The transition from high-fashion runways to the gritty mats of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu might seem improbable, yet Solange van Doorn embodies this remarkable transformation. Once gracing catwalks for Victoria’s Secret, Calvin Klein, and SKIMS, Van Doorn now equally shines on the grappling circuit, breaking stereotypes and redefining strength and beauty.
Beyond the Runway: Solange van Doorn’s Passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
The Solange van Doorn BJJ story began with the model looking into martial arts primarily as a fitness pursuit, but it soon became something deeper. According to Van Doorn, training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu provided her with not just physical benefits but profound mental resilience and empowerment.
Her discipline quickly became evident as she earned her blue belt, regularly competing and winning at notable BJJ tournaments, an impressive achievement in a highly demanding and competitive sport.
Not too long ago, the freshly promoted purple belt competed at the IBJJF NJ open, winning double gold in the weight class and the absolute, a stunning accomplishment for any grappler, including pros.
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“🥇 Heavy weight & 🥇 Absolute today at the @ibjjf NJ open 🙂 in my new favorite color 💜”
– Solange van Doorn via Instagram
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One of the most striking aspects of Van Doorn’s journey is her openness about challenging societal norms, particularly in an industry known for rigid beauty standards. Transitioning from the runway to the mat wasn’t just a change in physical settings—it was a powerful statement about the multiplicity of identity.
She publicly advocates for authenticity, embracing her natural hair and appearance, and inspiring others to challenge traditional notions of beauty. She is certainly taking a route not many models have chosen, and seems to be turning into a true grappling ambassador among her peers.
Balancing a Dual Lifestyle
Recently, Van Doorn reflected on her dual careers, sharing insights into her unique experience balancing two vastly different worlds. She explained that the skills learned from each discipline complement each other: the grace and discipline of modeling seamlessly integrated with the technical precision and mental toughness required in Jiu-Jitsu.
Her story has resonated with many within and beyond the martial arts community, inspiring people to pursue their passions fearlessly. Van Doorn’s success underscores that high-level competition in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can coexist alongside careers that may traditionally seem incompatible.
Moreover, her visibility in both spheres has drawn attention to the benefits of grappling sports, especially among women. Through her journey, she has highlighted Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as not only an empowering physical practice but a tool for personal growth and mental health, encouraging countless individuals, especially women and young girls, to step onto the mats.
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Remember the Name
Van Doorn’s background as a successful international fashion model, represented by elite agencies such as IMG Models, saw her featured prominently in campaigns and editorials across top fashion magazines. Yet, her decision to step onto the mats, and embrace BJJ, marked a dramatic shift—one rarely seen within the modeling industry.
As Solange van Doorn continues to train and develop as a BJJ competitor, her dual career thrives, earning her respect in the world of fashion as well as the grappling community. Her influence is becoming increasingly significant, bridging gaps between seemingly disparate worlds and creating new narratives about what it means to be strong, beautiful, and empowered.
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