Machado school vs. Gracie School

Discussion in 'Grappling Technique' started by Cryme Fighter, Jan 1, 2013.

  1. Cryme Fighter White Belt

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    Hi, I have Zero experience in jiu jitsu and am planning to start taking classes this week or next week. I have a black belt in Karate (I go 2-3 times a week) and wrestled some in high school, but want to improve my ground game, which at this point is honestly nonexistent. Where I live, there are a few bjj schools nearby. There is a Rigan Machado sponsored school that is a 15 minute drive, and is tought by a 3rd degree black belt. There is also a Relson Gracie sponsored school that is a little farther away (about 30 minutes) in a different town tought by a brown belt. Does anyone have (a) any information on the difference b/w Machado run schools vs. Gracie type schools, and/or (b) which school might be a better bet? I possibly hope to do some kind of competitive bjj at some point but am also conscious of the idea that I may have to use jiu jitsu on the streets if my karate doesn't do the job. I plan on doing both the karate and the bjj simultaneously (karate 2-3 times a week and bjj 2-3 times a week) and work full-time. I would appreciate any suggestions/feedback. Thanks.
     
  2. yovan Purple Belt

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    Do you live in Charleston, SC?
     
  3. Einarr Banned Banned

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    I'd go with the Machado 3rd degree BB. Also, karate sucks (unless you're at a good Kyokushin school, which is rare) - quit that bullshit and double your BJJ classes.
     
    Last edited: Jan 1, 2013
  4. Cryme Fighter White Belt

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    Yes, very observant of you.
     
  5. yovan Purple Belt

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    My first school ever was the Relson school. After a year I moved away. When I visit I drop in at the Machado school.

    If you want self-defense, go to the Relson school. If you want a more well-rounded view of BJJ with sport elements, go to the Machado school.
     
  6. Sir Galahad Plutonium Belt

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    Try both to see which school is a better fit for your needs.
     
  7. Cryme Fighter White Belt

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    Thanks for the info. I agree that most karate styles are not as hardcore as kyokushin, but I think a lot also depends on the individual. I'd like to stay proficient in a striking art, and learn the art of jiu jitsu, without taking mma classes.
     
  8. SuperSuperRambo Steel Belt

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    Who are the actual instructors, and what are the actual schools?
     
  9. Cryme Fighter White Belt

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    One is called Rigan Machado Jiu Jitsu of Charleston, SC at a fitness center called Arts for Fitness. The head instructor there is Professor Ricardo Medina. The other is Relson Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy. The head instructor there is Jerry Brewer.
     
  10. CheesyDevin White Belt

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    If I were you I'd take allot into consideration, I think they would both be able to teach you the same basic fundamentals since your new to bjj.. Try out both schools and see which one you like more.
     
  11. Cryme Fighter White Belt

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    I think I will try the Machado school first. If it's friendly enough and seems legit, I'll probably stick with that one since it's closer. I think the most I would be able to go per week is 3 times (2 regular classes and 1 open mat) since I'm working. Is this enough training?
     
  12. pittelp Smokin Joe belt winner

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    What gave him away.
     
  13. davidecibel White Belt

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    especially since you work a full time job and also train in karate, don't underestimate the fact that the machado one is closer.
     
  14. yovan Purple Belt

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    I used to live and train in charleston.
     
  15. ABC Silver Belt

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    ---
     
    Last edited: Jan 1, 2013
  16. ABC Silver Belt

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    you mind if I ask which school you used to train at?
     
  17. ABC Silver Belt

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    Are you sure these guys are still teaching? I thought these guys were closed up years ago.
     
  18. NinjaJuice Orange Belt

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    The Machado's are the Gracies cousins. Very similar, although Gracies from Helio's line, concentrate more street self defense and MMA. The Machado's are geared more towards competition.
     
  19. Cryme Fighter White Belt

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    I called the Machado place and they seem to be up and running. I haven't been able to find a current website for the Gracie place though.
     
  20. yovan Purple Belt

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    Relson school with Jerry. Circa 2001-2002
     

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