Business Details
Your Premier Martial Arts Training Center in East Tennessee
Mossy Creek Dojo has been dedicated to martial arts instruction since its founding, offering specialized training in Aikido, Judo, and Tomiki Ryu. Our dojo emphasizes safe, cooperative practice environments where students of all ages and physical abilities can develop practical self-defense skills. With a lineage tracing back to foundational martial arts masters, we combine traditional techniques with modern pedagogical approaches to ensure effective learning. Our instructors hold advanced ranks in multiple disciplines and maintain affiliations with recognized organizations like the United States Judo Association.We prioritize injury prevention through structured warmups, proper etiquette, and red-tape marking for healing injuries. Competitively, our members have achieved recognition at state championships, demonstrating the effectiveness of our training methodology. Community engagement remains central to our mission, as evidenced by our open mat sessions and collaborative learning environment.
Services
Aikido
Judo
Open Mat Sessions
Martial Arts Instruction
Self-Defense Training
Highlights and features
- Instructors hold advanced ranks in multiple martial arts disciplines
- Specialized training in practical self-defense applications
- State championship competitors among our members
- Cooperative learning environment with injury prevention protocols
- Affiliation with international martial arts organizations
Associations and certifications
- United States Judo Association
- International Judo Federation
Services
Aikido Training
Our Aikido program teaches responsive self-defense techniques using attackers' momentum and strength. Classes accommodate all skill levels with cooperative partner practice. The curriculum emphasizes safe training environments and progressive skill development.
Judo Instruction
Judo classes focus on off-balance techniques, throws, and grappling fundamentals. Training includes kata for technical precision and randori for practical application. Competitive preparation available for tournament participants.
Open Mat Sessions
Unstructured training opportunities allow members to practice techniques and improve skills. Sessions occur Sundays 2-4 PM with prior Facebook page confirmation. Designed for technique refinement and physical conditioning.
Martial Arts Instruction
Comprehensive programs in multiple disciplines develop practical defense capabilities. Curriculum combines traditional techniques with modern applications. Emphasis on cooperative learning and progressive rank achievement.
Competitive Training
Specialized preparation for martial arts competitions. Includes technical refinement, strategic analysis, and physical conditioning. Our members have achieved state championship recognition in judo events.
People
Dr. John Kirby
Instructor
Started martial arts in 1990 with Kodokan Judo and Tomiki Ryu Aikido. Holds Yondan Judo rank with United States Judo Association. Physician in Jefferson City area with decades of teaching experience.
Dr. Steve Karr
Instructor
Judo practitioner since 1977 with Sandan rank from United States Judo Association. Former national competitor and certified RAD self-defense instructor. Faculty member at Carson-Newman University since 1987.
Dr. Buck Allum
Instructor
Began martial arts at age 9 with Shorin-ryu karate. Holds Judo Shodan rank with United States Judo Association. Medical doctor with extensive competition experience in regional tournaments.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We offer Aikido, Judo, and Tomiki Ryu instruction with experienced instructors holding advanced ranks in each discipline.
Are classes suitable for beginners?
Yes, our cooperative learning environment accommodates all skill levels with progressive technical instruction and safety-focused training.
What should I wear for my first class?
Beginners can wear comfortable workout clothing. We recommend purchasing a white judogi for continued practice.
Do you offer competitive training opportunities?
Yes, we provide tournament preparation with proven success evidenced by our members' state championship achievements.
What are your class schedules?
Aikido classes Monday 6-7:30 PM, Judo Tuesday/Thursday 6-7:30 PM, and occasional Sunday open mat sessions.
How do you ensure training safety?
We implement structured warmups, injury prevention protocols, and red-tape marking for healing injuries during practice sessions.
