We go INTERNATIONAL on episode 22 of Wash Your Gi (big time now!), Professor Danny Paulino shares his journey in Jiu Jitsu, from his early days training under Renzo Gracie to opening his own academy in Long Island, City Jiu Jitsu.

He discusses the challenges and learning experiences of running a gym, his training regimen, competition experiences, and the importance of nutrition and recovery. Danny also reflects on his time at Renzo Gracies gym, learning from legendary figures in the sport, and shares insights on teaching and training structures.

The conversation wraps up with some humorous anecdotes from his experiences in the Jiu Jitsu community.

He emphasizes the need for beginners to find techniques that suit their body type and to focus on fundamentals rather than trying to reinvent the wheel too soon. Daniel also discusses the emotional challenges faced during competitions, encouraging practitioners to compete for personal growth rather than external validation and more.

We were so happy to get to chat to Professor Danny, we totally lost track of time too. So forgive us on the shorter wrap up!

You can check out Danny and City Jiu Jitsu below:

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Welcome to Episode 21 of “Wash Your Gi,” the podcast that helps the hopeless progress in jiu-jitsu. Join coaches Grant and Jack as they sit down (in a slightly noisy coffee shop - apologies for slight background noise) with special guest, Professor Vanessa English.

Vanessa has earned multiple titles in both the European and World BJJ Championships and is also a passionate advocate for women’s participation in the sport.

In addition to her impressive competition record, she is a commentator for Polaris Grappling as well as Enyo Grappling and a long-time coach, giving her an extensive understanding of all aspects of jiu-jitsu (proven by the fact she holds the high score in the podcast quiz!).

In this episode, Vanessa shares her unique journey into Brazilian jiu-jitsu, beginning with her early experiences in traditional jiu-jitsu and capoeira. She discusses how she discovered Brazilian jiu-jitsu, the competitive drive that fueled her, and her experiences in various competitions. Vanessa also talks about her transition from athlete to coach, offering insights into the challenges and rewards of teaching.

Listen in as Vanessa reflects on her favorite jiu-jitsu memories, the importance of mental health, and the growth of the sport in the UK.

Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned practitioner, there’s something for everyone in this episode.

Follow Vanessa on Instagram here.

You can also check out Escapology BJJ here.

Join us for an exciting episode (with coffee shop ASMR included free) as Wash Your Gi (minus Grant!) heads down for a weekend at the IBJJF London Fall Open, which some regard as the UK World Championships. In this episode, we each discuss our performances in our respective divisions and our very exciting results, including areas for improvement, the pros and cons, and the differences between competing at the IBJJF and local events, as well as the benefits of competition for jiu-jitsu practice.

Throughout the episode, we also explore the nuances of competing at different levels, the importance of having a layered training strategy, and the lessons learned from both victories and setbacks. We touch on the camaraderie among competitors, the emotional rollercoaster of competition day, rubbing shoulders with Roger Gracie and Adam Wardziński, and the mostly chicken-based post-event celebrations that follow.

Eddie picks up a new rival on the circuit, who was apparently half lion, has a near-cataclysmic wardrobe malfunction, but does finally manage to say "IBJJF" without twitching and smoke coming out of his ears.

Jack secures a significant result, and we also practice some newly learned Brazilian phrases. All this with a very special guest who also competed and joined us for the trip. Parou, parou, parou