 1 October and participate in ADCC Phuket.

Anton Ibsen & Hektor Danielsen – BJJ Globetrotters

What do you enjoy most about travelling?
We love to experience how different people live, and their different perspectives on life. To bring these perspectives home with us and alongside our adventures… we find that very valuable. And speaking for both of us, we feel most alive when we’re out traveling, instead of being at home with a meaningless fulltime job, earning money just to earn money.

Any particularly memorable experiences that made it all worth it?
We have only been travelling for 8 days, as of right now, but the last 4 days here at Maksym’s place near Brugge, Belgium, have been really nice, and definitely worth the trip. To experience Maksym’s hospitality and very high-level BJJ, together with being physically pressured to our maximum in Maksym’s demanding and challenging training environment, has for us been the experience of a lifetime, and definitely something we will bring with us home to our own training and in our everyday life.

What has surprised you the most while travelling?
Even though it is a cliche, and what everybody is saying, it still surprises us how kind and hospitable people are. It’s a feeling that you can only experience firsthand.

Anton Ibsen & Hektor Danielsen – BJJ Globetrotters

Are you a budget traveller – and if so how do you plan for a cheap trip?
We are very much traveling on a budget. Before we left home, we planned how to use our money, and agreed on a daily budget. We’ve been using different apps and websites to find the cheapest places to sleep, and brought a lot of food with us from home. Furthermore, we made a post about who we are in the BJJ Globetrotters Facebook group, and asked if anyone needed help with anything in exchange for free BJJ training, a meal, or accommodation.

Any advice for your fellow Globetrotters?
Be open for different opportunities.
Don’t be afraid to ask.
Give it your all when training at different clubs! It is the least you can do when you get training for free, but be a good sparring partner at the same time!

Thank you to Anton Ibsen & Hektor Danielsen – BJJ Globetrotters for making this interview!

Bjj in Berlin

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Roughly 2,000 km, 1 cancelled ferry and learning how to change my motorbike coolant, I arrived in Berlin for some matsurfing.

“Yogi” Jack was good enough to let me train in his check mat gym for a few days on my travels andI was also welcomed into his home.

For my first time matsurfing, Jack and his girlfriend Anna made me feel super welcomed in Berlin. Not only were they super nice, they introduced me to the best place for food after training, a street with locals sitting out eating food from all over the world. We chatted over some amazing smash burgers that first night.

The training itself was a great experience too. Not only does the gym have a great standard, but it was primarily gi. I come from a no gi gym at home, so this was a great new learning opportunity. Finally I go to do an uchi mata attempt with proper grips!

Both Jack and the others in the gym were super helpful in helping me understand the important difference for gi BJJ. Everyone I rolled with was really nice, and I 100% picked up some really cool details from them.

Best of all, Jack’s dog Maya sits chilled off the mats and is always happy to be pet. Thanks to Jack and the team for my wonderful time in Berlin.

Featured affiliated academy: Nerds of Jiu-Jitsu, Switzerland

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Nerds of Jiu-Jitsu, Switzerland

Where is the gym located?
The academy is based in Chavornay, a small village in the French-speaking part of Switzerland.

How many people train there?
Around 50 people train at the gym, with 6 to 10 students attending each class on average.

Is the gym growing – if so by how many new members each month or year?
Yes, the gym is growing steadily at a comfortable pace. We welcome about two new members each month.

What are the highest and lowest belt grades training?
We have students ranging from white to brown belts, all sharing the same classes. Everyone brings something valuable to the mat, and we focus on learning from one another.

When did the gym open?
We opened in October 2022, so the gym has been running for almost three years now.

Some facts about you:

Name: Yohan Chevallier
Age: 34
Belt: Brown, two stripes
Profession: Teacher
Years in BJJ: Around 8 years now
Other martial arts: Krav Maga
Currently living in: Yverdon-les-Bains (Vaud, Switzerland)
Originally from: Switzerland

 

Please tell us the story of how Nerds of Jiu-Jitsu, Switzerland came into existence
Long story short: I’m a nerd. I’ve always needed deeper explanations: how things work, the systems behind them, the strategies, and what actually works at the highest level, backed by data and real results.

From blue belt to brown, I was in charge of the kids’ class, and that responsibility sparked a strong desire to teach only quality, effective techniques. To do that, I turned to the best resources I could find: instructionals from Danaher, Musumeci, AOJ, and others. Over time, I realized that to train and teach the way I truly believed in, I needed full freedom. That meant stepping away from the limitations and frustrations I experienced in other gyms.

So, I left. I opened my own gym. And I built it the way I always wanted: thoughtful, structured, and focused on real growth – for everyone, especially the one discovering the art of Jiu-Jitsu.

Tell us about the people that train in the gym – who are they?
They’re simply amazing. I feel incredibly lucky to work with every person who steps on the mat. They’re kind, respectful, and genuinely look out for one another. They train with intention – technical, curious, and always striving to improve. Every day, they grow stronger and challenge me both physically and mentally.

I’m not a fan of calling it a “family,” since that word can feel a bit forced, but the truth is they’re exceptional people. They’re the reason this project keeps moving forward.

Why do they train in Nerds of Jiu-Jitsu, Switzerland?
Everyone comes with their own reasons. But I think, deep down, they love solving problems. They enjoy being face to face with themselves, learning to handle stress, navigate strong emotions, and stay calm under pressure. There’s something deeply satisfying about catching a partner with a move they’ve worked hard to add to their game.

Some come to feel better, to accept themselves, to overcome past trauma or build confidence. Others come to meet friends and simply share a great time on the mats. Many also train to let go of the pressure from daily life, work, and family responsibilities. It’s their space to breathe, reset, and reconnect with themselves.

What are some of the challenges of running a BJJ gym in general, and in your area specifically?
For me, the biggest challenge is ensuring real, tangible progress for every member. That means more than just running classes. It requires building a clear system. I had to codify the art, define what’s expected at each level, and map out the key concepts, systems, and solutions to a wide range of problems. That part takes time, careful thought, and constant refinement. But it’s also what makes the experience meaningful.

The rest is more straightforward. Cleaning the mats, for example, is easy. I have a giant robot named Francis, equipped with dedicated cleaning products. He doesn’t get nearly enough credit for keeping the place spotless and germ-free.

In my area, one of the biggest challenges is simply generating enough interest in BJJ to get people to try it, or to bring their kids. Prices are high, and rent is expensive. On top of that, we receive no support from the government. BJJ is still not officially recognized here, certainly not at the level of sports like Judo. It’s something to seriously consider if you’re thinking about opening a gym.

How do you see the future for BJJ in your area?
I can see interest growing, especially in bigger cities, which is a good sign for the sport overall. That momentum eventually reaches smaller cities like ours. As more people discover BJJ, curiosity spreads. It gives us a chance to show what we offer and to build something solid, even outside the main urban centers.

What’s the best thing about Nerds of Jiu-Jitsu, Switzerland?
The people, without a doubt. They’re some of the best human beings I know, regardless of rank, belt color, age, profession, or family situation. On the mats, we’re all equals. They help me grow just as much as I help them. That mutual respect and connection is what makes the gym truly special.

What would you recommend Globetrotters to see in your area apart from the inside of your gym?
There are plenty of great gyms to visit nearby, especially in Lausanne and Yverdon. But if you’re here, take the time to enjoy the region. Swim or paddle on Lake Neuchâtel or Lake Geneva, hike through the Jura or the Alps, and don’t miss out on a proper cheese fondue. And of course, eat way too much Swiss chocolate and drink a little too much local beer. It’s all part of the experience…

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Thanks for sharing! If you’d like to visit Nerds of Jiu-Jitsu, Switzerland you can contact them here.

Featured Traveller: Kelsey Munn – BJJ Globetrotters

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Kelsey Munn - BJJ Globetrotters

Age: 31

Belt: Purple

Profession: Industrial Electrician

How many years in BJJ: 7

Other martial arts: High school wrestling

Where do you live: North Alberta, Canada

Where are you from: Less North Alberta, Canada

Other fun or curious information you would like to share: I have 4 Sphynx cats. The breed is also from Canada.

Kelsey Munn – BJJ Globetrotters Camp 100

What inspired you to travel and train?
As a Canadian, I’m no stranger to escaping the long winters through travel. My teammate introduced me to Globetrotters a few months into training, which led me to soloing Maine and Austria summer camp as a fresh white belt. That same year we both did the Caribbean camp and now we are going on 6 years of dating.

Tell us about your most recent trip and what’s next – where have you been and where are you going?
A few years ago, I shared my love of BJJ camps with a few women from my gym. This last camp in Heidelberg, Germany marked the 3rd ladies’ trip that we’ve done together. What started as a small group of four Canadian friends has evolved into a growing travel BJJ crew, each camp adding new friends from past adventures into our ranks. Next up is back to ol’ faithful for the 4th time: Caribbean camp. I don’t have a single day of vacation left for the year, but I’m sure things will work out one way or another.

Kelsey Munn – BJJ Globetrotters Caribbean Camp

What do you enjoy most about travelling?
As much as I love desserts, I would have to say the greatest part of traveling is meeting new people. Globetrotters camps are especially magical though. It’s like you are surrounded by 100 best friends despite being strangers. I cannot believe how many lifelong friendships I have built over the last few years. Whether I’m travelling solo, with my partner, or in a group. Every single person I’ve met has made a lasting impression on my life.

Any particularly memorable experiences that made it all worth it?
Nothing will ever top the Camp 100 finale. After four chaotic days of swimming, wrestling, training, and raving, Christian took the stage and delivered a beautiful heartfelt speech. Before we could applaud, he points to the sky to and surprises us all by yelling “And I spent all your money on f***ing fireworks!”. We all went wild as the sky erupted with the most epic display of shimmering explosions above him and cascading down all around. The perfect unpredictable cherry on top to an unforgettable adventure.

What has surprised you the most while travelling?
I’m always surprised just how easy it is to make friends, regardless of age, gender, religion, language, or lifestyle differences. Even with all the terrible stuff going on in the world right now, people’s kindness continues to shine through more than ever.

Kelsey Munn – BJJ Globetrotters Summer Camp

Are you a budget traveller – and if so how do you plan for a cheap trip?
I like to think I’m a budget traveler, in the sense where I will fly with my knees to my chest in ultra basic and sleep in any unimaginable conditions, all so I can splurge on the adventure itself. I justify the merciless non-stop itinerary with the fact that I’ll probably only get to visit this place once in a lifetime. Then I’m compelled to try every meal, taste every dessert, and go on every tour possible in an impossible 18-hour day. Pro tip: if the currency conversion sucks, simply don’t look at your bank statements until you get back. Wait until you’re at home to be sad.

Any advice for your fellow Globetrotters?
Whether you are an introvert, extrovert, or somewhere in between, stay weird, find those who fill your social battery, and keep meeting new people. It’s easy to fall into cliques and familiarity, but Globetrotters is all about breaking down borders, belt hierarchies, and affiliations. No advice, but my personal mantra at camps – if you can’t smile mid match, you’re rolling too hard :D

Thank you to Kelsey Munn – BJJ Globetrotters for making this interview!

Not quite a travel story: A pause, months Later

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Back in February, I shared my first post here on BJJ Globetrotters. I was full of excitement and ready to embark on what felt like a dream: traveling through Asia, training BJJ, exploring, writing, repeating. A new chapter was beginning.

But after that first post (and a draft), I went quiet. Not because I had nothing to say but maybe because I had too much.

What I didn’t realize back then is that burnout doesn’t disappear just because you’re doing something exciting. If anything, travel can bring it out more. Your emotional baggage doesn’t get left behind at the airport. It follows you, quietly, persistently.

And now, months later, I’ve come to understand: that’s okay.

So instead of a perfectly detailed description of my trip, this post is a reflection of where I am right now. The stories – from my  Taiwan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Korea, Japan, and Hong Kong – will come, slowly, in their own time, as I unpack them.

(Funny how my itinerary changed too. Originally, it was supposed to be Taiwan, Malaysia, the Philippines and Indonesia.)

When plans change

I started the trip full-on, even though deep down I was already running on empty both mentally and physically. I didn’t slow down and jumped into training, traveling, moving constantly. New gyms, new countries, new people. It was exhilarating… and exhausting.

Eventually, the joy I felt started to turn into pressure. I told myself I had to train in every country to embody the BJJ Globetrotter way of traveling.

Then an infected wound forced me to stop training altogether. But even then, rest didn’t come easily. There was always movement. Always noise.

So finally, I stopped and I went back home.

Coming home (and back to myself)

Now I’m back in Denmark, and honestly, it feels so good. There’s something deeply comforting about being in a familiar place, where the pace is slower, the streets make sense, and I don’t feel like I have to be on all the time.

Training BJJ here feels different too. On the road, it was a way to connect with people, places, and cultures. Each gym was a doorway into a new community. Every roll was a conversation with someone I’d just met.

But back home, BJJ takes on a quieter role. It’s less about discovery and more about grounding. It’s where I come back to myself. Where I move not to meet someone new, but to remember who I am.

Don’t get me wrong, I had some truly incredible experiences out there. There are many stories I want to share, and I will… just not all at once. I’ll let them surface naturally, when I am ready to tell them.

If you’re curious, I also gave an interview where I talked more about my travels in Asia:
👉 Traveller interview: Rui Lin | BJJ Globetrotters

And of course, if you ever want to chat or ask questions, feel free to reach out.

Back to the mat. Back to writing.

Featured affiliated academy: Allsopp Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, UK

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Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, UK

Where is the gym located?
Allsopp BJJ is in Wigan in the northwest of England, between major cities Manchester and Liverpool.

Our full address is:
First floor, 227 Ormskirk Road, Newton, Wigan, England, WN5 9DN

How many people train there?
Around 25-30 and growing steadily. We feel it’s a strong start for a gym that opened it doors less than a month ago, and are grateful for the amazing people we have coming through our doors.

Is the gym growing – if so by how many new members each month or year?
We are seeing new faces each week, and expect to welcome several new members a month as word spreads. We’re focusing on organic growth and fostering a community-first vibe.

What are the highest and lowest belt grades training?
From white belt beginners to purple belts. It’s a good mix that’s steadily growing in skill and keeps the mat culture balanced.

When did the gym open?
We officially opened our doors on 1st July 2025.

Allsopp Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, UK

Some facts about you: 

Name: Ben & Tish Allsopp
Age: 35/36
Belt: Purple (Ben) & White (Tish)
Profession: IT&D Manager (Ben) & Sport & Exercise Specialist/TA (Tish)
Years in BJJ: 7.4 years (Meticulously tracked, Ben) & 1 year (Tish)
Other martial arts: Ben previously coached MMA; Tish enjoys Muay Thai
Currently living in: Wigan, England
Originally from: Lichfield, England

Allsopp Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, UK

Please tell us the story of how your gym came into existence
A few years ago, Tish casually made a comment that one day we could open our own BJJ gym. At the time, Ben was already coaching BJJ and MMA at another martial arts gym, and Tish’s dream began to take shape, becoming more and more likely that one day Allsopp BJJ would come to fruition.

After attending our first Globetrotters camp in Estonia in 2025, we realised that it wasn’t just Ben that loved BJJ, but Tish was fully fallen for the sport too; we both came back fired up. That’s when we knew it was time to take the leap.

We combined Ben’s obsession with BJJ with Tish’s passion for youth development, especially cultivated after finishing her masters degree in sport and exercise psychology, to create a space that’s not just a gym, but a alternative provision for young people struggling with mainstream education; something that could have a massive impact on the community.

Tell us about the people that train in the gym – who are they?
Everyone is welcome at Allsopp BJJ, and that inclusivity has fostered an atmosphere where families feel comfortable and safe to train. We are cultivating a community of people who just love to train in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, meaning you’ll see a range of kids, competitors, young athletic 20-somethings, and of course the more mature folk who want to train smart and not be broken in the process. The goal is simple; safe, enjoyable training for all, no matter your age, gender, or background.

Why do they train in Allsopp Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, UK?
People come for varied reasons, but we see that it’s mainly to keep fit and healthy, to feel accomplished in something, and to be a part of a community of decent people.

Tish’s background in sport psychology helps us stay tuned into the social and emotional wellbeing of our members, not just their technique; so we are always vigilant of the dynamics of the members on and off the mat.

Allsopp Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, UK

What are some of the challenges of running a BJJ gym in general, and in your area specifically?
You never really switch off. You’re always thinking of how you can be better and make things better for your members and visitors. The constant drive is a strength but comes at a cost. It can be exhausting.

In our area, we also have to balance affordability. The cost of living is making hobbies like BJJ harder to sustain for many people. We try to keep things accessible whilst not losing money running the gym.

How do you see the future for BJJ in your area?
The future is collaborative and we’re here for it. We really hope that with our ethos of collaborating with other gyms and people passionate about youth development, BJJ will become a go-to activity for families in and around Wigan.

What’s the best thing about your gym?
The people. Always the people. It’s sounds rote but it truly is the members that come to share in our passion for BJJ.

We run our gym, literally, as a family and so everyone who walks through our doors becomes a part of that and you feel it the moment you walk through the door. The gym has a homely feel. It’s warm and inviting.

Our motto is Elegant – Fierce – Informed, and we aim to live up to it every day.

What would you recommend Globetrotters to see in your area apart from the inside of your gym?
Catch a Rugby game (how can you not in Wigan?!), take a walk around Haigh Hall and woodland park, grab a pie from the local shops; the town centre has the classic northern no-nonsense charm. If you want to extend your trip, we’re spitting distance from both Liverpool and Manchester.

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Thanks for sharing! If you’d like to visit Allsopp Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, UK you can contact them here.

Full Noise Traveller – Euro Month 1 – Malta and The Baltics

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Kia ora team,

Coming to you from beneath a pile of German Pointers in rural Poland …

Can’t really believe I’ve been in Europe for a month already but here’s the round-up

Quick disclaimer – in writing this blog I have realised how shocking I am at taking photos at gyms – that’ll be my work on for this next month!

MALTA

First up a week in Malta with some of my besties – imagine tiktok planned your trip … and change not much,

We ate great food, swam in amazingly clear waters and got caught up in a festa in Valletta, just a stunning week! 

 

A major highlight for me was swimming off the cliffs at St Peters, we took a short boat trip out there from Marsaxlokk, it was such a cool vibe, and loads of fun – we even got to see Titti the diving Jack Russell in action!

        

On the BJJ front I managed to get a session in at BJJ team Malta in Ħamrun

A welcoming team and a nice sweaty open mat! These guys had some super fun take-down warm-up drills that I will for sure be working into my own practice! And shout out to Narah Frietas for the coaching, it was awesome to train with such an epic competitor!

     

ESTONIA

Then it was over to Estonia for the Globetrotters Beach camp in Pärnu and the start of my solo trip.

Here I learned a valuable lesson, a night flight does save you a night of accom but at what cost?

So after a short 1am flight where no sleep was had I arrived bright and early in Tallin for a rapid fire day of exploring before my bus to Pärnu. (This began with a starving Kiera impatiently waiting for Rimi to open).

Armed with an assortment of food that intrigued me (notably Kohuke bars, chocolate tofu bars and some strange yoghurt concoction), I then hit a hot 40k steps in my birks, wandering through old town, scoping all the street art I could find, and exploring the Balti Jaam Turg – a large market with loads of food and cool vintage bric-a-brac.

Then I hit Pärnu, Beach Camp

   

“Give us your best Estonian Smile”

Camp was an actual fever dream

I learned heaps and loved being able to drill the fresh techniques all week in the open mats with such fantastic training partners.

Coming from a small city in NZ there aren’t heaps of women around to train with (YET) so it was super cool being able to roll with so many women (of every belt and weight class!!) throughout the week – absolutelty a highlight for me!

I actually drank so much of the kool-aid that I signed up for the Austria Winter camp!! Can’t wait!

 

Post kool-aid pic …

 

 

 

 

To be clear I’m sure there were safe spaces around camp for introverts (Fins and Estonians I’m looking at you) but I was not one of those spaces 😂 For me camp was a beautiful cycle of yoga, yap, roll, eat, repeat.

With very few plans for my trip beyond this camp, I utilised the expertise of all of my new European friends to plan the next legs.

It was decided that I couldn’t leave Estonia without seeing at least one more city, so next up was Tartu, a beautiful university town with cool bars and impressive old lecture halls.

I tried to draw on the solemn Estonian academic vibes here so parked up in a university library to do some work … the first in a hot minute 😅 

Top line thoughts on Estonia – Why is no one in NZ talking about Estonian summer, such cute towns, super late sunset (in summer) cool cafe and bar scenes and just the coolest BJJ camp you can imagine! 

RIGA 

Next Riga Latvia, here I jumped in with team Strela for a couple of sessions, I was stoked to get to try out a few techniques I’d been working on during camp. Definitely embracing the Strela motto: 

Sometimes maybe good. Sometimes maybe shit. 

– it’s all part of the process right 😂

     

Riga was a really fun city, I spent so much time in their food market, the largest in Europe – smoked fish and mushrooms – sign me up! I also had these amazing (I’m going to call them sweet salami), think a creamy cookie dough with nuts wrapped in a light chewy fruity dough, they were phenomenal and sold by a woman who can only be described as stern asf. I didn’t dare ask any more questions but will for sure be trying to recreate them back home! 

High on my to-do list was a Latvian folk dance night which did not disappoint! It was so sick, an old school Latvian pub, a bass player who definitely thinks he’s playing heavy metal, and a mix of Latvians who knew all the moves and us muppets looking left and right trying not to stomp on anyone’s toes – she was a sweaty affair, and so much fun! 

   

POLAND

So that brings me to my current spot beneath the pile of German Pointers in Imbramowice Poland, a small town outside of Wroclaw.

   

I’m calling this week a writing retreat – yes getting any work done has required hiding away in the Polish countryside

My main source of distraction has been sliding into the dms of gyms, because next we mat surf! 

So lets go full noise! 

 

Stats
Month – 1
Gyms Visited – 13
Current location – Poland
Thesis Progress – 50%
Danger Level Gain – 20%
Percentage of Trip planned – 60%

 

The gym list (in order of visit):

  1. Art of Combat (Palmerston North, NZ) [HOME]
  2. Albury Wodonga Brazillian Jiujitsu (Albury, Australia)
  3. Viti Blacktip Jiujitsu (Nadi, Fiji)
  4. Axis (Rolleston, NZ)
  5. WahiBJJ (Fielding, NZ)
  6. East side (Auckland, NZ)
  7. Upper Hutt BJJ (Upper Hutt, NZ)
  8. Workshop (Wellington, NZ)
  9. Alliance (Auckland, NZ)
  10. Coast BJJ (Albany, NZ)
  11. Tonga Judo Association (Tongatapu, Tonga)
  12. BJJ Team Malta (Ħamrun, Malta)
  13. Team Strela Riga (Riga, Latvia)

 

 

Featured Traveller: Giulio La Fauci – BJJ Globetrotters

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Giulio La Fauci - BJJ Globetrotters

Giulio La Fauci – BJJ Globetrotters

Age: 26

Belt: Purple

Profession: S&C coach

How many years in BJJ: 10

Other martial arts: I used to do Karate and Kickboxing

Where do you live: Victoria, BC, Canada

Where are you from: Victoria, BC, Canada

Other fun or curious information you would like to share: 99% nogi, 1% yes gi, currently learning juggling and photography. You can follow me on IG here.

Giulio La Fauci – BJJ Globetrotters

 

What inspired you to travel and train?
I’ve wanted to travel the world to train with the best grapplers and see more of the world for a long time. Until now, I’ve always been able to talk myself out of it and talk myself into the “smart” choice: go to college, get a job, build your career, etc. Unsatisfied with where I was in life, I hit a bit of a breaking point. A “now or never” moment. I figured leaving everything behind to pursue travel and Jiu-Jitsu would only get harder as I got older.

Tell us about your most recent trip and what’s next – where have you been and where are you going?
I’ve spent the last 2 and a half months in Rockville, Maryland training at Standard Jiu-Jitsu. Ecological Dynamics and the CLA (Constraints-Led Approach) has been a big interest of mine over the last year or so, and I wanted to learn more about it “from the source”. I’ve never been to the East Coast before, so it’s been cool to explore Washington DC during my time off the mats!

I’m competing in the ADCC Open in Miami this July. So I’m looking forward to exploring Miami and Florida, as well as putting some of my new skills to the test.

Giulio La Fauci – BJJ Globetrotters

What do you enjoy most about travelling?
I love the freedom of travelling alone. Being able to go anywhere and do anything at my own pace is a really fun experience. Travelling solo also makes it easier to meet new people, because you can’t just hang out with the buddies you’re travelling with.

Any particularly memorable experiences that made it all worth it?
Tough to choose just one. The level of training at Standard Jiu-Jitsu is obviously very high, and every day there makes the trip seem worth it.

What has surprised you the most while travelling?
What has surprised me so far is how natural everything seems. Going to a new place alone seemed daunting, and the process of planning the trip was pretty stressful, but once I got on the road everything just started to fall into place

Giulio La Fauci – BJJ Globetrotters

 

Are you a budget traveller – and if so how do you plan for a cheap trip?
I would consider myself a frugal person. Having access to a decent kitchen is a must though. Even if your rent is a little higher, you’ll end up saving tons of money in the long run if you cook most of your own meals at home (especially as an athlete).

Any advice for your fellow Globetrotters?
Talk to strangers! Every friend you make along the way is a potential connection or open door to another new experience. If you get invited somewhere, go! Even if the event or activity isn’t really your thing, you never know where things will take you. I’ve been to a slacklining meetup, salsa dancing class, and even refereed a Jiu-Jitsu tournament. The more I travel, the more I realize almost every place is the same. What makes it different is the community of people you surround yourself with, so get out there and meet people!

Thank you to Giulio La Fauci – BJJ Globetrotters for making this interview!

Full Noise Traveller – Tonga

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Kia ora team,

So this is a potentially controversial first update … but let’s show some love to our Judoka friends

The first stop on this trip took me to the beautiful Tonga (‘Eua and Nuku’alofa) and while there are no BJJ gyms on the islands I did find a Judo club! I was absolutely stoked with this because

  1. 3 months without a scrap is a long time
  2. My stand up game sucks

The team at the Tonga Judo Association were so welcoming and very quickly humbled me with some out the gate gymnastics and some serious speed.

I was surprised to learn how different Judo rules are and how little my BJJ take downs were going to help me (particularly given that most are illegal in Judo).

Overall, while my few months with the team here only gave me an intro into the Judo world it has given me so much more confidence on my feet and I will definitely be including some of the drills they taught me into my training! I am so grateful to the team, I loved being part of Tonga Judo for a little while!

Big Ups to the team – Mālō lahi! Malie Timi Tonga!!

On the travel front, while I was here for work I did managed to squeeze in some sight-seeing and more importantly some fishing!

If you’re into game fishing this is THE SPOT! I was so grateful to get out a few times with my mate Tevita who taught me how to hand-line, such an epic experience!

     

Getting out from ‘Eua was particularly cool beacause one of the local fishermen lent us his boat so I got to use the rig they use for handlining, basically a bungee cord that you tie off to so that when they first bite it gives an inital snap back before you start hauling the line in – definitely a highlight of the trip!

 

Overall Tonga is jsut beautiful! While the mainland Tonga-tapu is pretty cool, I think for view and a bit of good bush bashing ‘Eua is where it’s at – that said don’t be passing up a night at the Bill Fish!

 

     

The Big Ovava trees – said to be the inspo for Avatar

 

           

To be clear I am deadly serious about the Billfish

(You and your eardrums will never be the same)

Tsunami Rock – a massive rock in the middle of a flat field on the coast, said to have been thrown by Maui when he was chasing chickens betwene the islands – some cool theories around it and a sick view from the top!

Not long now until I head off for the big Europe adventure so stand-by!

So let’s go full noise!

Stats
Month – 0
Gyms Visited – 11
Current location – New Zealand
Thesis Progress – 40%
Danger Level Gain – 10%
Percentage of Trip planned – 10%

 

The gym list (in order of visit):

  1. Art of Combat (Palmerston North, NZ) [HOME]
  2. Albury Wodonga Brazillian Jiujitsu (Albury, Australia)
  3. Viti Blacktip Jiujitsu (Nadi, Fiji)
  4. Axis (Rolleston, NZ)
  5. WahiBJJ (Fielding, NZ)
  6. East side (Auckland, NZ)
  7. Upper Hutt BJJ (Upper Hutt, NZ)
  8. Workshop (Wellington, NZ)
  9. Alliance (Auckland, NZ)
  10. Coast BJJ (Albany, NZ)
  11. Tonga Judo Association (Tongatapu, Tonga)

 

 

 

 

 

Featured affiliated academy: Flamingo Jiu-Jitsu, India

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Jiu-Jitsu, India

Where is the gym located?
Flamingo Jiu Jitsu is located in Bangalore, India. Here’s the location on Google Maps – https://maps.app.goo.gl/oHgX78BJdZvmS3x19

How many people train there in Flamingo Jiu-Jitsu, India?
We have about 50 members training at the moment. On a busy day, we have about 20 folks training in a batch.

Is the gym growing – if so by how many new members each month or year?
We have been running just over 2 years now. We are at an average monthly member base of 50. We have some beginner gains, and see about 3-4 new members every month.

What are the highest and lowest belt grades training?
The coach, Debo, is a purple belt 3 stripes and is the highest belt. We have about 10 blue belts, and the rest are all white belts.

When did the gym open?
Flamingo Jiu Jitsu started operations in October 2022.

Some facts about you:

Name: Debo
Age: 36 years
Belt: Purple
Profession: Mechanical engineer turned academy owner
Years in BJJ: 11+ years
Other martial arts: Karate (4 years)
Currently living in: Bangalore, India
Originally from: Assam, India

Flamingo Jiu-Jitsu, India

 

Please tell us the story of how your gym came into existence
I was just out of a job in 2022 and was looking at ways to quickly get an income source. I was at that time training and competing. I took up this online name of ‘thejiujitsuoperator’, as I was connecting lot of folks who would enquire about Jiu Jitsu training in the city. I thought, why not start doing privates, and fortunately I got some clients quickly.

I was even going door to door with mats in my car to teach, which soon became unsustainable. But I knew that quite a few folks wanted to train. And during those privates I trained a wide variety of members – 40 year olds hobbyists to 15 year old school athletes. I started enjoying teaching, and finally had a deep conviction in my ability to add value through Jiu Jitsu. That’s when Flamingo Jiu Jitsu was born.

Tell us about the people that train in the gym – who are they?
Currently, our Jiu Jitsu program caters to adults. Early 20s to late 30s is the demographic of the members. Almost all of them are working corporate jobs and have moved to the city from different parts of the country.

Why do they train?
The bulk of the member base are young professionals who are curious about Jiu Jitsu or MMA and are looking to take up a skill focussed session to stay fit. The community and learning aspect is a strong cultural alignment for these folks at Flamingo.

Flamingo Jiu-Jitsu, India

What are some of the challenges of running a BJJ gym in general, and in your area specifically?

Some key challenges are:

  • Finding folks who are specifically looking for Jiu Jitsu. Most of them are looking for MMA and not really aware of Jiu Jitsu.
  • Balancing the class curriculum between beginners and experienced members as we run a mixed level class.

How do you see the future for BJJ in your area?
There has been a rapid growth over the last 2-3 years in the specific area where Flamingo Jiu-Jitsu is. When we started there were 2 clubs teaching MMA or Jiu Jitsu. Currently there are about 10 clubs. So it’s a positive sign and we are expecting this to continue to grow.

What’s the best thing about your gym?
The flock. The culture at Flamingo is warm and inviting. Personally I find it refreshing to teach and be around these guys.

What would you recommend Globetrotters to see in your area apart from the inside of your gym?
The food scene in the area is great. If you have the time for a short drive, there are many treks and hiking spots around the city.

—-

Thanks for sharing! If you’d like to visit Flamingo Jiu-Jitsu, India you can contact them here.

[Tay’sTravels&Trains(9)]Ten Ren Guigo Jiujiusu

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🕰️ [Past Story]

On my journey from Canada to Brazil with BJJ, I trained in Lima.

Thanks to Claudia, I ended up finding what I believe is the best gym in the city.

 

🥋 [Gym Info]

   •   Date: April 2025

   •   Name: Ten Ren Guigo Jiu-Jitsu

   •   Location: Jorge Chávez 300, Miraflores 15074, Peru

   •   BJJ Globetrotters Affiliation: Not officially affiliated — but they have Claudia, and that’s what matters!

Facilities:

   •   Located in a well-developed area in southern Lima

   •   Open, bright gym with large windows and lots of natural sunlight

   •   Includes a stylish café and a solid workout area

   •   Clean, high-quality shower facilities

   •   Spacious mat area and an ice bath for athletes

How to get there:

1. I took a 2-hour bus from northern Lima, followed by a 30-minute walk

2. Or just a 20-minute walk from Claudia’s place

⸻

🧾 [About]

Special thanks to Claudia — thanks to her, I was able to reach Ten Ren Guigo Jiu-Jitsu.

I met so many great people here, especially Coach Bryan.

Coach Bryan isn’t just technically skilled with smooth, powerful movement. He also knows how to run a great class and make everyone feel welcome.

I was enjoying it so much, I spontaneously decided to stay a few extra days.

⸻

🤯 [Impressions]

The location reminded me of Lab 266 — modern, a bit fancy (which usually isn’t my style), but with a fantastic atmosphere.

The vibe of the gym and the warmth of the coaches made me feel completely at home.

Coach Bryan is without a doubt a world-class athlete, and the environment here is truly something special.

I highly recommend this gym to any BJJ traveler coming to Lima.

⸻

💡 [What I Learned]

   •   With better neck control, I can stop my opponent’s guillotine just by adjusting my head position.

   •   Triangle from mount: first control the head from low mount, open the elbow with your knee, and with enough practice, you can hit the triangle lightning fast.

   •   Every time I moved, it felt like Coach Bryan had already planned for it — he was always a step ahead.

   •   From bottom half guard, he would go for armlocks or guillotines just to provoke my reactions — a smart way to guide the roll.

   •   We did fun, group warm-ups before sparring that made everyone feel energized.

   •   Is Friday officially sparring day in Peru? Sure felt like it!

⸻

🤔 [Thoughts]

I need to go through my training videos again to study and absorb everything I learned.

Lately, I’ve been feeling the need to really study BJJ, not just train it — to understand the process behind it all.

Now I understand why there used to be those so-called “Chinese martial secrets” — it’s just a faster way to learn: learning through others’ experiences.

This gym has quickly become one of my favorites.

Also:

   •   There’s an amazing ceviche spot near the gym

   •   There’s a big cat park nearby (yes, cats!)

   •   And I even made a big decision here: to go through with a second surgery on my right arm

 

📍@krappling_club_yyc

📍@tayhoney12

Featured Traveller: Rui Lin – BJJ Globetrotters

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Rui Lin BJJ

Rui Lin – BJJ Globetrotters

Age: 29

Belt: White

Profession: Taking time off (previously worked at a tech startup)

How many years in BJJ: Less than 1

Other martial arts: Boxing / Muay Thai

Where do you live: Denmark

Where are you from: I’m an Italian-born Chinese

Other fun or curious information you would like to share: People often get the wrong idea based on how I look. I usually introduce myself as Italian, but I look Asian, so people often get confused and I have to explain that I’m Italian-born Chinese. I’m also quite petite, so I don’t exactly fit the typical ‘metalhead’ stereotype but I love hanging out at the edge of the mosh pit with a beer in hand.

I’ve also had short hair for a while now, and when I visited a gym during my trip, the coach (hello, Kenn :D) was convinced I was a teenage boy based on my profile pic on Insta. It led to some hilarious misunderstandings when I showed up, but we all had a good laugh afterwards.

Rui Lin – BJJ Globetrotters

What inspired you to travel and train?
The urge to travel came first. I had just quit my job due to burnout and needed to feel alive again – meet people, try new things, and get out of my comfort zone. I didn’t even plan on training while traveling until a former colleague (tak Allan!) told me about BJJ Globetrotters. From there, I just started messaging gyms in every country I was headed to. That opened the door to one of the most welcoming communities I’ve ever encountered.

I remember being nervous before my first BJJ class in Taiwan, wondering if I’d be the only woman or the only beginner. But the coach greeted me, handed me a gi, and paired me with someone who looked after me. I felt seen and supported, which made me want to keep showing up. I felt seen, supported, and encouraged to have fun and grow at my own pace. That’s what made me want to keep showing up.

Tell us about your most recent trip and what’s next – where have you been and where are you going?
After quitting my job, I booked a one-way ticket to Asia with a rough plan to avoid touristy spots and the incoming heat and rainy season. I started in Taiwan and ended up traveling to Malaysia, the Philippines, South Korea, Japan, and Hong Kong – mostly just following where I felt like going.

I’m currently back in Denmark for the summer, sorting out some logistics, but I’m thinking of returning to Asia in the fall. One plan is to bike across South Korea with a friend and attempt to complete the Korean bike passport.

What do you enjoy most about travelling?
I travel to reconnect with myself, find inspiration, and better understand the world. It places me into new environments where I meet people I never would’ve encountered back home. It gives me the freedom to explore, reinvent myself, and try things I wouldn’t otherwise.

But I especially love walking. It lets you feel and understand the rhythm of a place. You realize that while every place and environment is different, at the core, we’re all just human.

Any particularly memorable experiences that made it all worth it?
So many. From scuba diving for the first time with someone I just rolled with in the previous class, to training in an empty warehouse that looked like a kidnapping setup and smelled of stinky tofu, to sparring with a guy three times my size.

One unforgettable experience was training at a foundation center for kids in a slum in the Philippines. The gym was just a patchwork of cheap foam blocks, but their passion was truly touching. It reminded me how little it takes to create something meaningful.

And even though it’s not related to BJJ, my favorite experience was biking and camping around Jeju island. It maybe reflects what I love about traveling. From throwing the idea out there to gathering a crew of oddballs (miss you Coupang gang <3) and making it happen together despite the challenges. We biked in the wind and rain, camped in questionable spots, and made a bonfire to BBQ sausages and s’mores from 7-Eleven on our last night. It was raw and authentic, filling my heart in a way I didn’t expect.

What has surprised you the most while travelling?
How healing travelling can be. I left alone and went through a lot alone but I also discovered that I didn’t have to. Most times I put myself out there, someone showed up – whether to talk, travel, or train. People are busy with their life, but when they do pause to connect, there’s so much kindness and shared humanity.

BJJ surprised me too. It became a shared language across cultures. It’s as if the moment you step on a mat, you’re no longer a stranger.

Rui Lin – BJJ Globetrotters

Are you a budget traveller – and if so how do you plan for a cheap trip?
Yes, I travel frugally but comfortably. I always pack light to stay within the free luggage allowance and use old clothes I can drop along the way. I stay in hostel dorms, eat cheap or local food, and sometimes I volunteer for accommodation to cut costs. Walking around to get a feel for the local lifestyle is a big part of how I travel, so I tend to avoid touristy spots that overcharge.

I do a lot of prep: researching ATM fees, SIM options (Roamless eSIM), using travel-focused bank cards (Revolut), and comparing platforms for the best hostel deals (usually Agoda wins). Being flexible helps, as I can go wherever or whenever there is a cheap flight (Explore+Anywhere feature in Google Flights).

That said, I don’t compromise on safety or experiences. I’m happy to pay extra for a good hostel with a female-only dorm, and I always have a budget for experiences that matter to me.

Any advice for your fellow Globetrotters?

  • Take care of your body. Traveling can mess with your body’s rhythm, so keep an eye on your health. Also, treat wounds early, especially in hot, humid countries like in SEA where hygiene differs. I learned these the hard way: I got a skin rash my first week and later a small wound that became infected and kept me off the mat for a month. Ah, of course, get good travel insurance with coverage for medical bills.
  • Contact gyms in advance. Message the gym and let them know you’re coming. Ask about class schedule, visitor fees, gear (like gis). Also, language barriers can cause confusion, so confirm everything clearly! It may save you some stress :)
  • Learn local phrases. Even knowing a few words in the local language can make a huge difference. While people will usually try speaking English, they are not always comfortable with it.
  • Re. BJJ gear. I traveled with two no-gi sets, which was enough for me to rotate and wash one while wearing the other. Some gyms have gis to rent, others don’t, so you may end up doing only no-gi classes. If you plan to train in the gi, consider travel gis.
  • Be open. Different cultures approach BJJ in their own way. Some focus more on tradition and discipline, while others are more relaxed. It might feel uncomfortable at first, but be respectful and remember that you don’t have to stay if it’s not a good fit. I recommend paying for a single class to test the waters before committing to more. Also, stay open to where you train. Some gyms may not look like much, but they’re often the best they could put together. These places often have some of the most passionate communities.

Thank you to Rui Lin – BJJ Globetrotters for making this interview!

[Tay’sTravels&Trains(8)]Lab266 Jujitsu & Movement

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🕰️ [Past Story]

On my journey from Canada to Brazil with BJJ,
I finally made it to Lima, Peru.
Through BJJ Globetrotters’ Matsurfing, I connected with Juan,
and got the chance to train at a gym in the southern part of Lima.

 

🥋 [Gym Info]

  • Date: April 2025
  • Name: Lab 266 Jiu Jitsu & Movement
  • Location: Avenida Santa Cruz 381, Oficina 205, Miraflores, Lima 18, Peru
  • BJJ Globetrotters Affiliation: Not affiliated
  • Facility:
    • Located in a well-developed area in the south of Lima
    • Entrance requires asking the security to access the elevator
    • The gym includes a stylish café and solid workout area
    • Good-quality shower facilities
  • How to get there: Took a 2-hour bus from the north, followed by a 30-minute walk

 

🧾 About

I met Claudia and Juan for the first time in Lima.

They had used BJJ Globetrotters while traveling and training in Asia before,

and thanks to that, we were able to connect through the platform this time
Getting from the northern part of Lima to the south wasn’t easy,
but it was worth the effort to experience one of Lima’s top-level gyms.

🤯 Impressions

The southern part of Lima felt completely different from the north.
Lab 266 was modern and well-equipped—
a bit on the fancy side, which isn’t usually my style,
but I appreciated the quality and vibe.

 

💡 What I Learned

  • Advanced setups for stand-up wrestling
  • What true pressure feels like from a high-level coach
  • The raw power of a tight kimura
  • That strong guys with good technique are a real challenge

🤔 Thoughts

I met a lot of great people through BJJ in Lima.
It’s clear BJJ is popular in Peru, and in some places, it’s even seen as a luxury sport.
Some gyms also run with very strict discipline.

@Krappling_club_yyc
@tayhoney12
lab266.com

 

[Tay’sTravels&Trains(7)]Academia Sniper Lima Norte

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🕰️ [Past Story]

My time in Riobamba was a great experience.

However, I realized that I didn’t have a stamp from the border between Colombia and Ecuador.

Because of that, I had to leave Riobamba earlier than I planned.

I finally sorted it out when I got to Lima, Peru.

In Lima, I started searching for a BJJ gym in the northern part of the city.

 

🥋 [Gym Info]

  • Date: April 2025
  • Name: Academia Sniper Lima Norte
  • Location: Asociación Los Andes, San Martín de Porres 15109, Peru
  • BJJ Globetrotters Affiliation: No
  • Facility:
    • Convenient location in the northern part of Lima
    • House-based gym with a washroom and shower (though I never actually used the shower)
  • How to get there: I ran from where I was staying in the north

🧾 About

Later on, I heard that the northern part of Lima can be dangerous.

But I needed to keep up my BJJ training for my upcoming competition.

The people at the gym were really welcoming.

One of the brothers there spoke English and helped me out a lot.

I also met some white belts with incredible strength — real beasts!

The gym wasn’t big or fancy, but as always, it was much better than having no place to train.

🤯 Impressions

Wherever you go, people are training hard.

And in every gym, you’ll find someone with crazy strength!

💡 What I Learned

I learned the basic Kimura movement with some great details from the coach.

🤔 Thoughts

I could handle the crazy strength on the ground, but standing with them wasn’t easy.

I should figure out an easier way to share my training videos with teammates.

I’m really glad I had the chance to train in the northern part of Lima.

 

@Krappling_club_yyc

@tayhoney12

 

Featured affiliated academy: Bariot Submission Fighting, BJJ England

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Bariot Submission Fighting, BJJ England

Bariot Submission Fighting, BJJ England

Where is the gym located?
Stewartby, a village in Bedfordshire, England.

How many people train there?
We have about 10 regular members, and other gyms come and join our classes.

Is the gym growing – if so by how many new members each month or year?
Yes, it’s slowly growing by one or two new members each month

What are the highest and lowest belt grades training?
White belt through to black belt

When did the gym open?
March 2024.

 

Some facts about you:

Name: Lee Elliot
Age: 49
Belt: Brown belt
Profession: Property management
Years in BJJ: Dipped in and out starting in 2003
Other martial arts: Kickboxing
Currently living in: Bedfordshire, England
Originally from: Oxfordshire

Bariot Submission Fighting, BJJ England

Please tell us the story of how your gym came into existence
My friend and I met whilst training at another gym, and we were inspired to launch our own gym in our local area. We came up with the idea after spending countless hours also training together in my garage.

Bariot is a welcoming and inclusive club where all individuals, regardless of their belt level, are made to feel equal and can come together to train. We decided at the beginning to focus on no-gi due to its rising popularity in the BJJ community. We now train both no-gi and gi.

Tell us about the people that train in the gym – who are they?
We have three instructors two black belts and a brown belt. We have a mix of students, mainly white belts, and a couple of blue belts. We have higher belts from other gyms come and visit us to train, as we offer a pay and train option. We let people know our doors are open to anyone—all we ask are people are respectful and hygienic. So far, so good!

Why do they train?
BJJ offers a multitude of benefits, one being that it immerses you in the present moment, providing a brief escape from the demands of everyday life. Stepping onto the mat allows you to set aside any worries or pressures you may be facing.
That’s why I think a lot of people enjoy it, along with the social aspect of meeting new and interesting people from all walks of life.

Bariot Submission Fighting, BJJ England

What are some of the challenges of running a BJJ gym in general, and in your area specifically?
We have not experienced any major challenges so far. Our location could be slightly better. Unless you live in the village where we train, people have to get transport to us, which is why we’re looking to get our own place in a better location… which is proving slightly harder than we thought, seeking the relevant permissions etc. But we are keeping a eye out.

How do you see the future for BJJ in your area?
I can only see good things for the future of BJJ locally and nationally. It’s a growing sport and is gaining a lot of traction in our local area. There seems to be a lot of interest—you can tell by the amount of clubs. We’ve connected with a couple of gyms who have similar beliefs to us—210 Jiu Jitsu and Viking Academy—so big respect to them and we appreciate their support..

What’s the best thing about your gym?
Definitely the people.

What would you recommend Globetrotters to see in your area apart from the inside of your gym?
We’re pretty well situated here in Bedfordshire. We have history, good food, and loads of open countryside and a few pubs if that’s your thing 😎👍🏻

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Thanks for sharing! If you’d like to visit Bariot Submission Fighting, BJJ England you can contact them here.

Featured Traveller: Natalie Shahid – BJJ Globetrotters

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Natalie Shahid - BJJ Globetrotters

Age: 30

Belt: White

Profession: Mechanical Designer

How many years in BJJ: Around 2

Other martial arts: Muay Thai

Where do you live: Wherever my van is

Where are you from: Germany

Other fun or curious information you would like to share: I live in a van with my labrador, Cookie.

Natalie Shahid – BJJ Globetrotters

What inspired you to travel and train?
Back in 2020, I went to a BJJ camp and met so many amazing people. That experience made me realize how training is one of the best and easiest ways to connect with others and really get to know a country. You don’t just meet locals and fellow travelers—you also learn from different styles and perspectives. It just felt like a win-win.

Tell us about your most recent trip and what’s next – where have you been and where are you going?
My most recent trip was to the Canary Islands, where I spent about three months, mainly on Fuerteventura. I trained at Sutemi BJJ in Corralejo. It honestly felt like becoming part of a family. The coaches, Matteo and Luis, welcomed me with open arms and even connected me with other gyms across the islands. I trained three times a week in both gi and no-gi and learned a lot.
Since the islands are small and attract a lot of tourists, people came and went constantly—but everyone was welcomed like they’d been part of the gym forever. Unfortunately, I injured my knee while kitesurfing after two months and couldn’t train properly anymore. Still, I was welcomed to join classes, watch, learn, and even try techniques that didn’t stress my injury. That meant a lot.

Natalie Shahid – BJJ Globetrotters

What do you enjoy most about travelling?
Definitely the people. I’m very social and love building real connections. In Germany, things can feel pretty rigid—work, eat, sleep, repeat. In other places, people live with a different mindset. They work to live, not live to work. That energy inspires me.
Traveling also forces me out of my comfort zone. I constantly learn new things, get inspired by people I meet, and sometimes end up trying their hobbies—like kitesurfing because a friend raved about it, or freediving after meeting someone passionate about it. And let’s be honest: warm weather and good food are huge bonuses. I’m a big foodie and I love having fresh fruits and veggies every day—so much better in sunny places.

Any particularly memorable experiences that made it all worth it?
Traveling alone in a van can feel isolating, but BJJ gyms are like built-in communities. You immediately have something in common with the people there. Most practitioners are respectful and genuinely interested in helping each other—not just trying to crush everyone. It’s a privilege to learn from so many people, and sometimes I even get to share something with them in return.

What has surprised you the most while travelling?
Before I hit the road, people warned me that traveling solo—especially as a woman in a van—would be risky. But after more than 1.5 years on the road, including a whole year living in a Skoda Fabia with my dog, I’ve never had a seriously bad experience.

Surprisingly, I’ve found that most people are kind. Sure, some cultures are more open than others, but there’s always someone willing to help if you ask. You’re never really alone, and nothing is impossible.

Natalie Shahid – BJJ Globetrotters

Are you a budget traveller – and if so how do you plan for a cheap trip?
Yes, I live on a budget. Since I live in a van, I avoid expensive and crowded campgrounds. On the Canary Islands, I only parked in wild spots and used the gyms for showers. Often, people from the gym would suggest safe and quiet areas to park or places to avoid.

Last year in Portugal, I made a friend and ended up staying with them for a couple of weeks. Later, I tried BJJ matsurfing and went to Sicily, where I met Enrico. He let me stay in his empty house for two weeks, showed me around the island, and we later met again at the Heidelberg camp. These kinds of connections are priceless—and they save a lot of money too.

Any advice for your fellow Globetrotters?
If you want to train somewhere, just ask. I usually message the gym or the coach directly on Instagram before arriving—just to introduce myself, ask if visitors are welcome, and check what kind of class it is (gi or no-gi). Out of 27 gyms I’ve visited, 25 welcomed me with open arms. None ever said “no.”

So don’t be shy or lazy. Reaching out can lead to amazing experiences. You’ll get more than just a good roll—you’ll become part of a global community.

Thank you to Natalie Shahid – BJJ Globetrotters for making this interview!

Full Noise Traveller – Intro

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Kia ora, I’m Kiera, I come from Art of Combat (AoC), a small but mighty gym in Aotearoa, New Zealand’s Manawatū. I am a white belt (3 tabs), training for about 2 years now.

My team at Art of Combat

Where it began

My intro to combat sport was boxing. I started at the end of high-school, after looking for a sport to fill the void of NZ high-school rowing (iykyk). I loved boxing, I loved the physical push and found peace in the practice, there was always something to learn! But after a head injury following a pretty hearty kite-surfing accident I decided to redirect my focus to something that didn’t risk such frequent head knocks.

A few years later I was really missing combat sport and having watched UFC Sundays with my flat and then watched the boys demonstrate some moves (attack the clothes horse in the living room during the breaks) I thought I’d give BJJ a go. So, I went along to an intro session where I wiggled along a mat in a funny outfit and since then I’ve been hooked.

I travel a lot for work (mostly within NZ, but occasionally I get to go a bit further afield) which is sick but meant that from the start of my Jits training I was often away for weeks – months, so I decided I’d better put on my big girl spats and visit some local gyms.

I’m not gona lie I found it super intimidating to rock up to a random gym as a fresh white belt (especially as I am often one of the only girls in the gym), but I’ve always been made to feel so welcome and after an awkward round of hello’s we’re all happily crushing and choking each other like old friends.

Team Viti Blacktip in Nadi, Fiji

The Manawatū Wāhine Open Mat crew (Girls if you’re ever in the region come hang out!)


Gym count
NZ – 8
Aus – 1 (Albury/Wodonga),
Fiji – 1 (Nadi)
Tonga – 1 Judo gym (Tongatapu)

But this year I’m taking it up a notch!

I’ve taken the year off work to complete my Masters thesis so once I finish collecting my data in Tonga, I’m going to work online while travelling and training around Europe!

After a quick stop in Malta I’ll be starting my trip in Estonia at the Globetrotters beach camp, where I can’t wait to be humbled both on the mats and in the surf!

From there I’ll be mat surfing, making my way (in no particular order) through Germany, The Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, England, Ireland, Scotland … and anywhere that promises good coffee, fun training partners and pretty views – recommendations welcome! 

So let’s go full noise!

Stats
Month – 0
Gyms Visited – 11
Current location – New Zealand
Thesis Progress – 30%
Danger Level Gain – 0%
Practice Packs – 5 (can you tell I’m an A type?)

 

The gym list (in order of visit):

  1. Art of Combat (Palmerston North, NZ) [HOME]
  2. Albury Wodonga Brazillian Jiujitsu (Albury, Australia)
  3. Viti Blacktip Jiujitsu (Nadi, Fiji)
  4. Axis (Rolleston, NZ)
  5. WahiBJJ (Fielding, NZ)
  6. East side (Auckland, NZ)
  7. Upper Hutt BJJ (Upper Hutt, NZ)
  8. Workshop (Wellington, NZ)
  9. Alliance (Auckland, NZ)
  10. Coast BJJ (Albany, NZ)
  11. Tonga Judo Association (Tongatapu, Tonga)

[Tay’sTravels&Trains(6)]Team Legion_Riobamba

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🕰️ [Past Story]

I had made the decision to reach the southern tip of South America to compete.

After successfully wrapping up my first South American stop in Colombia, I headed by bus to a city called Riobamba.

⸻

🥋 [Gym Info]

   •   Date: March 2025

   •   Name: Team Legion Riobamba (MMA Legion Team)

   •   Location: 88W2+6G6, Carr. Panamericana, Licán, Ecuador

   •   BJJ Globetrotters Affiliation: No (I came here through matsurfing)

   •   Facility:

  – Dream-like setup with a large mat space, a cage, drums, old-school workout machines, a hidden garden, a tub, and a broken arcade machine at the entrance

  – Private parking, showers (I never used them so can’t say for sure)

  – Tough and gritty underground vibe

   •   How to get there: By bus (30 cents)

⸻

🧾 About

Through BJJ Globetrotters’ matsurfing, I met Mario — a practitioner from Ecuador who invited me to train in Riobamba.

As soon as we met, we found we had a lot in common.

We both liked the number 12, held purple belts, and had gone through divorces.

Despite the pain in our pasts, we were living a new life through Jiu-Jitsu.

On my first day, I headed straight to his gym.

Located right next to a bus stop, it was incredibly easy to find.

After entering through a large gate, I was greeted by the sight of a wrecked car (from a coach’s drunk accident) and a broken arcade machine at the door.

Inside, the space was huge — with mats, a cage, old workout gear, drums, and even a hidden backyard where people could cool off after hard training.

It had this raw, masculine, underground vibe that I absolutely loved.

The head coach of Team Legion Riobamba, Jamo, welcomed me warmly.

Though he looked like a Hong Kong gangster boss, his charisma was matched by a surprisingly gentle coaching style and smooth Jiu-Jitsu.

Over dinner, I asked him about his background — he had grown up as a top-level boxing athlete in Riobamba and was known for speed and power.

However, in Jiu-Jitsu, he sought to move like water, flowing and accepting, just like Bruce Lee’s philosophy.

That conversation gave me a new perspective on how I want to approach my own Jiu-Jitsu.

Everything about life here felt satisfying.

They offered not only gi training but also no-gi and MMA.

There were a lot of tough athletes in the room, and I was even able to share some techniques in a mini seminar.

Riobamba’s high elevation — one of the highest in the world — made every training session more intense (snow-capped volcanoes were literally visible nearby).

After training, we’d eat at Encebollado spots run by a UFC fighter from Riobamba.

Sometimes, we’d go back to Mario’s spacious house and watch Jiu-Jitsu videos while eating together.

His love for the Bjj was everywhere — a Gracie Barra front plate was displayed in his living room and his body as a tattoo.

His home was incredibly comfortable, and I felt totally at peace.

(I slept same sofa which Roberto Jimenez used to stay)

If it weren’t for the immigration issue when I crossed the border from Colombia to Ecuador without getting an entry stamp, I probably would have stayed much longer.

⸻

🤯 Impressions

   •   The gym had a gritty, macho vibe I really liked

   •   Coach Jamo embodied that energy too — but also had incredible finesse

   •   His approach to Jiu-Jitsu as a soft art really impressed me — especially how he’d absorb my sweep, stay relaxed, and immediately reverse the position

   •   Mario’s lifestyle and passion for BJJ were deeply inspiring

⸻

💡 What I Learned

   •   Entering single leg X from standing

   •   How to stay relaxed even in MMA

   •   Shooting takedowns like a squat-step combo instead of charging

   •   Creating a figure-four grip with my arms to finish takedowns

   •   Holding side control heavy after takedown

   •   Using body movement to generate powerful ground-and-pound

   •   Mixing ground-and-pound angles to force both arms up, then finishing with Americana

   •   Using jab + hook + switch step to close distance and catch the leg

   •   From there, pulling the opponent out using a crucifix-style arm setup

⸻

🤔 Thoughts

   •   I practiced defending leg catches by pushing the head and freeing the foot

   •   Worked on heel hooks — not just twisting but creating tight holds and wait for their reaction

   •   Focused on efficient standing techniques without spend much energy in standing

   •   Kept hand fighting slow but persistent to create openings

   •   Coach’s hand fighting was brutally effective — both in BJJ and MMA

   •   Even during tough warm-ups, everyone followed Coach Jamo without complaint — he led by example

   •   His Jiu-Jitsu was smooth and effortless,

  but his physical conditioning drills were intense

   •   I learned how his charisma united the team

   •   After training, group dinners made me feel oddly safe —

  almost like being part of a gang, especially in Ecuador’s current unstable climate

   •   I invited Coach Jamo to dinner, and his insights on the direction of Jiu-Jitsu left a deep impression on me

   •   During my single leg takedown seminar, he asked the most questions — I was genuinely surprised and inspired by his attitude

 

@teamlegion_riobamba

@Krappling_club_yyc

@tayhoney12

 

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Traveling in Taiwan, training BJJ and swimming with sea turtles

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