We had the good fortune of connecting with Michael & Maggie Torres and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michael & Maggie, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
The motto of our gym is “Dedication to the Dream.” It’s been really important in our development as an academy but also as a life philosophy. Being dedicated to our dream, meant giving up a conventional job and life for one that would be challenging but ultimately the most rewarding. People who do jiu-jitsu, immerse themselves in the lifestyle and especially those that compete, make a lot of sacrifices. That could be family time, holidays, going to bed early to be ready for training, or cutting weight while everyone around you is enjoying themselves. It isn’t an easy life but it is worth it. For us being dedicated to the dream means making goals come to fruition and not just talking about what we want to do. It’s seeing our vision through to reality and that vision has resulted in us moving into our 4th space as we welcome the growth of our team.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a traditional Martial Art where self-defense meets sport. Our school is a complete grappling academy, both modern and traditional. We compete a lot but we also believe in preserving the traditions and foundation of the art. Jiu Jitsu promotes respect and discipline and can be beneficial to practitioners of all ages. One of the best parts of this job is watching a student come in with zero confidence to seeing their evolution as they fully embrace the journey and everything Jiu Jitsu has to offer.

Jiu-jitsu is meant to be difficult, it is meant to challenge you, break you and rebuild you. It is literal human chess and one of the most rewarding experiences. When you train there is an amazing rush of endorphins. All the worries from the day are silenced the moment you grip up with your training partner. They may have come from a 9-5, a double shift, home school, or caring for their kids full time. Jiu Jitsu is one of the best places to encounter people from all walks of life: different ages, religions, backgrounds, careers, and ambitions working towards one single goal: to improve themselves. We have built our business with this in mind. We want to be a place that gives people energy and brings them together, that allows them reprieve from the stress and difficulties of day-to-day life. We are most proud of the culture at Torres Jiu Jitsu. It’s a common cliche, but it really is a family.

The most important lesson we’ve learned along the way is to surround ourselves with people who are hard-working and goal-oriented but unafraid to dream. Having people around us with so much ambition and dedication has helped us to grow as business owners, practitioners, and people. Additionally, it made the challenges feel minor as we focused on the end goal rather than obstacles. Good people make all the difference.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
We start the morning with coffee from Barbarosa before class. Having met in South Korea, our go to post-training meal will always be Korean BBQ or Gamjatang. After a tough session, we will most likely head to KBBQ or K Hot Pot if we’re short on time and need something close. Otherwise, we’re off to Honey Pig in Bellaire or the H Mart food court for some Gamjatang.

On a night out we’re probably headed to see a show or the fights, either Drunken Shakespeare at the Emerald Theatre or Submission Hunter/Fury FC fights by Eric Garcia.

On a chill weekend or for daytime recovery we recommend getting a coffee flight at Hebrews coffee house before walking a nature trail at Burroughs Park.

If you’re here on a weekend make your way to Tomball farmers market or any of the festivals they run throughout the year: like The German Festival, Christmas Market, or Depot Day Fall Fest.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
We’d love to give a shoutout to Travis Tooke for his selfless mentorship and guidance and for always encouraging us to chase our dreams by being the best example of a leader. Additionally, Melissa Lozano for giving us our first opportunity by providing us with a space launch Torres Jiu Jitsu in 2018. These two had a lot of faith in us even through the challenges. Lastly, all of the coaches, students, and families at Torres Brazilian Jiu Jitsu that have played a major role in our growth. Thank you for believing in our vision and being a part of the dream.

Website: https://torresjiujitsu.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torresbrazilianjiujitsu

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TorresBrazilianJiuJitsu

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@torresjiujitsu4413

Other: Podcast: Dedication to the Dream on Apple Music https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dedication-to-the-dream/id1695655059

Image Credits
Dayana Hernandez Photography

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