Today we’d like to introduce you to Eric Philcox.
Hi eric, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
A Black belt under Max Gimenis, Eric embarked on his journey in the world of jiu jitsu, and it was an instant love affair with the sport. Over the past eight-plus years of dedicated training, Eric has had the opportunity to practice at numerous jiu jitsu academies around the globe. This has granted him a unique vantage point to discern the key factors that contribute to the success of an academy.
Throughout his travels, Eric has come to deeply appreciate Max’s distinctive training approach, recognizing it as highly effective and the ideal foundation for a prosperous academy. Eric’s path in jiu jitsu has been a source of enduring life lessons, imparting values such as persistence, dedication, and discipline—qualities that prove invaluable not only on the mats but also in the realms of business and life beyond.
In his professional life, Eric served as the founder and owner of a thriving digitization company that he sold in 2022. He has harnessed his wealth of business experience to establish the Culture of Jiu Jitsu Academy that same year, leveraging his expertise to ensure its success.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There is always struggles when creating something. Early on, we decided that we were not going to cut corners or start small. We had big goals and made some big investments in location, staff and equipment and those decisions made for a few sleepless nights but are paying off long term.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Culture of Jiu Jitsu Academy, located in Gaithersburg, MD, is more than just a martial arts school—it’s a place where people of all ages and backgrounds come together to train, grow, and evolve. We offer a wide range of programs, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Gi and No-Gi), Muay Thai, MMA, and specialized classes for kids, women, and adults. Whether someone is stepping on the mat for the very first time or already an experienced martial artist, we create an environment that meets them where they are and helps them reach their personal goals.
Our academy was co-founded by Eric Philcox, a local entrepreneur with a passion for community, and Max Gimenis, an IBJJF World Champion who earned his black belt on the podium at the world’s most prestigious stage. Together, they built Culture of Jiu Jitsu to bring world-class training to the Gaithersburg area, blending international-level expertise with a strong local foundation. Alongside Max, our instructor team includes highly skilled and dedicated coaches who bring a wealth of experience and care to every class, making sure students receive not only technical knowledge but also encouragement and support.
What truly sets us apart is our culture. We pride ourselves on being welcoming, inclusive, and community-focused. Students often describe our academy as a “home away from home,” where they not only train hard but also form meaningful friendships and bonds. Training at Culture of Jiu Jitsu is about much more than fitness or self-defense—it’s about building confidence, discipline, and resilience that extend into every part of life.
We are most proud of the transformations we see in our students. From kids who develop self-confidence and focus, to adults who rediscover their strength and energy, to competitors sharpening their skills for the highest level of competition—each success story is a reflection of our mission. Our goal is simple: to create a space where anyone can experience the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of martial arts, and to share the empowering journey of Jiu-Jitsu and combat sports with our community.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
As we continue to grow in Gaithersburg, we are looking at oppertunities to grow in Maryland and beyond. Jiu Jitsu is growing world wide and with promotions giving away $1 million dollars prizes and the UFC making a huge multimillion dollar investment in the sport, I see quite a bit of growth in the future.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://cultureofjiujitsu.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cultureofjiujitsuacademy/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CultureofJiuJitsuAcademy
