Where discipline meets family, and every student becomes the best version of themselves.
PROF. PEDRO DUTRA
Gracie Barra Trussville
Coach Jacqueline Dutra
Interview with Prof. Jacqueline Dutra
Meet Prof. Jacqueline Dutra, who helps lead Gracie Barra Trussville alongside her husband, Prof. Pedro Dutra, using Jiu-Jitsu to support students and help them reach their potential.
Professor Jacqueline, can you please introduce yourself and tell our readers how your Jiu-Jitsu journey began?
My name is Jacqueline Dutra, I am 35 years old, and I have been training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at Gracie Barra since 2013. Jiu-Jitsu became a fundamental part of my life and my personal growth. Today, as a 1st-degree Black Belt, I am proud to use Jiu-Jitsu as a tool to transform lives and help others reach their full potential.
You’ve been training at Gracie Barra since 2013 and continue to compete. What first attracted you to Jiu-Jitsu, and what has kept you motivated over the years?
I was first attracted to Jiu-Jitsu not only as a sport, but because of the values it teaches. Discipline, loyalty, perseverance, confidence, and real-life self-defense immediately stood out to me. Over the years, what has kept me motivated is seeing how Jiu-Jitsu continuously challenges me to grow, both as an athlete and as a person, while allowing me to inspire others along the same journey.
As a 1st-degree Black Belt with experience in national and international competitions, what lessons has competition taught you beyond the podium?
Competition has taught me resilience, emotional control, humility, and self-confidence. Beyond medals and podiums, competing at a national and international level has shown me the importance of preparation, consistency, and mental strength. These lessons shape the way I train, teach, and support my students every day.
You have a background in Business Administration. How does that experience influence the way you help lead the academy and support students?
My academic background in Business Administration helps me contribute to the academy with organization, leadership, and structure. It allows me to support students not only on the mats, but also through a well-organized, welcoming, and professional environment. I believe strong leadership behind the scenes creates a better experience for everyone training on the mats.
Many students describe you as a very attentive and inspiring instructor. What is most important to you when teaching a class?
What matters most to me is making sure every student feels seen, supported, and confident. I strive to be attentive to individual needs, encourage positive progress, and create a safe environment where students feel comfortable learning, making mistakes, and growing. Giving my students the very best, technically and personally, is always my priority.
Jiu-Jitsu is known for its values as much as its techniques. Which values of Jiu-Jitsu do you try most to pass on to your students?
The values I focus on most are discipline, respect, perseverance, loyalty, and confidence. Jiu-Jitsu teaches lessons that go far beyond the mats, and I want my students to carry these values into their daily lives, relationships, and challenges outside the academy.
What message would you like to share with women who may feel unsure or intimidated about starting Jiu-Jitsu?
My message is simple: you belong here! Jiu-Jitsu is for everyone, regardless of age, size, or experience. It is an empowering journey that builds confidence, strength, and self-belief. Taking the first step can be intimidating, but it can also be life-changing.
In your experience, how can Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu positively impact the lives of women?
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu empowers women both physically and mentally. It builds confidence, self-defense skills, resilience, and a strong sense of self. Beyond technique, Jiu-Jitsu helps women feel capable, strong, and prepared to face challenges on and off the mats.
Alongside Professor Pedro, you help lead Gracie Barra Trussville. What does it mean to you to build a school focused on family, safety, and inclusion?
Building Gracie Barra Trussville alongside my husband, Professor Pedro Dutra, is the realization of a dream. It means creating a space where families, women, children, and adults feel safe, welcomed, and supported. Our goal is to build a community based on respect, inclusion, friendship, and genuine care for one another.
Outside the mats, who is Jacqueline Dutra? What do you enjoy doing in your free time, and how do you recharge away from training?
Outside the mats, I am someone who values meaningful connections, friendships, and personal balance. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, staying active, and recharging so I can bring my best energy back to the academy. Balance is essential to continue growing, competing, and teaching with passion.
Gracie Barra Trussville is happy to welcome everyone, especially women. This is a safe and supportive environment where everyone can learn and grow with confidence.
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Gracie Barra: A Local Family Around the World
At Gracie Barra, you’re not just signing up for a Jiu-Jitsu gym, you’re joining a worldwide community with more than 1,000 schools around the globe.
Our classes combine the original Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training with a strong focus on fitness, mental strength, and personal growth. You’ll work hard, learn real self-defense, and train alongside teammates who support and motivate you.
Whether your goal is to get in shape, reduce stress, or challenge yourself athletically, you’ll also be part of a community proud to wear the red shield. And no matter where life takes you, there’s always a Gracie Barra school ready to welcome you.