Business Details
32 Years
experience
Your Trusted Martial Arts School in Nashville Since 1994
Established in 1994, Zanshin Dojo has been a trusted martial arts institution in Nashville for over three decades. As the city's first Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school under Rickson Gracie, we combine traditional Wado-Ryu Karate sanctioned by Japanese, Brazilian, and US Eastern federations with practical self-defense and MMA training. Our curriculum, developed through decades of global experience, caters to all ages and skill levels, emphasizing safety, personal growth, and technical mastery. With bilingual instructors, family discounts, and a welcoming environment, we prioritize accessibility and community. Our facility in midtown Nashville features modern amenities including on-site parking, showers, and a training area maintained to the highest hygiene standards.Recognized with the Best Of Music City award in 2021 and 2022, our instructors include world-champion practitioners who train alongside UFC athletes and elite competitors. We offer flexible membership options without restrictive contracts, ensuring students can focus on their martial arts journey without unnecessary constraints. Our lineage traces directly to martial arts legends, including Rickson Gracie and Kazutaka Otsuka, while maintaining strong connections to contemporary combat sports leaders.
Services
Gracie Jiu-Jitsu
Wado-Ryu Karate
Self-Defense
MMA Training
Private Lessons
Family Classes
BJJ Fundamentals
Competitive No-Gi
Self-Defense Techniques
Open Mat Sessions
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- No restrictive contracts
- 30+ years in Nashville
- Bilingual instructors
- Family discounts available
- Awarded Best Of Music City
What people say
Walking textbook of martial arts
Incredibly helpful and respectful
Welcoming environment
Like family
5-star reviews
Services
Gracie Jiu-Jitsu
Our Gracie Jiu-Jitsu program follows the original self-defense system developed by Helio Gracie. Students learn ground fighting techniques focusing on leverage and control to neutralize larger opponents. Classes include fundamentals, intermediate training, and competitive no-gi sessions. The curriculum emphasizes practical applications for real-world scenarios while maintaining strong competition preparation elements.
Wado-Ryu Karate
Certified by Japanese Wado-Ryu Karate Federation, our karate instruction combines striking techniques with self-defense principles. Training includes kata forms, controlled sparring, and technical drills under the lineage of Hironori Otsuka. Students develop discipline, precision, and body mechanics through structured belt progression system that emphasizes both physical and mental development.
Self-Defense
Based on Rickson Gracie's proven methodology, our self-defense classes teach practical techniques for real-world situations. Instruction covers threat assessment, de-escalation tactics, and physical defense against common attacks. No special uniform required, making it accessible for all participants. The program focuses on developing situational awareness and confidence through realistic scenario training.
MMA Training
Our MMA program integrates multiple combat disciplines into comprehensive fighting systems. Training includes stand-up striking, ground fighting, and transitional techniques. Students develop physical conditioning, strategic thinking, and practical skills applicable to both competition and self-defense. The curriculum accommodates various experience levels while maintaining safety-focused instruction.
Private Lessons
Customized one-on-one instruction with black-belt instructors including founder Eric Silver. Private sessions allow focused attention on specific techniques, competition preparation, or personalized self-defense strategies. Flexible scheduling accommodates individual needs while maintaining access to the full range of martial arts disciplines offered at the dojo.
People
Eric Silver
Head Instructor & Founder
Seventh-degree black belt in Wado-Ryu Karate and fourth-degree in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. Trained under Rickson Gracie and Japanese Wado-Ryu Federation. Awarded Renshi Shihan in 2022. Regularly trains with UFC champion Demian Maia in Brazil.
Derrick Reynolds
Instructor
Experienced black belt instructor teaching Wado-Ryu Karate and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. Part of Zanshin Dojo's team for multiple years, helping students achieve technical proficiency and competition success.
Hank Quillen
Instructor
Certified martial arts instructor with extensive experience in self-defense and competition training. Contributes to the dojo's reputation for producing national and world championship competitors.
Don McElhiney
Instructor
Black belt instructor specializing in Wado-Ryu Karate and MMA fundamentals. Focuses on technical precision and practical application for students of all ages and experience levels.
Questions
How do I apply to Zanshin Dojo classes?
New students should contact us before visiting. No specific start day required. Complete registration paperwork 10-15 minutes before first class.
What's a good age to start training?
Children typically start at six years old. Adults of any age can begin martial arts training with our adaptable instruction methods.
How do your memberships work?
Monthly plans include one, two, or unlimited weekly classes. Family discounts and advanced payment options available. Drop-in fees for single sessions.
What are the benefits of taking these classes?
Improves physical fitness, self-confidence, and self-defense skills. Students report increased focus, mental clarity, and lasting friendships within our supportive community.
Are karate and jiu-jitsu classes separate?
Yes, each discipline has dedicated classes. Striking techniques are taught in karate, submissions in jiu-jitsu, with cross-training options available.
What if I need to stop classes?
We understand life changes. Notify us before discontinuation - no obligation to continue payments when circumstances change.
