Bruno Bastos, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu 5th-degree black belt, said that their program, Bastos Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Fitness in Midland, helps kids who face bullying by improving their confidence and athleticism, and it benefits from his and his wife’s combined expertise in sports education and martial arts, Bastos was a guest on a recent episode of the Best of Midland Podcast.
"We have kids doing home school just because of bullying in schools," said Bastos on a recent edition of the Best of Midland Podcast. "I feel like a big part of our program comes from that situation specifically. And then, of course, when they start, their parents see the benefits, because it's not only the confidence that the kid gets by being able to defend himself or herself but also how athletic they improve as well.”
“I have academic education on how to train, like the physical location,” Bastos said. “My wife’s from Bulgaria and from Brazil. And then I think when we mix that together, she’s a judo black belt and she does well with the black belt as well. So when we mix that together, we can create a huge facility to improve the show motor skills because we have kids from three years old.”
Bastos, a 5th-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, is known for his achievements in the sport and his leadership roles. He was a key member of the Nova Uniao team before founding his own Bruno Bastos Association in 2014 and later the LEAD Team. Bastos has competed in top tournaments, including the ADCC and World Championships. Bastos has opened a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Midland, Bastos Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Fitness.
Best of Midland Podcast is hosted by Ryan Shewchuk and Terra Avery. It is an extension of the broader Best of Midland program, which aims to support small, local businesses by showcasing them and the people behind them. Their website lists top businesses and upcoming live events happening in the area.
The podcast is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.