Ulysses Batista

I've had my daughter in different gyms from Johnson City to Bristol TN. I will tell you if the drive is what's holding you back then continue to stay where you are, by far this is the best place to learn jiujitsu. He is a quality professor and the kids are all very respectful and never have to say or do things out of character which is pretty amazing. Also I live in Johnson City TN and yes it is a drive but for the skill and level of experience Professor Dee has its well worth it. Thank you we truly appreciate you.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Matt Wallace

Fantastic facility with top notch instructors who care about your journey and are capable of extracting the best from you. Definitely the best around 🥷👊🏻

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Hannah Cox

Only legit jiujitsu place around! Lots of my family and friends have been going there for years. Well run, professional and super clean!

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Andrew Booher

My 6 year old loves this place. Dee is a great coach and is great with kids. The academy is very clean and organized I would recommend anyone to check this place out.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

SAM M

I have been training here for a few years now and must say this place is best facility I have ever trained in. Not only is the facility great but so is the instructor. His knowledge followed by his concerns for safety and proper techniques are why this facility is a great place to learn at and the best in East Tennessee. The people there are also great and engaging. I highly recommend joining if interested!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Benjamin Clayton

We have had our son in this program with couch Dee for almost a year! It has been a great experience for him and he loves it. We are thankful for all the hard work couch Dee puts into his classes!!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Richard Salamone

I have been training at the Absolute Jiu-Jitsu Academy, Bristol’s original Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school, for 25 years. Dee Smith, a 3-stripe black belt, the highest-ranking BJJ practitioner in the area, had the insight and foresight to bring BJJ to Bristol before few knew anything about this amazing martial art for self-defense, physical health, and personal growth. Dee has been trained by many of the top BJJ practitioners in the world, a number of them brought to our school for seminars along with a number of UFC notables over the years. Just look at the pictures on our history walls, dozens of the best! We are an affiliate of the Revolution BJJ team under coral belt Professor Julio “Foca” Fernandez. In addition to BJJ, the school is an affiliate of Duane “Bang” Ludwig for those also interested in Muay Thai and has an excellent children’s wrestling program. Absolute has a beautiful facility that is kept meticulously clean with programs from children to older adults. The daily instruction at AJJ is top-notch and the school has nationally known outside instructors coming in for seminars every couple of months. The environment is safe, and the culture is supportive; we work together for everybody’s betterment. Dee understands that practitioners have different needs and goals and encourages and accommodates different paths for those who want to compete with the best to those who simply want to learn some interesting skills, get some exercise, and/or be part of a tribe that is like family. We all work together, white belts to black belts with no worry about injury or embarrassment as the ethic in the gym is to take care of and encourage each other. I highly recommend AJJ as the place in this area to train from childhood to older adult. Check the Academy out, you will not be disappointed.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Valentina Escobar-Gonzalez

I am not from this area (from Florida) and it feels like family when I walk in. My husband has been going for over 9 years to train and my daughters now go to train. I love how Coach Dee makes it a fun learning environment for my kids and brings other advanced coaches from outside the state for seminars.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Roman Higgins

Large classes, plenty of training partners! Kids class is amazing! The head coach takes pride in getting to know every student and their future goals!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Gregory Anderson

Dee is the best instructor around. Wouldn’t even consider any place else for bjj

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Tim Moore

Great place to start your training

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Carson Smith

If you want a place for yourself or your family to train then this place is for you. Dee is great with children and his coaches and himself are very knowledgeable of the sport. He also brings in the best instructors to guest coach and teach sessions at the academy. So if you and your family want a family member environment to train then Absolute Jiu-Jitsu Academy is the place for you!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

nicevans21

I’ve been going here for about a year and this place is great. Great environment and super friendly. 10/10 recommend to anyone on the fence about joining.

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Jeremy Roberts

Great place to train. You'll be hard pressed to find someone more dedicated to training and teaching BJJ than Dee Smith.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Alex Branch

Absolute is the best school in the area. Dee Smith is super knowledgeable. Whether you are just starting or are experienced in jiu jitsu or kickboxing this is the place to go. Have had nothing but a good experience here.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Hank Gray

my little brother goes here and they are amazing. I can’t recommend Ron and Dee enough!

Instructors

Posted 2 years ago

Jamison Lathrop

I've been taking my daughter here for 3 years and Ron Vance and Dee always make her feel welcome and teach her techniques that she'll always be able to use. I HIGHLY recommend Absolute academy!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

David Boehm

I trained at Absolute for over 14 years. Once you start there you will become part of a family. Training provided at all levels from beginner to advanced practitioner. Guest trainers along with the Black Belt experience of owner Dee Smith provides a total rounded, safe and respectful experience to all levels of students and age groups. Highly recommend to any age or level of jujitsu practitioner to join and be a part of a great learning experience!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Mike Sutherland

This is my favorite place to learn Jiu Jitsu. There are folks from all walks of life who train at Absolute. Each of them are on a different journey, whether they just want to learn something new, want to get into better shape, learn some self defense, or want to compete in the sport. Whichever path you’re traveling Absolute is a place where you can grow on your journey.

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Michaella Sheffield

Best Jujitsu in the Tri-Cities! My little one has been going for a year and has learned so much! The coaching is outstanding and top notch. Coach Dee teaches discipline and hard work! I could not recommend a better place!

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Racker

We are lucky to have an academy of this caliber in our area. This is not a job for the owner it’s a lifestyle. He studied under the greatest (Gracie ) and continues to surround himself with the best instructors available. This is all done to give students the best possible experience available. His affiliates are the best in the industry. He offers multiple disciplines and has hands down the best kids classes available. Martial arts are taking off and are now mainstream but don’t trust your experience to a new pop up gym. Go to Absolute who was Jiu-Jitsu before Jiu-Jitsu was “cool”.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Andrew Sayers

The training environment (coaching and comraderie) encourages skill development and personal growth in a friendly but focused way for people of all ages, skill levels, and backgrounds. Having trained here for almost a year, I have made good friends and progress towards my goals. Many of the regulars have trained for years and have brought their kids into the program, several of whom now train in the adult class. I can tell the program has had a wholesome influence on them, mirroring my own experience over the last year. I highly recommend both the Jiu-Jitsu and kickboxing classes.

Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Richard Hyland

Absolute Jiu Jitsu is the best school in the entire tri-cities area. The cleanliness of the school is superior. All students understand you have to take care of your training partner which makes for a great environment. The technical level of all students at AJJ is phenomenal. Dee Smith's brings the best knowledge of the art to our school whether it be his instruction or an instructor from the outside with high lever skills. Dee also cares about each of his student's. I can attest to this because I have been training at AJJ for over 15 years.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Ashley Blevins

Top notch training in a safe, clean, family friendly environment. Has been a part of our family for 18 years. If you are looking for a place to become a true martial artist this is the place.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Andy Eades

My son's experience at Absolute has been wonderful. It is a clean and safe environment for him to train. He has learned so much under Dee. He is an outstanding instructor.

Instructors Facility

Posted 2 years ago

Jennifer Burleson

Great place for kids and adults to train!!

Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Sam Messimer

Great place to train! Instructor is very knowledgeable!!!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

bonnie ulrich

Absolute is hands down the best training facility in town. Dee is an amazing instructor. This place is number one and I have several friends who's kids have trained here and are exceptional. I highly recommend this place to everyone .very friendly and family oriented.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Phillip Booher

The best jiu-jitsu school in the tricity's. The kickboxing is top notch. Thank you professor Smith 🙏

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

cody blakley

I've trained at Absolute Jiu-Jitsu for over 7 years. It is the most professional martial arts academy in the area. I'm incredibly grateful for Dee Smith and the team at AJJ. Highly recommend to anyone looking for first class jiu-jitsu instruction in a clean, welcoming, and safe environment.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Shelby Edwards

I’ve been training for three and a half years it’s been absolutely amazing! Dee runs a very clean and technical gym. Everyone is very welcoming and friendly and I look forward to going back every day I am so thankful for Dee and the time and energy that he puts into each and everyone that trains.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Adriel Gonzalez

Absolute Jiu Jitsu has been my place to train for several years. The attention to detail, focusing on what works for self defense , and a family atmosphere are some of the great reasons I train at Absolute Jiu Jitsu.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

William Cox

The first and longest standing Jiujitsu academy in the region. Dee runs a clean professional school that welcomes students of all ages sizes and skill levels.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Alejandro Rodriguez

Absolute Jiu-Jitsu Academy is an exceptional training facility for BJJ practitioners of all levels. Whether or not you're new or a seasoned trainer, the gym caters to your needs and provides an environment that fosters growth and camaraderie. Coach D is very attentive and ensures that you train with more suitable training partners, making your initial steps smooth and enjoyable. Coach D places a strong emphasize on the fundamentals of BJJ, offering students a strong foundation in the art. His passion for the sport transcends to his students. The classes at Absolute Jiu-Jitsu Academy are well-structured and punctual, allowing you to make the most of your training time. The gym also does a great job maintaining good hygiene and cleanliness, which is also upheld by the students This gym is truly special in its strong sense of community. All of the regularly attending members uphold a culture of mutual support. Respect and care for another are deeply ingrained in the gym's ethos, creating an environment where everyone looks out for their training partners' well-being and progress. The men and women are truly welcoming and considerate of one another. My three-month experience training at this gym was nothing short of enjoyable and enriching. Whether you're passing by or you're a resident thinking of a joining a gym, Absolute, Jiu-Jitsu offers a welcoming and nurturing space for your BJJ journey.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Heather Eades

The training that my son receives here is top notch. Dee is a fabulous instructor that really cares about his students. The guest instructors that he brings give his school an amazing opportunity to train with national instructors. Absolute is very family friend and this area is lucky to have Dee.

Instructors Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Trevor Leonard

Absolute Jiu Jitsu is the best martial arts school in the Tri-Cities hands down. The instructors here don't just teach techniques; they instill discipline, confidence, and a sense of community. The camaraderie among fellow students at Absolute Jiu Jitsu is fantastic, creating a positive and motivating atmosphere. I've learned invaluable skills, both in self-defense and life. This place is a gem for anyone seeking physical and mental enrichment. Highly recommended!!!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

chad love

Great training and great team environment. My son has trained there as well as my wife, my grandson, and my best friend’s daughter. Great classes for everyone from children to beginners all the way to students wanting to compete. Highly recommend for anyone interested in martial arts.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Eric Slagle

Easy 5 stars. Great instruction including regional and national guest instructors. An amazing facility. Wide range of student age, size, and skill. The youth program is designed take a child from 5 years old and methodically train them into adulthood.

Instructors Facility Classes

Posted 2 years ago

Brendan Anderson

Absolute Jiu-Jitsu is an awesome place to train. Dee is an amazing instructor and very patient with the kids class (and the adults too). The classes are well structured and taught to the students experience level. The academy is always clean and well maintained. I would highly recommend training Absolute Jiu-Jitsu Adults and kids classes for Jiu-Jitsu and Bang Muay Thai Kickboxing!

Instructors Facility Classes

Posted 2 years ago

Leon B

Absolute Jiu-Jitsu Academy is a great place to train in the Tri-Cities area. I've trained there myself for several years. They have great Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai programs for kids and adults. Dee Smith is the head instructor and he runs a academy that is clean, safe and welcoming for anyone that wants to train. Great training partners and high level instruciton. Highly recommended.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Wesley Williams

A proud member since 2002. Hosts 5-6 seminars a year from a variety of elite level instructors ensures the academy is provided with new and relevant technique. Boasts a diverse team with members ranging in size, age, and experience you will always be ensured safe and challenging partners to learn with.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Kateland Owens

Absolute Jiu-Jitsu is the oldest academy in the area with a highly experienced, professional, and knowledgeable owner/lead instructor, Dee Smith. My son has attended Absolute since he was 5 years old (approximately 3 years) and looks forward to attending classes weekly. He looks up to Dee for his mentorship, fun approach to learning the fundamentals of BJJ, as well as the extra training opportunities offered through no-gi wrestling classes and seminars conducted by leaders and experts in BJJ and MMA. Dee finds a way to seamlessly balance fun games with instructional time to foster healthy competition and discipline with his younger students. We highly recommend the safe, clean, and welcoming environment at Absolute with Coach Dee at the helm and look forward to many more years of training and fun!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Allen Burnette

Great environment for my grand kids and happy this place is here in bristol

Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Robert KEll

Always been wonderful to work out at and a great environment

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Alan Wallace

I started my son in Jiu Jitsu here a couple of years ago and was excited to see that day one he was already learning the techniques. They also play lots of games that kids just think are fun, but actually have core concepts built into them. I started training myself after watching my son's quick progression and now attending class is something that I always look forward to as well. Coach Dee is very attentive to his classes in order to make sure that everyone is training safely and learning techniques the right way.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Kayla Brewer

My kids have trained here for close to 3 years. The youngest of the two started when he was almost 6. Dee has been the best coach I could've asked for. He is patient with all the kids, doesn't matter how big or small the class is. My kids have learned so much and have went on to compete and place in tournaments. Dee and his team are teaching much more than Jiu-jitsu though. My kids have grown as people by attending classes here. It's such a warm and welcoming environment. It is always clean and well managed. I wouldn't take my kids anywhere else.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Tony “Drade79” Turner

Wonderful place to train, and great place for children to learn from the best group of guys!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

anthony Turner

Great place to learn from, they work with all ages and have some awesome instructors!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Micah C

Great place for children!!

Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Austin Young

Best Academy Ever !!!

Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Samuel Haren

Best academy around! Ron Vance and Dee really go outta their way to help everyone out.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Michael Ogden

Great academy with great teaching

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Hannah Smith

Best Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Bristol! Dee puts his heart and soul into it. You won’t find a better place!

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Bobby Cox

This school has been a great part of my family's life for 23 years. All of my kids have trained here with me. The technical level is sky high. It's clean , well run and provides such a professional, fun, and friendly atmosphere for learning. I highly recommend!!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

zjlr23

Excellent place to train. Top notch coaching and great training partners. Great kids program also.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Ashley Senecal

I have been training at Absolute for over 4 years and I can't imagine going anywhere else. Dee is a fantastic teacher and runs an incredibly clean, safe gym. I appreciate the welcoming, friendly environment and love the kids program for my littles. I look forward to training at AJJ for many years to come!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

baperrizo

Great facility and friendly atmosphere, they were a terrific find for an out of towner looking to roll.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Paul Hines

The place to be for all things Jiu-Jitsu. Dee does a fantastic job of catering to all the different types of students no matter your experience or athletic backround. Training and instruction is top notch. Don't take my word for it look at the school's tornament records. AJJ for life ✌

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

B O

I went for a few drop in classes while in town. The entire group was very welcoming, I didn't at all feel like an outsider. They were very experienced and the drilling was very detailed. I am looking forward to coming back.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Ray Eicholtz

Awesome school with a great teacher/coach.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

Doug Harr

Training at Absolute Jiu-Jitsu is one of the best things I have done for myself. It is a fun and interesting way to keep in shape, while developing a useful skill set. The facilities are clean, and the group of training partners could not be better. My teenage daughters train there as well, learning jiu-jitsu and working on their wrestling. It is a great place to train for all levels of skill, aptitude, and athleticism.

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

Brandon McBride

I started training here a few years ago to better my health both physically and mentally. It has worked wonders, my wife and daughter also started training here. After researching all of the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu schools around our area and talking to the owners I made the decision to sign up here. I am glad I did, the owner and coaches are top notch people with great character. The gym offers training other martial arts but its focus is BJJ and the training is world class. Its an extremely clean and very friendly place to train. I highly recommend anyone give it a shot and see for themselves.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

Josh Rawson

I have trained at Absolute Jiu-Jitsu Academy for almost 4 years. Dee Smith is the most experienced Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor in the Northeast TN/Southwest VA region, having over twenty five years in martial arts. The Academy is very clean and professionally operated. I would recommend anyone to come by and check it out yourself.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

DOC 4479

Great place for kids to learn real BJJ techniques with a lot of assistant coaches to give one on one teaching. I love the fact that Dee teaches my kids the same techniques he teaches the adults and doesn’t sugarcoat their training. My kids have been students for 5 years and it’s amazing to see how much they have learned. The adults and kids classes have a weekly curriculum that give plenty of opportunity to learn 4-5 techniques each week. The adults class is set up for newer students to learn from higher belts with 45 minutes of technical training and 45-60 minutes of rolling each class. He also has a fundamental class for the youngest students age 4-8 with physical games the kids enjoy while improving grip strength, endurance, flexibility, or strength. Overall Excellent teaching, great value, and clean gym.

Instructors Facility Classes Pricing Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

Blake Brewer

Best instructor around, whether your a small kid or adult. Would recommend to anyone

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

Jared Patrick

Great coaches great owner. My kids love this place.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 6 years ago

Quintin Magnus

Very clean and organized, with regular new technical curricula.

Instructors Facility Classes

Posted 6 years ago

Cory Simpson

I've been with Absolute Jiu-jitsu for nearly 9 years now and I can honestly say you will never find a more knowledgeable and respectful man like Dee Smith in the entire tri cities area. Dee personally goes out of his way to continue to learn and bring in great instructors from all around one being Julio "Foca" Fernandez who is a Coral Belt under the Great Carlson Gracie. The students not only have a well maintained and clean place to train but, they also have some amazing instructors with great knowledge of the sport. My question is why would you ever consider putting them in another school besides Absolute jiu-jitsu?

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 6 years ago

Shaun Dirksen

Great place to train and learn jiu jitsu or kickboxing. Kid friendly, kid programs are awesome, and facilities are excellent.

Facility

Posted 7 years ago

Carol Smith

My husband has gone here for almost two years and loves this place. Our two children also started here about 4 months ago and both have grown in knowledge and discipline. Not only is this a very professional and clean gym, Dee is always great with the kids. Each child is paired together and coached by an adult class teacher. Very blessed to have this kind of teaching in our area. Definitely a place for everyone!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Chelsea Messer

My son has been training with Dee and his staff for about 6 months and loves it. The classes are very structured and it really keeps the participants active and disciplined.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Andre Richmond

My son has trained here since he was 5y/o (nearly 8yrs) and we’ve had nothing but positive experiences. Coach Dee and his folks are excellent and my son has learned a lot through world class instruction (that we’re fortunate to have in this area) and appropriate and progressively challenging training. Each level promotion is well-earned and only after demonstration of the required skill level. Dee is wonderful with the kids and runs a very structured and safe children’s program, even with a wide age range.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Bill Hess

I'm 100% invested in the professional, skillful, respectable manner in which the staff at Absolute Jiu Jitsu teaches the children as well as the adults. I have first handedly seen the way the classes are conducted for 5 plus years and would recommend this school to all who desire to learn the art of self defense by the most knowledgeable instructors in the Tri Cities area.

Instructors Classes

Posted 8 years ago

Joseph Leonard

I am a student here and I love it! Dee is the best instructor I've ever had. I don't pay for my belts here, I earn them and that is important to me. I love the surprise and joy I feel when I earn my stripes and belts. I have made so many friends here...they feel like family.

Instructors Facility Classes Pricing Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Jonnie Leonard

My daughter has been coming to classes here for a few months now (she had been taking Martial Arts for over 4 yrs at another school). She has learned so much since attending Absolute. Dee is very patient, calm and never raises his voice which is a wonderful change from where we came from. Absolute is extremely clean and the classes are very organized. Dee is an exceptional teacher. He gets on the students level to teach them each move. He doesn’t expect them to pick it up within 20 min before teaching a completely different move. He works with them for the entire week and builds on each move. This helps rule out any confusion. He keeps a close eye on all students, safety is very important. Younger students are paired up together and each pair has their own adult helping them. My daughter has gone from being forced unhappyily from the house to her old school to now rushing me from the house to get here super early. Her joy for the sport has returned and this is the most important thing for me as a parent. I highly recommend Absolute Jiu Jitsu for all ages and skill level. It is an amazing establishment.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Patty Smith

Absolute Jiu-Jitsu is a great place to train, it’s clean and the atmosphere is awesome. The owner Dee Smith puts his heart into each class he teaches. All his students respect him, and his “little sharks” look up to him. My grandson goes there and loves it!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Lindsey Smith

Best place to train in this area, hands down! Not only is Dee Smith the most educated and well rounded coach in this area for this sport, the students are exceptional as well. I wouldn’t recommend anywhere else!!

Instructors Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Karen Simpson

My whole family trains here, this place is definitely a 2nd home. We have trained at other schools but settled here because it feels like family. At Absolute Jiujitsu, it's not about money or belts, it's learning skills and techniques taught by a highly respected professional who takes pride in his school and students and that would be Dee Smith.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Pete Simpson

It a great place to train. It is the most family oriented school in the area. Dee Smith is a great instructor he devotees his life to Jiu-Jitsu and the students he trains.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

McRae

My son and I moved to TN from Georgia and checked out some Jiu Jitsu schools - once I looked at the photos on the wall of Absolute JJ I knew we were in the right place. My son was 10 and I was ...well, older lol. The history speaks for itself but it gets better. My son and I made Absolute our home for a few years until I had to go back to Ga. But we both have good solid friendships we made at Absolute and we both love Dee and the people on the mats. It really is one of the best schools anywhere. Dee brings in BJJ masters from everywhere. It's an unusual school in that regard. I can't say enough about what Dee and absolute did for my son. My family and I love this place!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Mike

Love this place

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Brooke Roberts

Dee Smith is a very professional and knowledgeable black belt who runs his school with upmost safety for his students and hands-on technique practice. Jiu-jitsu is a contact sport and it is very important to Dee Smith that his students drill technical skills and he supervises the drills and then matches students up on skill based levels. Kids classes practice techniques that are supervised by adults (Dee and knowledgeable adults from the later classes) and they play games for team building and stamina that are quite enjoyable. Absolute is like a family and very welcoming. Dee Smith is the best coach in the area. Come by and sit in on a class for kids and/or adults to see for yourself.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Jacob Minshall

Great place, nice mats, very clean. I had a great time visiting here from out of town.

Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 9 years ago

Andrew Smith

Absolute Jiu Jitsu owner Dee Smith pours his heart and soul into making the gym a terrific place to train. I've been honored to be a part of this gym for nearly 12 years now, and can say for certain that Absolute is one of the cleanest, nicest gyms I've ever visited (and I've visited literally hundreds of BJJ and MMA gyms). The atmosphere is excellent - welcoming and warm, but not watered down. This is the place to train if you're in the area.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 9 years ago

Walker Bama

Awesome

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 11 years ago

mcrae hutchinson

Outstanding instruction by Black Belt Dee Smith. Very friendly training partners and family atmosphere. Striking with Bang Muay Thai and wrestling as well. Good stuff .

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 11 years ago

Kyle Olson

Coming from Southern California my kids and I have been very fortunate to have trained at some of the best gyms in the world. None of them have ever charged us to just try a class. $35 is insane and unheard of. I can’t speak on the adult classes but on the kids class I witnessed them play about 30 minutes of games and do about 15 minutes of actual jiu jitsu. 👎🏼

Classes Pricing Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Amanda Buell

I brought my 6 year old son to let him try out Jiu-Jitsu 2 weeks ago. I purchased the $89 Gi since you have to have it to try out the class. Dee, the owner/instructor, said he’d give me half for it if my son didn’t want to continue the class. He warned me that he’d be yelling at any kids that were out of line during class, and that I may be covering my face in embarrassment when it happens. Should have been my first red flag right there...So, all the students team up with a partner around their size after the warm up. Dee shows them the move and each pair proceeds to practice the move with their partner along with other instructors around guiding them. They would practice pulling each other to the ground by their Gi’s, and getting on top of each other, while the other tries to escape. Then, unaware that this was something that would happen during a first class, my son was put in a choke hold. His face turned red and he looked panicked. The instructor was telling him to “tap out” like my son knew what that meant. This happened two other times after that by two other kids. So of course, after class, my son was completely defeated and practically begged me never to go back to this place. I wish my son and I both would have known what to expect the first class. This should be something that is slowly introduced, not thrown on someone the first day, especially on a 6 year old by other kids who are more experienced. I spoke with Dee about this, who unfortunately was unapologetic. He defended himself saying this is something all Jiu-Jutsu places do, saying that most parents are more knowledgeable about Jiu-Jitsu and saying how everyone who tries it likes it and so forth. He pulled out a list of kids who started over the past 8 weeks, assuming the 3 he was in a choke hold by were on this list, to basically give himself a pat on the back for how much they have learned in that amount of time. He also made a comparison to the choke hold situation to kids playing football (because it can cause injuries) and compared the situation to my son and daughter wrestling with each other. My son had joined Stryker a couple years back for karate and we never had a situation like that, even though Dee said that couldn’t have been the case since he’d never heard of any karate classes that didn’t have some form of contact with another person. Stryker performed age appropriate moves and were very kid friendly. So, to sum it up, I felt like I was being bullied, being blamed and basically that he was calling me ignorant for not being familiar with Jiu-Jitsu. He did end up giving me $45 back for the Gi. That was after he offered $30 and I had to remind him that he told me he would give me half of what I paid for it. I wouldn’t have had to write this if he had handled this in a professional and forgiving manner, but unfortunately that wasn’t the case I’m so thankful that I now know NEVER to go back this place.

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Posted 8 years ago

Absolute Jiu-Jitsu Academy

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Blake Brewer

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