Kensei Yamanaka

Instructor

Judo Black Belt

 

Kensei Yamanaka began Judo in 2005 at just five years old, inspired by his father. He earned his Judo black belt in 2014 at the age of 14 and has now been training for more than 20 years.

His competitive Judo achievements include:

• Bronze – All Japan University Championships, -81kg, 2018
• Gold – Berlin Junior European Cup, -81kg, 2019
• Gold – All Tokyo University Championships, -81kg, 2021
• Gold – All Japan University Team Championships, 2021

Kensei began Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in April 2024 after wanting to expand his submission grappling skills. He was awarded his BJJ blue belt in November 2024 and has since achieved:

• Gold – Grappling Industries Male No Gi, April 2025
• Gold – IBJJF Pan Pacific Championships, -85kg Blue Belt, 2025
• Gold – Grappling Industries Absolute No Gi, August 2026

He also trained in MMA and came to Arte Suave with the specific goal of improving areas less familiar to him, particularly No Gi and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

What stands out most about Kensei is his approach to training. He is disciplined, humble and incredibly hard-working, with an attitude focused on continuous improvement. He brings the same mindset to coaching and says he most enjoys watching students develop and improve.

Outside martial arts, Kensei enjoys weightlifting, walking, spending time in the sun and watching movies. Some of his favourites include the Rocky, Fast & Furious and The Expendables series.

Kensei currently holds a Judo black belt and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu blue belt. With more than two decades of martial arts experience and a strong competitive background, Kensei brings a wealth of knowledge to both our Adults and Kids Judo classes.

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I contacted Art Suave BJJ about private lessons while visiting Brisbane. Emanuela was incredibly friendly and helpful, taking the time to understand my experience level and what I wanted to work on. I was paired with two coaches and was really impressed with the quality of instruction and how much I got out of the sessions. Highly recommend Art Suave to anyone considering training here!
Calum J.
Calum J.
06:19 20 Oct 26
I've gained valuable experience learning from Chris Brisbane and Nic Barker - who are brilliant coaches. The knowledge and skill of Arte Suave's instructors is impressive.
Joe R.
Joe R.
08:38 14 Aug 26
Assem A.
Assem A.
10:31 11 Aug 26
Deb F.
Deb F.
10:11 31 May 26
My oldest has been training here for over 3 years now and we love this place! My 2 little ones are also joining in the fun. We Highly recommend Arte Suave!
Umithira E.
Umithira E.
20:29 26 May 26
Both my kids have been attending the kids classes here for years! The coaches are great and the classes are awesome for kids of all ages. Martial arts is some of the best ways for your kids to exercise and Brazilian jiu jitsu is the best martial arts for it. And at the top of that list is Art Suave in Brisbane 👍
Simon C.
Simon C.
06:57 14 May 26
There's a very selfish voice that bids me to zip my lip aboutArte Suave BJJ Brisbane...but it wouldn't be right. My son & I love this place, the people, the atmosphere, respect and genuine concern for development. More akin to family than education.
George E.
George E.
21:04 07 May 26
Such a great place to train!
juan francisco, S.
juan francisco, S.
01:29 26 Apr 26
Aye “Boom Foodie” T.
Aye “Boom Foodie” T.
02:54 18 Apr 26
Dropped in to the academy while traveling - Emanuela and her team were so gracious in hosting! The training partners were all technical and safe and the facilities very clean. Will visit again.
Philip A.
Philip A.
23:33 20 Feb 26
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