Our classes remain authentic to the original program developed by Master Luiz Palhares, who teaches at his own prestigious Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Jacksonville, Florida. Palhares was trained directly by the Gracie family, first under Rolls Gracie, then later under Rickson Gracie. He was awarded his black belt by Helio Gracie and Rickson Gracie in 1984, and has since won many high-level competitions and was the 1998 Brazilian National Champion in both the heavy weight senior division and open.

Jiu-Jitsu is life-changing, and the benefits are not just physical. This gentle art will also increase your focus, concentration, patience, mood, and confidence. Strength and flexibility also increase, as do useful self-defense skills. However, we believe that strength is not a goal but a natural side-effect of practice.

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Foothills is located in Seymour, nestled in the foothills of the beautiful Smoky Mountains.

We welcome beginners and all skill level adults from Seymour, Sevierville, Maryville, Knoxville and surrounding areas.