Testimonials from our Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and Judo students

"When I started training with Nick Tissue and Stu Ramos at Team Maryland BJJ, I weighed 300 lbs., had no discipline, work ethic, or confidence. Less than two years later, I lost 115 lbs. because of the technique and encouragement. I went from a 50 inch waste to a 34 and from XXL to Small in shirts. Now, I actively compete in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts. Nick and Stu have helped me complete a lifestyle change. I now eat healthy and have a strict workout schedule. Gracie Jiu-Jitsu literally helped save my life. Thank you for everything."

- Brian S.

"Training Gracie jiu-jitsu and Kodokan Judo with Stuart Ramos is tremendously rewarding. It keeps your body fit, your mind sharp, and your spirits high. As an unarmed self-defense system it is practical and effective--but it allows for total control of the force one applies. In other systems, it is very rare for a small individual to physically dominate a bigger, stronger, and more athletic opponent through proper technique; at our dojo, it happens every day!

At Team Maryland, the level friendship and camaraderie within the team is extremely high. I try to come to class every day not just for the world-class instruction, but also for the motivation and support my training partners give me. Everyone comes to have a good time as well as kick butt, and the smiles are infectious!"

- Anthony G..

"I am in my 40's and joined Team Maryland Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu because I needed a regular exercise routine to benefit my health. Before coming to Team Maryland BJJ it had been very hard to stay at a gym, as I get bored pretty quickly and it has been almost impossible to work out at home. Balancing work and family and exercise regularly has been very hard and working out has always felt like an obligation.

Team Maryland Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu offered regular training schedule, flexible class times, excellent training methods and very friendly atmosphere. The level of teaching is very high. In fact, amongst the 5 schools I have been in the past, this is the best martial arts school. The instructors and students are very friendly and it is a pleasure to work out and spend time in the gym.

My initial expectation was that I would stop attending after a month, as it always happens with most busy people. Surprisingly, I was able to make it a routine. I have hardly missed a class and I am looking forward to each one. My endurance and strength have increased way beyond my expectations, my muscles became very firm, I dropped a size and I don't get as tired anymore. My weight is the same no matter how much I eat, my blood pressure and pulse are better the normal, I sleep well, I feel like an athlete, and the skills I am learning are real. From a jelly fish that was facing medication therapy, Team Maryland Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu have turned me into a fit person with better lifestyle without sacrificing anything and I am having fun doing it.

I strongly recommend Team Maryland Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to anyone - couch potatos, competitors or anyone who wants something positive and beneficial in their life. Team Maryland Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is the right place."

- Alex T.

"My brother and I own a martial arts school in Maryland. About a year ago, we began looking for a way to improve our grappling skills. Like many people we heard of the many benefits of brazilian jiu-jitsu. We tried out a few BJJ lessons at various schools before finding the right fit with Stu and Nick. Being a school owner myself, I am very critical when it comes to my own personal training. I have over 21 years of martial arts experience and have black belts in multiple disciplines. I can honestly say the training we receive at Relson Gracie MD is like nothing I have ever experienced.

We found everything we were looking for and more. Stuart Ramos is without question the BEST instructor I have ever trained under. The teaching style is dynamic and the curriculum is amazing. Nick and Stu teach a perfect balance of Judo, BJJ, and the most practical self-defense tactics I've learned. I take pride in being a student at Relson Gracie MD. I learn so much in every class and I have made life-long friendships with many of the other students.

This is the best gym in Maryland hands down. I drive an hour to see Stu and Nick. Even if it was 2 hours away I would still make the drive. Thank guys for taking out training to new levels!"

-Mike Stewart Jr.
Owner/ Head Instructor CRC Martial Arts

"My friend took me for a trial BJJ class at Team Maryland...
If it was up to me, I would have never thought of even trying any mix martial art, so thanks to Alex T for the persuasion. Two and half years later, here I am - a hardcore BJJ fan and a proud Gracie BJJ Blue Belt, going to practice twice a week - a lifestyle.

I feel like I can start another day right after practice is over, and after "the usual" rumble rounds with "the guys" – it is fun, it is a great workout, it keeps me in shape, and yeah - I sure can defend myself on the streets.

Thanks Stu and Nick for your knowledge and experience, and willingness to share it all with your students."

- Ivan S.