Kids BJJ in Chicago
25 gyms in Chicago, Illinois show real evidence — from their own sites or parents' reviews — of running kids or youth BJJ classes. BJJ is a genuinely good fit for children: it builds confidence, focus, and fitness in a disciplined, respectful setting, and young beginners drill technique and positional games rather than sparring hard. The best move before enrolling is simply to go watch a class — ask each gym what age ranges its classes serve and what its rolling policy is for kids, and notice whether the coach is patient and the room is calm and organized. Gyms are ranked below by local reputation (rating weighted by review count), and with 25 options in town, it's worth visiting two before you decide.
1. Taylor Biagi Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
5 ★★★★★ 351 reviews
“We have had a terrific experience at Taylor Biagi jiujitsu. My son is 13 and everyone has been so helpful to him and going out of their way to make him feel comfortable while…” — Peggy
2. Valko Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy
5 ★★★★★ 233 reviews
3. Southside Jiu Jitsu Club
4.9 ★★★★★ 226 reviews
“I was 239lbs to start. I weigh in around 180 lbs now. Not even a year of training. I am in the best shape of my life and SSJJ is partially responsible for it. I’m more focused and…” — Ihsan
4. Supreme JIU JITSU Chicago Idriz Redzovic
5 ★★★★★ 184 reviews
“My 8-year-old son has been coming to Supreme JIU JITSU Chicago with Professor Idriz Redzovic and Coach PJ, and it has been an absolutely transformative experience for him. He used…” — Amelia
5. 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
6. Ascend Jiu-Jitsu
5 ★★★★★ 137 reviews
“My son genuinely enjoys coming here. The professor does an amazing job teaching discipline in such a positive and respectful way. He takes the time to explain mistakes clearly and…” — Kat
7. Degerberg Academy of Martial Arts
4.9 ★★★★★ 111 reviews
“I've had 2/3 kids training at Degerberg since 2021. The eight-year-old daughter has gained (much needed) self-confidence in addition to quality instruction in martial arts and…” — Alicia
8. Molinaro Jiu Jitsu
5 ★★★★★ 103 reviews
“We’ve had an amazing experience with Molinaro Jiu-Jitsu. My son started when he was just 3 years old, and now he’s about to turn 5. We are so happy we found this place. The…” — Gabriela
9. Vianna Brothers Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy
4.9 ★★★★★ 102 reviews
“We absolutely love Vianna brothers BJJ!"We couldn’t be happier with our experience. The kids’ BJJ program has been amazing for my children! The coaches are patient, encouraging,…” — Yahret
10. Renzo Gracie Chicago
4.9 ★★★★★ 101 reviews
“Great place to learn! I enrolled my 7 year old son a couple of weeks ago. Crystal (staff) was welcoming and very helpful in assisting me with enrolling. If you're looking to…” — Frank
11. Brazil 021 BJJ - Jiu-Jitsu in Chicago
4.9 ★★★★★ 81 reviews
“Brazil 021 School of Jiu-Jitsu! This place is my second home since day one I feel comfortable. It's a family environment. They also have a Women's class self-defense which is…” — Audrey
12. Lakeside Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
4.9 ★★★★★ 78 reviews
“Five stars aren’t enough. Disclaimer: I am a highly introverted person, I can be social but consciously avoid it. So, I always tried sports that didn’t involve too many people…” — Odaiclet
13. Gracie Barra Jiu Jitsu in Chicago
4.9 ★★★★★ 71 reviews
“Amazing Jiu Jitsu school. We have joined as a family and it has changed our lives. The instructors are very respectful and experienced in welcoming new beginners like ourselves.…” — Nasos
15. Grassroots Jiu-Jitsu and Fitness
5 ★★★★★ 64 reviews
“This studio is a hidden gem! We absolutely love Grassroots. My husband attends the adult classes and 3/4 of my kids attend the youth classes. It is worth every cent.” — Ck
16. Project Achilles - Mixed Martial Arts - BJJ - Muay Thai - Self Defense - Concealed Carry Licence - Kid BJJ - Kid Muay Thaï
4.9 ★★★★★ 64 reviews
17. Carlson Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Headquarters
4.8 ★★★★★ 64 reviews
“I've been studying Brazilian jiu-jitsu here since 2015 and I absolutely love it! Learning this sport and being a part of the Carlson Gracie team has been transformational. I'm…” — Marian
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. Pure Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
4.9 ★★★★★ 55 reviews
“We just started taking my 4 year old son to Pure about a month ago. He is an extremely shy and timid toddler, who rarely wants to try anything new. Professors Catherine and Nick…” — Nancy
20. CombatZone Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and MMA
4.9 ★★★★★ 53 reviews
“My husband Joe aka Asaru attends this place let just say the workout ain't no joke. MR. Unique is very Unique. This man right here derseves what he asking for and some. I know…” — Tefnut
21. 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
22. Movimento Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Fitness
4.8 ★★★★★ 32 reviews
“My son is 11 years old and has been attending Movimento gym for 2 going on 3 years now. From the start we were welcomed and treated like family. My son has became stronger…” — Roselyn
23. Stronghold Jiu-Jitsu Academy
5 ★★★★★ 26 reviews
“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…” — M
24. The Bridge Jiu-Jitsu
4.8 ★★★★★ 20 reviews
“Having trained in martial arts for over the past 20+ years across the country and internationally and also, training amateur and professional fighters at the highest levels, I can…” — Mar
25. Artistic Jiu Jitsu School
5 ★★★★★ 18 reviews
“My son enjoys coming here and working with the instructors. Pedro and Laura are detail oriented, patient, great at explaining/teaching, and make the classes fun. I'm really…” — Joshua
Enrolling your child in Chicago: practical notes
- Watch a class first. Any welcoming gym will let you and your child observe before signing up. Look for a patient coach, a calm and organized room, and kids who are having fun while staying on task.
- Ask about age ranges. Confirm which class fits your child — many gyms split younger kids from older kids and teens — so the pace and content match their age.
- Ask about the rolling policy for kids. Reputable gyms keep young beginners on positional drills and controlled games; live rolling should be introduced gradually, kept light, and closely supervised.
- Keep gear simple to start. Comfortable athletic clothes and water are enough for a first class — most academies lend a gi, and they'll tell you when it's worth buying your own. See the what-to-wear guide.
- Use a free trial. Many gyms offer a free trial class — the lowest-pressure way to find out if it clicks for your child. See free BJJ trial classes.