BRIGHTSIDE: Using martial arts as a new beginning

A gym that emphasizes on bully rehabilitation turns the lives around of those seeking to become better people, in this case, 16-year-old Michael Gill changed his way of life thanks to the gym.

The Bully Rehabilitation Awareness Gym (BRAG) has different types of classes including jujitsu and boxing.

These two classes are what helped Micheal Gill be put on the right track.

Michael is a 16-year-old boy who first lived with his mother when he began making bad decisions. It was then that his parents decided it was time for him to move with his dad to try to straighten him out.

Michael’s father began bringing Michael to BRAG and within five weeks in, improvements were made all around.

His father said he’s more respectful to his teachers, getting better grades in school, and helping around the house. All Michael needed to be something to give him purpose.

BRAG allows Michael to let loose and even help out with the younger children’s jujitsu class.

Michael said it’s a great stress reliever, and he finally has a sense of belonging.

Coach Nicolas, the co-founder of BRAG, grew up on both sides of being bullied and becoming the bully.

He said it wasn’t until he hit rock bottom and met the owner of the gym where through jujitsu he began to turn his life around as well.

He then began to volunteer his time into helping other kids who were making the same life choices he used to.

The gym has different work out classes throughout the week for anyone six and older.

For more information on what BRAG has to offer you can call (928) 502-9589.