FightWorks Academy

FightWorks Academy delivers authentic Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and practical self-defense instruction at 1200 Woodruff Road in Greenville, South Carolina. Under the leadership of head instructor Dan Wallen, the academy serves martial arts practitioners, children, and families throughout Greenville and the Upstate region. The curriculum preserves the traditional self-defense philosophy established by Grandmaster Helio Gracie. Adult programs emphasize leverage, distance management, escapes, guard control, and submission holds designed to neutralize aggression efficiently. Youth students between the ages of 8 and 14 train in dedicated self-defense classes that develop balance, physical coordination, situational awareness, and anti-bullying resolution strategies. Instruction is directed by Dan Wallen, a sixth-degree black belt who earned the distinction of becoming the first black belt promoted by master Relson Gracie. Training sessions emphasize proper mechanical alignment, safety, and mutual encouragement on the mats. Residents of Greenville and neighboring Upstate communities can visit the Woodruff Road facility to meet the instructional staff, observe classes, and register for an introductory session.