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BRAZILIAN

Jiu Jitsu

Família
MAROLA
FERREIRAS

Located in the vibrant region of Albufeira, Família Marola Ferreiras continues the mission of spreading authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu throughout the Algarve. Built on the values of respect, discipline, and unity, our academy offers a welcoming environment for practitioners of all ages and skill levels.

The school is led by Eduardo Finamore and Yoniet Yitshaik, dedicated instructors trained in the lineage of Master André “Marola.” With many years of experience on the mats and a deep commitment to teaching, Eduardo and Yoniet guide students through a training philosophy focused not only on effective technique but also on personal growth, confidence, and resilience.

At Família Marola Ferreiras, we believe Jiu-Jitsu transforms lives. Every class strengthens the body, sharpens the mind, and builds character. Here, students support one another, celebrate progress together, and train as a true family.

As part of a growing network of Marola academies across the Algarve — including Faro, Olhão, Tavira, Vila Real de Santo António, and Ferreiras — our school carries on the tradition and spirit of the “gentle art.”

More than just a sport, Jiu-Jitsu at Marola Ferreiras is a journey. A journey of friendship, respect, and personal evolution, where every practitioner is welcomed, valued, and encouraged to reach their fullest potential.

EDUARDO & YONIET

Família Marola Ferreiras is led by two highly dedicated and certified instructors, who bring international experience, competitive achievements, and a genuine passion for teaching Jiu-Jitsu and martial arts.

Eduardo Finamore is a certified Família Marola instructor and sports coach. Originally from Venezuela, he has been practising martial arts since his teenage years at SLAM MMA, where he later became an MMA instructor. Eduardo is an active IBJJF competitor and a national bronze medallist. His teaching combines solid technique, discipline, and a lifelong dedication to martial arts, which he passes on to every student.

Yoniet Yitshaik is also a certified Família Marola instructor and sports coach, with many years of experience both practising and teaching martial arts. He is the IBJJF Master Europe 2023 gold medallist and the 2023 European bronze medallist. At our academy, Yoniet leads the NoGi – BJJ classes on Mondays and Thursdays, bringing a technical, motivating, and growth-focused approach to training. His motto reflects the mindset he instils in his students:
"It’s when we think we can’t that we must act — that’s when we overcome and grow."

Together, Eduardo and Yoniet form a strong, welcoming, and committed team, dedicated to making Jiu-Jitsu accessible to everyone — always guided by respect, personal growth, and the true spirit of Família Marola.

Jiu Jitsu for Kids

Família Marola Ferreiras offers Jiu Jitsu classes for children in a safe, welcoming environment, designed specifically to support the physical, emotional, and social development of young practitioners.

The classes are structured in a playful and educational way, respecting each child’s age and pace, while promoting motor coordination, discipline, focus, and self-confidence.

Beyond the technical aspect, children’s Jiu Jitsu also teaches core values such as respect, responsibility, teamwork, and self-control, contributing to character development from an early age.

Students Tânia and Rita actively assist in the children’s classes, helping guide exercises and providing individual support to each child. Their presence ensures greater attention to every student and reinforces the close-knit, family-like atmosphere that defines Família Marola Ferreiras.

"Jiu-Jitsu is not about fighting others — it’s about fighting your limits."

What is Jiu Jitsu

The word “Jiu Jitsu” comes from Japanese and means “the gentle art” — “Jū” (gentle or flexible) and “Jutsu” (art or technique). The name perfectly reflects its philosophy: defeating strength through technique and intelligence.

Jiu Jitsu originated in feudal Japan, developed by the samurai as a form of unarmed self-defence. It focused on leverage, holds, and throws, allowing a smaller person to overcome a stronger opponent using balance and control rather than brute force.

In the early 20th century, master Mitsuyo Maeda brought the art to Brazil, where he taught the Gracie family. From there, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) was born — a refined evolution of the traditional Japanese style, emphasising ground fighting and technical efficiency.

Over the years, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu spread across the world, earning global recognition in academies, championships, and mixed martial arts (MMA). Today, it’s much more than a combat sport — it’s a way of life, teaching respect, discipline, resilience, and self-control.

YOUR JOURNEY

Every belt tells a story — of discipline, growth, and perseverance.
In Jiu Jitsu, progress isn’t just measured by the colour of your belt, but by the lessons you learn along the way.
Each stage represents a new challenge, a deeper understanding of yourself, and the constant pursuit of mastery — on and off the mat.

Benefits of Jiu Jitsu

On the mat, you’ll discover more than techniques — you’ll find confidence, focus, and a supportive community.

01

Self-Confidence

Through constant practice, you learn to face challenges and trust your own progress — on and off the mat.

02

Self-Control

Jiu Jitsu teaches patience, discipline, and how to stay calm under pressure.

03

Physical Fitness

Each class boosts strength, flexibility, and endurance while improving posture and overall health.

04

Self-Defence

Learn practical techniques to protect yourself — based on leverage and intelligence, not brute strength.

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Real Stories. Real Progress.

Worried About Starting?

1. Will I get hurt if I start training?

No. Safety is our priority. Instructors guide every technique, and training is controlled. Injuries are rare, and we focus on learning, not fighting.

2. Do I need to be strong or athletic?

Not at all. Jiu Jitsu is about technique, leverage, and strategy. Anyone can start, regardless of size, strength, or fitness level.

3. Is Jiu Jitsu only for adults?

No. We have classes for all ages. Every student progresses at their own pace, with guidance appropriate to their experience.

4. I’m afraid of sparring — do I have to?

Sparring (rolling) is always optional for beginners. You learn gradually, and instructors ensure it’s safe, respectful, and controlled.

5. How long until I feel confident on the mat?

Everyone’s journey is different. Most beginners feel comfortable and start enjoying training within a few weeks, as skills and confidence grow together.

OUR FAMILY GALLERY

One Family, Many Homes

Find the nearest Marola family to you and join the energy that’s spreading across the Algarve.

Família Marola
FARO

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OLHÃO

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VILA REAL DE STO ANTÓNIO

COMING SOON

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