About SIMS Martial Arts Academy | 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu Waterloo
Welcome to SIMS Martial Arts Academy | 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu Waterloo, 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 SIMS Martial Arts Academy | 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu Waterloo, 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.
Nic Goodman
"I brought my 14yo son in. He has been wrestling for several years prior to this. The head coach Gary has been a great coach that is very welcoming. He takes a laid back approach to coaching/training, while still ensuring that his students are technically sound. 10/10 would recommend"
Gregory Blomenkamp
"Jiu Jitsu is a life changing experience! 10th Planet Waterloo is a fantastic place to start your journey in this amazing sport. The absolute BEST people in the business run these schools and I’m so proud that I get to call them my friends. I cannot say enough good things about this school!"
Stephen Mellan
"I did a drop in here, and found it to be fantastic place to train and learn BJJ for ma and my daughter. 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu is focused exclusively on no-gi jiu-jitsu. This means that you can train in a simple pair of shorts and rash guard or drifit t-shirt, but never the “gi”. That means you’re not spending 100$ on a uniform. The community and culture of a gym are everything to me. You can get nice mats, a fancy brand name, and decent pricing, which Waterloo certainly has but the community (coaches, families, students, and staff) is what makes this gym special. The students and staff welcomed me like I was a brother, but the coaching and ownership, made sure I was welcomed and getting good training, This gym hit the training FEEL perfectly. * Friendly as heck: After a couple of classes, I already felt like I was part of the community and making friends. I genuinely felt sad I wouldn’t going to be going there regularly. When I was there People always ask my name, chat with me, ask about me, and do so with genuine interest. So many people! * Encouraging: I was shocked at how many people found something nice to say about something. I mean, I always do it too, but these guys were very generous with their compliments. And it’s not because I’m particularly good, they were just good with expressing it. * Eager to teach: Whenever I asked, someone would show me how they did something to me. * Limited ego: Almost without exception, people I rolled with weren’t gung ho about “winning”, and found something nice to say even if they destroyed me. Classes were structured perfectly start with a light warm-up, explanation of the technique of the day, some positional technique training and sparring, and then rolling. The class ends with a group photo which builds on that the community feel. This place has got to be one of the cleanest gyms I’ve been to. I don’t know how many square metres / feet / acres this gym is, but it’s massive. Twenty or thirty people can train there at once… in fact with 10 pairs of people rolling there’s still plenty of space. The area is ~80% mat, plus some bleachers for parents to put your stuff, and some changing rooms / bathrooms in the back. This a great family friendly gym and I think you will find it the perfect fit for your family"
Lauren and Jacob Fowler
"Our son is loving the action and we are loving the discipline he is learning."
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
1301 Jamie Ln, Waterloo, IL 62298, 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