I started training here three years ago when I was 33. Having known basically nothing about Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, I chose Tim's, because of the great Google Reviews and it's proximity to my home. Jimmy Conner - who teaches many of the evening beginner classes - was the first person I met at the academy, and I've been training primarily with him for the last three years. I've learned here that this art can be a lot of different things to a lot of different kinds of people - you can train to improve your self defense abilities, to learn and play the sport, to improve your general fitness (it's a great full body workout), but you can also train it as a means of self-expression and a way to discipline yourself and your mind on and off the mat. While my Jiu Jitsu has certainly improved over the last three years, what's more interesting I think, is how much the confidence I have in myself and how I navigate everyday life has markedly improved. Having visited several different academies in the Northeast and trained with people and instructors from all over the world at a few Jiu Jitsu camps, it's made me grateful to be part of the team and culture at TBBJJ. All of the instructors and coaches encourage us to develop, play, and express our own personally-adapted version of the art; the vibe at the academy is old-school in its toughness, but its also dynamic and unrestrained. Once you get involved in Jiu Jitsu, you start to hear people talk about how it changed their life. I'm another voice in that chorus. I have met, been strangled by, and have strangled a diversity of genuinely excellent people. If you're here reading reviews, what have you got to lose? Come to a beginner class, learn some strangles in your pajamas, make some friends, and listen to Jimmy tell some dirty jokes in between. If I ever think I'm too tired to show up, I remember I'm never disappointed on my way out. read more

The reputation of Tim Burrill Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has long been that of the best BJJ school around- with very good reason. Having trained there for almost 6 years I can attest to the fact that this school has maintained its status as one of the very best. In a martial art that is constantly evolving as much as BJJ, this is no simple task. The roots of this academy (established long before my training began) have remained extremely strong while allowing its large body of students to flourish freely in all directions fostering an eclectic, dogma-free, yet fundamentally stalwart environment to learn, practice and spread this limitless art. The academy managed by world class talents Tim Burrill and Jimmy Connor, has produced WORLD CLASS talent in the truest sense including Jiu Jitsu elite who have demonstrated the art beautifully in the UFC and other world stages. And YET the makeup of the academy is, in very large part, previously inexperienced martial artists who have found the perfect place to begin their journey of self improvement through Jiu Jitsu. Whether you are like the majority who are just looking for a welcoming place to start out something new, or have the aspirations of a world beater, Tim and Jimmy will not disappoint in fulfilling your unique reasons for training and they will also make you laugh! Every student of this art remembers their 'first day.' Enough reading reviews, come to a class where you will be welcomed genuinely by the kindest group of trained killers around!! read more

This school is hands-down the best jiu-jitsu school I've been to, and Jimmy Conner is the best coach I've seen, signing up was an incredibly easy decision. I moved to RI a short while back, and was looking to get back in to jiu-jitsu after a short break. At Tim's, the welcoming friendly atmosphere is only matched by the incredibly high technical level taught and performed by the students. Classes are run in a fun and highly technical manner, Jimmy's breakdown of techniques is impressive and I've been able to pick up and perform techniques I always assumed only high level pro athletes do. Since joining the school, I've discovered a renewed passion for the sport, I'm in the best shape of my life and have made several truly great friends, I've also had opportunities to test myself in ways I never thought I would or could, and have come out far better for it on the other side. I could go on and on about how great this place is, but really you should just come try it for yourself, meet a truly cool and diverse crowd, laugh at the jokes and learn some fun jiu-jitsu along the way. read more

I have known Tim Burrill since his move from Texas to the New England area over 15 years ago. Burrill is a well known and well respected black belt under Carlos Machado and the first black belt to run a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy in the state of Rhode Island. His coaching over the years has allowed many of his dedicated students to grow mentally and physically in all aspects of life as well as the sport of Jiu Jitsu and MMA. Jim Connor, a black belt under Burrill is one of the best coaches whom I have had the pleasure of training with recently. He brings detailed and creative concepts in explaining the many components of a technique in Jiu Jitsu and the positive energy he himself carries, has drawn a large following for all his classes. Connor's approach in addressing goals and life challenges are encompassed with the Jiu Jitsu philosophy. I can't speak highly enough of the Tim Burrill Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy and all of the coaches, who are more than willing to share their knowledge. read more

I absolutely love this jiujitsu academy! I've taken classes with Jimmy Conner on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday. Jimmy Connor, Tim Burrill, and students of the academy made me feel like family the moment I walked through the door :). I've had the opportunity to train jiujitsu at several schools in the area. Jimmy's teaching style is second to none. He allows his student to form their own artistic interpretation of the art while providing them with the essential components. The man is truly a mastermind. Jimmy's genuine love and appreciation for the art is clearly broadcasted through his innate ability to teach seemingly complex concepts. Im proud to call him my friend, a mentor, and hold rank under his name. The environment is welcoming. The gym is clean and well maintained. The classes are comprised of a diverse population who treat each other with love, respect, dignity and kindness. Come check it out for yourself! WARNING: THIS JIUJITSU STUFF IS ADDICTING! read more

Tim Burrill Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is one of the Top Bjj schools in the northeast. I have been training there since 2004 and cannot recommend this place enough. Tim and head instructor Jimmy are two top notch teachers who help to provide an open atmosphere where learning can be plentiful and enjoyable...while also pushing us towards our best. I enjoy several classes a week and appreciate the flexible class schedule and clean environment along with the large mat space. If you're interested in looking into and checking out a great place to train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu look no further then this place...not to mention the quality of this school and it's training that I find no problem traveling an hour one way to train there... read more

I first came to Tim's school after it was recommended by a friend. I had been interested in a practical self-defense art and bjj is immediately applicable. From day one, you're in the mix and learning about yourself and learning how much you don't actually know. It's an eye opener, humbling, and well worth your time. People at TBBJJ come from all walks of life and you'll find people are accepting & open to anyone willing to put in the effort. The school fosters an environment of learning and friendly competition in a safe arena where you learn some real life stuff that can literally save your life someday. Strongly encourage you to check it out! read more

I have been training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for a year now and like most, I began my journey trying out numerous gyms/coaches. I chose Tim Burrill's because of the family like environment and my coach Jimmy Conners. Jimmy Conners has a way of explaining technique in ways that makes sense. He also lets you use your personality and creativity to shape your game which was something that was different from other gyms. Jimmy also brings everyone together creating a friendly atmosphere that is conducive to learning. Jimmy has a great sense of humor which makes me look forward to training numerous nights a week. 5 Stars for Tims 5 Stars for Jimmy read more

I finally went and checked this place out a couple weeks ago. I can honestly say its a great experience from the moment you walk in until the moment you leave. For me it was a little intimidating the thought of starting not knowing much about the art. But it wasn't like that at all. I was immediately welcomed with open arms and taken right under there wing. Jimmy is an outstanding teacher. He is very thorough and explains everything so that you understand what you are doing as your doing it. You can definitely see that he genuinely cares. Overall an absolute great place to train for all skill levels across the board. Highly Recommended! read more

Wanna learn a superpower? Look no further. Coach Burrill has created an environment where students are free to learn and grow. Coach Connors brings a detailed and fun(ny) style of instruction that is as effective as it is unique. While aggressive and filled with solid grapplers, you'll find a warm and accepting environment where all levels work and learn from each other. If you've been batting the idea of training in BJJ around, check out a free Sunday, Pay It Forward, class. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll slowly find yourself becoming a savage while having fun and training with great people. read more

I love training here! As a woman in a male dominated sport I was looking to feel comfortable and safe, but also respected, and that's how it's always been for me at TBBJJ. Tim's style of teaching concepts really makes you think and help you understand. Jimmys style of giving specific steps to execute a technique while explaining the nuances that make it effective (sprinkled with some colorful humor), is fun and very informative. I think the 2 styles compliment each other well. I always look forward to training and it's great to see more & more women getting into it. read more

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at its best! I walked through the doors out of shape at 260 pounds in March of 2017. I am still training today at 180 pounds and loving it. The supportive and attentive staff as well as any student in the gym are helpful and kind. It has become a second family to me and I am proud to be under the tutelage of great instructors and coaches. Being a member here also brings the option to train at affiliated locations at no extra cost to you. Where else would you look? Change your life, come train with the best! -Jim Lambert read more

Tim is a Legend in the Jiu Jitsu world, and when it was time to choose a school two years ago his gym was the natural choice. Head Black Belt instructor, Jimmy Conner is my primary instructor, his comprehensive lessons have elevated my game to new levels. I would rate it one of the best schools in the North East in my opinion. Come to a class and see for yourself. read more

The best place to train Brazilian jiu jitsu in Rhode Island. One of the premier gyms in New England. The quality of instruction and the technical quality of the practicioners is absolutely superb. Pro fighters and competitors and regular folk of all ages train hard and learn together here. The instructors are killers on the mat, but also wonderful, gentle people. read more

I've been training Bjj at Tim's for almost 4 years now, and this place is the best around. The instructor are great, and have make it easy to understand what's being taught. The other students are always helpful and encouraging to myself and others. Love this place, never regretted a day there, and would highly recommend it to anybody. read more

Great coaching staff and incredible bjj community! Fully diverse group of current Instructors so there is something for everyone from women's only classes to fundamental classes to open gyms. Won't regret stopping in and checking it out! read more

Awesome spot to train BJJ. My game has greatly improved since I started training here with Jimmy Conner. Great coach with an awesome teaching method. Definitely check this spot out of you're looking for high level BJJ. read more

Great BJJ school. Good culture. Tim and Jimmy know how to break things down so that they can be most easily understood and incorporated by the students. They foster a collaborative and welcoming environment. read more

Tim's is a great school. Both Tim and Jimmy are excellent teachers and extremely friendly. You feel at home at the gym and everyone is kind and helpful. Great school highly recommended! !! read more