Master Pedro Sauer was born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He began training jiu-jitsu at the age of 15 along with his friend Rickson Gracie in the garage of Rickson’s family and together young Pedro Sauer and the Gracie boys learned jiu-jitsu from Rickson’s father, Grandmaster Helio Gracie. Master Sauer received his black belt from Rickson Gracie and Helio Gracie in 1985. He is one of only 16 black belts awarded by Grandmaster Helio Gracie.
In 1990, Master Sauer moved to California with the Gracie brothers as part of the first cohort of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructors in the United States. Shortly after coming to California, he moved to Utah where he continued to make his mark in the jiu-jitsu world by teaching and formed the Pedro Sauer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Association. He remained in Utah for many years and grew his association to one of the oldest, largest, and most respected Associations in the world.
In 2006, Master Sauer moved again, this time to Herndon, Virginia, where he opened One Spirit Martial Arts Academy and set up the headquarters for his Association. He is currently an 8th degree coral belt and travels the world teaching workshops and seminars. Master Sauer is well-known as one of the best jiu-jitsu instructors in the world.
We, at Motion Works Martial Arts Academy, are proud to be a member and affiliate of the Pedro Sauer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Association.
About Us
True, proven, real world self defense
We have spent years training and we are eager to pass our knowledge onto you! We are proud to represent the Pedro Sauer Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Association. We have a long history of proven self defense techniques. For those familiar with the Gracie name, know that our brand of Jiu Jitsu stems directly from it. Gracie Jiu Jitsu came into the spotlight through the UFC. While we do not train fighters for MMA competition, we do prescribe to the fundamental aspects of Jiu Jitsu which Royce Gracie showed during the beginnings of UFC. Our focus is on the use of leverage and body mechanics that enable EVERYONE to be able to perform techniques. Some other Jiu Jitsu schools focus on more of the sport aspect, which we also enjoy, but they rely much more on speed and strength to finish. While we recognize those are great assets to have as well, we want to be able to provide a level of self defense that is attainable by anyone, regardless of age, strength, or other physical abilities.
What's in a Name?
Motion Works:
-The wheelwork/ mechanics controlling the hands on a clock.
Mechanics:
-the area of mathematics and physics related to the relationships between force, matter, and motion between objects.
-the working parts of something.
-the way in which something is done.
What we believe...
To make something work effectively on the mat or in life, you need:
-technique (knowledge of how to make it work and make choices that put your life in the direction you wish to go)
-respect (care for yourself and others around you and trust in your ability to perform the task)
-structure/framework (guide or support for how you will make decisions and a solid foundation on which to build)
-leverage (boost your potential)
-persistence (be resilient in the face of a challenge, get back up, and keep trying)
