Bernardo Faria is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) black belt and a prominent name in the martial arts world. His illustrious career is marked by an impressive series of wins, including being a five-time World Jiu-Jitsu Champion. Faria stands as a testament to the technical prowess and strategic mindset required to succeed at the highest levels of BJJ.
Not only has he achieved remarkable success in competition, but he is also revered for his role as an instructor, shaping the next generation of BJJ practitioners with his deep understanding of the sport and making him one of the best BJJ fighters on our list.
In addition to his competition credentials, Bernardo Faria has made significant contributions to the BJJ community through his teaching and instructional materials.
His ability to convey complex techniques with clarity has earned him respect both on and off the mat. Faria is widely recognized for his half guard game, a position he has refined and mastered over countless hours of training.
His techniques and strategies are often seen as benchmark of excellence in BJJ, which he generously shares through various channels, making the art more accessible to enthusiasts around the globe.
Key Takeaways
- Bernardo Faria is a highly accomplished BJJ black belt and multiple-time world champion.
- His teaching and educational content have influenced countless BJJ students and competitors.
- Faria’s mastery of the half guard is a cornerstone of his fighting style and technical legacy.
Early Life and Background
Renowned for his monumental impact on the martial arts community, Bernardo Faria’s journey into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu began in his hometown in Brazil. His formative years were instrumental in steaming his future as a grappling maestro.
Birth and Upbringing
Bernardo Faria was born on January 29, 1987, in Juiz de Fora, a city within the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais. Raised in a setting that valued education and family, Faria’s early life was well-balanced and grounded. This formative environment played a critical role in shaping his disciplined approach to the rigorous demands of martial arts.
Introduction to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Your introduction to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) might have happened by accident or through a friend, much like it did for Faria. At the age of 14, he began training BJJ due to a friend’s invitation. This seemingly innocuous event set the foundation for what would become a deep-seated passion for BJJ, ultimately leading him to relocate to Sao Paulo to pursue his martial arts career seriously.
Career and Achievements
Bernardo Faria’s remarkable journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu spans a multitude of accolades and a storied career as both a competitor and a teacher. You will discover his path to becoming a black belt, his victory in key competitions, and his era under the tutelage of BJJ legend Fabio Gurgel.
Black Belt and Key Competitions
Bernardo Faria rose to prominence in the BJJ community after earning his black belt. He has consistently demonstrated his skill by competing against elite opponents on prestigious stages. He reached a significant milestone when achieving the double gold at the IBJJF World Championship in 2015, notably excelling as both an adult and open class competitor.
Major Titles and Accolades
Over the years, Faria amassed an impressive list of titles that showcase his prowess on the mats. Here’s a brief overview of his major achievements:
| Year | Title | Division |
|---|---|---|
| 2010 | World Champion | IBJJF World Championship |
| 2013 | World Champion | IBJJF World Championship |
| 2015 | Athlete of the Year | IBJJF Ranking |
| 2016 | European Champion | IBJJF European Open |
| 2010, 2011, 2012 | Brazilian Nationals Champion | CBJJ Brazilian Nationals |
His 2015 “Athlete of the Year” accolade is a testament to his exceptional performance and dominance in the sport during that span.
Alliance Jiu Jitsu and Training Under Fabio Gurgel
As an integral part of Alliance Jiu Jitsu, Bernardo Faria honed his skills under the guidance of the esteemed BJJ Legendary Fabio Gurgel. His dedicated training translated into exceptional teaching abilities, allowing him to pass on advanced techniques and strategies to students of all levels. His role as a teacher is as celebrated as his competitive legacy, ensuring his influence on the sport endures.
Teaching and Contributions
Bernardo Faria, a distinguished Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) black belt under Ricardo Marques, is renowned not only for his championship titles but also for his significant contributions to the art as a teacher. His instructional techniques have impacted students globally, both on the mats of the prestigious Marcelo Garcia Academy in NYC and through his extensive online educational platforms.
Coaching at Marcelo Garcia Academy
When you train with Marcelo Garcia, you are learning from a lineage of BJJ excellence. Faria, as a revered instructor, imparts his game, refined through years of competition at the highest levels. His understanding of techniques has made him a favorite among students seeking to learn from the best in NYC. His pedagogical approach emphasizes the importance of mastering fundamentals and encourages constant improvement.
Online Education and YouTube Channel
Your journey in BJJ does not have to be confined to the academy. Faria extends his teaching to a wider audience through his YouTube channel and online courses with BJJ Fanatics. Here, his content ranges from detailed breakdowns of complex techniques to strategies that cater to practitioners of all levels. His approachable style on his YouTube channel makes learning BJJ accessible, whether you’re refining your game or just beginning to understand the sport.
Fighting Style and Techniques
Bernardo Faria’s approach to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is defined by his innovative adaptations and his systematic pressure passing. His style has earned him multiple world championships and respect in the BJJ community.
Adapting to the Opponent’s Game
When you face Bernardo Faria on the mats, expect him to immediately adapt to your style. Not only does he read your game, but he alters his techniques to tailor a response that neutralizes your strengths. His strategies revolve around being versatile, making him a tough opponent for anyone.
Signature Moves and Guard System
Faria’s expertise shines in his half guard and deep half guard systems. He has developed a signature guard system, frequently referred to as the Faria Guard, which is a modification of the traditional half guard. This guarded fortress is the foundation for numerous sweeps and reversals that put opponents in precarious positions.
Pressure Passing and Submissions
Pressure passing is a hallmark of Faria’s approach, with the double-under and over-under passes being staples in his arsenal. His systematic pressure is designed to methodically break his opponent’s guard and posture. This relentless pressure often leads to submissions like the Kimura, exploiting weakened grips and control over the opponent.
His methodology ensures that you’re not simply escaping, but also transitioning into a dominant position, ready to apply a calculated sweep or submission. This kind of efficiency in your game can be a game-changer in both training and competition.
Legacy and Impact
Bernardo Faria’s profound influence on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) extends from his competitive successes to his roles as a mentor and educator. Faria’s legacy is multifaceted; it is evident in his technical innovations, his dedication to teaching, and his contributions to the broader martial arts community.
Influence on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
As a five-time BJJ World Champion, Bernardo Faria has left an indelible mark on the martial arts world. His systematic approach to BJJ, characterized by a strong half-guard and deep half-guard game, has influenced practitioners globally. Faria, a black belt under the Alliance Team, is not just known for his competition weight class; his open weight performances have showcased his skill regardless of the fitness level or size of his opponents. His competition style has solidified his status and even impacted how BJJ is taught and approached by many.
Mentoring Future Champions
Faria’s commitment to mentoring transcends his accolades as a competitor. You can see his influence through the numerous champions who cite his guidance as pivotal in their BJJ journeys. As an instructor, Faria ensures that his students maintain not only high-level martial arts competence but also the principles of self-defense and fitness, which are foundational to BJJ. His teachings often emphasize the importance of character building, which is as essential as technical mastery in martial arts.
Contributions Beyond Competition
Beyond the mats, Faria’s legacy thrives in his educational content and his efforts to raise the profile of BJJ as a sport and method of self-defense. His instructional materials and online presence have made him a pivotal figure in BJJ’s global dissemination. He promotes a balanced lifestyle that integrates the physical with the mental and emotional aspects of training, fostering a well-rounded approach to fitness and self-defense. His philosophy resonates with beginners and black belts alike, reinforcing the sport’s inclusive and lifelong learning ethos.
Personal Life
Bernardo Faria’s personal life reflects a journey from his native Juiz de Fora to flourishing as a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) black belt in New York City (NYC). His formative years have deeply influenced his later life and career.
Life in NYC
New York City has been more than just a place for Bernardo Faria; it’s where he has pursued excellence in his craft and shared his knowledge. Living in the bustling city, Bernardo has been able to both train at a high level and instruct students at his academy. While the city’s fast pace is a stark contrast to his Brazilian hometown, Faria’s presence in NYC has marked a significant chapter in his personal life.
Experiences as a BJJ Student
As a BJJ student in Juiz de Fora, Bernardo’s experiences laid the foundation for his future success. The dedication required to master the sport began early, in a place far from the limelight of international championships. His passion for the sport was evident, and those early experiences forged a champion whose techniques and strategies are now emulated by students globally. It wasn’t just about competition; as a student, Bernardo embraced the values of discipline and continuous learning, which have become cornerstones of his instructional philosophy.
Physical Conditioning
Bernardo Faria, a five-time BJJ World Champion, emphasizes a physical conditioning program that is as rigorous as his grappling skills. Understanding his approach to fitness can provide insights into the high-level conditioning required for competition in martial arts like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Training Regimen and Fitness Level
Your training regimen determines your fitness level, and for someone like Bernardo Faria, it’s a mix of technique and physical preparation. He prioritizes a balance between weight training for strength and specific drills for grappling to ensure his body can exert and withstand immense pressure during competition. For instance, his routines might consist of:
- Weightlifting for functional strength,
- Cardiovascular exercises for endurance,
- BJJ drills for technical refinement.
Bernardo’s conditioning often includes resistance training tailored towards enhancing his mat performance. He designs his workouts to elevate both his power and endurance, understanding the two are equally crucial in a match.
Cross-Training in Other Martial Arts
Exploring other martial arts like wrestling, boxing, or kickboxing can contribute significantly to a fighter’s conditioning and capabilities. Bernardo has been known to incorporate elements of these fighting styles to bolster his defensive skills and enhance his cardiovascular conditioning. Engaging in cross-training allows you to:
- Develop varied movement patterns,
- Gain agility and improve reflexes,
- Achieve a well-rounded skill set.
Cross-training adds diversified movement and stress on the body, thus amplifying Bernardo’s athletic performance and fitness level. It’s not just about being good on the mat; it’s about creating a resilient body that can handle a myriad of physical challenges.
Strategy and Mindset
Bernardo Faria’s approach to Jiu-Jitsu emphasizes a strategic mindset and proven techniques essential for triumphing in competitions. Understanding his strategies and psychological tactics gives you insight into the makings of a champion.
Approach to Competitions and Matches
Bernardo Faria is known for his pressure game and the effectiveness of his battle-tested half guard. When you’re considering your game plan for competition, Faria’s methods teach you to capitalize on your skills by maintaining pressure and controlling the distance. His success is rooted in a distinct ability to utilize his own weight and leverage to dictate the pace of the match.
Psychology of a Jiu-Jitsu Fighter
The psychology behind Faria’s success lies in staying calm under pressure and thinking several moves ahead of the opponent. This mental fortitude translates to consistently making intelligent decisions during a bout. Having a calm mind allows you to “see the unseen,” giving you an edge to exploit any gaps in your competitor’s game. Your techniques must not only be physically pressure-oriented but also mentally invincible.
Product and Media
Bernardo Faria has significantly influenced the world of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) through his detailed instructional products and considerable media presence. His content is tailored to help you refine your game with practical and tenacious techniques.
Instructional DVD Sets
Bernardo Faria is renowned for his instructional DVD sets that concentrate on various techniques within BJJ. His most notable series is the “Faria Guard”, which focuses on the half guard, teaching you the intricacies of this position with an effective practical approach. Another cornerstone of his instructional content is the “Pressure Passing” DVD. The Knee Shield Sandwich Pass, for instance, showcases the depth of his knowledge and the efficacy of his methods. You’ll find a plethora of options available at BJJ Fanatics, where Faria has published several sets ranging from escapes to the “Z Guard.”
Media Presence and BJJ News
Bernardo Faria has a strong presence on YouTube, where he shares a variety of BJJ-related content, including techniques, seminars, and match analysis. With a channel that has gathered substantial viewership, he provides a constant stream of knowledge to the BJJ community. He always comes across as a humble practitioner when he meets elite grapplers such as Craig Jones, Gordon Ryan and more.
