Louis A. says, "I’ve been training with Matt Becker for 10 years, at La Jolla Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and under his guidance it has completely transformed my life – physically, mentally, and in ways I never expected.
When I first walked onto the mat I was 45 pounds heavier, , and had been out of shape for almost 15 years ( I started when I was 54)Through consistent training in the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu method that Matt teaches – an approach that emphasizes practical self-defense, leverage-based technique, and personal development – everything changed. The weight came off naturally because I was moving every class, drilling, rolling, and pushing myself in ways no gym workout ever made me do. More importantly, it stayed off. Ten years later I’m stronger, leaner, and in the best cardiovascular shape of my adult life.
The health benefits go far beyond the scale. My sleep is deeper and more consistent (I fall asleep faster and wake up actually recovered). Blood pressure and resting heart rate are better than they were in my 20s. I move better, I rarely get sick, and I have a level of functional strength and resilience that makes everything in daily life easier.
I’m also a better family man , business leader and person .
But the biggest surprise has been longevity. Jiu-Jitsu under Matt isn’t just a “workout” – it’s a practice that forces you to stay disciplined, humble, and present. You learn to breathe under pressure, to stay calm when things get uncomfortable, to keep showing up even when you’re tired or sore. Those are the exact skills that research now shows are linked to longer, healthier lives. The mat has become my moving meditation and my anti-aging protocol all in one.
Matt Becker’s focus on the self-defense roots of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, combined with his emphasis on personal growth, creates an environment where people don’t just get in shape – they learn Jiujitsu and become better versions of themselves. I’m living proof: 45 lbs down, stronger than ever at 10+ years in, sleeping like a kid, and still loving every minute on the mat.
If you’re looking for something that delivers real weight loss, genuine health, and a path to moving, feeling, and aging better for the rest of your life, train with Matt Becker. Jiu-Jitsu isn’t just a sport here – it’s a vehicle for becoming the healthiest, most capable person you can be
Louis Addeo"See more