Can you have it all? Ask Vanessa Reyes cause she has figured it out. Vanessa Reyes is not only wife, a mother, a business owner, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor, a high school science teacher but she is an up and coming purple belt competitor in the rooster weight division. She is a super woman. Vanessa has been training for five years at Laredo Presa Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Laredo, Tx. Dispite Vanessa’s chaotic schedule she has graciously offered to host the next Girls in Gis event at her academy in Laredo this Sunday October 18th. She has some amazing things planned for this event and not one to be missed.
What motivated you to begin your Jiu-Jitsu journey? What has kept you motivated?
I starting training when my husband established an academy in Laredo.I always had a passion for martial arts. Watching my husband compete and training motivated me to try it and I completely fell in love with it. My husband and my family are my biggest support group who motivates and pushes me. Our academy is also another big aspect when it comes to motivation. I am blessed to have a great jiu jitsu family who trains hard, supports and respects one another and pushes to reach goals.
Do you have any female only classes at your academy or opportunities to train with just women? Is this beneficial?
Yes, every Thursday I offer an all female class. It’s a great way to introduce this sport to any girl especially if they have no prior experience in any type of martial arts. Jiu Jitsu can be very intimating to someone new especially when the majority are males and they are much bigger than you. A female class can be more welcoming to a new person and feel less awkward. As for the girls already training, it allows them to practice their technique on someone of similar size. When rolling with males we develop strong defenses but sometimes practicing your submission or hitting your sweeps can be challenging. By having a female class we get to practice on our offensive side and able to drill and perfect using someone of similar body type and strength.
What benefits do you think BJJ brings to females? Why would you recommend BJJ to newcomers?
BJJ strengthens women physically and psychologically. On the physical aspect, it keeps you fit, improves flexibility and fun at the same time. Psychologically it builds self confidence, a peace of mind that you can stand up for yourself. Most importantly it’s a great place to burn calories and relieve stress.
You will be our host for the first time, what will do you have in store for us?
Yes, I’m very excited to be hosting a girls in gis in Laredo. It’s going to be a fun and friendly training environment. Since it’s October, Breast Cancer Awareness, I will be giving away T-shirts and drawstring backpacks and just for fun I’ll have photo props and frame for picture taking.
You are bringing in a special guest for this event. Who is it? How will she be involve?
Yes and the best part is our Special Guest- Gezary Matuda. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) Black Belt Competitor Light feather, 5x World Champion and Coach at American Top Team Headquarters She will coordinating and running the class with me. She will be actively participating in the class, sharing her wisdom, helping and rolling.
You too can be a part of this event! Our events are free and open to females of all ages and skill levels. No experience is required. More info and registration at: www.girls-in-gis.com/blog/girls-in-gis-texas-laredo
