Chris Brisbane

Purple Belt

In 2018, Chris Brisbane embarked on his martial arts journey, driven by a desire to challenge himself and foster personal growth. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu captivated his attention as a discipline that encompassed physicality, mental acuity, and individual development. Little did he know that this decision would reshape his life in ways he could have never imagined.

As Chris immersed himself further in the world of BJJ, a passionate desire to teach others ignited within him. The decision to become an instructor was fuelled by his innate need to share knowledge and inspire others on their own paths. Teaching BJJ became an avenue for him to continually challenge himself and deepen his understanding of this art form.

Chris received his blue belt in December 2020, marking an important milestone in his BJJ journey. This recognition of his progress further fuelled his dedication and commitment to the art, which made him study it even more relentlessly. In June 2023, he achieved another significant accomplishment as he was awarded the purple belt, a testament to his continuous growth and skill development. This belt also meant that he could now pursue his goal to finally teach classes at Arte Suave.

Chris’s passion for teaching Jiu-Jitsu ignited at the blue belt level, when he was given the opportunity to offer private lessons to beginners—an exclusive opportunity provided by Arte Suave for those unable to attend fundamentals classes. His calm demeanour, meticulous approach, dedication to continuous learning, and genuine concern for his students’ development have made him a sought-after instructor. Chris continues to teach regular private lessons several days a week, proving to be immensely successful in guiding his students. Many of them have thrived under his mentorship, excelling in competitions and achieving remarkable success. 

He tailors his classes to cater to diverse skill levels and individual goals. Fundamentals classes serve as a roadmap, offering a broader perspective of BJJ that includes core concepts and techniques. Conversely, advanced classes delve into the intricacies and nuances of each technique, exploring the captivating depths that BJJ offers.

Chris believes that his students benefit from the wealth of knowledge he has acquired through his own journey. His patient demeanour and genuine willingness to assist others in reaching their individual goals create a nurturing and empowering environment within his classes. Whether students seek self-defence skills, physical fitness, or personal growth, his classes are designed to unlock their full potential.

For those contemplating their inaugural BJJ competition, Chris offers advice rooted in personal experience. He encourages students to embrace the challenge early on, as competition develops a separate set of skills beyond the realm of BJJ techniques. Engaging in competitions accelerates progress and fosters mental resilience. Chris has never regretted participating in a competition, as each one has propelled his growth and honed his skills.

Reflecting on his earliest BJJ training, a vivid memory stands out. Chris recalls his attempts to pass coach Emanuela’s guard, only to be effortlessly thwarted, even without her utilizing her hands. This humbling experience instilled in him a deep respect for the art and sparked an unwavering determination to improve.

In conclusion, Chris invites others to join him on an extraordinary journey through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Together, they can unlock the warrior within, challenge their limits, and discover the profound transformations that BJJ has to offer. Embarking on this path of growth, resilience, and empowerment, both on and off the mats.

Besides Jiu-Jitsu, Chris, a former tradesman, indulges in various pursuits. A handyman, explores cooking, plays chess, and engages in poker. He also delves into philosophy and psychology, broadening his understanding of the human experience. These diverse interests enhance his teaching and interactions with others, embodying a lifelong commitment to personal growth.