Best Mma Gym near Chicago, Illinois

My son has been a part of this dojo since 2020. He is now 10 and the highest ranking Junior Dragon. He is also a junior instructor for the newer kids. I myself most recently joined earlier this year. Grandmaster Starks and his amazing wife Julia have created a remarkable environment for adults and children to be challenged , become stronger mentally and physically and be a part of a growing family and legacy. Grandmaster Starks was most recently featured on the front cover of Deadly Art Of Survival (15th Edition) where his story can be read. I encourage anyone in the Chicagoland area to come visit their dojo, you will not be disappointed.

I've been studying and training at the DBJ dojo for nearly two years and it's been one of the best combat experiences! This is coming from a 4 year wrestler who also has nearly 2 years of boxing (training only), minor Judo trianing in Cameroon, and a handful of months at a Gracie Academy. Not only does the dojo uphold its set principles and values, but it also pushes its students to do the same. Strikes are taught off the rip because they're woven into the curriculum; and by extension, your technique. Under Grandmaster Starks, if you take it seriously, you'll become a legit student under the Gyawn Atiko Jujutsu system-a more traditional style of Jujutsu. Belts aren't given; we're students, hence the set tests we take to earn our promotions. In addition to the mats, full boxing ring, and MMA cage, the DBJ dojo fully embraces a healthy fight culture while creating the next generation of strong and dedicated warriors. While I could go on and on, I'll end by saying you just have to come try it for yourself! Here is a short clip of how it be! https://youtu.be/bzI6Z7X4t3A?feature=shared

My son enjoys coming to class! I would definitely recommend any parent to sign their children up. He's been attending classes here a little over a year now. I definitely notice a postive difference with his behavior. He looks forward to all the new techniques his Grand Master will teach him and moving up with his belt ranks. Julia the director is great! She's a wonderful communicator and does very well with the children. This place is family friendly, there's something for everyone to do.

This is a great place for anyone who is interested in learning martial arts or self defense. The staff and instructors are very professional and personable. You will learn how to overcome mental/ physical limitations. I highly recommend DBJ. By far the best Dojo to join in Chicago and Midwest.

Going to class at Dragon Budo Jujutsu has been a great experience! The people are welcoming and everyone in the gym is invested in helping you develop your skills and seeing you improve. I would recommend this gym to anyone trying to begin or continue martial arts training.

I traveled far to meet and work with Shifu Willis. He is a phenomenal master of the art! I’ve been practicing for 5 months now and it has been crucial to my own methods of self defense. I encourage you to find a new path to protection and skilled combat and that new path is with Shifu Willis

Sifu Willis is an overall great teacher and very knowledgeable to the Wingtsun art. I had a great first day and looking forward to being part of the Wingtsun Family very soon!!!

As a man that has trained in the martial arts from childhood to adulthood, I must say that I have a vast and great appreciation for Sifu Willis and New Path Wing Tsun. I enrolled my 12 year old son in this class and have nothing, but rave reviews regarding the teaching and training of the art. Initially, my biggest concern was relinquishing my son into the care of someone I didn't know, but those concerns quickly disappeared. Sifu Willis has been an consummate professional that is respectful, patient, and extremely skilled in working with all ages. I highly recommend Sifu Willis and New Path Wing Tsun.

New Path Wingtsun Kung-fu was not intimidating. Shifu Ean is knowledgeable and patient. I felt like I've known him all my life. He's friendly yet serious about the business of self-protection. He taught me respectful etiquette while even had kind words of advice for someone passing by. I would recommend New Path to young, old, professional or blue-collar. I'm literally excited to be a part of this family

I hired Shifu Willis to give a self- defense demonstration for a Domestic Violence Organization and I have been intrigued and he has captured my interest ever since. Shifu Willis is a very passionate and motivating teacher. I like the way he encourages as strides are made. Taking this class was one of the best decisions that I have made both physically and mentally.

Amazing gym and amazing staff. Everyone was super welcoming from the onset, they are friendly to beginners and pros, with a variety of classes led by instructors who care about your learning and tailor your class experience to your level. I truly felt they have become a second family in town and recommend anyone to try out this gym for purest Muay Thai training.

I'm very happy here! As a beginner, the trainers have given me extra help even in a group setting. My experience so far is that, if you let them know about what's going on with you, they'll work with you. I'd wanted to learn about Thai boxing for years, and I was very happy to find CTBA from a simple web search. I read info on their website and then had a look at reviews on Google and elsewhere. I was very happy to sign up for a free initial class, no issues at all. I thought I would go home and think about it (joining), but I knew right away that I'd found a good fit. I really like the trainers. I like their focus on people finding their own rhythm. They also know how to motivate while keeping things light. Finally, JJ (owner) and his front desk staff set a very welcoming tone. They explained the terms and conditions (which I knew from reading their website), and they answered all my questions honestly. Looking forward to a great summer with the team!

Hands down great time and quality instructors! My work brings me around a lot of different cities- so finding quality locations to train is hard to come by. Immediately when walking in I was greeted and welcomed by friendly staff. I see plenty of people of all shapes and sizes....love it. The atmosphere is open and friendly. The gym itself is big and clean. I loved their front desk area and pro shop. The instruction during classes were awesome! I am always willing to learn new tips and tricks to make my game better - and man, the training itself is superb - the classes are superb. I love the sweat I get from their classes. I cannot go anywhere else when I'm in Chicago --- it's CTBA for me.

Was only able to go for a month for personal reasons, but awesome gym and staff. Very organized and its very easy to email erica and get a quick response. Training is very good.

I had a trial class and it was great. Everyone was nice and welcoming, they have shinguards and gloves to borrow, over all pleasant experience :)