I was only in the Grayslake area for a couple of days...but I had to get a roll in…read more Ohana was wonderful. They were very welcoming, despite the fact I was not able to call ahead prior. The coach was excellent - he provided great instruction and...just to really drive the point home the instructor even rolled with me and demonstrated the techniques he taught in class by applying them to (on?) me! That was a great way to see/experience the lesson in action. All-in-all everyone was super nice, no one tried to smash me down because from a different place, but everyone still gave me a good roll and I had a great experience!! If you're in the Grayslake, Il area I highly recommend Ohana Martial Arts!!

I've been here for a little over a 2 years now. One of the biggest things which pointed me to…read moreOhana was the Instructor. Chris Lund is really laid back and there are no formalities here, which make it really easy to ask him for help with techniques or questions about how to do moves. Actually you can walk up to anyone for help and they'll be more than happy to do so. The quality of instruction you receive here is amazing. I am a science teacher at a local High School and even I have to admit the instruction/organization of the classes at Ohana are the best. The classes don't feel like a canned lesson and Chris likes to point out the finer details that I feel other places didn't spend time covering. Also while you're practicing, Chris will spend time with most everyone pointing out these details or answering questions. Another great thing is that you also spend time drilling what you've learned in class which reinforces what you've learned. I also really like that the adult class sizes stay small around 20-30 students from white to brown and mostly blue and purple belts who are all very friendly and humble. Check your ego at the door is the sign you'll see as soon as you walk in. Both the instructor and students pride themselves on their hospitality, and the camaraderie can be seen as you first walk in. If you are a beginner to the sport or an experienced grappler this is the place to take your game to the next level. Also, Ohana hosts a great seminar 2x a year with BJ Penn's BJJ coach Renato Verissimo. "Ohana" is not just a catchy name but more so a true representation of their philosophy and teaching. There is no need to feel pressured or intimated; your first class is free! I've been training at the school for over 2 years and still can't wait to attend class each week. BJJ itself is an outstanding martial art for self-defense, physical fitness, and overall wellness/confidence. The school also offers an excellent curriculum for kids. I urge anyone that is curious or considering BJJ to stop into the school to watch a class or jump in to try it for themselves.

I have been training with Shihan Gangi since 1984. I started in my 30's, and was not into sports. I…read moresigned up for a Women's Self Defense class. The class was 7 weeks long and I loved it. I signed up for another 7 week course. I tried to sign up for a third & Shihan Gangi suggested I might want to try the regular Kung-Fu classes. Well I did, and I absolutely loved the workout & learning new things. I progressed and earned my 3rd degree black belt. I never thought I could do it, but Shihan made me believe in myself. Eventually I became an instructor & participated in teaching Women's Self Defense classes, children's classes and competing in point tournaments. Sensei Bonnie Ross

I started training with Shihan Gangi in 1984 at the age of 18, eventually earning a second degree…read moreblack belt. He is an excellent instructor for practical self-defense, and working with children and families. I still use many of the same principles and techniques he taught me years ago.

Great place for martial arts that isn't out to take all your money, or be super strict for formal…read more Fun place to learn self defense, burns some calories, have good time. Lots of types of martial arts to learn from.

I've been taking my son there for more than 2 years. We truly love the place and the instructors…read morethere, and Mr. Tony is our favorite. They are not there for money and really for teaching. We started with registered thru the park district, but end up just paying monthly - a very reasonable price for martial arts. Highly recommended! Too bad we are going to move away quite far, not sure if we can find another place like this -- or may be we'll just drive longer distance if it's just once a week (will see).

I'm just going to put it simply, this place changed my life. I decided to try something new, way…read moreout of my comfort zone. Little by little I grew stronger, more confident and I learned the techniques. The people here believe in me, coach me and encourage me to push further, be braver. They are talented, kind and strong. At the age of 43 I just registered for my first tournament and it feels amazing. Just try it, you never know what will come out of it.

If you are looking for a legit BJJ gym with top notch instruction, facilities, and value, then look…read moreno further. Coach Carlos and Patty have a great culture of respect, honor, team, family, and friends. LCBJJ is an affiliate of Professor Leo Viera's Checkmat Team. I've been around BJJ since 1998 and started martial arts in 1990, and LCBJJ really is a quality location I am proud to be a member of their school. Brand new location with a large new mat and training area, beautiful!! Beginners 101's 6 week program is excellent and a great, easy paced, we'll instructed, and cost effective way to see if you enjoy the art. A high quality Gi is included with an entry level white belt. Evening, Noon, and Saturday classes for us with the busy or flexible schedules. Check your ego at the door and come learn the best martial art, get a great workout, have fun, and meet great people at LCBJJ!!

I love wolf martial arts I be training with the instructor for couple years now and I'm confident…read morethat I can protect myself if I need to Hes background at different martial arts styles makes it easier for me to adopt to my own style I highly recommend the school for self defense and for self discipline

Guru Randy has years of experience and knowledge and does an excellent job of sharing that…read moreinformation with his students

I've been training at Fit 2 Defend and it's been fantastic. The system is really effective, and the…read moreinstructor teaches structured series instead of just random moves every class. Great people, awesome rolls, and a positive environment overall! Highly recommend.

I love training here! Great training environment and high level instruction. Very welcoming toward…read morenewcomers and all levels of experience. Come check it out.

Good instruction and a nice and welcoming group of peopleread more

Christian is as good of an instructor as he is a fighter and that says alot. With an amatuer record…read moreof 8-1 and a pro record of 1-0, the north suburbs of chicago has exactly one cagefighter, one person skilled in the art of mma. He isn't teaching anything other than real techniques that work in the ring, cage or the street. A bantamweight, Christian relies on super technical strategies to defeat his usually much larger opponents. He guides each student down the path to martial arts greatness. It is guaranteed. All you need to do is show up ready to work. No prior experience required nor do you have to be in shape -- if you haven't been training bjj or Thai then you're not in shape for mma anyway. Your progress will astound you. It is a beautiful thing to see. Parents of course will be proud to have their children working with a respectful, disciplined and educated instructor. Not only is Christian a college graduate, he is one course away from completing his MBA. And the facility, that has been open a couple years now is cleaner than ever -- not that is wasn't clean before because it always is clean. Men in their 20's and older can expect to learn the cutting edge techiniques as given by the Great Jay Valko, who truly is a world reknown bjj instructor and artist. Whether it is sports, self defense or just getting a low impact high intensity workout, Christian is the guy in the north suburbs of chicago.

I consider Wrecking Ball MMA to be my second home. The coaches here are wonderful and know their…read morestuff whether you want to learn boxing, Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, or all three. I go in for a great workout looking to keep in shape and am among people who are there for various reasons, various ages, and various skill levels. Whether you're there to become a fighter, learn self-defense, or just get in shape the coaches make you feel welcome and help you get what you want out of the whole experience. It's a friendly environment where you feel like a team or family because everyone encourages each other to do their best and stay motivated. It's a great place to train.