Dennis is such a kind and approachable instructor with an immense wealth of knowledge. I know for me as a woman in a male dominated sport, this is important to me. The academy is always so welcoming and the members are supportive of one another- they really promote a familial vibe and atmosphere. I also love that Dennis is willing and able to cater to those who have injuries or limitations in their training ability. He also focuses on building a strong foundation and intentional instruction, that as a newer and often sporadic attendee, I always appreciate. He and Josarah have done an amazing job of building a training facility that caters to all levels and interests that feels genuinely inclusive. So glad they moved to Bend!
I was very lucky to train here for a week while I was in town for a conference.
Although I haven't been training jiu jitsu long (18 Months) I have been to about 15 different gyms and schools. I'm also a teacher, and between my training time and my profession, feel qualified to say that Professor Asche's teaching is of excellent quality.
First, he explains things in a way that makes them easy to understand. I noticed that everyone in his classes have a strong BJJ vocabulary, which means they've been understanding the theory *and* the techniques.
Secondly, the class atmosphere is extremely respectful and kind. While BJJ is a combat sport, it can be taught in a way that is fun and provides a safe learning environment. Professor Asche's classes achieve this balance wonderfully.
Third, the classes are well-structured. There's a skill-specific warm-up that has nothing superfluous (like random ab exercises). Each movement is an actual grappling movement and gets you ready for class. After, there's instruction, drilling, instruction, drilling, and then positional sparring where you get to practice the moves of the day in a controlled manner. After positional sparring, there's open sparring. It follows the teaching principle of 'gradual release of responsibility' or 'I do, we do, you do' which appeals to me as an educator.
Fourth, the facilities are great. There are changing rooms, loaner gis, and Professor Asche has very good sanitary practices, which are important in grappling sports to prevent the spread of skin infections. It's probably the cleanest gym I've visited between the mat wipedowns after every session and the feet sanitizing tub.
Finally, Professor Asche himself is very kind. I felt very welcomed, and hope to come back soon. I can't say enough nice things about the people or the training. If you live in the area, train here.
TL;DR - great training with a great professor in a great facility. Train here, now.
I started training in Los Angeles (arguably the mecca of BJJ) under Renato Magno one of the best instructors around. This experience has provided me with a lot of insight as to what makes a great instructor and academy.
Dennis Asche has provided the same level of instruction! Due to his guidance the academy is very challenging, technique oriented, combined with a friendly atmosphere.
When I made my move back to Bend, Renato said "train with Dennis" and from that I did not need to look any further.
Bend is a very small town and we are fortunate to have this level of instruction.
Dennis is an amazing teacher and a great friend. His work ethic and training methods are something that helped build me into the person that I am today.
I wish I lived closer so that I could train regularly with Dennis.
Training under black belt Professor Dennis Asche. Great classes for beginners or the more experienced, and for both women and men. Love this gym.
A great, friendly, professional place to get the workout of your life!
Connection Rio is the real deal. I don't know how they do it, everyone at this gym is super nice, down to earth and chill. No meatheads looking to hurt someone, and they're super patient with middle-aged moms and dads (aka me), and all the other white belt cannon fodder just learning the ropes. At the same time, the regular members are super intense and focused on mastering BJJ.
I had the pleasure of attending a very rigourous belt test for two new blue belts, and I cannot emphasize it enough, if you've been given a belt by Professor Asche, there can be no question if you really earned it. Perhaps the only way to have a more legit BJJ experience, is to hop in a time machine back to 1995, and train at a grade/gym in Torrance CA where the coach only speaks Portuguese.