Rising Tide Jiu Jitsu

Rising Tide Jiu Jitsu is located in downtown Gainesville and led by owner and head instructor Zach Taylor, a black belt under Josh and Angie Vogel of The Jiu Jitsu Company in Philadelphia. Zach has been teaching since his blue belt days, starting with the Gracie combatives curriculum, and has shaped the academy around an approach that values constructive culture, accessible instruction, and genuine inclusion. The school’s core values are built on the belief that a communicative and supportive environment leads to stronger team performance, and that Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu should be accessible to anyone interested in learning. The coaching staff includes Erin Buchanan, who brings a decade of training experience and a record of gold medals from IBJJF competitions. She leads the advanced gi class on Tuesday nights and balances her time between the mats, her work in physical rehabilitation, and playing drums for a local band. This blend of practical experience and technical depth helps create a well-structured class progression for students. Rising Tide offers Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes for adults at every stage, with both gi and no-gi fundamentals, advanced instruction, and all-levels sessions. Muay Thai is also part of the schedule, including pad classes and open gym sessions. The facility features high-quality Fuji mats, a private non-gendered bathroom, and changing rooms. Open mats are held regularly and drop-ins are welcome. The academy’s central location at 15 W University Ave makes it convenient for Gainesville residents and visitors alike.

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