AARON HENSLEY + RISE NATION
Build Leaders. Build Systems. Build Legacy.
RISE Nation is the ecosystem Aaron Hensley built to help coaches, martial arts school owners, faith-driven leaders, fitness leaders, and service-based entrepreneurs turn expertise into scalable businesses that develop leaders, serve communities, and create lasting impact.
Leadership Architect | Founder of RISE Nation | Built 24 locations across 6 states | Multimillion-dollar exit
Built from 30+ years of leadership, business building, and real-world operational experience.
⬤ 3170 Linden Drive · Bristol VA 24202
Martial Arts & Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Classes in Bristol
Stryker Martial Arts Academy offers Kempo Karate, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and youth empowerment programs for kids, teens, adults, and families. Building confidence, discipline, and resilience through expert instruction and a supportive community.
PHARMACISTS
NURSES
HEALTH COACHES
DOCTORS
PAS
CRNPS
2,046+
Five Star Reviews
29+
Years of Experience
250,715+
Students Achieved Their Goals
Web Special: FREE Intro Class | New students only · Bristol location
★★★★★ 5-Star Rate
Google & Facebook Reviews
Bristol
OPEN: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Sat
Evenings · Weekend Morning Classes
Kempo · BJJ · NinjaTrix
Kempo · BJJ · NinjaTrix
Since 1997
Creating Leaders- One Black Belt at a Time
Our Programs
find your perfect program
Every program at Stryker Martial Arts Academy is designed to build confident leaders — not just martial artists.
Our preschool program helps young children develop listening skills, coordination, and confidence through fun, structured classes designed specifically for early learners.
SAFETY ● LISTENING ● COORDINATION ● CONFIDENCE
Lil Cobras
Ages 3-6
Kempo Kidz
Ages 7-12
A high-energy program that helps kids develop focus, responsibility, and self-confidence while learning valuable life skills in a positive and encouraging environment.
FOCUS ● CONFIDENCE ● ANTI-BULLYING ● LEADERSHIP
Teen/Adult Kempo
Ages 13+
Designed for teens and adults looking to challenge themselves, build confidence, and develop practical self-defense skills while becoming part of a supportive community.
FOCUS ● SELF-DEFENSE ● FITNESS ● MENTAL TOUGHNESS
Kids learn how to stay calm under pressure, solve problems, and build confidence through structured training that rewards patience, effort, and perseverance.
SELF-CONTROL ● DISCIPLINE ● PROBLEM-SOLVING ● RESILIENCE
Kids BJJ
Ages 7-12
Teen & Adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Ages 13+
Whether you're brand new or experienced, our BJJ program helps students develop confidence, discipline, and real-world self-defense skills in a welcoming atmosphere.
SELF-DEFENSE ● FITNESS ● DISCIPLINE ● CONFIDENCE
NinjaTrix
Ages 5-12
Created to help young students build confidence, independence, and personal strength through engaging classes that encourage leadership and self-belief.
AGILITY ● COORDINATION ● CONFIDENCE ● SELF-ESTEEM
THIS IS FOR YOU IF...
✅ You want structure, discipline & real life skills for your child
✅ Your kid struggles with focus, confidence, or being bullied
✅ You're a teen or adult looking for fitness + self-defense
✅ You want your family to share a healthy, active goal together
✅ You're a complete beginner — no experience required
✅ You believe in showing up consistently and doing the work
THIS IS not FOR YOU IF...
❌ You're looking for a quick fix with no commitment
❌ You don't believe discipline and respect matter
❌ You're only interested in fighting, not personal growth
❌ You're not open to being coached or making changes
❌ You expect results without consistent effort and attendance
❌ You're looking for a daycare, not a development program
why
Stryker Martial Arts Academy
we make discipline fun.
We are committed to providing a safe, caring, and educational environment — actively encouraging the personal growth of every student, and reinforcing the good habits taught at home.
Anti-Bullying System
Confidence-based tools taught in every kids and teen class.
adhd-friendly
.Structured drills & positive reinforcement for every learning style.
belt mastery path
A milestone system that teaches students to set and achieve goals.
family culture
Parents are partners. We send tools to reinforce skills at home.
Since 1997
Founded in 1997 — over 29 years of helping Bristol families build confidence, discipline, and lifelong character through martial arts.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"We had our son’s 4 yr Birthday party at Stryker. It was a great place and all of his friends that attended really enjoyed the interactions, skills, and games they worked on with sensei Toby & Katie. They were so patient with this age group and held their attention with their enthusiasm. The party was set up and included decorations, pizza, and paper products. We just showed up with the cake and everything else was handled from there! Our birthday boy had a front row seat of his cake being sliced with samurai sword!! So cool! Will be hard to top a birthday experience like the one they offer at Stryker Academy! Very pleased and would highly recommend!"
Andrea V.
hear it from our members
Real members.
Real Transformations.
Members from
Bristol
share their experience.
Featured Testimonial · Stryker Martial Arts Academy Bristol VA
·
Bristol, VA
DISCIPLINE
CONFIDENCE STARTED SHOWING UP FAST
Student: Girl, Age 4 · Program: lil cobras · Duration: First Few Weeks
Parents were looking for an activity that would help their daughter build confidence, learn self-defense, stay active, and develop important life skills. Within just a few weeks of training, they noticed significant growth in both her enthusiasm and personal development.
key milestones
📅 Week 1 — Welcomed by instructors and quickly felt part of the community
📅 Week 2 — Began learning foundational martial arts skills and class routines
📅 Week 3 — Built confidence while making new friends
📅 Week 4+ — Showing growth in discipline, focus, and physical fitness
"My daughter has learned so much already and she loves meeting new friends. Not only for self-defense, but for discipline and physical health. The whole staff, including the owners, are so great with the kids and parents."
— Heather R., Parent
CONFIDENCE
MORE THAN MARTIAL ARTS
Student: BOY, Age 8 · Program: Kempo Kidz · Duration: Ongoing
Parents were looking for an activity that would help build confidence, discipline, and focus while keeping their child engaged and excited to learn. Through consistent training and positive coaching, they noticed significant growth in both attitude and self-belief.
key milestones
📅 First Classes — Quickly felt comfortable in the welcoming environment
📅 Month 1 — Developed excitement and motivation to attend classes
📅 Month 3 — Increased confidence and willingness to take on challenges
📅 Ongoing — Continues building focus, discipline, respect, and leadership skills
"The instructors are patient, encouraging, and make each class both fun and challenging. I've noticed such a boost in my child's confidence and motivation since starting here. The environment is positive and family-friendly, and you can tell the staff truly cares about the students' progress."
— Sheri C., Parent
COMMUNITY
MORE THAN A MARTIAL ARTS SCHOOL
Student: Boy, Age 14 · Program: Teen/adult kempo · Duration: Ongoing
Parents wanted a positive environment where their teenager could stay active, build confidence, and be surrounded by strong role models. What they found was a supportive community where instructors genuinely care about every student's success both on and off the mat.
key milestones
📅 First Classes — Welcomed into a friendly and encouraging environment
📅 Early Training — Built connections with instructors and fellow students
📅 Ongoing Attendance — Developed confidence, accountability, and consistency
📅 Today — Feels like part of a martial arts family, not just another student
"If he misses class Chris calls and checks on him to make sure he's ok. My son isn't just another student there, he is more like family to them. All the kids are great and helpful when needed."
— Jami P., Parent
LONG-TERM GROWTH
EIGHT YEARS AND STILL EXCITED TO TRAIN
Student: Adult Student · Program: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu · Duration: 8 Years
Finding a martial arts school is one thing. Finding a place that keeps you motivated and engaged year after year is something entirely different. Through expert instruction, a supportive community, and a proven curriculum, this student found a training environment worth committing to for the long haul.
key milestones
📅 Year 1 — Built a strong foundation and confidence in training
📅 Year 3 — Continued developing skills alongside supportive teammates
📅 Year 5 — Advanced through the curriculum with personalized coaching
📅 Year 8 — Still training, learning, and growing with no plans to stop
"The biggest reason is the atmosphere of amazing instructors and students topped off with great curriculum made by Master Machado himself. Makes learning fun and easy to digest while providing top-notch detail with every single technique. You will get attached to the instructors and love the training!"
— Eli M., Student
5.0
Real Reviews Rating
2,046+
Five Star Rating
96%
Facebook Recommendation
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"My son celebrated his 7th birthday at Stryker today. The staff were wonderful and all the kids had a fantastic time. The party was high energy and my son got to break a birthday board and cut his cake with a Samurai sword. We were very impressed and will be back for sure!"
Hannah C.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"Absolutely the best experience!! Our daughter is a student at Stryker. Professor Massie and his wife Dee are amazing people. They truly care about each of their students and their families. Sensei Eli is an amazing young man with so much talent and knowledge. The talent that every person here possess is beyond amazing."
Matthew R.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
"We attended a hands-on and informative class to see how the kids would take to it, and they LOVED it! We signed up, the instructor provided details, and answered all the questions we had. We're super excited to get started, and I'm so glad I found this location with such an encouraging, helpful, and positive atmosphere."
Emily Y.
Our Programs
COMMON QUESTIONS FROM
Bristol
members
Serving Bristol area, and surrounding communities.
Is Stryker Martial Arts Academy right for beginners in Bristol?
Absolutely. Most students at Stryker Martial Arts Academy start with little to no martial arts experience. Whether you're interested in Kempo Karate, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, or NinjaTrix, our instructors will guide you step-by-step in a welcoming and supportive environment. Your first class is designed to help you feel comfortable, ask questions, and see if our academy is the right fit for you.
Do you serve families from Bristol, Abingdon, Blountville, and the surrounding Tri-Cities area?
Yes! Stryker Martial Arts Academy proudly serves students from Bristol, Abingdon, Blountville, Kingsport, Johnson City, and surrounding communities throughout the Tri-Cities region. With evening and Saturday classes available, we make it easy for busy families to fit martial arts training into their schedule.
What age can my child start at Stryker Martial Arts Academy?
We welcome students as young as 3 years old through our Lil Cobras program. We also offer Kempo Kidz, Kids Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, NinjaTrix, and teen/adult programs. Whether your child is just getting started or you're looking for training as an adult, we have classes designed for every stage of the journey.
What's the difference between Kempo Karate, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and NinjaTrix?
Each program offers a unique experience. Kempo Karate focuses on confidence, discipline, and practical self-defense skills. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu teaches problem-solving, control, and technique through grappling-based training. NinjaTrix combines martial arts, tumbling, and athletic movement to build coordination, agility, and confidence in a fun, high-energy environment. If you're not sure which program is the best fit, our instructors will help you find the right starting point based on your goals and age.
Is martial arts good for kids with ADHD or focus challenges?
Many parents enroll their children because they want to improve focus, self-control, and confidence. Our structured classes, positive coaching, and goal-oriented curriculum help students practice listening skills, following directions, and staying engaged. Every child is different, but many families tell us they've seen improvements both at home and in school after starting martial arts training.
No Experience Needed · No Long-Term Commitment
get started now
Personal attention from our instructors, and a real taste of what we can do for you or your child.
Stryker Martial Arts Academy
·
3170 Linden Drive · Bristol VA 24202
Root-cause healing that restores the body through nervous system regulation, detox pathways, and metabolism. Not symptom-chasing. Not another bandaid.
Hi, I'm Dr. Kourtney
Three pillars of real,
lasting results
Energy & Fatigue Recovery
Nervous system and detox support that addresses why your body is stuck in survival mode — not just masking exhaustion with caffeine and supplements.
01
Metabolism & Weight Loss Resistance
If you're eating right and exercising but nothing moves, there's a deeper reason. We find it — and fix it — using functional labs and a personalized protocol.
02
Hormone Balance
Hormone issues are signals of something deeper — drainage, nervous system dysregulation, or metabolic burden. I help you address the root, not just the numbers.
03
MY APPROACH
Why clients get results when
nothing else worked
I combine 20+ years as a pharmacist with a root-cause, whole-body approach — bridging conventional medicine with the deeper healing most practitioners never address.
01
Regulate before you detox
Nervous system and drainage are the non-negotiable foundation. Skip this step and nothing else sticks.
02
Healing is low and slow
Real detox doesn't happen overnight. Sustainable results come from doing it right — at the pace your body can actually handle.
03
Symptoms are signals, not diagnoses
Hormone imbalances, weight gain, fatigue — your body is communicating. We listen, then address what they're pointing to.
"I get it, because I've been there — and I know exactly where conventional medicine stops and real healing begins."
● Pharmacist-level fluency in your labs, medications, and diagnostics
● Functional medicine lens that asks why , not just what
● Whole-body protocols — nervous system, detox, and metabolism together
● 1:1 consultations using the Root Cause Method, not cookie-cutter plans
● Internationally accredited certification teaching practitioners the same method
national
business Advisory & Tenant Representation
These two services are conducted without geographic restriction. We advise and represent clients wherever the deal or operation requires — across the US.
track record
Clients & Partners
Past tenants and S&P 500 companies we've worked alongside.
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