Coach Vivi grew up in Barra Da Tijuca, Rio De Janeiro Brazil, which is also where Gracie Barra was founded. Jiu-jitsu has always been a major part of Coach Vivi’s life. She studies Brazilian jiu-jitsu for more than self-defense purposes.

Professor Marcio Feitosa and Coach Viviane Almeida

After getting her degree in Physical Education, she had many different opportunities to experience and study many different sports. Coach Vivi found that, in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, she could train her mind, body, and spirit, so she can face the challenges on and off the mats that surpass her personal limits. For this reason, she choose to dedicate her life to jiu-jitsu.

Coach Viviane Almeida and a group of BARRAFIT students.

The BARRAFIT is a specialized program offered through Gracie Barra that draws on the training methods of Master Carlos Gracie Jr. to build a martial arts inspired fitness program. However, BARRAFIT is more than just a workout. It is a fitness program built with the same components that make the Gracie Barra training experience so unique, inspiring, welcoming, challenging and safe.

We want to implement BARRAFIT at Gracie Barra Chicago WL for one reason: It is fitness with a purpose. The purpose of achieving one’s personal best.

Many thanks for Coach Vivi’s guidance and support.