This directory lists martial arts academies specializing specifically in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) rather than mixed striking disciplines. These facilities focus exclusively on ground grappling, leverage-based submissions, and positional control in both Gi and No-Gi formats. Before contacting a school, verify whether their schedule aligns with beginner fundamental blocks and if they supply loaner gear for trial classes.
Chicago 3
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Molinaro Jiu Jitsu
3260 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60657
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North Side Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
3649 N Central Ave, Chicago, IL 60634-2753
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Vianna Brothers Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy
2128 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
10am - 10:45am
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Gladiador Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy
435 N Bolingbrook Dr, Bolingbrook, IL 60440
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Curran Jiu-Jitsu Academy
102 W Woodstock St, Crystal Lake, IL 60014-4212
10:30 am – 2:00 pm
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Blackhorse Jiu-Jitsu
2750 Maple Ave, Downers Grove, IL 60515-4201
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Ohana Martial Arts
995 Progress Dr, Grayslake, IL 60030-7836
mon/ tues/ thurs @ 6pm
Joliet 1
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Team Gladiador - Joliet
221 Springfield Ave, Joliet, IL 60435-7653
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Illinois Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy
126 E Main St, Mascoutah, IL 62258-2135
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BJJ Lab Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy
1701 Quincy Ave, Naperville, IL 60540-3955
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University of Ground Fighting
12540 W Harvey Dr, New Lenox, IL 60451-3275
Also in Illinois
- Traditional Martial Arts Schools547
- Kids Martial Arts Classes381
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Schools268
- MMA Gyms161
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Gi Training Programs141
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and BJJ Training Classes128
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) Martial Arts Schools126
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) Training Academies126
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) Classes124
- Dedicated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academies86
- Self-Defense Classes and Safety Workshops71
- Mixed Martial Arts Gyms and Training51
- Karate Classes for Children and Adults50
- Kickboxing Classes for Beginners and Adults45
- Tai Chi and Qigong Classes for Seniors and Adults39
- Family Martial Arts Classes and Academies30
- Filipino & Historical European Martial Arts Schools21
- Jiu-Jitsu Fundamentals and Beginner Classes20
- Martial Arts Schools with Fat Loss Programs16
- Historical European & Filipino Martial Arts Classes13
Good to know
How much do monthly Jiu-Jitsu membership fees cost?
Unlimited BJJ memberships in the US average $140 to $230 per month depending on location and instructor rank. Expect an additional upfront cost of $90 to $160 for an academy-approved Gi or $60 to $100 for a No-Gi rashguard set.
Do I need prior martial arts experience or advanced fitness to start?
No prior experience or elite athletic conditioning is required to begin training. Most BJJ schools offer structured 8- to 12-week fundamental programs that teach basic breakfalls, escapes, and positional hierarchy at a controlled pace.
What is the difference between Gi and No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu classes?
Gi training uses a traditional heavy jacket and pants, allowing fabric grips that slow the pace and emphasize technical leverage. No-Gi training relies on body friction, wrist control, and neck hooks, resulting in a faster-paced session closer to wrestling.
How to lose body fat percentage?
Reducing body fat percentage involves maintaining a moderate energy deficit while engaging in strength training and high-calorie combat sports. Regular practice in disciplines like MMA or Muay Thai builds lean tissue while driving down overall body fat. Users in Illinois can browse 11 verified martial arts academies offering structured weight management programs.
How to drain fluid from ear?
Draining fluid from an ear—often caused by trauma such as cauliflower ear in grappling—requires sterile medical aspiration using a syringe followed by a compression wrap. Performing this procedure at home without medical expertise carries a severe risk of infection and permanent cartilage deformity. Practicing martial artists in Illinois should consult qualified medical professionals or ask coaches at one of the 11 listed local academies for proper sports health protocols.