DIMITRI CHRISOS JIU JITSU ACADEMY
Dimitri Chrisos Jiu Jitsu Academy offers group and private instruction in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, the most complete ground fighting system and one of the fastest-growing martial arts in the world.
Since 2007
WHAT IS BJJ?
BRAZILIAN JIU JITSU (BJJ) IS A MARTIAL ART WITH COMBAT, SPORT, AND SELF DEFENSE APPLICATIONS.
BJJ focuses on grappling or ground fighting. It is based on the principle that a smaller and weaker person will be more likely to survive against a bigger, stronger assailant by “taking the fight” to the ground and using techniques based on leverage and body mechanics (e.g., joint locks and choke holds) to defeat the attacker.
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In its self defense application, BJJ emphasizes survival first and defeating the opponent (by submission) second. Because it is based on grappling techniques via leverage, rather than striking and an over reliance on speed and body strength, BJJ is an ideal martial art for both women and men of all ages regardless of their physical size or athletic abilities.
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While it is expected that most altercations end up on the ground fairly quickly, a BJJ practitioner’s main focus is to close the distance, take the opponent down and keep him/her there to reduce the attacker’s ability to strike. Once on the ground, a BJJ practitioner will leverage and efficient technique to achieve different ground positions of control. In doing so, the practitioner tires the opponent while looking for openings and mistakes to execute a submission technique.
Training in BJJ includes drilling (i.e., practicing specific techniques on a non-resisting partner) and sparring (commonly referred to as “rolling,” or attempting techniques against a fully resisting partner) as well as general cardio, agility and strength conditioning. Practitioners tend not to strike each other while rolling but rather focus on executing proper technique. This low-impact application can enable more frequent training because it reduces the chance of injury. Practitioners may also work together to demonstrate techniques to each other and try them with different degrees of resistance. This creates a realistic learning environment where the results and feedback are immediate.
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BJJ is one of the fastest-growing martial arts in the world today. Practitioners develop highly effective self defense techniques along with personal fitness and a sense of community with other practitioners. BJJ is also used very successfully in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) contests and grappling competitions. We invite you to give it a try and see for yourself!
A BRIEF HISTORY OF BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU
Some historians of Jiu-Jitsu say that the origins of “the gentle art” can be traced back to India, where it was practiced by Buddhist Monks. Concerned with self-defense, these monks created techniques based upon principles of balance and leverage, and a system of manipulating the body in a manner where one could avoid relying upon strength or weapons. With the expansion of Buddhism, Jiu-Jitsu spread from Southeast Asia to China, finally arriving in Japan where it developed and gained further popularity.
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In the last days of the 19th century, some Jiu-Jitsu masters emigrated from Japan to other continents, teaching the martial arts as well as taking part in fights and competitions.
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Esai Maeda Koma, also known as “Conde Koma,” was one such master. After traveling with a troupe which fought in various countries in Europe and the Americas, Koma arrived in Brazil in 1915, and settled in Belem do Para the next year, where he met a man named Gastao Gracie.
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The father of eight children, among them five boys and three girls, Gastao became a Jiu-Jitsu enthusiast and brought his oldest son, Carlos, to learn from the Japanese master. For a naturally frail fifteen-year old Carlos Gracie, Jiu-Jitsu became a method not simply for fighting, but for personal improvement. At nineteen, he moved to Rio de Janeiro with his family and began teaching and fighting. In his travels, Carlos would teach classes, and also proved the efficiency of the art by beating opponents who were physically stronger. In 1925, he returned to Rio and opened the first school, known as the “Academia Gracie de Jiu-Jitsu.”
Since then, Carlos started to share his knowledge with his brothers, adapting and refining the techniques to the naturally weaker characteristics of his family. Carlos also taught them his philosophies of life and his concepts of natural nutrition. Eventually, Carlos became a pioneer in creating a special diet for athletes, “the Gracie diet,” which transformed Jiu-Jitsu into a term synonymous with health.
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Having created an efficient self defense system, Carlos Gracie saw in the art a way to become a man who was more tolerant, respectful, and self-confident. With a goal of proving Jiu-Jitsu’s superiority over other martial arts, Carlos challenged the greatest fighters of his time. He also managed the fighting careers of his brothers. Because they were fighting and defeating opponents fifty or sixty pounds heavier, the Gracies quickly gained recognition and prestige.
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Attracted to the new market which was opened around Jiu-Jitsu, many Japanese practitioners came to Rio, but none were able to establish schools as successful as the Gracies. This was due to the fact that the Japanese stylists were more focused on takedowns and throws, and the Jiu-Jitsu the Gracies practiced had more sophisticated ground fighting and submission techniques. Carlos and his brothers changed and adapted the techniques in such a way that it completely altered the complexion of the international Jiu-Jitsu principles. These techniques were so distinctive to Carlos and his brothers that the sport became attached to a national identity, and is now commonly known as “Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu,” practiced by martial artists all over the world, including Japan.
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(source: International Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Federation)
ABOUT US
Dimitri Chrisos Jiu Jitsu Academy offers group and private instruction in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, the most complete ground fighting system and one of the fastest-growing martial arts in the world. We provide a friendly, respectful, clean and challenging environment where you can develop your technique and enjoy a sense of community with other martial artists. For more information, please feel free to stop by during our regular class times or contact us via phone or email.
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The emblem of the academy (flame on a palm) represents the passing of knowledge. In Greek mythology the immortal Titan, Prometheus, gave the gift of fire (symbolizing knowledge and enlightenment) to the human race without the permission of Zeus, the leader of the Gods. For this transgression, he was punished by being chained on a rock on top of the Caucasus mountains, while an eagle feasted on his liver daily. Hercules eventually freed him from his bondage. The name Prometheus means “foreknowledge” or “fore-thinker.” In the same tradition we honor the creative art and “knowledge” of Jiu Jitsu that was passed down to us, and endeavor to pass it down to future generations.
ABOUT DIMITRI CHRISOS
Dimitri Chrisos is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt under black belt Demetrius Ramos (Tucson BJJ) and a member of the BJJ Revolution Team (Carlson Gracie lineage). He has studied Brazilian Jiu Jitsu since 2001 and has taught since 2007. He has traveled around the world extensively and learned from various world champions and legends of the art. Additionally, he has competed at all levels. Dimitri is a proud US Air Force Veteran.
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1st at the 2024 Virginia International Open Gi Championship 2024 (Master IV)
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1st at the 2015 NY BJJPRO: Black Belt-light weight division (Master II)
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3rd at the 2015 NY BJJPRO: Black belt-absolute division (Master II)
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2nd at the 2015 Arizona Classic: Black belt-light weight (Master II)
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2nd at the 2015 Arizona Classic: Black belt-absolute division (Master II)
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3rd at the 2014 World’s No-Gi: Black belt-middle weight division (Master II)
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2nd at the 2012 Pan Ams: Brown Belt-light weight division (Master I)
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3rd at the 2011 NY Open: Brown Belt-light weight division (Adult)
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2nd at the Jan 2010 Copa Nova: Brown Belt-under 170lbs division (Adult)
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1st at the 2008 World’s No-Gi: Purple Belt-absolute/open weight division (Master)
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3rd at the 2008 World’s No-Gi: Purple Belt-light weight division (Master)
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2nd at the 2008 Pan Ams: Purple Belt-light weight division (Master)
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1st at the 2007 Pan Ams: Blue Belt-light weight division (Master)
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2nd at the 2006 Pan Ams: Blue Belt-light weight division (Master)
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3rd at the 2006 Arizona Open: Blue belt-light weight division (Adult)
ABOUT BRUCE YOON KIM
From a young age, Bruce was captivated by the world of combat sports. He became an avid fan of the K-1 Kickboxing championship and the prestigious Pride FC MMA events, drawing inspiration from the fierce battles and unyielding determination of the fighters in the ring.
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Bruce’s martial arts journey was a diverse and enriching one. He embarked on a path that saw him training in a variety of disciplines, including Taekwondo, Karate, Muay Thai, and Judo. However, it was Jiu Jitsu that truly captured his heart. For more than a decade, he has dedicated himself to mastering the art, honing his skills, and continuously pushing his limits.
One of Bruce’s most remarkable achievements has been his success on the competitive Jiu Jitsu circuit. He has triumphed in a number of prestigious IBJJF Jiu Jitsu tournaments across the United States, leaving his mark on cities such as Oklahoma City, Charleston, Miami, Baton Rouge, and Indianapolis. Further underlining his excellence, he has secured victories at major tournaments like the North America International Masters and American National championships, demonstrating his mastery in this competitive arena.
Bruce’s dedication and talent in Jiu Jitsu have also been on display in the Copa Elite super fights, where he boasts a flawless record of 2-0. These high-stakes contests demonstrate not only his technical proficiency but also his ability to perform under pressure.
ABOUT PHILIPPE TY
Philippe was one of Dimitri’s first students and was awarded all belts from him. He started jiu jitsu as a way to get fit and to learn how to defend himself and end up falling in love with art. He has never stopped since. Philippe strongly believes in the power of the jiu jitsu community and the friendships it creates. He is an active participants of various local jiu jitsu related events, always sharing his knowledge, and willing to help others on and off the mats.
SCHEDULE
MONDAY | TUESDAY | WEDNESDAY | THURSDAY | FRIDAY | SATURDAY |
No-Gi Open Mat 10:30 am – 12:00 pm | |||||
Kids Class (Gi) All Levels 5:45 pm – 6:30 pm | Kids Class (Gi) All Levels 5:45 pm – 6:30 pm | ||||
Gi, Beginner-Intermediate 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm | Gi, Beginners 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm
| Gi, Intermediate - Advanced 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm | Gi, Beginners 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm
| Gi, Intermediate - Advanced 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm |
PRICING
12 MONTH MEMBERSHIP
145
Every month
No sign up fee
Unlimited training
6 MONTH MEMBERSHIP
185
Every month
No sign up fee
Unlimited training
3 MONTH MEMBERSHIP
195
Every month
No sign up fee
Unlimited training
MONTH TO MONTH MEMBERSHIP
220
No sign up fee
Unlimited training
ADULTS
12 MONTH MEMBERSHIP
95
Every month
No sign up fee
Unlimited training
6 MONTH MEMBERSHIP
115
Every month
No sign up fee
Unlimited training
3 MONTH MEMBERSHIP
135
Every month
No sign up fee
Unlimited training
MONTH TO MONTH MEMBERSHIP
165
No sign up fee
Unlimited training
KIDS
Our pricing for members between 5 and 17 years old.
WE OFFER
$120 per private lesson (1 student per 1 hour)
$160 per semi-private lesson (2 students per 1 hour)
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Discount prices for family members
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Discounts for referrals
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No sign-up fees
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Hassle-free environment
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Small class setup – personalized attention
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One-week free trial period