Hello Ingridd, can you please introduce yourself to our readers?
Hi guys! This is Ingridd Alves, black belt of Guigo Jiu-Jitsu Team since 2020. I’m 26 years old and I’m from the northeast of Brazil.
I started practicing our sport in 2014 to lose weight. More than a new physical form (-30kg or 66 pounds), I gained a lifestyle and also a profession that has earned me important titles such as IBJJF Brazilian, European, and South American Champ.
Is it your first time participating in Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu Jitsu Championship?
Yes, my debut on the World Pro mats will soon happen. From the moment I understood how much UAEJJF valued the athletes, including cash prizes, this event became my main objective.
How is your training going leading up to the championship?
I intersperse strong competition training (“porrada”) with drills, without giving up physical preparation and sports physiotherapy. It’s exhausting, especially since I have to pair it with my chiropractic university coursework. So as not to go crazy, I always find some leisure time with family and friends.
I was runner-up in the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam Rio de Janeiro a week ago. I tried to keep my weight and make the final adjustments so that this time I return home with what will be the greatest achievement of my career. I am confident that the silver medal of the past will lead me to the belt of World Champion 2021.
How did the sport of Jiu Jitsu impact you on a personal level? Why do you recommend youth to practice the sport?
I really found myself in life only after I got to know Jiu Jitsu, because until then I didn’t have focus or perspective. I encourage everyone to practice this martial art, regardless of age. The benefits for discipline, concentration, self-esteem, and socialization are unbelievable.
How do you see Abu Dhabi hosting global jiu-jitsu championships and giving the chance for athletes to compete against the best in the world?
It’s a fantastic opportunity to reach the highest level of recognition in Jiu Jitsu and experience a new culture. I can’t wait to live all these emotions!
Who influenced you the most in developing your BJJ game?
I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve watched the Mendes brothers’ seminars on YouTube.
Would you like to give any advice to our readers that would help them either on the mat or in their lives?
Don’t allow anyone put limits on your dreams. Even if you train in the backyard, if you were choked out of consciousness in your first match ever, if you are overweight, if you don’t have the support of your family, if you almost made it… I got over it all and I continue to do what I should to be done with faith in God and in myself, without listening to pessimistic people who wanted to limit my courage and determination.
We care about Jiu Jitsu so much that we decided to create this page for all the people like us – that eat, breath and live the Jiu Jitsu Lifestyle! We truly hope our content will make every one of your days better, on the mat and off the mat!