The 14 Best Jiu Jitsu Gyms in Chicago

Chicago is a bustling metropolis filled with food and entertainment on every corner. Whether you're a history buff, an art aficionado, or a martial arts enthusiast, the Windy City will always have something that will keep you entertained.

Yes, Chicago is an amazing city with a thriving martial arts community, especially Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu! Martial arts are not only a way to learn self-defense; they also teach valuable skills like respect, discipline, and focus.

If you want to learn Jiu-Jitsu for whatever reason, here's a list of the finest BJJ academies and gyms in Chicago.

1. Valko

When looking at a BJJ gym or academy, you need to check if they have multiple black belt instructors under their wing. This is a testament to their capabilities. Valko has 11 instructors with black belts. They also have multiple students with blue and purple belts training in the gym.

They have Gi and No Gi classes and offer fundamentals for beginners. The first class is always free, so if you want to meet the instructors and see their training program, you can opt for it before you commit.

(773) 556-8155
Hifi Fitness 820 N Orleans Chicago, IL 60610

Find them on Instagram @valkobjj

2. Downtown Jiu Jitsu Club

The owner, Adem Redzovic, is a world-renowned Jiu-Jitsu instructor. He can teach technical moves and techniques that even beginners can understand. He also entered the 4th-degree black belt under the Gracie Family.

They offer modern amenities, and you will surely love the friendly atmosphere of the gym. If you are visiting from another gym or city, you can avail of their Single Class Drop-in or the 7-Day Guest Pass. As for regular membership, you can visit their website to know more.

(312) 583-0244
226 S Wabash Fl 3 Chicago, IL 60604

Find them on Instagram @downtownjiujitsuclubchicago

3. Carlson Gracie

This is one of the BJJ academies that would make your jaw drop. The owner and primary instructor, Carlson Gracie Jr., is actually an IBJJF-ranked 6th-degree black belt, something that only a few instructors have achieved over the years.

Carlson Gracie was also the first to open a Jiu-Jitsu academy in Chicago. Along with this father, the Legendary Grand Master Carlson Gracie, they help their students achieve the same height that they reached in BJJ.

They offer kids and adults BJJ programs, No Gi BJJ, and Muay Thai sessions.

(312) 409-0566
2788 N Milwaukee Ave Chicago, IL 60647

Find them on Instagram @carlsongraciehqofficial

4. Brazil-021

Unlike other Jiu-Jitsu gyms and academies, the goal of Brazil-021 is to combine skills and character development. They believe that the student's journey should not only be about improving their skills in BJJ, but also about changing their perspective in life.

Brazil-021 offers classes for kids and adults. They have fundamentals and advanced classes as well. If you prefer more focused training, you can try their private classes. Check out their free trial class and see if you are fit for their training programs.