Meet Our Professor Arlindo Junior “Juninho”
With over 20 years of experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Judo, Professor Arlindo Junior “Juninho” brings world-class expertise, leadership, and passion to the mats.
A 3rd-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and a 4th Dan black belt in Judo, Professor Juninho has built a distinguished competitive career. His achievements include titles such as São Paulo State Champion, Brazilian National Champion, and a third-place finish at the IBJJF Master World Championship, along with multiple State and National titles in Brazil.
Professor Juninho began his Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2004 at the age of 12, training in Brazil — the birthplace of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. At 16 years old, he began his teaching path as an assistant instructor, supporting his professors while continuing to develop his competitive career. Over time, he progressed to leading his own classes, combining his experience as both an athlete and an educator
Beyond the mats, Professor Juninho is deeply committed to the science of teaching and human development. He holds a Ph.D. in Adapted Physical Activity from the State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), where he specialized in developing effective teaching methods for children and individuals with disabilities.
This academic foundation supports his contributions to martial arts education. Professor Juninho is:
• One of the Gracie Barra professors responsible for the Kids Method, implemented in more than 300 schools across the United States and over 1,000 schools worldwide
• Creator of the Educational Stripes System, designed to reinforce the core values and behavioral development taught in Jiu-Jitsu classes
• Author of the course “Raising Champions – A Parent’s Guide to the Jiu-Jitsu Journey,” created to help parents better understand their child’s learning process and support them more effectively
His professional experience spans multiple countries, having taught and conducted seminars in Brazil, Portugal, Italy, South Korea, and now the United States.
Since 2022, Professor Juninho has served as the Head Coach at Gracie Barra Saddle Rock, where he leads programs focused on technical excellence, confidence, discipline, and character development.
To ensure the highest standards of professionalism and student safety, Professor Juninho annually completes the:
• Gracie Barra Instructor Certification Program (Instructor Certificate Course), which includes CPR Certification and a Background Check
By integrating high-level competition experience, academic expertise, and decades of teaching, Professor Juninho is dedicated to helping every student grow — on the mats and in life.
Experience. Education. Leadership. Excellence.
Parents and students can follow Professor Juninho’s work, educational insights, and academy updates on Instagram:
@dr.arlindo.bjj
