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BJJ for Beginners in Chicago
21 gyms in Chicago, Illinois show real evidence — from their own sites or students' reviews — of being a welcoming place to take your very first BJJ class. That first class is simpler than the nerves suggest: you don't need to be fit or flexible, you won't be thrown into hard rolling, and a patient coach walks beginners through technique with a partner at their own pace. Wear comfortable athletic clothes, bring water, and expect a warm-up, some movement drills, and a few positions and escapes learned slowly — most academies lend a gi so you don't need to buy anything yet. Gyms are ranked below by local reputation (rating weighted by review count), and with 21 beginner-friendly options in town, it's worth calling ahead, saying it's your first time, and asking which class on the schedule they'd start you with.
1. Taylor Biagi Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
5 ★★★★★ 351 reviews
“We had an amazing experience visiting Taylor Biagi Jiu Jitsu last weekend in Chicago. I just want to sincerely thank the team for their incredible hospitality in welcoming my son…” — Lesley
2. Valko Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy
5 ★★★★★ 233 reviews
3. Southside Jiu Jitsu Club
4.9 ★★★★★ 226 reviews
“This place has been a lot of fun. Took a few classes and every time I show up I learn something new. I feel like I have a better understanding of how to move my body and…” — Javier
4. Downtown Jiu Jitsu Club Chicago
4.9 ★★★★★ 208 reviews
“Absolutely top notch! This is the place you want to be, whether you’re an absolute beginner or an experienced competitor. The facility is clean and offers lots of amenities -…” — Joseph
5. Supreme JIU JITSU Chicago Idriz Redzovic
5 ★★★★★ 184 reviews
6. Redzovic Jiu Jitsu Chicago
4.9 ★★★★★ 147 reviews
“We absolutely love our experience at redzovic BJJ The coaches are incredible—patient, knowledgeable, and truly invested in each child’s progress. They take the time to give…” — Shannon
7. Chicago School Of Grappling
5 ★★★★★ 142 reviews
“This place is amazing. The gym has such a chill and positive atmosphere. Both the teachers and students have been welcoming, kind, supportive and respectful. All the teachers are…” — Chloe
9. Molinaro Jiu Jitsu
5 ★★★★★ 103 reviews
“Molinaro Academy is a welcoming, friendly, clean facility with a safe and respectful environment. Brazilian world Jiu-Jitsu champion professor, Alex, is fully vested in his…” — Rickky
10. Renzo Gracie Chicago
4.9 ★★★★★ 101 reviews
“If you love great jiu jitsu Instruction and a friendly environment, then drop into Renzo Gracie Chicago. Frankie and his team were welcoming and the class structure was edifying.…” — Jay
11. Chicago Mixed Martial Arts
4.9 ★★★★★ 91 reviews
“Legit BJJ blackbelt & Muay Thai instruction, coupled with a very welcoming environment. Classes are structured & build upon prior concepts. The facilities are well maintained,…” — Nader
12. Brazil 021 BJJ - Jiu-Jitsu in Chicago
4.9 ★★★★★ 81 reviews
“I have been a student at Brazil-021 Chicago for almost two years. I would compare the experience to coming to your favorite bar/restaurant or sushi bar. Everyone there knows your…” — Yakov
13. Lakeside Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
4.9 ★★★★★ 78 reviews
“Lakeside Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has been nothing short of amazing for my family. Both of my boys attend the kids’ class, and I joined the beginners’ class myself—our experience has…” — Jasmina
14. Gracie Barra Jiu Jitsu in Chicago
4.9 ★★★★★ 71 reviews
“Loved the 1.5 years spent at Gracie Barra. I came in knowing nothing about martial arts and immediately got hooked. The classes are great for either beginners or advanced…” — Kevin
15. Double Five Jiu-Jitsu
4.9 ★★★★★ 70 reviews
“Andre is meticulous about detail. He takes his time with beginners and turns it up for the more advanced students. The vibe is positive, all the black belt instructors are super…” — Lane
16. Grassroots Jiu-Jitsu and Fitness
5 ★★★★★ 64 reviews
“Started my Jiu-Jitsu journey at this gym almost a year ago. Although Jiu-Jitsu itself can be intimidating, the atmosphere is very inviting for beginners! The instruction from…” — L
17. Project Achilles - Mixed Martial Arts - BJJ - Muay Thai - Self Defense - Concealed Carry Licence - Kid BJJ - Kid Muay Thaï
4.9 ★★★★★ 64 reviews
“Project Achilles is hands down one of the best martial arts gyms in Chicago. From the moment you walk in, the atmosphere is welcoming, professional, and highly motivating. The…” — Gheorghi
18. North Side Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
4.9 ★★★★★ 61 reviews
“Professor Branko’s programs are world class. I’m enrolled in his adult program and I’ve always felt welcome and respected. All of my children are enrolled in his kids program, and…” — Gnoway
19. 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu Chicago
5 ★★★★★ 59 reviews
“This is truly a great place to learn and have fun!! Everyone is extremely friendly, and I felt welcome from my first class. Josh, the head instructor, has the body of knowledge…” — Robert
20. Valko Jiu Jitsu Studio
5 ★★★★★ 47 reviews
“Best people to train with! Jay, Jose and Rex are the best instructors/coaches I have ever had. Very safe, professional and welcoming environment for everyone (including women and…” — August
21. Movimento Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Fitness
4.8 ★★★★★ 32 reviews
Booking your first class in Chicago: practical notes
- Call ahead and say you're new. Ask which class they'd start a beginner with — many gyms have a fundamentals or all-levels class that's a gentler introduction than the main floor. A good front desk loves this question.
- Ask how rolling works. You won't be made to roll hard as a beginner; find out how and when a gym introduces live rolling so you know exactly what you're signing up for.
- Keep gear simple. Comfortable athletic clothes and water are enough for a first class — most academies here lend a gi, so you can try BJJ before buying anything. See the what-to-wear guide.
- Go at your own pace. Being winded the first time is normal and expected. Take breaks, drink water, and let your fitness build over your first few weeks — nobody expects a beginner to keep up with the regulars.
- Use a free trial. Many gyms offer a free trial class — the cheapest, lowest-pressure way to find the room that fits. See free BJJ trial classes.