Teaching Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in France: A Journey Across Annecy and Besançon

There's something truly special about traveling to a foreign country to share the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to return to France for my second series of seminars, teaching in two beautiful French cities: Annecy and Besançon. Building on the foundation from my previous visit about a year ago, this experience was not just about teaching techniques, but about deepening connections with a passionate international community of practitioners.

The Beauty of Annecy: Caveirinha Jiu-Jitsu Seminar

Annecy, known as the "Venice of the Alps," provided a breathtaking backdrop for our first seminar. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Philippe from Caveirinha Jiu-Jitsu Annecy for his incredible hospitality and for organizing such a wonderful event. Returning to the Caveirinha school felt like coming home, and what struck me immediately was how the students had grown since my previous visit – despite the language barrier, their passion for learning was even more palpable.

The seminar focused on the deeper conceptual understanding of leverage and the intellectual approach to Jiu-Jitsu. We explored how the art of "intellectual baiting" – leading opponents to their own failure through superior understanding – represents the highest level of martial arts mastery. Watching students from different backgrounds and skill levels grasp these philosophical concepts was a reminder of how BJJ truly transcends cultural boundaries.

Besançon: Building the Next Level Community

Besançon, with its rich history and beautiful architecture, hosted our second series of seminars. Working with the Next Level Besançon school was particularly meaningful as we're building a strong international network of Next Level academies. I want to thank Alpha from Next Level Besançon for organizing the event at the incredible Olympic Judo facility in Besançon – the venue was absolutely perfect for our seminars.

The seminars focused on the deeper philosophical and conceptual aspects of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. What impressed me most was the students' eagerness to understand not just the "how" but the "why" behind the art – their commitment to grasping the intellectual principles that make Jiu-Jitsu truly transformative.

"Jiu-Jitsu is not just about techniques – it's about understanding the deeper principles that govern all martial arts. When we teach the conceptual approach, we're sharing the intellectual gifts that make this art truly transformative."

Philosophical Approach: The Deeper Art of Jiu-Jitsu

Throughout both seminars, we delved into the conceptual and philosophical foundations of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, focusing on principles that transcend mere technique:

• Understanding Levers: The intellectual mastery of leverage as the fundamental principle behind all effective techniques
• Intellectual Baiting: A special gift from the highest level black belts - the art of leading your opponent to their own failure through superior understanding
• Keeping Jiu-Jitsu Alive: Preserving the art not just as a sport discipline, but as the possibly only true martial art that still exists
• Martial Artist Principles: How one's approach to life reflects deep dedication to self-improvement and self-knowledge
• The Forever Journey: Embracing the lifelong path of continuous learning and growth that all Next Level Jiu-Jitsu participants should adopt

Special Recognition: Marc, Next Level Head Professor in France

I would be remiss if I didn't take a moment to recognize someone who has been absolutely fundamental to the success of Next Level Jiu-Jitsu in France. Marc, our Next Level head professor in France, deserves special recognition for his lifelong dedication to martial arts and his nearly 20 years of training with Next Level Jiu-Jitsu, plus his lifelong dedication to reach the highest standards I've seen as a martial arts practitioner since childhood.

Marc's perfectionism and devotion to excellence are fundamental keys in the development of our art in the beautiful land of France. His commitment to maintaining the highest standards of instruction and his deep understanding of the Next Level philosophy have been instrumental in building a strong foundation for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in France.

"Marc's dedication to excellence and his understanding of the Next Level philosophy have been crucial in developing our art in France. His lifelong commitment to the highest standards of martial arts practice is truly inspiring."

The International BJJ Community

One of the most rewarding aspects of these seminars was experiencing the international BJJ community firsthand. Despite coming from different countries, speaking different languages, and having different training backgrounds, we all shared the same passion for the gentle art.

The students in both cities demonstrated incredible respect for the art and for each other. Their questions were thoughtful, their training was intense yet respectful, and their hospitality was overwhelming.

Lessons Learned

Teaching internationally taught me several valuable lessons:

1. Communication transcends language: BJJ is a universal language that connects people across cultures
2. Every community has unique strengths: Different training environments develop different aspects of the art
3. Cultural exchange enriches everyone: I learned as much from the students as they learned from me
4. The BJJ family is truly global: Wherever you go, you'll find people who share your passion

Looking Forward

These seminars in France represent the continuation of a beautiful relationship that has been nurtured through Marc's long-standing connection to Next Level Jiu-Jitsu. While this was my second time teaching seminars there (following my first visit last year), the deep roots of our relationship extend much further back. The connections made and the knowledge shared have strengthened our international Next Level network. I'm already looking forward to returning next year for another series of seminars, continuing to build on the foundation we've established with our French BJJ community.

Gratitude and Acknowledgments

I want to express my deepest gratitude to all those who made these seminars possible:

• Philippe from Caveirinha Jiu-Jitsu Annecy – Thank you for your incredible hospitality and for organizing such a wonderful event in the beautiful city of Annecy.
• Alpha from Next Level Besançon – Thank you for organizing the event at the incredible Olympic Judo facility in Besançon. The venue was absolutely perfect for our seminars. Thank you also for being such a dedicated instructor at Next Level Besançon, helping spread our philosophy and deep care to all who join our classes. Your commitment to our students and the Next Level way is truly appreciated.
• Marc, Next Level Head Professor in France – Your lifelong dedication to martial arts and nearly 20 years of training with Next Level Jiu-Jitsu, plus your lifelong dedication to reach the highest standards as a martial arts practitioner since childhood, have been fundamental to the development of our art in France. Your perfectionism and devotion to excellence are truly inspiring.
• All the participants – Thank you for your enthusiasm, dedication, and for making these seminars such a memorable experience.

For anyone considering hosting or attending international seminars, I can't recommend the experience enough. It's not just about the techniques – it's about building bridges between communities and celebrating our shared love for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.