SINGAPORE — Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) may not be the most popular sport in Singapore, but The Gentle Art academy hopes to change that.

Using the syllabus developed by brothers Guilherme–a four-time world champion–and Rafael Mende at their “Art of Jiu Jitsu Academy” in California, Gentle Art places a strong emphasis on cultivating the younger generation through the sport and instill values such as confidence and respect.

Housed at an East Coast Road shophouse with 3,000 square feet of floor space, The Gentle Art academy officially opens this Monday (Nov 17).

“We want to bring a great sport that helps kids develop good motor skills, confidence and a form of self-defence that doesn’t involve you striking or hitting a person,” said its owner B T Kang.

“When you are learning BJJ, it’s like a chess match. You are learning very much game theory and principles of movement and how to anticipate what your opponent is doing. The ability to learn critical thinking (for kids) is one of the greatest gifts we can give them and at the same time, develop good physical strength and self-confidence.”

The sessions, which start from S$200 per month, will be conducted by coaches trained by the Mendes brothers.

Kang acquired the rights to use the syllabus developed by the Mendes brothers’ Art of Jiu Jitsu academy in California, which has developed many junior world champions, including two consecutive team titles at the International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation Pan Kids Jiu Jitsu Championships in 2013 and 2014, since it was established in July 2012.

Guilherme Mendes will conduct a special two-day seminar this weekend at The Gentle Art academy to help promote the new school and the mixed martial arts discipline.

“It is very important to teach the kids and use this sport to help them. It has always been my goal because I started training since young and I want to see them grow as a person and be more confident,” said Guilherme, 26.

“It’s also important to keep the class fun by teaching them that it is more than just about competitions and winning medals.”

Visit www.thegentleart.co or www.facebook.com/thegentleartacademy for more details.