Zanshin Dojo

About Us

Zanshin Dojo opened as a karate school in 1992 and in 1994 became the first Gracie “Brazilian” jiu-jitsu school in middle Tennessee. Many of our students have gone on to become world-class competitors and instructors. We focus on the highest quality martial arts techniques with applications for self-defense as well as tournament competition. The karate curriculum is based on standards set by the international Wado-Ryu Karate Federation and by Rickson Gracie for the jiu-jitsu program.

Eric Silver, head instructor of Zanshin Dojo, started his martial arts training in 1971 and has studied in the US, Brazil, Japan and Europe. He holds a sixth-degree black belt in Wado-Ryu karate and a third-degree black belt in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. He is one of a small group of people awarded their black belts personally from Rickson Gracie. In addition to Rickson, he has trained with jiu-jitsu legends Demian Maia, Marcelo Garcia, Royler Gracie, Fabio Gurgel and Saulo Ribeiro.

Classes at Zanshin Dojo are open to men, women and children. No previous experience is necessary and uniforms may be purchased through the school. Visitors are always welcome.