Ryan Arkelidis

I started my Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2020 after a close friend asked me to join her for her first class. What began as a step toward a healthier lifestyle quickly turned into something much deeper.

Since then, the mats have become a place of growth—physically, mentally, and personally. Earning my purple belt in 2026 marked a major milestone, but the real reward has been the friendships built along the way and the constant challenge to improve.

My style reflects that balance—flowing between having fun and switching on for serious rolls when it counts. These days, I’m also stepping into coaching and enjoying helping others find their own path in Jiu-Jitsu.

One of the most rewarding parts of the journey now is sharing it with my kids. Watching my oldest step up into adult classes and seeing my younger daughter grow in confidence and skill has added a whole new layer of purpose—reminding me why I started and why I keep showing up.