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Stronghold Jiu-Jitsu Academy

Chicago, IL

About Stronghold Jiu-Jitsu Academy

Welcome to Stronghold Jiu-Jitsu Academy, 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.

Academy Interior

Our Philosophy

At Stronghold Jiu-Jitsu Academy, 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.

Family-Friendly
All Skill Levels
Expert Instruction
Supportive Community

Meet Our Instructors

John Smith

John Smith

Head Coach - Black Belt

15+ years of experience competing at the highest levels.

Maria Rodriguez

Maria Rodriguez

Kids Program Director - Brown Belt

Specializes in teaching children of all ages and abilities.

David Chen

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!

Monday
6:00 AM - 7:00 AMFundamentalsAll Levels
12:00 PM - 1:00 PMOpen MatAll Levels
6:00 PM - 7:00 PMFundamentalsBeginners
7:15 PM - 8:30 PMAdvancedIntermediate/Advanced
Tuesday
6:00 AM - 7:00 AMCompetition TrainingIntermediate/Advanced
12:00 PM - 1:00 PMNo-GiAll Levels
6:00 PM - 7:00 PMKids Class (7-12)All Levels
7:15 PM - 8:30 PMNo-GiAll Levels
Wednesday
6:00 AM - 7:00 AMFundamentalsAll Levels
12:00 PM - 1:00 PMOpen MatAll Levels
6:00 PM - 7:00 PMFundamentalsBeginners
7:15 PM - 8:30 PMAdvancedIntermediate/Advanced
Thursday
6:00 AM - 7:00 AMCompetition TrainingIntermediate/Advanced
12:00 PM - 1:00 PMNo-GiAll Levels
6:00 PM - 7:00 PMKids Class (7-12)All Levels
7:15 PM - 8:30 PMNo-GiAll Levels
Friday
6:00 AM - 7:00 AMFundamentalsAll Levels
12:00 PM - 1:00 PMOpen MatAll Levels
6:00 PM - 7:30 PMCompetition TrainingAll Levels
Saturday
10:00 AM - 11:00 AMKids Class (4-6)All Levels
11:15 AM - 12:15 PMKids Class (7-12)All Levels
12:30 PM - 2:00 PMOpen MatAll Levels
Sunday
10:00 AM - 12:00 PMOpen MatAll Levels

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

$149/month

Perfect for beginners looking to start their Jiu-Jitsu journey.

  • Unlimited Fundamental Classes
  • Access to Open Mat Sessions
  • Free Uniform (Gi)
  • Monthly Progress Assessments
Get Started

Premium

$199/month

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
Join Premium
Most Popular

Family

$299/month

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
Join as Family

Other Options

Drop-In Classes

Try a single class for $25 or purchase a 10-class pack for $200.

Learn More →

Private Lessons

One-on-one training sessions starting at $75 per hour.

Book a Session →

What Our Students Say

Hear from our community about how training at our academy has impacted their lives.

M Thoma

"Family! Stronghold Jiu-jitsu Academy is 100% Stronghold Jiu-Jitsu Family. Everyone helps everyone here in every capacity. If someone says they need help with something outside the academy, there are 20 brothers and sisters asking when and where! Professor Luis has created such an awesome learning environment. DO NOT be tentative to join, on your first day, EVERYONE will come up to you, shake your hand, introduce themselves, and welcome you to our Stronghold Jiu_Jitsu Family. Myself and my two boys are part of this family, and we are never leaving this Academy!"

Luis Cruz

"Been a student for the last several weeks and I couldn’t have asked for a better place to learn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Incredible instructors, who are also great at making us inexperienced people comfortable. The environment that they’ve created at stronghold is top notch. From day one I’ve felt like a member of the family, and I never plan on leaving. My kids will soon be students here as well. Much respect to Stronghold, and Professors Luis, Pete, and Chris."

Anthony Velazquez

"This is a great place to develop technique and build your self confidence. I've had previous jiu jitsu experience coming from the suburbs. After relocating into the city, I was searching for an academy that provided an ego-free environment to better learn and grow as a person through the practice of this great martial art. The head professor is very kind, genuine and shows through his demeanor how much jiu jitsu can positively impact a person if they simply decide to step on the mats. Try a class, you won't regret it and it just might change your life for the better."

Jack King

"This is a great gym. Professor Luis, Pete, Chris and coach Wasa are all amazing bjj practitioners and even better teachers. You truly learn from the best. The gym also offers judo with Sensei Bryan and it is all beginner friendly. The environment at this gym is not like any other place. At the very least, give it a try. It can help you in all aspects of life."

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

4120 N Nashville Ave, Chicago, IL 60634, USA

Hours

Mon-Fri: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Sat: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Sun: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM