BJJ Chicago

Brazilian jiu-jitsu is a ground-based martial art and self-defense system that teaches you to control and submit opponents using leverage and technique, not size or strength. It’s one of the most practical self-defense systems in the world and a cornerstone of modern MMA. Our classes are open to complete beginners with zero experience required.

Absolutely. Our Jiu-Jitsu Fundamentals program is built for students starting from zero. You’ll learn in a structured, ego-free environment with patient instructors focused on technique, safety and building your confidence from day one. Your first class is always free.

No experience or equipment is needed for your first class. Just wear comfortable workout clothes. As you continue, a gi is recommended for gi classes and a rash guard and shorts for no-gi. Our staff will guide you when the time is right, with no pressure to buy anything upfront.

No. Competing is completely optional, and many students train purely for fitness, fun and self-defense. You get in shape by training, so there is no need to get fit first. Sparring is always supervised, and beginners ease in at their own pace.

Yes. Kids classes are supervised by experienced instructors and split by age, 3–6 and 7–12. Classes focus on control, respect and safe technique, with games that keep kids moving and having fun while they build discipline and confidence.

No. Adults start jiu-jitsu in their 40s, 50s and beyond. Technique and leverage matter more than speed or strength, you set the pace, and you can tap at any time. Our Fundamentals classes are built for adults starting from zero.

Yes. Jiu-jitsu teaches you to control and escape bigger, stronger people with leverage, which makes it one of the most practical self-defense skills for women. Brazil 021 was co-founded by 7x World Champion Hannette Staack, and a women’s self-defense program is coming soon.

Yes. Kids Class 1 is for ages 3–6 and Kids Class 2 is for ages 7–12. Our kids jiu-jitsu program builds confidence, discipline, focus and bully-proof self-defense skills in a fun, safe and supervised environment.

For most beginners, 2 to 3 classes per week is the ideal starting point. It gives you time to absorb techniques between sessions while building conditioning. Many students move to 4 or 5 sessions per week as they progress.

Brazil 021 Chicago is led by Professor Andre “Negão” Terencio and Professor Hannette Staack, both decorated champions with decades of teaching and competitive experience, supported by black belt professors Vinicius Pereira, Sharon Gosun and John Thompson.

Yes. Jiu-jitsu is one of the most effective real-world self-defense arts. It teaches you to defend against larger attackers using leverage and positioning, not strength. Self-defense principles are built into every class, from beginner through advanced.

Yes. Every new student gets a free introductory class. It’s the best way to experience the academy, meet the instructors, see the facility and decide if it’s the right fit, with zero commitment and zero pressure.

We’re at 2643 W Chicago Ave, 2nd Floor, Chicago, IL 60622, just west of Western Ave. We’re reachable by the CTA Blue Line (Chicago or Division stops) and the #66 Chicago Ave bus, with street parking on Chicago Ave and surrounding side streets.