About Element26
Welcome to Element26, where we are dedicated to providing the highest quality Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training in a supportive, family-friendly environment. Our mission is to empower students of all ages and skill levels through the art of BJJ, fostering physical fitness, mental resilience, and personal growth.
Our Philosophy
At Element26, we believe that Jiu-Jitsu is more than just a martial art—it's a way of life. Our approach combines technical excellence with practical application, ensuring that our students develop skills that work both on and off the mats.
Whether you're looking to compete at the highest levels, learn self-defense, or simply get in the best shape of your life, our expert instructors are here to guide you every step of the way.
Meet Our Instructors

John Smith
Head Coach - Black Belt
15+ years of experience competing at the highest levels.

Maria Rodriguez
Kids Program Director - Brown Belt
Specializes in teaching children of all ages and abilities.

David Chen
Competition Coach - Black Belt
Multiple-time IBJJF champion with a focus on competitive training.
Class Schedule
We offer a variety of classes for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Join us at a time that works for your schedule!
Membership Options
Invest in your health, fitness, and self-defense skills with our flexible membership options. Join our community today and start your Jiu-Jitsu journey!
Basic
Perfect for beginners looking to start their Jiu-Jitsu journey.
- Unlimited Fundamental Classes
- Access to Open Mat Sessions
- Free Uniform (Gi)
- Monthly Progress Assessments
Premium
Our most popular option with full access to all classes and amenities.
- Unlimited Access to All Classes
- Access to Open Mat Sessions
- Free Uniform (Gi) + Rashguard
- Monthly Progress Assessments
- Competition Training
- One Private Lesson Per Month
Family
Train together as a family with our comprehensive package.
- Access for 2 Adults + 2 Children
- Unlimited Access to All Classes
- Free Uniforms (Gi) for All Members
- Monthly Progress Assessments
- Competition Training
- Discounted Private Lessons
Other Options
What Our Students Say
Hear from our community about how training at our academy has impacted their lives.
Preston Richardson
"Best place to train Jui Jitsu that I have ever been to. I have been to many school and the instruction and level of knowledge here far exceeds the rest. I have been grappling for over a decade and in my one year at Element I have improved more than the other 9 years combined. The technique isn’t the only thing keeping me coming back. The community is amazing and friendly as well. The school if filled with a great group of people that genuinely care for one another. I am happy to of found a home gym at Element 26."
Greg Farris
"Element has been my home away from home! I've been a martial artist for 25+ years and I travel the country to get to train at so many different gyms and learn from the best instructors. When I moved to Bloomington I tried out several gyms to make my new place to train. I have loved Element since day one. The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable teaching techniques that are utilized at the highest level of jiu jitsu. Everyone's super friendly and helpful at all levels and there's no ego in the room. It's just so much fun being around this team and they make sure to keep it safe and of course cleanliness as a priority which is also important to me. Great culture, great vibes, I definitely can't recommend Element enough!"
Joe Rizzi
"The level of instruction I have received at E26, both in my workouts and in Jiu Jitsu, is unparalleled. The way Kurtis instructs Jiu Jitsu combined with with his extremely vast knowledge will leave even the most experienced of grapplers coming back to learn more. Could not recommend this place enough."
Cory Yokel
"I cannot say enough about this gym, its owners and the community of people that work out here. Members come from all walks of life, all ages, all fitness levels with one goal in mind, be better than yesterday. Each one of the members I have personally seen make positive progress toward their individual goals. This is a testament to the instruction and guidance given by the owner. You will be pushed beyond what you think you can achieve, but will be rewarded with the knowledge you are capable of more. You will also be supported in that journey by the staff and other members 100%. This is not your cookie-cutter gym. The benefits go far beyond fitness at this gym. From the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu standpoint, this gym has a great number of talented practitioners. The instruction covers traditional Gi classes, NoGi classes for all levels. In addition, there is ample time throughout the week to practice when the mats are open for students to roll. The facility is a clean and safe place to train. This school is affiliated with Alan Shebaro BJJ (co-founder of the We Defy Foundation), and a 4th Degree Black Belt. If you are looking to continue to train BJJ or are wanting to start, this is the place."
Contact Us
Have questions or ready to start your Jiu-Jitsu journey? Get in touch with us today!
Send Us a Message
Our Location
Address
211 S Prospect Rd, Bloomington, IL 61704, USA
Phone
Hours
Mon-Fri: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sat: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Sun: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM