6408 Tryon Rd, Cary, NC 27518, USA
Laid back environment with good training partners. Clean.
TFTC in Cary is hands down the best place to train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in the area, and much of that is due to the guidance and character of black belt Adam Velasquez. Adam is a people-first kind of person who genuinely prioritizes safety, growth, and a welcoming environment. He’s always attentive, moving around the room to ensure the technique of the day is understood and adapted to each person’s style and body type. His feedback is both constructive and encouraging, with a deep understanding that learning in martial arts isn’t a one-way street. Adam has a true growth mindset, open to new ideas and perspectives, which creates a positive space for all of us to improve and share. Adam’s humility is refreshing—he’s the first to admit that he’s still learning, and his passion for the sport is contagious. His style is wrestling-focused, with an emphasis on getting top position, control, and submission, which is a dream for anyone who resonates with that game. But he also hosts a line-up of other black belts and experienced practitioners, encouraging us to draw from their styles to find our own approach. Adam also has a background in striking and encourages us to explore other martial arts, understanding how much it enhances our overall game. The schedule at TFTC-Cary is robust, with morning, noon, and evening classes that fit almost any lifestyle. For families, the simultaneous kids’ and adult fundamentals classes are especially valuable, offering a chance for parents and kids to train at the same time. TFTC also offers kickboxing classes and even provides discounted rates for police officers, which is a fantastic nod to community support. The atmosphere Adam has cultivated here is one of respect, ambition, and support. Not enough can be said about the positive energy he brings to this gym. If you’re serious about growing in Jiu-Jitsu and martial arts in general, TFTC-Cary is the place to be. Drop in and experience it for yourself—you won’t regret it!
TFTC in Cary is a clean, welcoming, and great place to train BJJ in the Raleigh area. First, the culture. To me, this is a critical part of any BJJ gym, as you're effectively moving into a new fitness tribe when choosing a gym. The group here was very welcoming from the start, excited to learn what I brought with me while very patient showing me their strengths (which incidentally were big gaps in my existing game). This no-ego, knowledge sharing approach to BJJ is what I love to find in this sport and this gym exemplifies it at all levels. That culture flows from the top. Instructors are happy to share knowledge, observe your game, and open to suggesting ways to fit what they know into your existing strong points rather than you only doing it their way. This collaboration makes everything feel more positive, more personal, and more effective. I can always ask questions and get detailed answers. For newer practitioners or first timers, you may especially like this gym. The FIRST thing I noticed in rolling here was how smooth even the lower belts rolled. I quickly realized why. Every class starts with a flow roll so within a short amount of time, even white belts understand how to take their foot off the gas and explore their existing game in a safe and smooth manner. Even better are those parents with kids who also want to train. The space here is large enough that adult fundamentals and kids can train on the divided space of the mats, with the caveat the adults never get to actually "roll" but rather spend the fundamentals drilling and doing positional work. This is rather clever and I think the only reason more gyms don't do it is the space requirement to do so. Those who want to still roll can stay for the adult class afterward which is almost entirely rolling after a few advanced positions are explored (more like the traditional class we're all used to). The gym atmosphere is great. Music plays during the rolls which I absolutely love in any gym. People care more about your attitude and what you know than what gi color you wear or how you prefer to tie your belt. Nothing is off the table in terms of what to train or explore whether it's an old school fundamental or a new school twist fresh off the latest instructional or major event. The head instructor, Adam, clearly has a love for BJJ not just as a practitioner, but as an educator. Within the first DAYS of my arrival he had identified my game, helped me find improvements in a supportive and positive way, and even encouraged me going off-script for the given move of the day - identifying ways I can fit it into the things I like doing. After being at a gym that regularly criticize mistakes with no actionable feedback on how to improve or discouraging exploration of a move to find ways to use it differently, this was a breath of fresh air I didn't know I lacked until I got it. Adam has reignited my passion for learning and deep diving things and made me excited again to come to the gym and share things I've learned. And that's a mindset you'll find in all the people here. Again - the culture flows from the top. You'll encounter that attitude all over the gym and it quickly becomes apparent why that is. If you're looking for a new gym or just interested in exploring to see what else is around, you definitely owe it to yourself to drop in and give TFTC a shot.
An excellent place to meet good people, train, and have fun. My 7-year-old and I (I’m in my 50s!) have been attending classes here for about 2 years. I attribute my son’s improved focus and maturity to his training with Professor Jordan. And I’ve lost over 20 lbs since I started. I’ve trained in a few clubs in different countries, and Professor Adam is one of the most skilled players and instructors I’ve met. I can’t say anything but good things about this gym. Highly recommended!
Coming from a wrestling background, I had a hard time finding a new place to continue my joy for grappling and wanted to try something new. TFTC Academy was the answer I was looking for. Everyone here is friendly and knowledge when it comes to BJJ. Brad, Adam, Jordan, and Randy are fantastic instructors. I cannot say enough good things about this place! Would highly recommend it if you're looking to start BJJ or looking for a new BJJ gym in the area!
Very good place to train, excellent instructors
Been training at TFTC for three years and has been a fantastic experience. I started training at age 50 and wasn’t sure what to expect but so glad I did. What a great group of people and teachers!
TFTC is one of the best investments I’ve ever made. I’ve been with this gym since 2017 and it has completely changed my life. Not only has it taught me great self discipline, but also has kept me in great shape and help build connections with the students along side. Brad and Adam run great classes all throughout the day/evenings and I can’t say enough great things about it. Definitely recommend anyone who is interested to give the 1 week trail a shot.
My son has been training with TFTC Cary since he was 5 yr old. (He is now 12) Through the instruction and support of his excellent coaches, he has grown tremendously in confidence, physical strength, and leadership/ helping others. My daughter has also trained here since she was 6 yr old. (She is now 9). Going consistently to this BJJ gym has helped her grow mightily in courage, self control, and discipline. It has been such a worthwhile investment not only for fitness, but also for their character building. My kids love being a part of this community! And I love that they have learned and are mastering the important skill of self defense.
I love training BJJ at TFTC Cary! The instruction by Adam is outstanding, and he is very knowledgeable and detailed in his explanations of techniques. The assistant coaches are very good and thorough too. The people who train there are friendly and kind! I like how everyone is mindful to keep each other safe especially during hard training and competitive rolls. There is a very large mat space, locker rooms, showers, and an area to workout that consists of a squat rack, bench, barbells, kettlebells, dumbbells, bands, slam balls, and an aerodyne bike. Another awesome feature they have is a box sauna that can fit up to two or three people at a time. The facility is very clean. There are classes in the morning, noon, and evening times that range from fundamentals to advanced. This place has an excellent kids program too. Come check this place out and train!
Great spot, clean, welcoming to all. Knowledgeable instructors
I have been attending lunch classes a year+ with Mike and love this place. There is a great class size, top notch instructors (Mike, Adam, and Jordan at lunch) and a very welcoming atmosphere. Everyone is very helpful and respectful, letting new people feel welcome and making sure white belts have an opportunity to learn, not just beating up on them. This is my second BJJ gym, and I know I won't need to find another.
So I have very little experience when it comes to BJJ and when I cam in, I felt very welcome. Brad is awesome and very knowledgeable. I came in early on my second class and Brad came up to me and greeted me by name. He introduced me to everyone and they all treated me like I had been training there for years. I went to another BJJ gym in the area after my first week and that place didn’t even come close to the atmosphere that TFTC has. I couldn’t imagine going to another gym!
One of the best studios I've ever trained at. High quality instruction, and super friendly and supportive instructors and students.
I was in town for about two weeks and needed a place to train BJJ. Luckily I found TFTC! Coaches were great and the group made me feel part of the family even though I was just there for a short time. The training was technically good and sparring was on point with all skill levels available! I recommend anyone looking for a good place to train BJJ, MMA or Kickboxing to give TFTC a try! My best wishes to the TFTC family and hope to see you all soon!
This is one of the friendliest places I've ever trained. Everyone was super nice and helpful!
The staff here are great! Very friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
Really enjoyed my time here. I was nervous at first about trying out a kickboxing class, but Brian was a supportive and excellent instructor! Plus, the whole group is fun and welcoming to all levels. Highly recommend to anyone curious about learning kickboxing.
My daughter has been there a little over 3 months and she would go everyday if we could! she is so focused and supported by amazing teachers. The amount strength,confidence and respect for other has grow so much. I would recommend to anyone who has children. It's good to know you are sending them to a place that gives them life skills to be able to defend themselves cause we as parents can't be with at all times.
I started at TFTC in April 2015 and have been training there ever since. I originally started for the kickboxing but quickly found my way into jiu jitsu and have zero regrets about doing so. The coaches are extremely helpful and made me feel welcome the second I stepped on the mat. My training partners are awesome and I genuinely look forward to training there almost every day. I highly recommend TFTC to anyone (at any age) who's interested in jiu jitsu, kickboxing, or wrestling.
I have been training at TFTC for a little more than a year and it is the best decision I could have made. The coaches are great, accommodating to all skill levels and learning levels. The other attendees are great training partners and make it a wonderful learning environment. I would (and do) recommend TFTC to everyone I know- for self defense, bjj and kickboxing.
I've dabbled in various martial arts over the past 30yrs, and have seen many schools all over this country. I consider myself quite lucky to have found TFTC. The instruction is always thorough, practical and accessible to all skill levels. I could not recommend them more highly.
I recently had the opportunity to watch a youth Jiu Jitsu class at TFTC. I was really impressed by the way the coaches worked with all the young boys and girls, my grandson included who is 6 yrs. old. Although they were at all different ages and skill levels, Brad and his staff are totally committed to ensure a positive and fun experience, while at the same time teaching great self defense skills. There are no mirrors or phony props at this gym. All the students get down on the floor, and get into all the aspects of Jiu Jitsu. By the way, that is how most school yard bullying and differences are dealt with...ON THE GROUND. As a former student of karate and kickboxing, I saw a lot of poor teaching methods used on the younger students by intimidation or humiliation. You can be assured that these methods are not being used here. All of the students come as friends and leave as friends with smiles on their faces! If you want your child to have a great fun experience while gaining confidence and focus, look no further than TFTC. Tom Macomber, Johnston RI
We can not say enough good things about TFTC Academy. Our 6 year old takes the children's class and enjoys it so much. The instruction is rigorous yet fun, which is exactly what we were looking for. The staff is incredible--they challenge, encourage and motivate the kids. Taking classes two nights a week has become the highlight of our son's week!
Great atmosphere to train with high level instructors. Kids classes are fun and easy for them to pick up on the techniques.
Great jiu jitsu place, for adults and for kids. I know they also do kickboxing, but I'm only going to Jiu Jitsu and my son was going for Jiu Jitsu until he decided he was done (but he is only 4.5 years old and I didn't want to push it at this age). Brad does a very good job training the kids. I started a few months ago. The teachers are very good, very knowledgeable. Neal is always paying attention to what you're doing, giving advice, and great at explaining in details how to do the moves. Everybody is nice, from the more advanced blue, purple, or brown belts to the beginner white belts like myself. You really do feel welcome no matter what your level is.
Without a doubt the best decision I ever made was signing up for training at TFTC. Very accomodating for all skill levels; beginners and advanced alike. Close and welcoming community that feels more like a family instilling a great work ethic and invaluable technique you will retain for a lifetime.
I can't say enough good things about TFTC. This is an excellent place to train!
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