Inside Ramacrisna: Judo classes transformed Anna Lara’s life

At just 14 years old, Anna Lara found a new way of life in Ramacrisna’s judo classes, with better health, self-esteem, and dreams for the future.

What for many was just another children’s game in the playground became, for Anna Lara de Assis Nascimento, the beginning of a great transformation. At 14, she is one of the most dedicated participants in the judo classes offered free of charge by the Ramacrisna Institute in Betim (MG). But her history with the sport began unpretentiously — and turned into a true example of overcoming adversity, health, and dreams.

Now, the teenager plans to become a professional athlete.

Before judo classes

When she was little, Anna Lara used to go to the Ramacrisna Institute playground just to play. But she didn’t know what the Institute was, nor that it offered activities that would change the course of her life.

“One day, I told my mother that I wanted to practice some kind of martial art. That’s when she got me a spot at CAER (Ramacrisna Educational Support Center) and I was able to start judo classes,” Anna recalls.

It was from that moment on that she immersed herself in a new universe, full of challenges, learning, and personal growth. Thus, since joining the Ramacrisna Institute, Anna Lara has seen her routine transform. With the support of teachers and classmates, she had access to different sports, but it was judo that really touched her heart.

“Thanks to the sport, my routine is very different. I was able to learn sports I had never practiced before. With judo, I participated in competitions in places I never imagined I would visit. The Ramacrisna Institute changed my way of life and, for that reason, it is very important to me,” she points out.

In addition to the emotional impact, the sport has also brought significant improvements to the young woman’s health. Before she started practicing judo, she was sedentary and overweight. However, now she has found in the classes a pleasurable way to move, take care of her body and mind.

“The training involves many varied exercises, with technique, cardio, and physical training. I have greatly improved my physical condition. I am no longer sedentary and have gained more energy. Judo also teaches respect, ethics, and how to be a better person on and off the mat,” she explains.

More than a sport, a lifestyle

For Anna Lara, judo classes go far beyond sports practice. In other words, it is a philosophy of life. With each fall comes a lesson. With each new beginning, there is a new chance to grow.

“For me, judo is more than just a martial art. When I’m training, I feel calm, even though it’s an intense activity. I don’t feel weak when I fall, because I know I’ll get up right away. Judo isn’t just a hobby, it’s a part of me. It represents happiness,” she says.

In addition, the young woman also values the fact that the classes help her get along with her classmates and build team spirit. “I like the variety of moves and being able to help my teammates. We learn to compete, but also to cooperate,” she says.

Today, Ana Lara has already participated in several national competitions and does not want to stop there. With a sparkle in her eyes and full of dreams, Anna Lara wants to grow in the sport, reach the international level, and at the same time invest in education. “I want to continue in judo, compete more and more. I also think about studying nutrition or physical education — maybe even both! You have to dream big!” she reveals.

Where can you find judo classes?

Judo classes are part of the Ramacrisna Institute, which serves children and adolescents aged 6 to 17, all residents of Betim (MG). The activities are carried out with CAER students and coordinated by sensei Caliton Silva Santos, who develops a methodology adapted to each age group.

The project has been in existence since 2018 and seeks to promote the physical, emotional, and social development of young people through sport. Classes are divided according to age and technical level, and training combines technique, discipline, games, and values such as empathy, overcoming challenges, and self-control.

The judo classes are made possible through the Federal Sports Incentive Law, with the support of major partners such as Vale, WEG, and Rede Itaú. These investments make it possible to maintain and expand the project.

Like Anna Lara, other young people are changing their lives through judo classes at the Ramacrisna Institute. With discipline, respect, and encouragement to pursue their dreams, the project offers real opportunities for life change. Whether in training, competitions, or plans for the future, judo has proven to be much more than a sport: it is a path to self-knowledge, self-esteem, and personal fulfillment.

Want to know more about the activities of the Ramacrisna Institute? Get in touch and help transform lives every day.