Welcome to Hendo BJJ

Your Source For Traditional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu In Hendersonville, NC

About Hendo BJJ

Welcome to Hendo BJJ, your gateway to mastering Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) under the guidance of certified Rigan Machado instructors. More than just a martial arts academy, we're a community where individuals transform into confident warriors, children build self-assurance, and families create lasting bonds.

BJJ, a martial art focusing on grappling and ground fighting, empowers even the smallest and weakest to defend against larger, stronger opponents through leverage and proper technique. It's not merely a test of physical strength but a strategic mental game, often likened to "physical chess."

Choosing Hendersonville BJJ Classes means opting for an academy that values safety, humility, and respect for the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu lineage. Our affiliation with Rigan Machado ensures authentic and quality training, bringing you as close to the source as possible. Try a class to discover for yourself why we're consistently ranked as the best BJJ gym near Hendersonville.

Hendersonville BJJ Classes

Why Us

Why train with us?

Everyone thrives in our supportive and welcoming environment, regardless of skill level or physical abilities. Our instructors, passionate about nurturing each student's potential, are more than experienced martial artists—they're dedicated mentors.

At Hendo BJJ, Jiu-Jitsu is a tool for personal growth and self-improvement beyond its martial art form. When you join us, you're not merely attending a class but becoming part of a family.

Check out the benefits 

Self-Defense

The primary purpose of BJJ is self-defense. It offers practical, real-world defense techniques that can be used in a variety of situations.

Physical Fitness

BJJ is a full-body workout that can greatly improve cardiovascular endurance, strength, flexibility, weight management, and overall physical fitness.

Mental Toughness

Training BJJ can be challenging, but overcoming those challenges can greatly improve your mental toughness and resilience. It also teaches discipline, focus, and problem-solving skills.

Self-Confidence

Successfully executing techniques and improving your skills over time can greatly boost your self-confidence and self-esteem. This confidence, coupled with the intense focus required during practice, acts as an effective stress reliever.

Community

Classes often offer a great opportunity to connect with new people and form lasting friendships. When you train together, you create a sense of camaraderie among the participants, which fosters a strong sense of community.

Life Skills

Many of the skills learned in BJJ can be applied to other areas of life. These include discipline, focus, patience, problem-solving, and handling uncomfortable situations. These are especially beneficial skills for kids to learn at an early age.

They Say

What They Say

Explore the firsthand experiences of our students and visitors at Hendo BJJ through their own words. Their glowing testimonials, consistently resulting in 5-star reviews, speak volumes about our unwavering dedication to excellence. We extend a warm invitation for you to join us and witness for yourself the reasons behind our exceptional reputation.

  • I have been very fortunate to have trained with Professor Larry Shealy. He is an excellent instructor and his attention to detail is amazing. Most importantly he is very... read more

    Tigerpaw Corps Avatar Tigerpaw Corps
    October 3, 2021

    I’m so grateful to have found Hendo BJJ. Professor Larry is great with the kids and there’s a wonderful sense of community amongst the families. Safely taught skills... read more

    Julie Masella Avatar Julie Masella
    April 19, 2022

    I recommend hendo bjj ! Friends of ours recommended we come watch a class and our 11 year old daughter ended up trying the class that same day and absolutely... read more

    Jody Hilliard Sankey Avatar Jody Hilliard Sankey
    July 17, 2022
  • Incredible teacher and a great group of students. Best group of encouraging people I've ever met. Come train with us! You won't regret it.

    Brian Allen Avatar Brian Allen
    January 9, 2023

    I have learned so much training with Larry in such a short time. He’s a very concise and great teacher. Larry’s great at helping wrestlers transition into jujitsu. I highly... read more

    Daniel Pearce Avatar Daniel Pearce
    August 17, 2021

    under professor Larry's guidance, teachings, and care he has helped direct my youngest son and assist in helping him find a way of life that literally spun his life around.... read more

    Rosaria Cammarata Anderson Avatar Rosaria Cammarata Anderson
    February 3, 2022
  • Professor Larry is a a very knowledgeable instructor. If you’re looking to train Jiu Jitsu in the Hendersonville area I highly recommend you check it out.

    Brian Jones Avatar Brian Jones
    August 3, 2021

    I enjoy the teaching style at hendo bjj, there are several option for bjj in Hendersonville, but the teaching style is focused on learning the techniques first and then building... read more

    Daniel Salas Avatar Daniel Salas
    April 16, 2022

    I started my BJJ journey and had 4 empowering years with Larry Shealy. From the loss of 100 lbs to having the courage to face and overcome many fears I... read more

    Je Rose Avatar Je Rose
    September 19, 2021
  • I attended a Free Hendo Women's Safety and Self Defense class with Larry this past Saturday and it was amazing. Larry is very honest and truly wants whats best for... read more

    Jill Sudderberg Avatar Jill Sudderberg
    July 17, 2022

    Knowledgeable and awesome instructor. Welcoming group. Working on techniques several times really makes it easy to learn.. Focus on every technique. Great friendly environment..

    Antonio Cabrera Avatar Antonio Cabrera
    September 29, 2021

    This is an incredible place to train with some of the warmest and most welcoming people I've had the pleasure of meeting.There are 3 things that really stand out... read more

    Tim Erway Avatar Tim Erway
    March 13, 2023
  • I trained under Professor Larry for six months in Hendersonville before moving. Learned so much from him on and off the mat. In a few months will have been training... read more

    Michael Coggin Avatar Michael Coggin
    August 2, 2021

    Professor Larry Shealy is the beginning of my Jiu Jitsu Journey. If you are looking for something that will change your life this is it. His knowledge and understanding is... read more

    Chad Williams Avatar Chad Williams
    August 18, 2021

    Prof Larry is a great teacher and a amazing person on and off the mats I would not be a 1st degree black belt without him. Definitely the place to... read more

    David Werner Avatar David Werner
    August 3, 2021
  • Professor Shealy is an amazing instructor. Learned so much under him and always improve. Very knowledgeable and always there to help. Thanks Prof. Shealy

    Greg Munoz Avatar Greg Munoz
    September 19, 2021

    The curriculum at Hendo BJJ encourages you to grow and develop at a safe and efficient pace. JiuJitsu is for everyone, kids to adults. Your not to old, or to... read more

    10K MMA Avatar 10K MMA
    August 22, 2022

    I love how my son is not just learning BJJ, but is also learning things like good decision making skills, perseverance, and other life skills from Prof. Larry!

    Tiffany Heatherly Barnett Avatar Tiffany Heatherly Barnett
    April 20, 2022
  • I’ve been training here for a few months now. Prof Larry has been great! He along with the other students have all been very patient with me, and... read more

    Dustin Smith Avatar Dustin Smith
    August 2, 2021

    Recommend training there to anyone trying to compete or just wanting to learn pure excellent technique. I’ve only trained here for a few sessions now and So far I have... read more

    Shawn Pearce Avatar Shawn Pearce
    August 6, 2021

    I trained under Professor Larry for a few years. His guidance and focus on knowing the basics is what Jiu Jitsu is all about in my opinion. His Combatives classes... read more

    Darren Good Avatar Darren Good
    August 2, 2021
  • Women’s self defense class today was way outside my comfort zone, but I learned so much! After today I think every female in Hendersonville needs to take this class! The... read more

    Michelle Huggins Avatar Michelle Huggins
    July 16, 2022

    I started training Brazilian jiu-jitsu with Professor Larry Shealy in 2008 and here I am almost 14 years later still practicing the techniques that he learned directly from the Gracie... read more

    Marc Dillon Avatar Marc Dillon
    January 4, 2022

    Professor Larry has been training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for the better part of three decades and it shows. He has top notch instruction and skill. If you want to learn... read more

    Ace Red Leaf Avatar Ace Red Leaf
    April 20, 2023
  • As a longtime student of Kyo Kushinkai, Hendo BJJ has renewed my love for martial arts. Professor Shealy is an excellent instructor along with his well qualified coaching staff. I... read more

    Randal Beaver Avatar Randal Beaver
    November 7, 2021

    After moving back to the area from Minneapolis, I was searching for a BJJ school. Luckily I found Hendo BJJ and Professor Larry Shealy.I could not ask... read more

    Carol Grahl Avatar Carol Grahl
    March 7, 2023

    I've had the privilege of training under Prof Larry Shealy for many years. he is an amazing Instructor and a great person on and off the mats. I would definitely... read more

    Jason Dominguez Avatar Jason Dominguez
    September 23, 2021

FAQs

Below are some frequently asked questions. Be sure to contact us if you don't see an answer to your question or want to take the next step.

I'm a complete beginner. Can I still join your classes?

Absolutely! Our BJJ Fundamentals Class is designed specifically for beginners. No prior experience is necessary. All you need is a willingness to learn and grow.

What should I wear to my first class?

For your first class, we recommend wearing comfortable workout clothes. If you decide to continue with us, you'll need a gi (a traditional martial arts uniform) for certain classes.

Do I need to be in good shape to start BJJ?

Not at all. BJJ is a great way to get in shape, and your fitness will naturally improve as you train. We encourage students to train and listen to their bodies at their own pace.

What age groups do you cater to?

We offer classes for all ages, from children to adults. Our Kids BJJ Class is designed for children, while our other classes are suitable for teens and adults.

What safety measures do you have in place during training?

Safety is our top priority at Hendo BJJ. Our instructors are trained to ensure that all techniques are performed safely and correctly. We also encourage students to communicate openly about their comfort levels during training. Remember, it's okay to tap out and take breaks as needed.

How often should I train?

This depends on your personal goals and schedule. As a beginner, training 2-3 times per week is a good start. As you become more advanced, you may train more frequently.

Do you offer private lessons?

Yes, we do. Private lessons offer personalized, one-on-one training with our experienced instructors. These sessions are tailored to your specific needs and goals.

How can I get started?

Fill out our contact form to request more information and claim your first 2 free classes. We can't wait to welcome you to the Hendo BJJ family!

What are the benefits of learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

BJJ offers numerous benefits, both physical and mental. Physically, it's a full-body workout that improves strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. Mentally, it fosters resilience, problem-solving skills, and mental toughness. It's also a practical martial art that equips you with the skills to defend yourself in real-life situations.

I don't know which class is right for me. Can you help?

Absolutely! We offer a variety of classes to cater to different skill levels and interests. If you're new to BJJ, we recommend starting with our BJJ Fundamentals Class. If you're unsure, don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help you find the right class for you.