Rodrigo Gracie is a Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Black belt, currently training under Renzo Gracie in NYC and teaching in Long Island, New York. We asked Rodrigo 14 questions, commonly asked by beginners, this is what he had to say:

How long did it take you to get a black your black belt?
	10 years.
Was this a normal amount of time? If not, how long does it usually take to get a black belt?
	Pretty much.
How many black belts have you promoted?
	None yet.
What is your opinion of the rules and time limits in sport jiu-jitsu?
	I think they are fine. But you have to keep in mind that jiu-jitsu is about technique and patience. Tournaments are a lot about strategy.
When do you think a student of Jiu-jitsu should start training for Vale Tudo?
	After 3 years.
Do you think a Jiu-jitsu fighter should have a black belt before entering a Vale Tudo competition?
	No.
How effective is Brazilian Jiu-jitsu for Multiple attackers?
	Jiu-jitsu has also the striking aspect. I think jiu-jitsu would do fine depending on the atackers. If the attackers know what they are doing it's over. If you can't stop one guy from grabbing you and putting you down, how would you stop two? It's like playing two videogames at the same time.
Do you have any favorite Techniques?
	Arm bar from the mount.
What other things do you do besides Jiu-jitsu to keep in shape?
	Running and lifting weights.
What is your diet like?
	Brazilian barbecue.
How important do you feel it is to train with the gi and why?
	I think you should train both. But beginners should emphasize the training with the gui. Peolple that train more with gi are usually more technical. Especially for those that want to have a good guard defense.Trainning with the gi requires a lot more hip escape than without.
Do you get nervous before a fight?
	I feel more wrath than anything.
What advice would you give to someone who is just starting Jiu-jitsu?
	Hang in there. In the beginning it's a little hard, but after couple months you'll be doing fine.
Why is Jiu-jitsu a superior Martial Art?
	Jiu-jitsu it's the only art that a small person has a chance against a much bigger opponent. Watch the first 4 UFCs with Royce.

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