The Edge Martial Arts Academy Introduce
For those in the Tennessee region who are serious about learning martial arts—not for sport or show, but for authentic self-defense and personal development—The Edge Martial Arts Academy in Knoxville is a destination unlike any other. This is not a place for flashy kicks, elaborate forms, or classes set to high-energy music. Instead, The Edge offers a deep and profound dive into the combative arts, focusing on skills that are practical and effective in real-world situations. The academy is a women-owned business, bringing a unique perspective and a strong commitment to empowerment through martial arts. Under the expert guidance of Guru McCleary, students learn a system that is both intellectually stimulating and physically demanding. The Edge is a place for those who seek substance over showmanship and who are ready to commit to a journey of genuine mastery.
The core philosophy of The Edge Martial Arts Academy is embodied in its unique system, Serbatik. As one reviewer states, Guru McCleary "has invented a system that weaves together all aspects of fighting into a single art." This is a place where you get to learn directly from an expert and a true "authority in the field," who is personally present for every class, circulating to each student to ensure they grasp the techniques at their "truest level." This dedication to individual instruction, even in group settings, is a hallmark of the academy. The training is a "deep dive into martial arts" that prepares students "to survive a fight in the dark night of reality." It’s an art form that goes beyond the physical, providing a "thorough mental and spiritual knowledge that can be utilized throughout life." This commitment to holistic development, along with a focus on applicable self-defense, makes The Edge a rare and valuable find in the Knoxville area.
The Edge Martial Arts Academy is conveniently located at 6620 Oak Ridge Hwy, Knoxville, TN 37931, USA. This location makes it easily accessible for residents of Knoxville and the surrounding communities, particularly those in the Hardin Valley and Karns areas. The academy is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot. These features ensure that the facility is welcoming to all individuals, regardless of their mobility needs. The convenience of its location, combined with these thoughtful accessibility features, makes it a practical choice for anyone looking to incorporate high-quality martial arts training into their busy schedule. A restroom is also available on-site for the comfort and convenience of all students. The clean, modern facility is an ideal environment for focused training, free from distractions. The convenience of a prime location and a professional, accommodating space underscores The Edge's commitment to providing a top-tier experience for all who enter its doors.
The Edge Martial Arts Academy offers a diverse and comprehensive range of services, all unified by the core principles of the Serbatik system.
Martial Arts Disciplines: The academy provides instruction in a wide variety of martial arts, including Boxing, Jiu-jitsu, Judo, Karate, Kickboxing, Kung fu, MMA, Muay Thai, Tai Chi, Wrestling, and Kali. This diverse curriculum allows students to explore and master a wide range of skills.
Youth and Adult Programs: Classes are available for "Classes For All Ages," with specific programs for "Youth Classes" and "Adult Classes." This ensures that the curriculum is tailored to the unique needs and abilities of each age group.
Specialized Training: The academy offers specialized training in "Combat Conditioning," "Combat Grappling," "Jeet Kune Do," "Jeet Kune Do Grappling," and "Weapons Training." This deep focus on practical skills sets the training apart from more recreational programs.
Flexible Training Options: Students can choose between "Group Classes" and "Individual Classes," "Personal Instruction" or "Private Classes." This flexibility allows students to customize their training based on their goals and preferences.
Hybrid Classes: The Edge offers both "Online Classes" and "Onsite services," including "Zoom Classes," which provide added flexibility for students to continue their training from home.
Other Offerings: The academy also provides "Hatha Yoga" and "Cross Training" to supplement martial arts training, helping students improve their overall fitness and well-being.
The breadth of these services, from a variety of martial arts to different training formats, ensures that every student can find a program that fits their individual needs and goals, all within a single, dedicated academy.
The Edge Martial Arts Academy stands out in the Knoxville area with several key features and highlights that define its unique character and value.
Guru McCleary's Personal Instruction: The most significant highlight is the fact that the owner, Guru McCleary, personally runs every class and provides direct feedback to every student. This level of dedication and expertise is rare and ensures a consistent, high-quality training experience.
Unique System of Serbatik: The academy's own martial arts system, Serbatik, is a major draw for serious students. It’s described as a practical, philosophy-based art that integrates various fighting styles for real-world self-defense, focusing on the "Body, Mind, & Spirit."
Women-Owned Business: As a women-owned business, The Edge Martial Arts Academy offers a unique and empowering perspective on martial arts, creating an inclusive and respectful environment for all.
Focus on Authenticity: The academy is praised for its lack of "showy flips" or "rigid set of pretty forms." The focus is on authentic, applicable martial arts for self-protection, which is a major draw for students who want a deep and meaningful training experience.
Inclusive and Accommodating: The academy’s commitment to accessibility, with wheelchair-friendly entrances and parking, shows a dedication to welcoming a diverse group of students into their community.
These highlights collectively demonstrate that The Edge Martial Arts Academy is a place for serious, dedicated individuals who value authenticity, expertise, and a truly transformative learning experience.
To learn more about The Edge Martial Arts Academy or to begin your training, you can contact them using the following information.
Address: 6620 Oak Ridge Hwy, Knoxville, TN 37931, USA
Phone: (865) 694-0301
Mobile Phone: +1 865-694-0301
The academy offers on-site services and accepts credit and debit cards for convenience.
So, what is truly worth choosing about The Edge Martial Arts Academy? The answer lies in its unique and unwavering commitment to substance over style. For anyone in the Knoxville area who is tired of "McDojo" experiences and wants a genuine martial arts education, The Edge is the premier destination. You are not just paying for a workout; you are investing in a profound and practical skill set taught by a true authority in the field, Guru McCleary. The focus on Serbatik—a system that is both mentally and physically comprehensive—provides a level of training that is difficult to find elsewhere. This is a place that challenges you to become more capable, resilient, and aware, preparing you for real-world scenarios. The fact that the academy is a women-owned business adds an extra layer of integrity and dedication that many students appreciate. If you are a Tennessee resident seeking a deep, authentic, and transformative martial arts experience, The Edge Martial Arts Academy is your destination. It is a place where you will not just learn to fight, but you will learn to understand the art of combat and, in the process, learn a great deal about yourself.
The Edge Martial Arts Academy Services
Martial Arts School
- Boxing
- Jiu-jitsu
- Judo
- Karate
- Kickboxing
- Kung fu
- Mma
- Muay thai
- Tai chi
- Wrestling
- Adult Classes
- Adult Programs
- Art Training
- Classes For All Ages
- Combat Conditioning
- Combat Grappling
- Combative Art
- Cross Training
- Grappling
- Group Classes
- Hatha Yoga
- Individual Classes
- Individual Instruction
- Jeet Kune Do
- Jeet Kune Do Grappling
- Kali
- Kids Martial Arts Classes
- Martial Artists
- Online Classes
- Personal Class
- Personal Instruction
- Personal Training
- Private Classes
- Self-Defense
- Serbatik
- Training Program
- Weapons Training
- Youth Classes
- Youth Program
- Zoom Classes
The Edge Martial Arts Academy Details
From the business
- Identifies as women-owned
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Amenities
- Restroom
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
The Edge Martial Arts Academy Photos



The Edge Martial Arts Academy Location
The Edge Martial Arts Academy
6620 Oak Ridge Hwy, Knoxville, TN 37931, USA
The Edge Martial Arts Academy Reviews
The Edge Academy is great because Guru McCleary is great. He has invented a system that weaves together all aspects of fighting into a single art, and he embodies that art completely. He is an expert, an authority in the field, and you get to learn directly from him. He runs every class, and makes a point to circulate to every student during the class so they can feel each technique at its truest level.If you want a YMCA Kickboxing class set to techno music, this is not for you.If you want a rigid set of pretty forms, or showy flips, or look-how-high-I-can-kick, also not for you.But if you want a deep dive into martial arts where you surface able to survive a fight in the dark night of reality no matter what comes your way, then this is your place.
February 27 · Jared Oliver AdamsSerbatik is amazing. Guru Mccleary is one of the most brilliant martial artists in the knoxville area. Besides teaching applicable martial arts for self protection, Serbatik gives a thorough mental and spiritual knowledge that can be utilized through out life for youth and adults. I've been part of the family for about a year now and can say personally you'll find no better experience for studying the arts.
January 17 · Myron TGuru McCleary is the best martial arts instructor that I have ever had. His knowledge and ability to train is truely undpsurpassed. I feel honored to have been his student and retain all that I was shown. You will be happy that you chose this school!
January 09 · RiverScout5This place is Awesome!Classes for adults, youth, or private lessons. I feel stronger and more prepared for life's challenges after every class. You're really missing it if you don't come and join in.
January 14 · Cindy NorthThe instructor is one of the most knowledgeable martial artists I've ever met; this is rare gem of a class.
January 10 · Michael Bellamy
More Tae Kwon Do Near Me
The Wheeler Academy5.0 (79 reviews)3553 W Emory Rd, Powell, TN 37849, USA
Stephen Strouss TaeKwonDo Knoxville5.0 (175 reviews)1505 Downtown W Blvd, Knoxville, TN 37919, USA
Master Booe's Karate Kidz5.0 (121 reviews)144 S Peters Rd, Knoxville, TN 37923, USA
DV Martial Arts5.0 (23 reviews)9355 Kingston Pike #1, Knoxville, TN 37922, USA
Progressive Martial Arts Academy (PMA) Knoxville4.0 (11 reviews)215 Center Park Dr, Knoxville, TN 37922, USA
Knoxville Academy of Martial Arts5.0 (61 reviews)10961 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37934, USA
Eun's Martial Arts Center4.0 (29 reviews)11110 Kingston Pike, Farragut, TN 37934, USA
Warrior Heart USA - Martial Arts & Yoga5.0 (8 reviews)297 Oak Ridge Turnpike #400, Oak Ridge, TN 37830, USA
Knoxville Martial Arts Academy4.0 (135 reviews)6514 Chapman Hwy, Knoxville, TN 37920, USA
Knoxville's Best Martial Arts5.0 (125 reviews)11805 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37934, USA
Memento Combat Sports4.0 (46 reviews)2519 Topside Rd, Louisville, TN 37777, USA
National Martial Arts5.0 (76 reviews)1145 Oak Ridge Turnpike, Oak Ridge, TN 37830, USA
Categories
Top Visited Sites
Filipino Kali Academy - HQ5.0 (30 reviews)
Maryland Taekwondo School Of Martial Arts5.0 (1 reviews)
Sakura Judo4.0 (49 reviews)
LifeCare Martial Arts Center5.0 (3 reviews)
Sky Martial Arts - OrangeCrest4.0 (33 reviews)
Kwon's Martial Arts Center5.0 (14 reviews)Top Searches
Trending TKD Insights Posts
How to Execute a Jumping Roundhouse Kick to the Head
How to Execute a Double Kick Combination in Sparring
How to Perform a Flawless Axe Kick: A Step-by-Step Guide
DIY Tae Kwon Do Training Equipment for Home Practice
How to Increase Your Vertical Jump for Tae Kwon Do Flying Kicks
The History of the Tae Kwon Do Peace Corps 
