Been training for a few months now. The team is great and the environment is friendly. Newcomers are brought in like family and at a pace that highlights learning and safety above aggression and exertion. Well done.

One of the best decisions I made was to join Gracie Barra! The staff is great and friendly and everyone there wants to see you succeed. The philosophy they teach is great to build your mind plus the workout is something you will never be able to replicate somewhere else! If you are on the border of joining please consider it you will not regret it!

Professor Carlos and Professor Pedro provide such a welcoming environment and truly believe in and have pride for the Gracie Barra name. All of the coaches are professional and provide the highest standards for BJJ, self-defense, and kickboxing. BEST decision we have made in our fitness and wellness journey.

I signed up in late June 2021. Professor Carlos and Professor Pedro are world class instructors, both are very welcoming and knowledgeable, and they are able to break down every move step by step to make it easy to perform. It was a great decision to join Gracie Barra.

I would highly recommend Gracie Barra Downers Grove. The coaching and atmosphere are absolutely great, especially for beginners. All the coaches and members make the place an inviting environment where you can learn and grow. I will also say as someone who works at a desk all day, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a silver bullet for increasing core strength, hip mobility, and flexibility (all things that deteriorate when working at a desk all day). If you are looking to improve your health and wellness while learning an amazing skill, don’t hesitate to sign up here!

Have been here about a month. The classes are the highlight of my day every day that I come. The coaches care and are incredibly knowledgeable. I feel like I am learning so much and it has made my life better in multiple areas. The community is great, I have felt very welcomed and encouraged here. Cant wait to continue my jiu jitsu journey here.

So happy to have found Gracie Barra Downers Grove. The experience of the staff and the level of their commitment is second to none. Whether you are looking to compete or simply to challenge yourself, they are equally excited to share their time and knowledge with you. Can’t say enough good things about GBDG!

Gracie Barra Downers Grove is amazing! The coaches push every individual to improve themselves, and are open to questions and help to improve your game. Best decision youll make!

I love this place. The coaching is next level; Ive never felt like I didnt receive enough attention/instruction when I needed it. On top of excellent coaching the community is kind and strong. Not to mention the outstanding implementation of covid protocols to keep their students safe. If youre considering bjj start asap, trust me!

This place is awesome. Everything about it is just absolutely awesome. Joining Gracie Barra Downers Grove has been one of my best decisions in a long time!

My boys are members of the new lenox gracie barra and they love it and they attended summer camp at the downers grove this year and begged for more . The coaches are amazing professors are amazing we have visited here for a few activities and they always want to return ,but what are family loves the most is i dont care which gracie barra you attend or visit you are treated like family and every single school has amazing teachers and staff they are truly a great school and amazing place my boys live ,eat ,sleep and breath gracie barra and its due to the family closeness and amazing teachers .once you have been to gracie barra you will never want to go anywhere else ever gracie barra for life is what my kids say

Gracie Barra Downers Grove has world class professors and amazing coaches who are even better people. They provide a safe family environment and embody the spirit of jiu jitsu and martial arts. I can’t wait to have my daughter join!

Incredible jiu jitsu and self defense program. Incomparable atmosphere everyone I have met had been extremely nice including the coaches and professors.

Great community. Great coaches willing to go the extra mile highly recommend ask for coach Vince

Gracie Barra provides the most incredible jiu jitsu experience. All of the coaches and professors are extremely knowledgeable and always willing to help. I’m glad I decided to join. I definitely recommend this establishment to any individual looking to learn jiu jitsu or martial arts. Aside from the physical aspect, they aim to overall improve your quality of life.

Awesome place they value all of their students like family all of the coaches and professor do their absolute best to make sure everyone is getting the best training that jiu jitsu offers

Great staff, great team members, great workout, great fun!

Gracie Barra DG and Naperville is truly a jiu jitsu school for ALL. Professor Carlos and team run a world class operation that is welcoming, respectful and very clean for everyone. I was a bit nervous starting my jiu jitsu journey having no prior training experience and being in my 40s. My fears were quickly put to rest as I experienced a family-like atmosphere with members of all ages and backgrounds, helping each other improve in a positive environment each and every class. I have been training for about a year now and look forward to more years to come.

My son loves and looks forward to going to his classes each week. All the coaches are amazing , professional, kind and knowledgeable. This program has been wonderful helping my son build his self-esteem as well.

We had a very good experience with my 2 boys. They had a lot of fun sparring and really connected with the instructors. It was also a great opportunity for them to make friends with kids from all over the area.

Professor Carlos Lemos Jr. is a world class Professor. Ive had the chance to train under him at several competition training camps. Hes always welcoming and I consider him one of the professors I look up to the most.

My kids train at this location and I couldn’t be happier with the instructors and professor Carlos is a world class champion teaching kids life lessons, my kids have improved so much with their social skills and it’s because their jujitsu training, this school has been a blessing to me and my family. If you see any negative reviews they are lies from people that want to discredit this school. Give it a try and I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Some of the best instructors in the Midwest. Everyone is so friendly and courteous. The bjj here is very high level.

Professional staff who work wonderfully with children. The facility is always clean and the environment is inviting. 10 out of 10 will recommend.

I cannot say enough good things about Professor Carlos. I have participated in 2 seminars he has instructed and attended the Gracie Barra Winter experience in Mexico that he orchestrated. His instruction at the seminars was top notch and his enthusiasm for the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu was infectious. The winter experience was literally a top ten experience in my life. He is the ultimate professional and I always look forward to learning from him.

This is an outstanding school. At any one time you can find 5 black belts, including several world champions,on the mats providing instruction. I recently had a personal lesson with Prof Jerry and it was excellent. Prof Carlos is also a world class black belt, instructor and a great person. I highly recommend this school.

Gracie Barra Downers Grove is phenomenal! Ive been grappling my whole life and have been training at GB Downers Grove for two years now. First off the school is exceptionally clean. The mats are cleaned after every single class. The school also has a strict no shoes policy that keeps dirt and other bacteria from entering the facility. The schools friendly an unintimidating atmosphere is evident from the moment you walk in. Even the most novice grapplers will feel welcome to jump right into the action. From the professors to the newest white belts you will feel welcome and encouraged. The school has an environment that lends itself to beginners as well as challenging advanced students. On most nights you will find a minimum of three professors (Gracie Barra Black belts) on the mats. It is not uncommon to have 5 Gracie Barra black belts at the school on a given night!! Gracie Barra also has a structured curriculum that you wont find at other schools. Instead of just randomly working on different things you are taught in a specific and calculated manner. Which insures that you build your game on a solid foundation. I fully recommend Gacie Barra Downers Grove to anybody that is looking for a new challenge in their life. You will benefit physically and mentally from the lessons you learn at Gracie Barra Downers Grove.

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.

High level training.Professors, coaches and training partners are professional, competent and friendly.This is the right place to meet your competitive or recreational Jiu-Jitsu needs.

I can go on and on with amazing things I can say about this school. Look no further if you are looking for AMAZING Professors. My son Jionni LOVES coming to train he loves his Professors as a parent you want the best for your child and I can assure any parent that this school will exceed your expectations. My son has developed such a amazing confidence that he didnt have and this is thanks to Gracie Barra of downers grove thanks to his amazing Professors through out the past 2 years Professor Carlos Professor Pedro Coach Chris Coach Devon. Thank you !!!

As a woman, I am so happy that I found this school. The atmosphere is friendly, positive, supportive and safe. The instruction is technical but comprehensible, even for beginners. Students are encouraged to think of themselves as part of a “team” and senior instructors and students work hard to help juniors achieve success. My only regret is that I can’t find the time to train there more.

Great place I love it.Positive enviroment, great community, clean and enjoyable.I would give 10 stars if i could. GB Downers Grove is the best !

My wife and I highly recommend Gracie Barra Downer’s grove I can truly say they treat everyone like family at the Academy reason why my wife and I decided for my son to join there program for little champions and now teens class. We have been in this amazing school for over 3 years.I have had the privilege to train with Carlos Lemos Jr since Gracie Barra country side and now at Gracie Barra Downer’s grove because he is the best a true champion in the sport and life and all his professors in the school are a prime example of his leadership. My wife and I are so amazed on how great Professor Pedro with kids and Teaching the little champions class the teens class and beginners class he is the best . I want to Thank Professor Carlos Lemos Jr Professor Pedro ,Dave,Carlos,Hector and all coaches for being a great part in my sons growth in the school . I have been to many Martial Arts Schools and can say this is the best school to be a part of where they care about you and family and show you respect . Happy to forever be part of Gracie Barra Downer’s Grove.

All I can say is the school is friendly, clean, and professional. This team has top notch instructors, excellent environment for adults, kids and families. Gracie Barra Downers is the top choice of martial arts schools in the Chicagoland area. I highly recommend this place.

What a wonderful school for anyone interested in Brazilian Jiujitsu. The instruction is top-notch and the atmosphere is welcoming. REAL training, great team atmosphere and lots of fun. Just cant beat it. So happy to have found this place!

Clean facilities, lots of friendly training partners, world-class coaches. Gracie Barra Downers Grove has everything youd want in a martial arts school.

Gracie Barra Downers Grove is not only a jiu jitsu school. To me, it is therapy, a gym, a social club a sports team and most of all, a family. It is my second home. Everyone here is extremely cool and welcoming. They are always ready and willing to lend a helping hand both on and off the mats. The professors and coaches are world class. The head instructor Professor Carlos is the a 4x World Champion with a real passion for teaching and molding people into valuable members of the community. It is a real blessing to be able to train with him every day. Professor Pedroca is one of the top kids instructors in the Midwest. His unique approach and attention to detail sets him appart from your regular kids martial arts instructor. The school has produced countless champions under their tutelage. Professor Lou is a world class kickboxing/striking coach with a broad background in Muay Thai, Karate and traditional Boxing. His kids kickboxing class is one of our most popular programs. The rest coaching staff comprised of professors Dave, Hector and Carlones along with coaches I-Yung, Freddy, Andy, Alex are among some of the coolest people I have ever met. Not only are they tremendous athletes but they are also great leaders. I learn a lot from each and every one of them. As an assistant coach I can say that it is an absolute pleasure to be able to train and work with these amazing people day in and day out. I only hope that I can be half as good as they are. Very wholesome and family friendly atmosphere. Ive met some of my best friends here. Of course I highly recommend this place. This place changed my life. I am the healthiest I have ever been both physically and mentally. I never leave this place feeling defeated. I always leave with a huge smile on my face. You will not find a better martial arts school in the area.

If you are on the fence about studying jiu jitsu, take the plunge. This is the martial art you will fall in love with. It aligns your mind, body, and soul so that you feel in harmony with the world around you.GB Downers Grove was my first school and by far the best. The professors and coaches create an environment where you can learn and grow in the true Gracie method. Also, they attract the world’s best practitioners to present seminars that further your knowledge of the art.If you have kids, do them a favor and let them study at GBDG. It’s a fun place to develop confidence, make friends, and enjoy a healthy and rewarding physical activity.

I have been training under professor Carlos Lemos Jr for approximately 6 years and I cannot stress enough the quality of his instruction. Not only does he provide the highest level of jiujitsu but he also cares for each and every one of his students individually. He provides and example to be followed and is as genuine as they come.I cannot thank my professor enough for all of his dedication to my improvement and I fully recommend Gracie Barra Downers Grove to anyone who is seeking to obtain the highest level of true jiujitsu as it was meant to be taught.

I started training Jiu Jitsu at Gracie Barra Downers Grove in January 2017 and I love it . I weighed 230 pounds when I started , and now I weigh 200 pounds. Jiu Jitsu is a great way to get in shape and a great way to learn self defense . I highly recommend Gracie Barra Downers grove to anyone ( women and children especially) that want to learn self defense and also get in shape . They also have a great kick boxing class and a No Gi class as well .

Great school with amazing knowledgeable professors and instructors and coaches. Also great for families. And with superbly clean environment.Best around!

World class instruction with world class people! Professor Lemos and his instructors have a great facility and provide a family atmosphere while helping individuals achieve their goals. Want to be motivated and encouraged to challenge and push yourself to your potential, then go HERE!

You will not become a member of a gym but more like finding your long lost brothers and sisters. Great place! Professor Carlos Lemos Jr is for sure one of the best teachers you can find out there.

Clean mats, great vibe! Prof Carlos Lemos Jr is the real deal Black Belt from Master Carlos Gracie Jr himself! No bullies just great technique and camaraderie…always feel good when i walk out after training.

I trained bjj in Brazil for a long time and when i got to Chicago i went to Gracie Barra Downers Grove and felt so good at there, the place is so clean and welcoming and the professors are so amazing, always caring about you and doing the best to teach you at the best way they know. The energy there is awesome and I pretend to come back every time that i have the opportunity!

I was fortunate to take my son to meet jiu-jitsu at Gracie Barra Downers grove academy.I can not be more satisfied with the cleanliness, organization and especially with the professionalism, attention and care with my son was treated, since he had real aversion to make any kind of fight. Professor Jerry was extremely effective in getting my son to change his mind, and my greatest joy is to see him ask when its the next class.Great academy, Awesome professors!!!

I highly recommend Gracie Barra Downers Grove as a place to become physically healthy, through a team atmosphere led by Professor Carlos Lemos Jr, and all the other professors and coaches at the school. The school is clean, professional, and focused on helping everyone reach their full potential. While nobody can be forced to improve themselves, the school provides the tools necessary to make it possible. They also offer a free trial, which makes it easy to give it a shot. A world-class school in Chicagoland, for kids and adults.

Gracie Barra Downers Grove is an excellent Brazilian jiu jitsu school for students of all ages and abilities. My son has gained invaluable skills and greater confidence since beginning at the school. The Professors, Instructors, and Coaches are highly skilled and professional yet friendly, welcoming, and approachable.At Gracie Barra Downers Grove, they genuinely care about helping and encouraging you to reach your full potential while emphasizing respect, good values, and strengthening character to the children.This review is a long time coming, but GB Downers Grove, has had our sincere and heartfelt gratitude from the day we walked through their doors and we are more than happy to recommend this school for its exceptional quality and nurturing atmosphere!

Amazing place to train! True family atmosphere that really becomes a community. Everyone is made welcome. High standards for legit Brazilian jiu jitsu.

Great school with very positive atmosphere. Professor Carlos and his team put their students experience first. Very clean and professional operation.

I’ve been attending Gracie Barra Downers Grove since I was about 9. The first time I stepped foot in the school, was life changing. Jiu-Jitsu is not just a sport to me, it is 100% a lifestyle. And as my Jiu-Jitsu game got better I became closer with my professors and peers on the mats. They truly are like a second family to me. Jiu-Jitsu has helped me through some of the toughest times in my life and I cannot recommend it enough.

This place has respectful mentors that can teach you alot. 5 stars

First lets just say I am not a spring chicken! Trying a martial art has been on my bucket list item for 25 years. if I was going to do it, I would have to do it soon! I had no idea what to expect when I decided to try Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at Gracie Barra Downers Grove. That was 6 months ago and I am hooked! GB DG is not just a place to learn BJJ, it is a place to go to feel welcome, to be challenged both mentally and physically, to make your own goals, to progress at your own pace, and most of all, to feel like a part of a family.

Gracie Barra Downers Grove is an awesome school to train at !!With such high level of teaching !regularly hosting seminars with great legends of the art . I particularly love the charity work they always seem to be involved in such as cancer research .What a great asset to our community .

Me and my 7 year old son train here, this school is excellent from coach Devon to Professor Pedro and Professor Carlos. I would rate this place more if I could.

I have been studying martial arts in some form for 17 years now. Ive trained at great schools, good schools, and not-so-good schools. This is a GREAT school for ALL learning levels.What you can expect to find:- High-quality training with attention to personal detail. Prof. Carlos Lemos Jr. is a fantastic teacher. The other black belts, and any other belt for that matter, understand that we are all on a journey to progress our personal art. Help is everywhere you look.- While youre here, check out the Muay Thai class as well. Professor Lou is an amazing teacher and Ive trained with the best in the country.- An immaculate palace of a training facility.- A humble culture of fellowship. A place where, regardless of advancement in rank, we are all equals in our path to become our best.What you WONT find (if youve trained elsewhere youll understand):- Dudes with waste-water brown gis or unkempt fingernails- Staph infection and ring worm.- Advanced belts looking at you as Fresh Meat.- The Lets Roll Chill, brah guy [Narrator: He most definitely...did not... want to Roll Chill]- Muay Thai dudes who have no idea how to go light.You might say, But I havent trained before. Do I need experience?No. What??!? No. God no. Why would you need... How would you...?Look, unless you were born with a mysterious birth mark in the shape of a dragon, and people refer to you as The Chosen One, everyone starts somewhere. Jiu Jitsu is for EVERYONE; especially, here. This is an art that requires incredible in faith in yourself, and it takes time but youll enjoy every minute of it.

Highly recommend! Such a great place, top of the line instruction, and high level attention to hygiene. Yes, thats important when you are rolling around on the mats. Everyone at Gracie Barra Downers Grove was kind, courteous, and encouraging which creates a positive environment for training. They offer fundamental training which is great for the beginners but they also offer advanced training, either way you are learning from black belt instructors who have won world titles at IBJJF. I suggest you do your research before committing to a BJJ program. You always get what you pay for, so if a deal looks to good to be true RUN.

Awesome place to train- all of the instructors are amazing!

Great people on the mats, great atmosphere, everything nice and tidy. Feels great to train here!

So far, I have been going, and I love it!

My family and I absolutely love gb downers grove it’s such an amazing place full of positive vibes and energy!!Absolute value for money I couldn’t be happier .

Gracie Barra Downers Grove is by far the best place to train in the Chicago area with the highest level of teaching from professor Carlos Lemos Jr !!I can’t wait to visit again.

Great instructors, people, and atmosphere. I came in with a little bit of Wrestling experience(1.5 years high school), and just from watching MMA. The way the instructors teach here is based on a curriculum program. This ensures a student gets all the possible practice needed. I panicked being on my back! Really uncomfortable being on my back until I started training at this school. Thanks Gracie Barra!

Jiu Jitsu has created a peace In my life. I am a white belt now and hope to stay a white belt forever! I enjoy the team at downers grove because everyone has a different way of teaching the same moves.Coach Devon- Literally the nicest man I have ever met. Patient, kind, great with kids and families. Works with Kids and adults amazinglyProfessor Pedroca- Speaks Spanish!!!! Patient, warm, driven, and works specializes in nurturing talent of all ages.Professor Carlos Lemos Jr.- He is the reason I joined this location, I am excited at any opportunity I get when we work together. AMAZING with kids, Carlos has a winning track record....but it hasn’t gotten to his head. He is humble and proud of the red shield he represents. An individual of this caliber teaching here in Illinois....that’s incredible.I can go on, but check it out yourself. You get a free class!

I loved it here. Everyone was fantastic to work with and super helpful.

Im prior military USMC I truly missed the brother hood of the military but I found that at Gracie Barra Downers Grove great place to train to get fit or if you wanna be a serious jujitsu fighter . Kickboxing also great instructor and great program my 13 yr old son does it and he loves it

The school is top-notch. Great sense of community and fantastic instruction. I would recommend to anyone interested at all in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu or practicing a new sport.

Gracie Barra Downers Grove is a great place to train whether you are young or old. I came to train under Professor Carlos over five years ago now because we finally had legitimate Jiu Jitsu instruction open up in Du Page county. I saw this as a golden opportunity to learn Jiu Jitsu from a master like Prof Carlos. It has been one of the best decisions of my life.The school itself provides a safe and fun atmosphere to train, Prof Carlos promotes a Jiu Jitsu lifestyle that is positive and family oriented. Gracie Barra is Jiu Jitsu for everyone and I am proud to be a part of the legacy established by Master Carlos Gracie. We welcome you to come out and trains with us!

Family friendly staff that promotes positive behavior in & out of the classes...

Its a professional place to learn Jui Jitsu. Welcoming to kids and teens and adults. This is not a sport it is one of the best style for living. Make the youth be responsible, humble and strong at the same time. Good culture and have very professional professors which teaching not only Jui Jitsu in high style but also making a warm place to work out and communication.

Family oriented Jiu-Jitsu Martial Arts school.Prof.Carlos Sergio,Lopez all members are very kind.I strongly recommend you check this school.

Professor Carlos and his staff members are excellent instructors. They have great personal integrity and help their students not only in the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu but also how to live a healthy lifestyle associated with Jiu Jitsu also known as the Jiu Jitsu lifestyle. They encourage their students to live off the mats as they were on the mats. Its truly a life changing experience. I highly recommend...

Of course I’m rating my own second home with five stars, I’m Professor Pedro Tello better known as Professor Pedroca , earned all my stripes and belts under Professor Carlos Lemos jr from white belt to black belt my experience in the world of jiujitsu has been great my self and my son have been practicing this amazing art for many years and it has brought so much joy into our lives. I have the fortune to be one of the Instructors and was trusted by Professor Carlos to teach the little champions and the teens program along with other fantastic staff members , this is a task trusted only to a few with the right credentials and training to enrich the minds of the future leaders of our communities, Gracie Barra Downers Grove was founded with the only purpose of changing peoples lives and reinforcing family values inside and outside the training mats. I see many examples of lives changed by jiujitsu day by day and I invite you to give this academy a try or just stop by and witness your self the environment that was created for everyone to enjoy, sit down in our parents room and see for your self the dynamic of the classes and you be the judge of the success of this place in our community , we are the largest martial arts organization in the world with 700 plus schools around the globe and this reflects in our facilities and way of conducting business, by no means we are the cheapest choice but you’re definitely getting what you pay for. You may pay a lot lessand get a free uniform just down the street from us but we proudly have the biggest kids program in the area. Thanks for reading this!!

Cool people and atmosphere. Very nice place to do some serious BJJ.Nice work Professor Lemos, keep up the good work !Greetings from Gracie Barra Belgrade, SerbiaD.

My oldest son had very limited experience in martial arts before joining GB Downers Grove, but has been an enthusiastic of the UFC. He always loved watching how the Gracies would control bigger and stronger opponents without much effort or use of strength. He didnt have the opportunity to commit to a program due to us living in a area without decent Brazilian Jiu Jitsu schools - only some back yard MMA places and a few karate schools. Upon moving to the Downers Grove area, we searched on the web and found Gracie Barra Downers Grove.The facility was clean and beautiful, decorated with large historical posters of the Gracie family hanging on their walls. The school was packed with students, working closely with multiple instructors, and the place was full of positive energy. I noticed that there were different levels of curriculums on the walls that instructors refer to, which sparked my interest to read along the wall to have discovered the attention to detail of this school: dojo etiquette, Gracie mottos, and different curriculum info all spread out across the shop. The changing room was nice, and they seem to be providing towel service along with multiple showers.Prof. Carlos Lemos Jr and Prof. Lopez came to greet us with their warm smiles, welcoming us to Gracie Barra, They were incredibly friendly, and so were the students. Within only one semesters time, we started to noticed that not only has he lost weight and started to feel more energetic, but also how his focus, discipline and confidence have also improved substantially. This change took place not only at home but also at his school where he became quite a leader figure of his class. We received many compliments from his teachers and we knew that had lots to do with the experience he had at Gracie Barra.Months later, Gracie Barra offered a special promotion where parents of the school receives 1 month unlimited classes at no cost. We got an used Gracie Barra uniform on the eBay and I joined the classes as soon as the uniform arrived in the mail. For years, I have struggled with circulation problems which almost disappeared within weeks of training! My mood and senses improved so much that we decided to sign up my younger son for the program too. Different from my older son, he never really enjoyed any sports and for the first 8 weeks tried everything under the sun to quit the program. Fortunately, the instructors were patient enough to support and encourage him through out the rough times. They ask us to give our boy time that eventually he would catch up with the rest of the group and they were right! Our shy little boy who used to play video games more than anything was finally smiling on the mats. Like his brother, he also became more confident, disciplined, focused and energetic. After a year of training, my younger son became a youth leader of our church and we know that this confidence has lots to do with the teachings of GB Downers Grove as well.Right before I was relocated once again, my oldest son won the Chicago International Open Championship! That was the greatest sports achievement of my son, and for us the greatest satisfaction knowing that both of them are champions of life. Sadly, life took our family to another state, but we can never forget the experience of both of my kids at this wonderful school. Thank you so much Prof Lemos, Prof Ryo, Prof Lopez, Prof Lou and Coach Pedroca.We are so thankful for all of the great memories watching our boys flourish at Gracie Barra Downers Grove.

GREAT SCHOOL!!!Professor Carlos Lemos is well know instructor, Black Belt under MAster Carlos Gracie Jr.I recommend this school to everyone!!!

Great program! I highly recommend Gracie Barra!

Awesome! Incredibly gifted teachers and wonderful families!

In response to the Jay Gardner reviewI honestly do not believe he could have attended Gracie Barra in Downers Grove or trained with Professor Carlos Lemos Jr because that review couldnt be further from the truth. I am a 40 yr old woman who has been training with Professor Carlos Lemos Jr for over a year now and he has had a positive affect on my life. He pushes you to become a better you both mentally and physically. I have never met a more humble man. He is very cautious in keeping his students from being injured with this being so very physical. Gracie Barra isnt just a school you go to train Brazilian Jiujitsu it becomes your family. I would highly recommend women, children and families come out and try at least one class at Gracie Barra Downers Grove with Professor Carlos Lemos Jr because that is all it took for me and it was the best decision I have ever made.

I have been going to Gracie Barra Downers Grove for less than a year and I have been loving it there! They have a variety of classes (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu with Gi & No-Gi and Muay Thai/Kick boxing) for children, adults, beginners and advanced. They have early morning, late morning and evening classes, too.The instruction is excellent and the workout is fantastic. I have learned a lot, lost weight and my cardio has improved significantly since I joined. It is a very friendly and positive environment, too. Professor Carlos, Professor Lou and all the other professors, coaches and classmates all help and encourage each other to learn and improve.After telling my wife how impressed I was with the school, she wanted to give it a try. After a couple trial classes, she decided she wanted to join, too. We have two young daughters that we want to get involved in the children’s program, too. This is a very family-friendly environment. So, this will also be an activity we can participate in together as a family. For anyone interested in self-defense, I highly recommend checking out this school!

Professor Carlos and his team of instructors are top notch. Our entire family attends classes at Gracie Barra (including jiu jitsu, muay thai, and the women’s boot camp classes). We started going to Gracie Barra Downers Grove in January 2013. Both of our kids attend jiu jitsu classes...our son is 12 years old and our daughter is 9 years old. We feel extremely fortunate to have found this school. Professor Carlos is extremely motivating and encouraging with every student of his school. He genuinely cares about his students and their overall well being and continued progress. Also, every single one of the instructors here act/feel the exact same way. There are no egos. This school is really like a family.Attending jiu jitsu classes at Gracie Barra has made a real impact on our children, they have gained inner & physical strength, it has improved their focus, and it has increased their self confidence. All this while learning an excellent martial art/self defense, Brazilian jiu jitsu.

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!

Gracie Barra Downers Grove is a great place to learn martial arts. I have been training Jiu-Jitsu under Professor Carlos Lemos Jr. since late 2009. I have met alot of great friends on the mats, and have enjoyed my experience beyond words. It is a great environment to learn in, Carlos and all the instructors do a great job. Lou Tobar teaches Muay Thai kickboxing also, which is another great class. The best thing is, that there is something for everyone here: Self Defense, a platform to get in better shape, and a place to become a serious competitor. No matter how old you are, no matter what your goals are, you can achieve them here. Stop in for a free class to check it out, you will not be disappointed

I cannot say enough good things about Professor Carlos Lemos and his group of coaches and students at Downers. My wife and I transferred over from the Schaumburg Gracie Barra franchise due to the owner/directors sketchy business practices. Although it was upsetting and disappointing to leave our friend Professor Sergio Costa, things worked out for the better.Carlos has made this school not only a place to learn true Gracie Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai kickboxing but has followed to a tee the vision that Carlos Gracie Jr. intended Gracie Barra to be with an intense sense of family, community and friends supporting and being there for eachother. Carlos truly cares about every one of his students from instilling a sense of honor and responsibility in the children to proper technique and effective jiu jitsu training. I can say without hesitation that he and coach Bret Stalcup are the reason my technique has grown so much and my multiple medals Ive earned in IBJJF since switching schools. If youre looking to not only learn true BJJ from one of the best practitioners in the Midwest and world but also meet and befriend some of the nicest most genuine people Ive ever met then COME TO DOWNERS GROVE.

I would say this is the cleanest mma school I have visited. The entrance area is clean, specious with some seating. They have a shop area to the side that sells gracie barra gi and tshirts, and a cooler with some water and sports drinks. The mens change room really took me by surprise. I was expecting the typical but its actually very well taken care of. They offer shower gel and towels, with plenty of space to change and set your bag. They also offer gi for tryouts and are staffed with decent and professional instructors - which defiantly set them apart from some mma gyms with more complex group dynamics. Classes are offered both in the mornings and evenings, with yoga and kickboxing classes on top of bjj, pretty much an all-in-one place backed by great legacy and reputation.

My 6 year old daughter and I joined Gracie Barra Downers Grove summer of 2021 and it has been such an amazing experience. I am beyond happy with not only the instruction I receive but the way my child is appreciated and treated every class! Thank you professor Carlos Lemos Jr for the environment and opportunity to grow under the Gracie Barra name.

The best Gracie jiu jitsu school and academy for kids and adult..This school its my favorite place for 6 years allready ...Now I have enrolled my children who also love every workout and cant wait for every next workout.Outstanding work with children and young people. A place with top coaches and experts..Jiu jitsu makes us stronger both physically and mentally and brings peace and calm ... I hope that we will be members of the Gracie Barra family for many years to come. Gracie Barra Downers Grove is a real example of professional work with children and adults that changes the lives of many people for the better ...

GB Downers Grove, the best dojo.The teachers and members are very welcome, the dojo is always kept clean, and under the guidance of the worlds top level instructors in each class, beginners and everyone are taught in an easy-to-understand and safe manner.Its a place with a positive atmosphere where everyone works together toward their goals.I think GB Downers Gloves is the best environment to learn Jiu-Jitsu. I strongly recommend it.GB Downers Grove is an amazing BJJ school.The facility is always clean, the classes are taught by world class instructors following strict safety protocols and the people there are very welcoming. It ’s a place filled with positive energy and the best environment you could ask for to learn BJJ.I highly recommend you check it out.

Great place, great people, great experience! I hope I could find this place years ago. Thank you GB Downers Grove to be my new Family!When I opened the doors of Gracie Barra School in Downer Grove three years ago, I didnt know how much would change in my life. Apart from self-defense techniques, learning jiu-jitsu, I found wonderful people there, professors, instructors and students, people full of infectious energy and passion, people whose friendships are not only training; it is supporting each other regardless of gender, religion, profession, status, etc., it is the feeling that you can always count on each other.Training in Gracie Barra made me very strong physically and mentally. Each hour of training is a relaxation from work, but also focus and achievement of goals, it is developing your own skills, maintaining physical and mental health, changing your lifestyle to a healthier and more controlled (training, diet, losing a few kilos, and even, amazingly, healing / exercise former minor injuries).Jiu-jitsu sports, self-defense, a group of our wonderful women Pink Team, a group of the youngest children, preschoolers, school children, teenagers, adults ... You can always find something for yourself. Plus the lessons of dealing with violence at school - impressive!Everyone is welcome there !!!Gracie Barra in Downers Grove is also extremely clean. The summer mat is disinfected after every hour of classes, clean changing rooms and bathrooms, floors, etc ...Come, see, judge for yourself 😊