Thiago Reinaldo

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Stafford, VA
Thiago Reinaldo

Professor and Athlete at Gracie Barra Stafford
"Improving people's lives through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu "

Thiago Reinaldo, a 4th Degree Black Belt under Professor Henrique Machado, is the head instructor at Gracie Barra Stafford, as well as a central figure in the Brazilian jiu-jitsu community in Virginia. His journey in BJJ began in the 1990s, ignited by the legendary Royce Gracie’s performances in the UFC, leading him to train at ASLE, now known as Gracie Barra Amazonas, in Manaus, Brazil. In 2017,

Professor Thiago moved to Virginia to help start the very first Gracie Barra academy in Virginia. There, he worked passionately and tirelessly, playing a monumental and instrumental role in starting and establishing Gracie Barra Stafford. He has served as its head instructor since its founding in 2018. Professor Thiago’s career has been marked by success both as a competitor, garnering numerous national and international medals, and as a passionate instructor, shaping the futures of many students. His approach to teaching integrates his rich competitive experience with a deep understanding of BJJ’s transformative potential. Professor Thiago views Brazilian jiu-jitsu not just as a martial art, but as a vital tool for personal and collective growth. His commitment to “Jiu-Jitsu for Everyone” is evident in his efforts to offer programs accessible to all ages and skill levels, focusing on the holistic development of each student. Professor Thiago’s lineage traces back to Mitsuyo Maeda and Carlos Gracie and is a testament to his deep roots in the art. His achievements, ranging from the IBJJF Master International to the American National Jiu-Jitsu Championship, underscore his status as a champion fighter. He continues to inspire and develop talent at Gracie Barra Stafford, fostering a community driven by integrity, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Through his leadership and dedication, Professor Thiago exemplifies the core values of brotherhood, integrity, and development, making Gracie Barra Stafford a beacon for those seeking to learn and grow in the art of Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Lineage: Mitsuyo Maeda > Carlos Gracie > Reyson Gracie > Osvaldo Alves > Henrique Machado > Thiago Reinaldo

11/01/2024

Happy Halloween 🎃 👻

10/25/2024

This membership card from the Jiu-Jitsu Federation of Amazonas (FJJAM) dates back to 1998, when I competed in my very first tournament, the Amazonense Championship. I was only 15 at the time, with little training experience but a huge desire to compete. Even though I was young, I competed in the ultra-heavyweight division due to my height and weight. I remember that my first experience in competition was a tough one. I attempted a takedown, but my opponent sprawled and spent the rest of the match on top of me, pressing me down with his weight.

I lost that match, but instead of feeling discouraged, it lit a fire within me. All I could think about was returning to the gym, training hard, and coming back stronger. A year later, in the same event, I returned and won my first Amazonense title as a white belt at 17 years old. That initial loss was just the beginning of a journey of perseverance and growth.

10/19/2024

Today, our daughter Thais competed in the “In House Tournament” at GB Chantilly. It was amazing to watch her in her second competition, fighting with so much heart and determination. As a father, it fills me with pride to see her follow in my footsteps in competitions. I love you, my daughter, and no matter what, you will always be our champion.

10/18/2024

Moments like this go beyond technique. Preparing our little champions to compete is also about teaching them confidence, respect, and resilience. On the mat and in life, every challenge is an opportunity for growth.

10/15/2024

Hoje é Dia dos Professores no Brasil, e quero homenagear meu Sensei, Henrique Machado, que sempre foi muito mais do que apenas um professor. Ele é um grande mentor, um pai e um amigo que me acompanha em todas as fases da vida.

Nesta foto, tirada no início deste ano em Manaus, eu estava enfrentando um momento delicado devido a um problema de saúde de um familiar. Como sempre, o Sensei esteve ao meu lado, me dando palavras de esperança e força para superar as adversidades. Sou grato por todos os ensinamentos, dentro e fora dos tatames. Obrigado, Sensei, por ser essa figura tão presente e inspiradora em minha vida.

10/05/2024

Kids comp class

Competition in Jiu-Jitsu plays a crucial role in the development of children. It teaches them discipline, perseverance, and how to handle both victory and defeat with grace. Competing builds confidence, sharpens their skills, and fosters a sense of camaraderie among teammates. It’s not just about winning—it’s about growth, learning, and becoming resilient on and off the mats.

10/04/2024

2022 NewBreed Baltimore Open

In Jiu-Jitsu, success is never achieved alone. Behind every athlete, there is a strong team that plays an essential role—not just during training, but before, during, and after the competition. It is the teammates who push you in every drill, the coaches who correct and motivate you, and the friends and family who support you every step of the way.

Before competition, the team helps prepare the mind and body, sharpening techniques and boosting confidence. During the event, they offer advice, encouragement, and that crucial energy from the sidelines. And after, they are the ones who help reflect on the experience, providing feedback, comfort, and celebrating both victories and lessons learned.

The journey of a Jiu-Jitsu athlete is never traveled alone, and the strength of the team is often the unseen force behind every accomplishment on the mat. A true team is there for all the highs and lows, turning individual performance into a collective triumph.

09/29/2024

Feliz Aniversário meu primo! ❤️
Que Deus possa continuar te abençoando hoje e sempre.

09/24/2024

Today marks the last day of training with us for my student Daniel, who has been with us since 2022.

I often share with my students the importance of Jiu-Jitsu in my life and how this sport has truly changed me. My students are not just athletes, they are an extension of my family. I see them as brothers and sisters. As a professor, it’s always tough to see a student move on, but despite the sadness, I’m filled with happiness knowing that I was able to contribute positively to their journey.

Daniel has shown great dedication and strength, and I have no doubt that he will continue to grow and evolve in his Jiu-Jitsu journey, wherever it takes him. His path is far from over, and I’m proud to have been a part of his story.

Good luck, Daniel! The mats will always be a place where you have family. Until we meet again, brother! 🥋👊🏽

09/17/2024

"Be so strong that nothing can disturb the peace of your mind."
GM Carlos Gracie Sr.

09/01/2024

2024 IBJJF World Master

On Saturday, at the World Master, it was my student Big Mike’s turn to compete. Big Mike stepped onto the mat with tremendous grit and determination. In his first match, he secured a submission. In the final, despite giving his all, he lost via submission. Nevertheless, I’m extremely proud of Big Mike’s effort and dedication. These battles are part of the journey, and every step is a learning experience.

Congratulations, Big Mike! 👊🥋

08/31/2024

2024 IBJJF World Master

On Friday, I competed in the World Master Championship here in Las Vegas. I faced two tough matches, and unfortunately, I lost in the second fight. While it wasn’t the performance I aimed for, I recognize the areas where I need to improve and I’m determined to come back stronger for my future challenges.

Additionally, I had the privilege of watching two of my students compete on Friday: Professora Jamie and Coach Lorraine. Friday marked Professora Jamie’s first competition as a black belt. She fought with incredible determination but narrowly lost by points. It’s important to remember that each competition is a stepping stone towards growth and improvement, and I have no doubt she will rise from this experience even more motivated.

Coach Lorraine had a challenging day as well. She won her first match by points, but her opponent executed an illegal attack that caused her to feel discomfort in her knee. Despite this setback, Lorraine advanced to the semifinals, where she fought with tenacity and determination, ultimately losing by points. Her resilience is inspiring and I’m proud of the heart she displayed on the mats.

As we reflect on Friday’s challenges, let’s remember that every experience, win or lose, is an opportunity for growth. Together, we will keep pushing forward, learning from each battle, and striving for excellence!

08/29/2024

Tomorrow marks the beginning of the most important event of the year: the IBJJF World Master Championship. I am looking forward to competing and representing my team and my students to the best of my ability.
Let’s gear up for another battle!

08/24/2024

Today, our daughter, Thais competed in her first tournament at the PBJJF Washington DC Open. Over the past few months, she has been training harder, focusing on both physical conditioning and technical skills - all with the goal of competing.

Congratulations, Thais! We are incredibly proud of your victory, but even more so of your initiative and determination to compete. As we always tell you, you are our champion, no matter the outcome.

08/11/2024

**IBJJF Chicago Open**

Today, I had the opportunity to represent our team at the IBJJF Chicago Open. I competed in my weight class, where I had two matches and finished in second place, losing in the final by points.

In the absolute division, I had three tough matches. I won the first two by submission - an arm bar and a clock choke. In the final, I again faced my previous opponent from my finals fight in my weight class; this time I won by points.

I am immensely grateful to God for my health and the opportunity to do what I love. Thank you to everyone for their messages of support and to my teammates for their encouragement.

A special thanks to my wife and kids for always being by my side, and to Professor and for the excellent coaching and support.

08/08/2024

Today is my birthday, and I am incredibly grateful to everyone who is a part of my life and made my day so special!

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the messages received, phone calls, and birthday cards. Each gesture meant so much to me.

A special thank you to my wife and kids for preparing a wonderful breakfast and a surprise when I came back from the academy after the noon class.

I am also very grateful to my students for the surprise at the academy in the evening with delicious cupcakes and cake.

Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.

08/06/2024

Today, our children each received their stripe promotions. I am so happy to see my family engaged in the sport that transformed my life.

08/05/2024

Happy Monday, everyone!

Let’s kick off another week full of challenges to overcome.

And now, the question that everyone is asking: “Why Thor was crying?”

If you know, you know 😉

Address

909 Garrisonville Road #103
Stafford, VA
22554

Website

http://www.thiagobjj.com/

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Videos

Last year at the PBJJF Worlds, I had 9 matches in one morning. I secured gold in two No-Gi matches, followed by three Gi matches in my weight class where I earned another gold. In the open class, I had four intense matches and took home the silver. Competing against both adult and master divisions in the absolute was an incredible experience. One of the highlights was feeling the energy from the crowd, especially the support from my students and even spectators from other academies who were cheering for my matches. This year, we’re heading into the second edition of the event, and our team will be there representing and defending the red shield once again. #GracieBarra #GBStafford #ThiagoReinaldo #GBVA #GBVirginia #StaffordVA #StaffordBJJ #BJJ #JiuJitsu #PBJJF

Reminiscing on last year’s PBJJF World Championship and looking forward to this year’s Worlds coming up next month. #GracieBarra #GBStafford #ThiagoReinaldo #GBVA #GBVirginia #StaffordVA #StaffordBJJ #BJJ #JiuJitsu #PBJJF

**Celebrating Our Students’ Journeys!** Professor Jamie proudly spoke about our students at the last belt promotion. She highlighted their growth, resilience, and the way they support each other on and off the mats. Watching our students progress together is a true joy. Let’s keep pushing forward toward success and that coveted black belt! #GracieBarra #GBStafford #ThiagoReinaldo #GBVA #GBVirginia #StaffordVA #StaffordBJJ #BJJ #JiuJitsu

This new COMPETITION WOMEN’S KIMONO BY ADIDAS - PINK can make anyone happy. #GracieBarra #GBStafford #ThiagoReinaldo #GBVA #GBVirginia #StaffordVA #StaffordBJJ #BJJ #JiuJitsu #GBWear

Thais defending the Red Shield in her first match of the competition last weekend at the PBJJF Virginia Summer Open. #GracieBarra #GBStafford #ThiagoReinaldo #GBVA #GBVirginia #StaffordVA #StaffordBJJ #BJJ #JiuJitsu #PBJJF

Yesterday, at the IBJJF Chicago Summer Open where I finished the day as champion of the open class and a silver medalist in my weight class. Thankful for my family, my team, and God for the blessing of being able to compete and close out the day without injuries. #GracieBarra #GBStafford #ThiagoReinaldo #GBVA #GBVirginia #StaffordVA #StaffordBJJ #BJJ #JiuJitsu #IBJJF #Chicago

Behind every successful athlete is a supportive partner who pushes them to be their best. Thank you, @jilarireinaldo , for being the driving force behind our son’s victory at the Pan Kids, and for your unwavering support and dedication both as a coach and as a mother. #GracieBarra #GBStafford #ThiagoReinaldo #GBVA #GBVirginia #StaffordVA #StaffordBJJ #BJJ #JiuJitsu

Arm bar variation from the top of turtle position @pbjjf World #GracieBarra #GBStafford #ThiagoReinaldo #GBVA #GBVirginia #StaffordVA #StaffordBJJ #BJJ #JiuJitsu

Clock choke - technique from week 12 of the GB1 curriculum. #GracieBarra #GBStafford #ThiagoReinaldo #GBVA #GBVirginia #StaffordVA #StaffordBJJ #BJJ #JiuJitsu

It was an honor to meet Master Carlos again at the @graciebarrasummit Thank you for your gracious words of support, Master. #GracieBarra #GBStafford #ThiagoReinaldo #GBVA #GBVirginia #StaffordVA #StaffordBJJ #BJJ #JiuJitsu #GBSummit2024

Calm before the storm #GracieBarra #GBStafford #ThiagoReinaldo #GBVA #GBVirginia #StaffordVA #StaffordBJJ #BJJ #JiuJitsu