Why I LOVE Philly - Balance Studios

So if you were wondering, yes I hibernate in the winter. In fact, if I wasn't at home or at work, chances are you would only find me one other place - Balance Studios. What is so great about this place that would make me get off of my couch and out from under my Snuggie (look, it was a Christmas gift) to brave the winter elements?  Well, I’ll tell you.
 

After two+ years of practicing, I am more hooked on Brazilian Jiu Jitsu than ever. The quality of instruction at Balance Studios is what feeds and nurtures this near addiction to the physical and mental challenges of the game. Think chess, but using arm bars and leg locks. Owners Phil and Ricardo Migliarese are two of the highest ranked black belts in the country and they continue to grow, study and improve their practice and instruction. On Monday, March 21st, 2011, Rick was promoted to 3rd degree black belt and Phil was promoted to 4th degree. They are the highest ranked black belts under Relson Gracie. Yes, I said Gracie. Of those Gracies. Relson “dropped in” from Hawaii to surprise-promote the brothers. Phil and Rick have been studying BJJ from the family that created BJJ for over 20 years and a Gracie “stopping in” isn’t that unusual.  In fact, UFC legend Royce Gracie will be at Balance in April.

Relson Gracie Approved. Above: Phil Migliarese receiving his 4th degree. Below: Rica rdo Migliarese receiving his 3rd degree.

Even for every day instruction, we are fortunate to have an incredible staff of patient, approachable instructors teac hing  basic self defense, Gracie Jiu Jitsu basics, core and advanced classes (thank you to each and every one of you). I am especially thankful for the instruction of brown belts Josh and Drew Vogel who are always available with patient, clear answers to any question. A product of their professors and environment, Drew and Josh are amazing competitors, teachers and people. They exemplify the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu lifestyle as much as the Migliarese brothers. Other programs at Balance include a Bully Self Defense program developed to give confidence and  teach children in  a safe, fun, no pressure environment. For those of you inspired by the multiple Mixed Martial Arts promotion companies, there are classes in MMA, Judo, and Muay Thai. Phil also teaches Ashtanga Yoga and has developed a Yoga for Fighters series that enhances our BJJ  experience, but is great for anyone.

Most importantly, the Migliarese brothers have created a family atmosphere at Balance that supports training for self defense, hobbyists and professionals. Perhaps it is their South Philadelphia upbringing where it seems everyone is family anyway. Maybe it is just because they are two of the nicest human beings you will ever meet. Whatever it is, it is the key to their business. The sign upon entering says “Leave your shoes and your egos at the door” and it immediately sets the tone for training.  While we compete under the name Team Balance, the people here truly are a second family to each other.  It is an atmosphere of sharing, caring and rear naked chokes. (Having mentioned RNC’s, Frenchy, you called me out on Facebook and I am returning the favor on Phillytodo. You are running from me. You know it. I know it. And now all of Philly knows it. But I digress.) Imagine a large family reunion every time you walk through the doors of the studio and you get the idea of what Balance feels like to many of its students. Except that we submit each other in between catching up on our families and lives.

Team Balance on Promotion Day 12.4.10

Speaking of family,  I’m also inclined to point out a major event for one of Team Balance’s Black Belts, Tim Carpenter. He is competing this Saturday evening in the first round of the Bellator Light Heavyweight tournament. Tim is scheduled to fight Daniel Gracie in his biggest match yet. We are all so excited and proud of Tim and all of our warm wishes go with him this weekend. You can catch the Bellator fights this Saturday on MTV2 at 7pm. If you are too lazy to get up from under YOUR Snuggie, that’s Comcast channel 140.

If after the fights, you are inspired to try Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, get yourself in here. This place is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu heaven.