Jiu Jitsu Performance Academy

Fantastic experience: I have been going to this academy for about 3 months and it's been a great experience. From the very beginning, everyone has been extremely welcoming. The owner, Sean, is very nice, and makes sure you feel welcome and that you're enjoying the classes. The other instructors are very passionate and give great lessons. And as a women, I've also loved the women's only class, where you can focus on women-specific skills and self defence techniques, while surrounded by awesome women and great instructors. I highly recommend this place if you're considering Jiu Jitsu.

Fantastic experience: Jiu Jitsu Performance Academy is an amazing place to learn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Mauy Thai. My daughter is in the kids class with Coach Conrad, Coach Matt and Coach Sean. They do an awesome job helping the kids work hard, have fun and learn. I have Coach Conrad for the adult beginners class, he is very knowledgeable and fun to be around. Everyone in the class is very welcoming which has made it easy to step into BJJ with no experience. My wife does Mauy Thai with Coach Nikki and absolutely loves it. Melissa who runs the academy operations is very friendly and super helpful as well. I highly recommend Jiu Jitsu Performance Academy for all levels. It’s a great place for the whole family to grow, learn and create many great memories.

Fantastic experience: Just in case you are wondering, you are just in time to train in a great gym!

Fantastic experience: Clean facilities, plenty of mat space. Most importantly there is a wealth of talent and knowledge in the room and everyone has been incredibly friendly and welcoming. Join us!

Fantastic experience: Over the past year, I’ve discovered what I consider to be the ultimate return on investment: my three memberships at the Jiu-Jitsu Academy. These memberships have been nothing short of transformative for the health and well-being of both myself and my children. Seeing my kids eagerly participate in classes has been a joy to behold – they’re absolutely enamored with it. As for myself, I’ve found the classes to be an unparalleled cardio workout. The rates are incredibly reasonable, and the staff exudes professionalism at every turn. It’s an environment I genuinely love, and without hesitation, I would recommend it to anyone seeking a sport with minimal risk of injury and maximum health and skill benefits.

Fantastic experience: I train at another gym nearby in Durham. I messaged the owner Sean Spangler to say I’d like to drop in last Friday. He and the students were welcoming and friendly - they didn’t try to rough me up, although the rounds were tough. I learned several good details, both from the instructional portion and later while sparring with more experienced partners. Sean ended up flow rolling with me for two rounds (some gym owners don’t or won’t roll with visitors). They also strive to keep the mats clean , which is a good sign for any gym. It was a good experience, and I hope to return in the future.

Fantastic experience: Awesome spot and jiu jitsu.

Fantastic experience: Coach Sean is excellent! He helps all the kids learn and pushes them to be the best version they can be. My 6yo has been in this academy for 6 months and he loves it. Can’t wait for my 2yo to grow up to put her in .

Fantastic experience: Awesome coaching staff, they are great with all ages.

Fantastic experience: Awesome gym awesome place to train/ they train early and have an awesome schedule . Coach Spangler is the man he is very knowledge and respectful teaches some awesome techniques . If your in the area you have got to check this place out would give it ten stars if I could

Fantastic experience: We have been coming here since December 2022 and my son has really enjoyed the program. The academy really feels like a close community where everyone cares to help and support each other.

Fantastic experience: My son has really enjoyed learning jiu-jitsu jitsu and making friends at Spangler. Coach Sean is great and very patience with the kids. Five star experience so far! Member for 3mo.

Fantastic experience: My son, 8, has been going there for almost 2 years and it’s been a great experience for him. The teachers care about their students and put in the time and energy to help them better themselves. Truly a quality school.

Fantastic experience: Sean and his team of coaches are amazing. They are passionate about this sport and are attentive to each child's development. Every time we enter the academy, we are welcomed into a positive and friendly environment.

Fantastic experience: My daughter has been attending for 4 months... and she loves it. She has confidence in her abilities... and looks forward to new sessions and challenges. Would reccomend this school to any parent.

Fantastic experience: My only regret is not joining Jiu Jitsu Performance Academy sooner. As a 39 year old beginner I quickly became addicted to this sport and that is in large part due to this gym. Sean and every other instructor there are amazing teachers and they also set the tone for what is an awesome community and environment. Everyone there, instructors and students, has such a positive attitude. I have felt welcomed since day one. There are opportunities to train everyday of the week, morning or night, no matter your skill level. Jiu Jitsu Performance Academy really is a great place to train.

Fantastic experience: Professor Sean provides a welcoming, instructive, active, and enjoyable program for kids and adults. My 5 and 7-year-old have both enjoyed learning BJJ and making friends. I love how active the class is and how they focus on a particular move for several lessons to give the kids time to learn it. They spend at least half of the class rolling with a partner. It’s great for practicing the move or position they are leaning, and for getting their energy out.

Fantastic experience: Jiu Jitsu Performance Academy is a truly exceptional place for learning and growth. As a beginner, I was initially overwhelmed, but the welcoming environment and the instructors' genuine passion quickly eased my nerves. The moment you step through the door, you're made to feel like a part of the community. The staff and fellow students are friendly, respectful, and supportive, which creates a positive atmosphere conducive to learning. The instruction is top-notch. Coaches break down complex techniques into manageable pieces, paying close attention to form and safety. They make sure each student, regardless of skill level, feels comfortable and confident. My son, who also recently started, is equally thrilled with his experience and has become borderline obsessed with it even at his young age. The children are encouraged to support each other, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect among them. The environment is nurturing, but also challenges the kids to step out of their comfort zones, promoting growth and self-confidence. The instructors are beyond amazing in guiding and coaching all the kids. I could not recommend it more highly!

Fantastic experience: My son has been training here since last December; he began at a particularly challenging time with his ADHD. When I first shared that information with Sean he shared a similar personal experience. Then after reading his blog, I was confident this was the place for my son. I didn’t look for other gyms. My first impression was that this is unlike any other martial arts gym I have experienced. It felt clean! The kids are not waiting around for their turn. There are not big kids teaching younger kids. All of the coaches are adults skilled with compassion, engagement and discipline. Over the last 8 months, I have seen my son grow muscles, confidence and determination. Sean and his team of coaches are committed to the personal development of each of these kids that goes far beyond the physical skills and demands of jiu jitsu. I now know that there are what seem to be a million jiu jitsu gyms between JJPA and my house, but I won’t give them another thought because my son has a home. When you join JJPA you become family.

Fantastic experience: This is the best place to learn Jiu Jitsu. Prof Sean is really dedicated teacher who makes learning very interesting and exciting. My 7 year old is now a student for over an year and he loves it. Highly recommended!!

Fantastic experience: I was looking for a convenient place to learn Jiu Jitsu and saw Sean's credentials and had to give Zenith a shot. The talent here is exceptional and Coach Sean and the entire team have been incredibly supportive in helping me begin my Jiu Jitsu journey. Coach is always taking the extra step to teach us the correct techniques! The method of drilling, repetition and live rolling is awesome for developing my game and all the higher belts have been incredibly helpful also! There's absolutely nothing to be afraid of here; a friendly, welcoming atmosphere for sure!

Fantastic experience: I currently have three of my daughters (ages 5, 7, and 9) and my son (age 10) enrolled at Zenith. Sean is a high level black belt with a lengthy, impressive resume in competitive BJJ. What I find more important than the skill and experience he brings is how well he teaches all ages. Sean, Kelly, and Kevin are great with the kids. They manage to keep the kids attentive, engaged, and busy on the mats. Zenith provides a laid back, familial atmosphere that makes it very welcoming for both kids and adults. I highly recommend checking out Zenith if you are looking for something for your kids or if want high level BJJ instruction with a nice focus on the competitive side.

Fantastic experience: Great place to learn with a relaxed atmosphere.

Fantastic experience: Great coach and great people

Fantastic experience: Awesome place. Everyone is super friendly, and the coaches have decades of experience.

Fantastic experience: Professor Spangler came to our school and did a seminar on technique. He was very patient & connected with everyone. What a great evening we had! I’ve not visited his school yet, but recommend him and his disposition dealing with teaching. I had to get on here and share about it.

Fantastic experience: I am very picky person and if I am giving a positive review than believe me this is very good place ))) My 6 year old is waiting those classes every day. Thank you Coach Sean for atmosphere and knowledge you put in your studio.

Fantastic experience: Sean and all other coaches make you feel like family from the day they you walk in.

Fantastic experience: Me and my son go here. We both love the atmosphere, instructors and challenge. There are no egos or trash talking at this academy. It is very clean, organized and has a culture of respect for the students, the instructors and the sport. I enrolled my son in BJJ after a failed attempt at Tae Kwon Do. He enjoys the grappling and "going live" rolling that the kids get to do. BJJ is a good fit for him to get energy out, learn discipline from other adults and to take control of his body and mind when he is in stressful situations. Professor Spangler and all the other instructors are in-tune with the kids and know how to get the best out of them. I enrolled my son when he was 5 (7 now) and it has been one of the best investments we could have made. I joined about a year after my son started. I loved seeing him roll and seeing how much he was learning. Instead of just watching him through the window I decided to get on the mats myself. I enjoyed the challenge right off the bat. I also realized how much I can still learn about myself.

Fantastic experience: My 6 year old son and I joined Jiu Jitsu Performance Academy recently and we love it so far. The attention from the coaches and other students is amazing. Everyone is very helpful and we both plan to continue going there as much as possible and keep learning

Fantastic experience: Came here from out of town for an open mat. The quality of participant was high, as was facility. I learned a lot in my one day and plan on coming back next time I visit.

Fantastic experience: I’ve been a student here for a little over a year. During that time I’ve witnessed that Sean is highly attentive to his customers ever changing needs, and operates his business with the upmost professionalism. When I come to class I know that I can expect to learn good BJJ, train in a clean and safe environment, and see smiling, friendly faces. 10/10 recommend.

Fantastic experience: Professor Spangler came to our school and did a seminar on technique. He was very patient & connected with everyone. What a great evening we had! I’ve not visited his school yet, but recommend him and his disposition dealing with teaching. I had to get on here and share about it.

Fantastic experience: My two kids love it and have been doing bjj for almost 6 months. That's never happened with any extra curricular activity!!!

Fantastic experience: Anytime you are the new student at a gym or in a class it's always a little daunting, especially as an OTA adult student. Professor Spangler and all of the other coaches did an awesome job of making me feel welcome, and informed. They carved out time to provide individual attention along the way to catch me up to students with more experience and knowledge. Everybody is super helpful and willing to get questions answered or show you how to do something. I would highly recommend them to anyone who would like to learn BJJ/grappling.

Fantastic experience: My daughter joined the level 1 kids class and since the first day she has been treated with nothing but kindness and respect. The class instructors are all so patient and helpful in every aspect. They make the children feel like they are capable of anything and teach them step by step when they need the extra help. Sean and all of his other instructors have been nothing but welcoming to my entire family. I cannot recommend this jiu jitsu academy enough!

Fantastic experience: I was recommended to begin training Jiu Jitsu with Spangler by a friend and couldn't have asked for a better coach. After just shy of a year training, I've gone from being beaten like a child in white belt divisions to heel hooking, guillotining, armbaring, and strangling my way to victory in multiple intermediate no-gi matches. On top of the great instruction, there is great comraderie amongst all the students, and Spangler actively listens too the students needs and actively moves class times to best fit our schedules. I'll d'arce choke anyone who says Spangler isn't the best in the area.

Fantastic experience: The Jiu Jitsu Performance Academy is by far the best! Sean and the other coaches are very professional and great with communicating with how my son is doing in his classes. My son asks everyday if he can go to class and is so proud of himself and his abilities. So glad I made the decision to have this Academy coach my son.

Fantastic experience: Joining coach Sean’s academy has been one of the best decisions I’ve made in a long time! When I first reached out to him, I was nervous about what the classes would entail, if it was a cutthroat activity where everyone was out to get you, and just the general feeling of anxiety you get from doing something new. After the first class, all of that worry was immediately washed away. Sean is very receptive to my questions and he has fostered a friendly and informative environment where you know you’re around great people that all have respect for each other. It’s great knowing he takes an active role in ensuring that newcomers and veterans alike are in a safe and productive environment. There’s no need to worry if someone is going to pick you out for being new and try to hurt you. There’s a lifetime of knowledge to gain from coach Sean and if you’re wanting to replace those lazy weekdays or going out and drinking when you’re bored, I would highly recommend signing up here! Thanks for everything coach Sean!

Fantastic experience: Highly recommend Jiu Jitsu Performance Academy! Our son (4yo) absolutely loves it! Coach Sean is a great teacher and knows his stuff (and is super patient with these busy little kiddos). Not only is our son learning how to properly grapple, but Coach Sean also reinforces values we are teaching like being on time, being respectful to instructor/classmates, listening and being patient, being presentable with a clean gi and trimmed nails, etc. We recently upped our membership and take our son 2 days a week now instead of one because he loves it that much. The facility is very clean and safe, and parents can watch outside through windows. If you are considering enrolling your son or daughter for jiu jistu, start with Coach Sean - you'll be happy you did!

Fantastic experience: Love training at Spangler! I’m new to the sport and over 40 and Sean makes sure practices are always tailored for age and experience. Overall, Sean is an awesome coach and promotes a healthy training environment - I’m glad I joined.

Fantastic experience: 3+ yrs ago I looked into several places to learn/train BJJ. I choose Sean's academy because the atmosphere is welcoming and helpful, but also honest. Jiu jitsu is hard but so fun to learn - love this place :)

Fantastic experience: Love this academy, love Coach Sean, love my teammates, and gahdamn I love jiu jitsu! Feel very lucky to have found this place about a year ago, you could be lucky and find it too

Fantastic experience: Grateful to have found this place. Sean is great with kids and I see a lot of improvement with my son.

Fantastic experience: I have been training 2 weeks now, and the instruction, facility, and community are top notch. As a newbie to BJJ, the environment is welcoming and friendly and everyday I look forward to the challenges and education.

Fantastic experience: Amazing school with technical instructors, kind and professional. Friendly community atmosphere , great place for women to train , learn and feel safe. Absolutely love this school highly recommend!!!! 10 out of 10!!

Fantastic experience: Love this place!! Trained with Sean at a seminar he held several years ago. Now my children and I travel an hour each way to train with Sean and the team several days a week because of the awesome environment. Great place to learn!!

Fantastic experience: Our boys, ages 5 & 7, have been attending about a month now. We love Professor Sean and his wife Kelly. They have been great to work with and get acclimated to the program. You immediately feel like family from the 1st day you step into their facility. I have also met some wonderful parents which also makes the time enjoyable while watching your kids grow in their learning of Jiu Jitsu. If you have daughters, look no further. The facility is clean and well taken care of hygienically. I can’t say enough about the family atmosphere they provide. Quit looking and join!

Fantastic experience: Really awesome academy with a great environment. You can tell that Sean is really passionate, not only about the sport, but about growing it the right way. I walked in with ZERO martial arts experience and was comfortable from the get-go. The classes are always fundamentals-focused but with ample opportunity to "live roll." Even most of the more advanced students are very open to teaching and guiding new people. I'd encourage it highly for anybody (male, female, or child) who's looking into BJJ.

Fantastic experience: There is no better option if you want to learn BJJ or want to sign a family member up. Their rates are competitive and Sean and Kelly are a great team. A perfect blend of seriousness and fun. It’s a family business and the pride of ownership really shines through. If we ever relocated I would miss them more than our family:)

Fantastic experience: My son started at Spangler a little over a year ago and it has been a life-changing experience for both him and I. This gym has taught my son confidence, the ability to handle himself if he’s getting bullied or sees another child getting bullied, and he has found a passion for bjj as well as fitness by training at Spangler. I am proud to see my son grow mentally but I am also grateful to Spangler for the training, coaching, and guidance he offers my son. Not just for bjj but as a mentor. Highly recommend this place!

Fantastic experience: It’s been a few months now that My son has been training at Spangler BJJ. I couldn’t be happier with both the training, guidance and environment they’ve created there. My son absolutely loves it and tells us that this is his favorite sport and he truly looks forward to going to every session. I read a post a while back where Sean said that he never thought he would ever train kids but that now he loves doing it. It certainly shows and as a parent knowing that my son has a place like Spangler to train and learn is awesome. We really appreciate everything Sean and the entire coaching staff does for my son and look forward to seeing him advance over the years to come.

Fantastic experience: I am in the adult program at Spangler's Martial Arts. Having done various martial arts at several schools and styles, Spangler's martial arts has by far the best atmosphere. It is not centered around ego but everyone generally wanting to get better together. The school has a philosophy that you greet everyone as you enter the mat. This has created a very welcoming feel for new students. There is also a large emphasis on keeping everyone healthy and safe.

Fantastic experience: I have been training different forms of martial arts for many years now and have had the opportunity to train in facilities and with coaches all over the country. Spangler BJJ and all their instructors are top notch! Professor Spangler has some great experience and knowledge from BJJ, MMA, and wrestling. The training area is always clean as well as the changing rooms and bathrooms. The environment that has been created is great. Everyone is friendly and here to get better not hurt each other. I have been training here for six months now and multiple times have had upper belt guys take time to teach me while they were rolling with me rather than just killing me all the time. I will be training here for a long time!

Fantastic experience: One of the best decisions my family has made was signing up at Spangler. My 3 and 6 year olds are both in class as well as myself. The classes and people are great. We are truly fortunate to have found this group and look forward to continuing our training for years to come. This is a place that both beginners and high level grapplers can learn. All are welcome.

Fantastic experience: Really enjoy training here. Professor Spangler is one of the best coaches in the game. Plus the people who train there are really good folks and easy to get along with. Mats and training area is always well kept. Most important the class are really fun and make you want to come back. I definitely recommend giving it a try.

Fantastic experience: Our son has been practicing BJJ for a total of 4 years, at Spangler for the last year. Sean and Kelly take great care and pride in the individual student experience, development, and culture at Spangler. Sean is a great technical coach and mentor to young students. His dedication to the sport and his students is obvious and has made a very positive impact on our son.

Fantastic experience: I absolutely LOVE the community at Spangler Martial Arts. Sean has built a great environment in which people of all ages can train and grow. I heard about Brazilian Jiu Jitsu from friends but never considered it for myself until I met Sean. I soon learned that the BJJ community is very supportive, friendly, and hospitable. I switched from CrossFit to BJJ and never looked back. I’ve found my jam!!!

Fantastic experience: Very satisfied with the training and effort the instructors put on their students. My 14 year old son, Nick, has been attending for a few months and I can see the level of satisfaction and confidence in him.

Fantastic experience: What a great place to train. In the area and was looking for a place to drop in for train. They made me feel like family from the moment you walk in the door and Sean's training is on spot. He works on great details and makes sure that everyone is following along. He is able to break down some hard moves into understandable steps. We be training here when I come back to the RTP area.

Fantastic experience: Just attended the best Women’s Self-Defense class ever! Great group of women and one real world technique anyone could do. Thank you Sean, a whole bunch of women walked out of your school today much better prepared to thwart a predator.

Fantastic experience: This is my first and only bjj gym ever. I have to say, the people are great, very helpful and respectful. Coach Sean is super knowledgeable and so willing to work with everyone and meet them at their skill level.

Fantastic experience: This place is incredible! Our 6 year old son goes at least twice a week (and I wish I could fit in more). The instructors are kind, supportive, and clear in their instruction. I can’t believe how much he’s learned in just a few short months. He’s hooked! And so are we!!! If I could give ten stars I would!

Fantastic experience: Our boys, ages 5 & 7, have been attending about a month now. We love Professor Sean and his wife Kelly. They have been great to work with and get acclimated to the program. You immediately feel like family from the 1st day you step into their facility. I have also met some wonderful parents which also makes the time enjoyable while watching your kids grow in their learning of Jiu Jitsu. If you have daughters, look no further. The facility is clean and well taken care of hygienically. I can’t say enough about the family atmosphere they provide. Quit looking and join!

Fantastic experience: Really awesome academy with a great environment. You can tell that Sean is really passionate, not only about the sport, but about growing it the right way. I walked in with ZERO martial arts experience and was comfortable from the get-go. The classes are always fundamentals-focused but with ample opportunity to "live roll." Even most of the more advanced students are very open to teaching and guiding new people. I'd encourage it highly for anybody (male, female, or child) who's looking into BJJ.

Fantastic experience: We are very impressed with Spangler BJJ. Our 8 year old daughter has been attending weekly for a few months. She’s very small for her age and was avoiding physically challenging activities. We weren’t sure she’d go for this, but she LOVES it. I think we attended two trial classes before joining. Friendly, approachable atmosphere, great community of families. Professor Sean consistently emphasizes safety, cleanliness and respect. Misbehavior is not tolerated and these children respond to his instruction style better than I could have imagined. He is so clearly passionate about this discipline and it comes across in the instruction. I would encourage anyone to observe his classroom. Our daughter looks forward to each lesson and seeing her new friends. Her general coordination has noticeably improved and her confidence has surged in unrelated physical activities where her peers were pulling away. This has changed and for that we are very grateful to these awesome people. Thank you!

Fantastic experience: Both of our boys have been enrolled at Sprangler since October 2018. Our experience has been wonderful. We wanted to find something that didn't feel like a belt mill and had an instructor that would be tough enough to really teach the respect and discipline that comes from martial arts. Professor Sean strikes the perfect balance of tough and fun. I want my child to drop and do push ups if they're not paying attention or clowning around. I want them to be pushed in that space because I know they can do it. Both of our boys take three classes a week and look forward to it every single time. This business is a husband/wife duo and Kelly (Professor Sean's wife) is awesome. She makes you feel at home from the first encounter and is equally great with all the kids! Highly recommend!! Add photos

Fantastic experience: We have had a great experience here at Spangler Jiu Jitsu!!! Our son come 3 times a week. The hands on training from the coaches and Sean really makes a difference. My wife and I highly recommend this Jiu Jitsu training for other kids and families. G Riggs

Fantastic experience: Several weeks ago I joined as a white belt who has never trained before. I felt welcomed and I’ve already learned a lot and improved significantly. The staff are great and the training is fantastic. Sean is an excellent teacher and is committed to his students. Everyone I’ve met are more than friendly. Try it out of you are looking for a fun and safe environment.

Fantastic experience: We could not be happier with Spangler Martial Arts! We tried tae kwon do with our son and it was a disaster. The only days he wan't a terror were on sparring days, and those only happened once a month at most! We were told about jiu jitsu from a friend and found Spangler. Sean and Kelly are super nice people and very passionate about what they do. They (and all of the coaches) do a phenomenal job with the kids - even mine when he gets squirrelly. I'll never forget the moment when my kiddo realized that he was SUPPOSED to take the other kid to the mat. He really craves that physical contact and rough and tumble play but this is done in a very safe and controlled environment. He's learning how to lose (and win), how to be respectful to his peers and coaches, and gets a TON of physical activity. We look forward to continuing our journey with Spangler BJJ and see great things in our son's future there.

Fantastic experience: If you are looking for a school that is clean, professional and has world class instruction, Spangler Martial Arts academy is it! While traveling, I decided to drop in and take a class, and was welcomed with open arms. Professor Spangler is a true martial artist, bjj black belt and a very effective coach. His class was structured and his students were respectful at all levels. He took the time to show the finer details of his technique and how to implement them safely and effectively. The facility was clean with ample space to roll and sit and watch if needed. I highly recommend Spangler Martial Arts!

Fantastic experience: I've been training here for a few months and am really happy that I found Spangler Martial Arts. I had no background in BJJ but had trained some Krav Maga which included a bit of grappling. I found that I loved the grappling aspect more than anything else so I thought I would try focusing on BJJ for a while and see how that went. Professor Sean was very helpful in getting started, with a free week and a loaner gi, I got started on my journey. You'll be hard pressed to find someone with as much passion for what they do as Sean Spangler. He is an excellent coach, has a deep background in competition, and he's a great teacher. I don't have a kid at the academy, but I've caught the tail end of kids classes and I'm really impressed with the coaching and discipline being taught. I wouldn't hesitate to put my kids here if they decide to start out with BJJ. One thing I want to point out - the place is CLEAN. I read all of the horror stories about BJJ and skin infections, so if you're worried about this like I was, you'll be pleased at the facilities. Definitely check this academy out if you're looking for a place to train. If you aren't looking, check out the open mats.

Fantastic experience: After a decade of training, I was concerned that I may never find my true BJJ home. That all changed nearly two years ago when I walked into Spangler Martial Arts. Professor Spangler is everything I had ever hoped for in a BJJ instructor. He is a strong leader who doesn't entertain nonsense in his academy. Equally important to note, he is very encouraging and deeply committed to helping each and every student achieve success. The atmosphere is welcoming and friendly, with many advanced students who are more than willing to share their time, tips, and techniques.

Fantastic experience: Great coach and great students. Sean is a world class person. He is a great student of Jiu Jitsu as well as a great teacher. The students at Spangler’s are of all age groups and back grounds. You will get amazing training in a family friendly environment.

Fantastic experience: Sean is great! He is super friendly, easy to talk to, respectful, and gives CLEAR instruction. His extensive knowledge in BJJ and passion for the art is evident in his teaching. The academy as a whole follows his lead and helps each other in drills and (for newbies like me) when you're still learning how to roll in general. There are a number of higher belts as well that are all extremely nice and respectful. I find each class challenging and after each one I feel like I've learned so much and can feel/see my progression. Top it off with a clean, new gym, training at this academy has been great. Definitely recommend.

Fantastic experience: Great environment for kids and adults. Great instruction with expectations regarding behavior and learning. Good mix of hard work and fun.

Fantastic experience: Wonderful school! Great instructor and staff. My child loves it, and I have noticed how the classes have been fostering a sense of focus, respect, and responsibility to him.

Fantastic experience: What I love the most, not including the great training, is how welcoming everyone is each and everyday. How everyone training here always has something to share concerning bjj. Overall very friendly and loving place.

Fantastic experience: Excellent experience overall. The staff and facilities are top notch. My 7 year old daughter loves her lessons, and she improves every week. I can’t say enough good things about Spangler, highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: My husband and 3 boys have been going here for almost 6 months. They have learned so much practical Jiu Jitzu and their confidence and skill has improved tremendously. This is a very family friendly environment. Professor Spangler does a great job with the kids.

Fantastic experience: Coach Sean has made a huge impact on my son Braden and has taught him some World Class moves from his Drysdale training, MMA, Jiu Jitsu, and even some wrestling techniques. Its a non stop hard training school for all ages and a very welcoming environment. People from all ages will roll together.

Fantastic experience: This is a really solid place to learn Jiu Jitsu. I enjoy the teaching style, the availability of classes. There are lots of purple belts to train with, which is great. Everyone is super friendly and helpful. And the best part of all is, I get to train with my son.

Fantastic experience: Awesome training academy. Everyone is friendly and the atmosphere is a great mix business and fun. I’ve been training here for >6mo and love it. My 5 year old also loves the classes. Great coach, great group of people.

Fantastic experience: My son definitely walks a little taller these days thanks to Sean and Kelly at Spangler Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy. Sean’s teaching style allows students to learn in an encouraging family friendly environment. Mistakes are only used as learning tools, and hard work is acknowledged. My son is thriving in Sean’s class, and it shows. He is not afraid to try new things or ask questions. Kelly and Sean also teach students accountability, respect for others and themselves, and for those who choose to compete, how to be generous competitors. They do a great job reinforcing the life lessons we try to instill in our kids at home. Highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: Spangler BJJ Academy is an excellent place to learn and practice jiu jitsu. Coach Sean provides exceptional focus on technique and attention to the details that matter. Workouts are challenging and effective, and students are friendly, supportive, and eager to help others learn - a great place to train.

Fantastic experience: Traveled from Texas to North Carolina for a graduation. We reached out to a few academies in the Fayetteville area, prior to learning of this incredible location! Many places never replied, others decided “outsiders” were not welcome. Very strange, especially within the Jiu Jitsu community. Spangler was phenomenal! Plenty of mat space, high level black belt instruction, and a true family first atmosphere. Very solid two hours of training on this gorgeous saturday! Great mindset and overall training, rolling, and drills. If you’re anywahere within a few hours of the location, it’s well worth your time and travel! Thanks for everything and we will see you again when we return to North Carolina!

Fantastic experience: Just started training with Sean. Intro classes are great. The attention to detail is very impressive. Pounding in the need for basic and fundamentals before you move onto something more advanced. Instructors are patient with new students, but very knowledgable and able to coach all levels. Would definitely recommend this academy as a beginner or a more skilled practitioner.

Fantastic experience: Great team building atmosphere every student and instructor is very friendly and respectful no matter what their skill level is.

Fantastic experience: I visited from Texas, the whole school was extremely inviting! I had a great time, insightful instruction, and some tough rolls!

Fantastic experience: My son has now been going to Sangler BJJ for over a year. Sean has done a great job coaching my son and teaching him respect for the sport and others. I would highly recommend this academy.

Fantastic experience: Hey all I just wanted you all to know that there is an amazing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy located here in Apex at 526 E. Williams street. The name is Spangler Jiu Jitsu and it's located near Apex Wings. They have a great instruction balance between sport Jiu Jitsu and self-defense for children and adults. My two oldest boys ages 7 and 12 will be hitting their one year mark of training at the academy here in the next few weeks and my neighbor has three kids attending as well. When I'm stateside I attend classes there as well and think that the instruction at Spangler Jiu Jitsu is amazing. They are on FaceBook at Spangler Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. If you want your kids to have excellent training and to help them with self-confidence then this is bar none the best resource to utilize. Casey

Fantastic experience: Sean Spangler is an amazing coach. He's passionate, patient and knowledgeable. The thing I like about his style of teaching is that hes very detail oriented from the start. If you don't get the details right, none of the techniques will work. I also like this gym because it's really welcoming and friendly. No one will make you feel bad for being a beginner or being shy. Any type of person is welcome here! The only exception is that any negative, overly agressive or hostile people are quickly removed from the gym. This is a safe, fun and calm space! It's also a pretty upscale space compared to a lot of other martial arts gyms.

Fantastic experience: My boys go here , they are 4 and 6. They love it. Coach Sean and all the coaches do a great job teaching fundamentals as well as great values(i.e. Respect, positive attitude) that really helps to build my sons self confidence and focus. I would highly recommend trying it out. And the Coaches/owners truly care and are passionate about what they are teaching.I love that it's not about the money but a warm and inviting safe space. Check it out for sure!!

Fantastic experience: Now *this* is an academy, a place of training in a special field. The instructors / coaches *actually* coach and train and teach my son (and my husband). We've attended other martial arts schools where the instruction was nowhere near the level offered at Spangler BJJ. We were looking for --and definitely found--a school, an academy, where we could learn a serious discipline yet still feel comfortable, welcomed, and part of a family. As a business owner, I value the high level of quality / service that is offered by Coach Sean and Coach Kelly. My son is a black belt in another discipline and started fresh with jiu jitsu, and he loves it. His enthusiasm inspired several of his friends, who favored more traditional sports, to join; and they love it, too!

Fantastic experience: Great place to train

Fantastic experience: Started out just wanting to defend myself. I was overweight at 240 lbs less than 4 months later I'm down to 213 lbs and still dropping! Great fun workout, and all around just a good family environment. I would recommend it to anyone!

Fantastic experience: Spangler academy provides a great atmosphere for people who are new to Brazilian jiu jitsu. Sean does a great job of breaking down technique so it's easy to understand and everyone there is extremely welcoming and ready to help you learn.

Fantastic experience: I've been training here for about a year, and what I love most about this school is how the curriculum evolves just as BJJ evolves. This is all because coach Spangler is the ideal black belt. I believe this because he exemplifies the belt philosophy common to all martial arts. If you're unfamiliar with this concept it simply means that you are always a student. Sean is constantly training and is never too proud to admit that he has learned something new or adjusted something he has already taught. When he improves; we all improve. Combine that with a positive and welcoming culture you have a great place to practice your jits.

Fantastic experience: Zenith BJJ has been a great experience for our 6 and 3 year old daughters. They've been in gymnastics for a while but I noticed their core strength increased dramatically after just a month at Zenith. The coaches are a perfect blend of disciplined (pushing the kids hard and demanding proper technique) and nurturing (making it fun and feeling like a family). I also love that they teach the kids how to show respect to the coaches, each other, their gis, the gym, etc.

Fantastic experience: My daughter has been with Spangler Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy for a year now and she utterly and wholly loves it! Sean and Kelly are caring, supportive, and motivating coaches who go an extra mile to create a consistently strong training environment. Both are equally meticulous about developing sharp skills and minds. Both are committed to promote discipline, respect, courtesy, and self-control. After several trials and errors, I am happy to have found the school I can trust my daughter with and highly recommend it to parents whose children are serious about martial arts and the art of self-defense.