First Rule in YELP: Please don't review this business if you received a freebie for writing this review, or if you're connected in any way to the owner or employees. Unfortunately, this rule is not being followed as the school offers a Sticker and a Logo Patch for positive reviews. Therefore, take all the positive comments with a grain of salt or at least keep in mind not everything is ALWAYS as it is stated here. To keep it short, the owner is an arrogant bully with a napoleon complex. True, being like that may be a requirement for becoming a famous fighter but not for becoming a good teacher. On a day to day basis, it can get tiring. Specifically when talking down on students or yelling at his family in Portuguese. In class, his constant stories about him fighting off guys with guns are nauseating, to say the least. Carlos let 40 people wait for him at a restaurant for his birthday for 5 hours just to claim a flat tire. That's the pride. He also combines the belt grading with seminars that cost extra on top of the fact he is almost twice as expensive as another black belt from Rio a mile down the street. Be careful signing contracts with them too, what they say is not what they do. Make sure you get a copy of what you signed; even though they won't give it to you and read all the stipulations that come with it. There is the greed. Be careful talking to his wife. Although she is the 'business manager', talking to her can get you kicked out because he is extremely jealous. Maybe they both are but it makes the climate tense. Bad for business and school climate either way! Fortunately for the students, he surrounded himself with amazing teachers although the greatest asset of the school left, Prof. Ominami. A lot of people keep their mouths shut because they want to learn Jiu Jitsu and that's fine. It just doesn't reflect the reality of disrespect, greed, selfishness and self promotion. One way this shows most clearly is the ratio of injuries I have witnessed in school. The climate produces this element of competitiveness, which would be normal for a jiu jitsu school if it wouldn't to so many injuries at all levels. That comes from the climate and the leadership. The only issue with the staff is that Carlos thinks it is ok to have a member with a SKINHEAD tattoo on his fingers teach. That is either Aryan Brotherhood or even worst. Either way, he represents the business. I admire and respect the will to change but teaching a convicted felon Jiu Jitsu is one thing, having him teaching students another. If he changed his beliefs he could take off the stupid tattoo's. If he didn't, what is he doing in a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu school. On a side note, keep in mind Jiu Jitsu is constantly evolving, especially in the competition world. There, drills and strength training will prepare the competitor but this school doesn't. No weights, no ropes, not any training equipment whatsoever. So, if you missed learning Jiu Jitsu in Rio in the 80's, this is basically it. If you train for competitions in the new millennium, empty mats alone won't do. Depending on your background, you need a wrestling, a judo and a strength and conditioning coach all with proper equipment. Maybe that's why Alliance, Carlson and Brasa beat the shindig out of Gracie Barra all day! read more

I decided to explore the art form of Jiu Jitsu this past December, after reading and researching on the effectiveness and practicality of Jiu Jitsu. Since my Dad runs a business in Westmont, I decided to check out Gracie Barra Downers Grove, as it was just down the street. Before entering the academy, I knew that the name "Gracie," was affiliated with not only the creation of Gracie Jiu Jitsu, but also the dominance of the art and sport for many years. Gracie Barra Downers Grove is taught by not only one, but TWO very experienced, decorated and knowledgable Black Belt Jiu Jitsu Practitioners. Professor Carlos Lemos Junior is extremely personable, and will make sure you know that you are not only a student, but a member of his family. His teaching is very technical and often broken down into parts to maximize technique and effectiveness. http://www.bjjheroes.com/bjj-fighters/carlos-lemos-jr Professor Ryo Ominami strives to improve each student through hands-on development. If any student has a question, they are never afraid to simply ask one of the professors. http://www.bjjheroes.com/bjj-fighters/ryo-ominami Apart from the Black Belt Professors, Coach Carlon (brown belt) is extremely helpful and engaging with students. I have had firsthand experience in which Coach Carlon, through his experience, has suggested altering a technique to better fit the student. He keeps a watchful eye over students in an attempt to make sure students are not only doing the techniques right, but with maximal effectiveness. One thing I truly have appreciated is an intiative set by Professor Carlos Lemos Jr., to ask Blue, Purple and Brown belts to attend the Fundamentals Class. This was put into place to provide the best learning environment for the beginner and white belt students. The students have benefitted greatly with their presence. The Environment: Friendly, Clean and Simple. As a new student, I was introduced to the class by the Professors, and have never felt unwelcome or as a burden. Through time, I have befriended all who attend the Academy. Everyone is helpful, humble and friendly, which creates an environment in which mistakes are not embarrassing, everyone is treated as equal, and everyone wants to help each other grow. As a student, I cannot stress enough the amazing teaching and environment at Gracie Barra Downers Grove. read more

Over the years of training wrestling, boxing, and Muay Thai, I still needed one more aspect of my workout to incorporate a solid level of technicality when accessing my fighting background. That final assessment would be Jiu Jitsu. One of my friends and training partners whom I have known over the years gave me a referral to check out Gracie Barra. From the moment I stepped on the mat to the moment i got off, i loved the sport and all that it has to offer. I was introduced to the one of the most advanced technicians who has spent his entire life building up the sport of Jiu Jitsu, Carlos Lemos Jr. He is a well renounced Gracie Barra Professor who is working with one of his good friends and colleague, Ryo Ominami. Both Professors have obtained the position and skill level of Black Belts in the sport of Jiu Jitsu. They are highly trained and work very hard at making sure their students learn not only the fundamental aspects of sport Jiu Jitsu, but the art of self defense that one might encounter in everyday life. Both professors are "hands-on" when instructing a certain technique or finish. They go over each technique at least 3 times while instructing and leave the room open for any questions at all times. After the common lesson or self defense instruction, they are ALWAYS walking around the room to make sure that all students get the help they need in order to become successful. Professor Carlos and his staff work very hard to set up seminars, introduce other Gracie Barra representatives and professors, and give every student the opportunity to compete and advance throughout their individual training. Many people commonly ask me why i train Jiu Jitsu, and there is only one answer I give them, it is because Gracie Barra Downers Grove is not just a place to workout and excel with others to guide you, but Gracie Barra is a tight family where everyone is kind and gives each other respect to grow stronger as a team united as a family. I am proud to dedicate my time and effort at Gracie because I love the atmosphere and joy that I get out of my hard work while growing as a well-rounded individual in my community and on the mat. I love Gracie Barra Jiu Jitsu!!! read more

About a year ago, I was looking for a martial art school that would help me take my ground game to the next level. I had some previous experience in training in Jiu Jutsu before but I only knew some moves from my previous martial art school but didn't know how to apply it very well in certain situations. Then I started training at Gracie Barra in Downers Grove in October 2013. While training at there, it brought clarity on understanding the fundamentals of Brazilian Jiu Jutsu, and how and when to apply it, as well as what BJJ was all about. I love it here. It's been an awesome experience so far and I wouldn't trade it for anything. For one, I love the friendly and family oriented environment I'm training in. The instructors and students are always friendly and helpful. I am treated like a member of the Gracie Barra family. The instruction of the BJJ is great. All the instructors are very knowledgeable about BJJ and the instruction is very detailed to help understand why and how to use the moves or techniques you are learning, whether if you're a beginner or someone with experience. I find this very valuable in my case. I didn't just want to learn the moves but how to utilize them under particular circumstances. Gracie Barra has done this for me. I really love BJJ now more than ever all thanks to Professor Carlos Lemos Jr., his instructors, and the other students. In addition to BJJ, I also take the Muay Thai/Kickboxing class since I was really interested in Muay Thai. This class sharpened my stand up skills as well as gave me a great cardio and conditioning workout. Thanks to Professor Louis Tobar and his students. They have helped me grow in many ways possible. Doing the combination of BJJ and Muay Thai/Kickboxing, I've grown stronger mentally, physically, and even spiritually. I'm really happy I started training at Gracie Barra Downers Grove. To me school is not just a martial art school but a great place to train and connect with other martial artists as well. read more

There was a debate a while ago on which one is the best BJJ school in the Chicagoland. I didn't think there was a need for that when you have a school with a group of Gracie Barra certified instructors alongside of professor Carlos Lemos Jr, a 3x world champion. What I value the most of this school is the quality of instructions. Their emphasis is not just on BJJ itself but also the spirit of being a mixed martial artist, a good partner and brotherhood for life. The other MMA schools I trained at in the past are more about dominating others on the mats. Gracie Barra Downers Grove teaches you to focus on technique instead of strength while being gentle with your training partners. My injuries from the sport reduced drastically, and taught me to put my training partner first, and to learn from the fundamental respect for each other. The other thing I appreciate of the school is the focus to details, quality and cleanness of the mats. I believe they have the Zebra cushion system? This really made a difference when you practice judo throws. I have back injury and that's undoubtedly one of the first things I noticed about their mats. They always clean the mats right after each class, which is hands down the most dedicated group of staff I can never say enough thanks to. I remember how it was at the other schools when I struggle to breath through to survive in a hold, while watching those unidentifiable fusses floating on the mats right in front of my face... No, none of those at this school! This school sits at a great location on Ogden Ave., close to I-88 and major suburbs in the Chicagoland. I am blessed to have learned so much from a group of wonderful instructors and teammates. I would defiantly recommend anyone who is looking to train in martial arts to talk to the school for an intro lesson -- this may open a brand new chapter to your life just like it did to mine! read more

As soon as one walks through the door it becomes clear--this place is something SPECIAL. This is the only Premium-level Gracie Barra school in the area and the place practically glows with the most positive environment I've seen. The quality of instruction is deeply impressive; head instructor Professor Carlos Lemos Jr and his student Professor Ryo Ominami are both black belt competitors with multiple wins at the highest levels. While their competitive experience is certainly important, even more so to me is their ability to make their students feel valued and welcome. Furthermore, in a time when instruction in jiu-jitsu is running the risk of being diluted and turning into something far removed from what Masters Carlos and Helio Gracie intended, we have here authentic instruction that is VERY close to the original source. The lineage of Professors Lemos and Ominami is IMPECCABLE: Master Maeda--Master Carlos Gracie Sr--Master Carlos Gracie Jr--Professor Lemos--Professor Ominami. Many--most--schools have instructors so far removed from our roots as to be almost a different style. The emphasis of this school is primarily on self-defense, and secondarily (though still important) on competition. The pedagogy is both traditional and innovative, and is the result of decades of trial-and-error by the Gracie family themselves. It doesn't get better than this. Some schools simply seek to make their students better at Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu; Gracie Barra Downers Grove seeks to make their students not only excellent at jiu-jitsu but more importantly, better people. A healthy mind in a healthy body will help to make healthy people, and healthy people help to make a healthy society. Please make yourself, your family, and our world a better place through learning the real Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. read more

I just returned from my free lesson at Gracie Barra, and I have to say I'm extremely impressed. Professor Lemos greeted me happily at the door when I first came in out of curiosity, and had the same hospitality and good nature the second time we met. I also noted that whenever his students walked through the door, he greeted them all by name, a pat on the shoulder, and a warm exchange of jokes and inquiries. His people skills were outstanding, and the more we talked about Gracie Barra, you could see how passionate he was about his style. As class began, I met the others I would be training with. I believe there were nine at the time in that specific class, and they were all extremely friendly. I had been training in different martial arts for over fourteen years, and not once did I ever feel the hint of ego or an overly competitive disposition in this facility. Every student laughed and trained with me, helping me along with the techniques by happily correcting me when I was getting confused, and encouraging me along the entire time. The assistant instructor was a Japanese guy named Ryo who was a superb teacher. I got the privilege to roll with him, and was shocked at how sharp his technique was. He was just as friendly as everyone else, and always gave positive feedback to the students. The class was wonderful, and I learned a lot of great concepts to help my ground game along. If you're looking for a gym to learn Brazilian Jiujutsu, then this is the place to go. I encourage anyone from experienced competitors to nervous novices to give the place a try. Your skills will be improved, your confidence raised, and more importantly, you'll have a great time growing stronger with everyone in the class. read more

I've been with Gracie Barra of Downers Grove for about 6 months and its been an honor to train with Carlos Lemos Jr. and the team! Since day one Professor Carlos and everyone has welcomed me on board and I have taken full advantage of being able to learn from an amazing instructor who comes directly from the source. At Gracie Barra of Downers Grove you feel you are learning Jiujitsu at its purest form, Jiujitsu that will last forever...after all...Jiujitsu is a martial art and you need to understand the history, the etiquette, the sacrifices, the theory and of coarse the techniques of the masters that created them. Not only do you get the purest form of Jiujitsu but being at GBofDG you get to bring your competitive side to the next level! Competition training camps are amazing and you always have high level black belt professors coming from around the world to train and help prepare the team. GBofDG also does a lot of cardio and strength training outside of the school open to anyone that wants to be responsible for there own goals. Overall tuition and seminars are extremely affordable considering you only have to pay for the type of program you want and how much time you want to invest. I'd like to add that a lot of promotions and belt gradings are held during seminars in the presence of other Gracie Barra legends!! It was an honor to receive a stripe from Professor Carlos Lemos but also in front of Gracie Barra legend Professor Flavio Almeida and Professor Sergio Costa was really amazing. You would have to be crazy not to appreciate that!! Future looks awesome for Gracie Barra of Downers Grove and I'm proud to be part of the team! read more

The mark of a great teacher is the ability to make the complicated simple. This is not an easy task in any subject, but it must be especially difficult in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu - an art that is as complex physically as it is mentally. Thankfully, Gracie Barra Downer's Grove exists to fulfill the "Jiu-Jitsu For Everyone" mission in the suburbs of Chicago. Professor Carlos Lemos Jr, and all of the coaching staff at this location deliver extremely high level education that extends beyond the mats. I hope that the recounting of my experience as merely a white belt will be helpful to those considering joining, since all will enter the BJJ system as white belts themselves. There are many reasons a person will benefit from training here - whether it be physical health and strength, weight loss, self-defense skills, mental and emotional control, community building, or professional competition training. However, the core of all of these benefits goes back to the responsibility an individual has to themselves to first WANT and then ACHIEVE these things. It is strenuous to the point of giving up many times, but the strength of the school shines forth in these exact moments. A voyager would not embark on a journey on the ocean without a proper ship, map, and crew. Although I am far away from my destination, I feel confident that the school, the curriculum, and most of all the teachers of Gracie Barra Downer's Grove will help carry me forward through the long journey that is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. I recommend anyone reading this to take the ride and see how far they can go. read more

What an unbelievable experience! I dropped into GB Downers Grove for advanced class on 7/10/19 when I was in town for work. I first noticed what a nice location it is in. When I walked in, I noticed the shoe rack and appreciated how clean the gym stays because everyone takes their shoes off before entering. Professor Carlos immediately noticed I walked in, and came right over to ask how he could help. I told him I was visiting from Gracie Barra in Houston and he said "Our house is your house, brother!". Everyone in the gym was very friendly and helpful. We warmed up and Professor Carlos taught some amazing details and combinations on the foot sweep from standing. He then moved into countering common scrambles from the double under pass position. Professor Carlos and his black belts (three on the mat that day!) walked around the room helping everyone, not spending one second on their phones (a common issue I see when traveling to new gyms), Then we went to live training and everyone in the class got to roll with each other - 2 minute rounds! It was a great way to mix up your training! I liked the experience so much I ended up staying for the fundamentals class and brushed up on some very good details taking the back and finishing from the back. After training, I walked next door to Trader Joe's and picked up some dinner -- very convenient! The facility was top-notch, locker rooms were very nice, and the instruction and training partners were outstanding. Highly, highly recommend. read more

Gracie Barra Downers Grove is run by Carlos Lemos Junior, also known as "Escorrega", and his family. I'd encourage you to do a quick Google search on Carlos. It won't take you long to find Carlos's jiu jitsu accomplishments and to get a sense of the world class instruction that Gracie Barra Downers Grove has to offer. What that search may not tell you... Carlos is not only an extraordinary jiu jitsu practitioner but he is an excellent Professor (instructor). He believes in and values character and integrity. He is excellent with kids of all ages. And, he regards all of his students as family. Gracie Barra Downers Grove is a clean, positive place to train. There is a wealth of knowledge at this gym. Currently, there are three black belts and several brown and purple belts training in Downers Grove. This ensures that there is a high level of instruction that will allow your game to develop. There is a great camaraderie amongst the members. Everyone pushes and supports each other. Anyone and everyone at this gym will help you with your jiu jitsu. The better your jiu jitsu becomes... The better everyone's jiu jitsu becomes. Jiu jitsu has had a profound impact on my life. Whether you are new to marital arts, looking to lose weight, want to learn self-defense, or become a competitive jiu jitsu practitioner give Gracie Barra Downers Grove a try. You won't regret it! I hope to see you on the mats! read more

The mats at Gracie Barra Downers Grove are a special place to be. A place that I choose to invest much of my time. From toddler programs to training in the GI to NOGI to MMA fighting the Professors, Instructors and Coaches at Gracie Barra Downers Grove have you covered and are in your corner. A school with world-class and World Champions. A place that cultivates confidence, mental/emotional toughness and unparalleled physical fitness. Jiu-Jitsu is no more a seasonal sport than breathing is. Jiu-Jitsu is truly a way of life. It is a way to deal with unbelievable pressure and discomfort physically and mentally it transposes itself throughout all aspects of life. Jiu-Jitsu will help you face and provide you with the tools to fight and triumph over the struggles of day to day life. You will also learn you never have to go through it alone once you are a family member at Gracie Barra Downers Grove. The Muay Thai program is second to none. Professor Tobar is an excellent teacher with incredible attention to detail. From your first jab to your first amateur fight he is the man you want on the mats and in your corner. His ability to push you to be the best version of yourself coupled with his relentless patience and understanding make him a man to be respected and revered. Take the chance, make the time, come by and visit. You are worth it. read more

My name is Enrique Penaloza, I have spent the last 25 years working in the finance industry at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange and I have enough experience to know when my money is well spent. My son has been attending at Garcie Barra Downers Groves for a month and a half. Words can not express the well spring of emotion a parent feels when watching their child grow before their own eyes. In this short time my son has attended... his fitness, mobility, confidence and pride have improved dramatically. What touched me today, when my son arrived to class already disappointed from the day, was watching the smile return to his face as his class began. This in and of itself was the validation that I was definitively investing in my sons future. We as parents are obligated to provide our children with any and every tool to succeed in life. Gracie Barra is just such a tool. Excellent as well as personable instructors, knowledgeable, educating their students through refined time tested techniques. A welcoming family atmosphere. Professor Carlos and his team clearly love and enjoy teaching the gentle art. read more

I have trained in martial arts since I was 6 years old. I am 36 now and my son and I both train under Professor Carlos and Professor Ryo. With the explosion of MMA and Jiu Jitsu there are a lot of schools to choose from. I have trained and instructed at MMA gyms, Jeet Kune Do schools and more. I can also train for free at most schools in the area. I choose to train at Gracie Barra and specifically at the gym in Downers Grove because of the level of instruction, attention to detail, and everything the gym has to offer. Where else can you go and see a kids class being taught by a world champion? When MMA and UFC got popular the gyms that popped up were effective if you wanted to fight---and only fight. The Gracie Barra gym is a family---there is a sense of community and honor while learning the very best and effective techniques. I can't say enough about both Carlos and Ryo---humble, skilled and amazing instructors that welcome everyone. If you are looking for a gym that will teach you self defense, bjj, kickboxing, and be a great place for the whole family---look no further! read more

I have competed for the last 4 plus years in both MMA and Brazilian jiujitsu. I have been to multiple Schools helped out in multiple training camps with both amateur and professional fighters all over the mid west, and have to say that Gracie Barra has topped them all so far. I had fought on the same card with professor Carlos Lemos Jr and was not only impressed by his fighting, but by the team he had backing him up that night. Alot of that "Team" mentality has gone away but not at Gracie Barra, Downers Grove. When I attended the intro class I felt welcomed by EVERYONE as if I was already part of the team, better yet there family is what it really felt like. the technique was taught in great form along with the situational sparring. Rather you are a beginner or seasoned competitor Gracie Barra well be good for you. It has been almost 2 years since I last competed due to School and work, but now that I am back on track I hope to become part of the Gracie Barra family. They have reminded me how much I love the sport and cannot wait to compete with their patch on my back. read more

Gracie Barra Downers Grove has a great atmosphere, I really love this place! I have trained Muay Thai and my son has trained Jiu Jitsu. Jiu Jitsu has helped my son with self confidence, discipline, patience and so much more. The program is engaging and fun, Kids love it! The staff is very friendly and knowledge. Everyone I have met there has been so great and I have not only made some great friends but I have learned some fantastic new skills. Professor Carlos Lemos is such an amazing instructor I couldn't even begin to point out all the positives. Each coach I have trained with have taught me something new, the friendships I have formed here have progressed to friendships outside of the gym as well. I have always stated that everyone (especially females) should learn a form of martial arts not only for your own safety but for the respect and discipline that goes along with it. I highly recommend that if anyone wants to learn something like Jiu Jitsu head down to Gracie Barra in Downers Grove, IL I am sure you will feel right at home. read more

The only negative review comes from an individual who was kicked out of the school for purposefully going about and injuring multiple training partners. Professor Carlos is both a great student of the game and a fantastic instructor, to kids and adults alike. If you want your kids to learn Jiu Jitsu or simply learn to follow instructions and become more disciplined, this is the school for them. If you want to get back in shape and learn Jiu Jitsu (and Muay Thai)- either for self betterment or because of a burning desire to compete, there is no school better than Gracie Barra and no instructor in the Chicago-land area that can match Professor Lemos' experience and accrued knowledge. The lessons one takes away from training Jiu Jitsu are of the type that catalyze instantaneous growth of character. Professor Lemos' Gracie Barra DG has changed my life, and I advise anyone even marginally interested in the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to come and give it a try. You absolutely won't regret it. read more

This place creates diamonds. In the journey of learning from humble world class instructors you transform into a better version of yourself. When you walk through those doors you become family even if it's just an intro class, because we all know it takes some courage every time you step on the mats, especially the first time. Not only am I in the best shape I've ever been in, I am constantly challenged intellectually, and have fun every day training. As a psychiatric nurse often working with aggressive pts, I've been able to safely apply the self defense techniques to keep not only myself, my coworkers, and my pts safer in an environment riddled with fear and anxiety. You become a rock in the storm no matter where you go. There is no dollar amount that can capture the value of walking into a culture of excellence, optimism, and high standards in a world of pessimism and critics. One of the best decisions I've ever made. read more

"I am a mother of a wonderful girl, my daughter has been involved in all kinds of sports and martial arts including taekwondo for 5 years. Right when first came I knew that was an exceptional place like I had never seen anything like in any other extracurricular program we participated in the past. My daughter wasn't so sure but we insisted because We knew how important it would be to get her out of her comfort zone, after a couple of months, that was a done deal ! My daughter is more focused, confident, outspoken and disciplined. She has made a tone of friends at Gracie Barra Downers Grove, this is the very best martial arts school out here in the suburbs. Give them a call schedule a free trial and you will see by yourself." read more