What It Takes to Grow a Strong Jiu-Jitsu Community | The Academia BJJ Story
Starring
Steve Camara is a lifelong martial artist who began his journey in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in 2005, inspired by the UFC and initially interested in fighting before discovering a passion for the art of Jiu Jitsu.
Jeff Wellwood is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner with over 15 years of experience, including training in kickboxing, Thai boxing, and self-defense. He began his martial arts journey after being inspired by the UFC,
About Fit & Fight Gym
Academia BJJ in Beamsville, Canada, is more than just a place to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu—it's a vibrant, welcoming community built on the values of fun, connection, and personal growth. Led by passionate coaches who emphasize intention, creativity, and productivity, Academia BJJ offers classes for adults and kids alike, blending high-level technical instruction with a strong focus on camaraderie and support.
Whether you’re looking to get in shape, acquire self-defense skills, challenge yourself, or simply find an authentic group of new friends, Academia BJJ creates an environment where everyone—from complete beginners to experienced practitioners—feels safe and inspired to grow. The gym’s culture of trust and respect, paired with its inclusive energy and memorable social events, makes it an ideal place for anyone seeking both world-class Jiu-Jitsu and genuine human connection.
📍4696 Christie Dr Unit #1, Beamsville, ON L0R 1B5, Canada
📞 +1 905 730 5945
Summary
In this episode, Gymdesk CEO Alex Cuevas visits Academia BJJ in Beamsville, Canada, to discover what makes this gym’s community so vibrant and welcoming. He sits down with owners Steve Camara and Jeff Wellwood, who share their origin stories, how martial arts shaped their lives, and the intentional choices behind the gym’s warm, inclusive atmosphere. From the moment Alex enters, he’s greeted by a palpable energy, friendly faces, and an environment designed to make members feel at home.
In this episode, you’ll learn how Steve Camara and Jeff Wellwood believe that the “secret sauce” to building a strong jiu-jitsu community is fostering trust, vulnerability, and genuine friendships. They discuss the importance of creating fun and memorable experiences both on and off the mats, and how the sport’s challenges—like being humbled by a younger, smaller opponent—help break down egos and connect people from all walks of life. The hosts emphasize that their focus isn’t just on producing world-class competitors but on sustainable jiu-jitsu for everyone, where emotional connection and personal growth take center stage.
This episode also highlights how Academia BJJ uses Gymdesk to streamline admin work—giving the owners and staff more time to focus on their core mission of community-building. Steve Camara and Jeff Wellwood explain how Gymdesk’s features support visitor tracking, communication, and event follow-ups, helping them nurture relationships and keep the gym’s vibe personal, even as their membership grows. The conversation wraps up with insights into fostering meaningful culture, maintaining high energy, and making jiu-jitsu accessible for newcomers, all supported by the efficiencies and growth that Gymdesk provides.
