This past week we celebrated our belt promotions, and what an incredible milestone it was! Congratulations to everyone who earned their new belt, and thank you to our entire community for making CTA Palo Alto such a special place.
Belt promotions in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu are unlike any other martial art. Progress is slow, challenging, and deeply meaningful. It can take years of consistent training, perseverance, and dedication to move from one belt to the next. But as long as you show up, put in the work, and stay committed, you will be promoted at the right time. More important than the belt itself is the journey—focusing on learning, improving, and being just a little better than you were the day before.
We also need to recognize how much we depend on each other in this process. Every time we step on the mats, we push past our comfort zones. We sacrifice our time, our energy, and even our bodies so that we can help one another grow and learn this beautiful art of submission. In Jiu-Jitsu, none of the labels from the outside world matter—it doesn’t matter what you do for work, what car you drive, how much money you have, or what your religious beliefs are. On the mats, we are all the same. Through training, you’ll form some of the most sincere and lasting relationships of your life.
When we opened our doors just over three years ago, I never imagined we’d be here today, surrounded by such a passionate and growing community. To see how far we’ve come in such a short time is inspiring—and the best part is, this is only the beginning!
Congrats again to all who were promoted, but also for the dedication, the effort, and the person each of you is becoming through this art. Here’s to the next chapter of growth, learning, and Jiu-Jitsu together.
