49 Waukegan Road, Deerfield, Illinois, 60015, United States
Two men in Gracie Barra gear
Gracie Barra - North America

GB Deerfield

Jiu-Jitsu for Everyone.®
Train Body, Mind, and Spirit

GB Deerfield

Welcome to Gracie Barra GB Deerfield, a proud part of the global Gracie Barra network. Our school is dedicated to providing world-class Jiu-Jitsu instruction in a safe, structured, and welcoming environment.

Learn more about our school

We offer classes for all ages and skill levels, from kids to adults, beginners to advanced practitioners. Explore our programs and find the one that’s right for you.

GB Classes
Gracie Barra
GB Deerfield
49 Waukegan Road, Deerfield, Illinois, 60015, United States
School Hours
  • Today  -  9:00am - 8:00pm
    Monday 9:00am - 8:00pm
    Tuesday 9:00am - 8:00pm
    Wednesday 9:00am - 8:00pm
    Thursday 9:00am - 8:00pm
    Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm
    Saturday 9:00am - 12:30pm
    Sunday 9:00am - 10:00am
Gracie Barra
GB Deerfield
49 Waukegan Road, Deerfield, Illinois, 60015, United States
847-504-7213
School Hours
  • Today  - 9:00am - 8:00pm
    Monday 9:00am - 8:00pm
    Tuesday 9:00am - 8:00pm
    Wednesday 9:00am - 8:00pm
    Thursday 9:00am - 8:00pm
    Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm
    Saturday 9:00am - 12:30pm
    Sunday 9:00am - 10:00am

Testimonials

  • Was fortunate to have the opportunity to train and visit with Prof. Souza while in Chicago! What a great chance for this area to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu from such a knowledgeable instructor and great person.
  • I just started this program, and even with an athletic background, I was a bit apprehensive about starting because of never doing this sport before. But After 3 weeks I’ve fallen in love with this sport, the environment, you really feel the support from coaches and teammates. It feels like a team and family at Gracie Barra , everyone is there to help you improve and your there to help them improve. In just a few weeks I can say I have a lot more confidence, and I’m excited for this journey and learning all I can.
  • Came in for a couple morning classes while in the area for a work trip. Everyone was super welcoming and accommodating, coach and students alike. I feel like I learned a ton and everyone was fantastic. Will be dropping in again when I'm back in town!
  • Great first experience. Newly navy enlisted hoping to go far with Martial Arts and hopefully this school will be part of that long journey there. The atmosphere from my experience has a great welcoming feeling there are mixed classes and I'm pretty sure most of the ladies there could easily man handle me....for now. Can't wait for my next class.
  • Marcelo, Coach Steve and Coach Rob are the best in the business. If you are thinking about joining a school, this is the one. They are kind individuals with a passion to see you succeed while maintaining your absolute safety and that of others. Gracie Berra is a gem of an organization and the future template of BJJ. My 6 yo son is also in the program of study and loves it. He asks when the next day to go. I have noticed that he's more calm at home and gets a ton of exercise twice a week. The coaches are so nice to them. Please call and make an appointment to talk with Steve the owner and come join the fun, get some great exercise and become part of something greater than yourself.
  • This is how Jiu Jitsu should be! Very professional and clean safe environment. My 3 kids love to learn and focus on the techniques. This gym has refocused and shaped my kids and their grades are better, they don't fight as much with each other and they seem to be very patient and humble!! Great for Adults too! Me and my wife go here and love to train and it has been wonderful for us! We have energy and we are allot less stressed and are much more happy outside of the gym. My work and home life has improved dramatically! I highly recommend Gracie Barra Deerfield!
  • Professor is legit
  • I love this place and am glad to join. The professor and staff are kind and passionate! Strongly recommend.
  • Recently made the decision to join - it's a great place with friendly coaches and an awesome professor. The atmosphere is really supportive for beginners and I'm learning a ton! Everyone I've met over the last few weeks is very friendly and so far zero bad attitudes or stereotypical "tough guys" (in case that's something that worries you about potential martial arts schools). It's a pretty good workout as well, great way to break a sweat. If you have any interest in BJJ go ahead and call/email to set up a free class!
  • Just signed up 2 weeks ago, awesome, real friendly environment, genuine instructors and people. If you have thought about signing up whether you are a beginner or experienced what are you waiting for?
  • Amazing instruction, family and team atmosphere, proven technique. 5 stars all the way. Professor Marcelo, the coaches, and the staff are all awesome people and are great at what they do. Five star team and coaching
  • This is a great place. My kids and I all train here. None of us had any experience with BJJ and kind of found this place. The professor is great and his instructors are great. They teach according to the program. It’s great for my kids as well. I would highly recommend for any person looking to explore BJJ.
  • Our family’s journey with Gracie Barra Deerfield started after my kids had originally begun training at the Gracie Barra Evanston location in October 2024. When we moved to the Deerfield location, we weren’t sure what to expect, but the welcome we received was incredible. The environment was so warm and positive that my kids were instantly hooked. They’ve been training here since January 2025 and have truly found a home — not just a gym. They’ve built close friendships and feel genuinely supported by their coaches and professors, who clearly care about them not only as students but as people. Coach Odysseus is phenomenal with kids — patient, encouraging, and skilled at meeting them at their level while still challenging them to grow. Professor Marcelo is an outstanding mentor who leads by example and creates a culture of respect, discipline, and kindness. After seeing how amazing the community was for my children, I decided to try a class myself on June 21, 2025 — and I’ve been hooked ever since. Jiu-jitsu has become a grounding force in my life. I’ve met some truly incredible people and built meaningful friendships. I often find myself reflecting on how special the community at GB Deerfield really is. Yes, the instruction is top-notch, but what keeps me coming back 4–5 times a week are the relationships — the sense of belonging, encouragement, and shared growth. I only wish I had found GB Deerfield years ago.
  • Our journey began when I started taking a little girl to and from her Jiu-Jitsu class. I would bring my daughter along, and before I knew it, I saw that it sparked her interest. She started asking questions and then begging to join. I was hesitant at first because I wanted her to take it seriously and not ask to quit two weeks later. Well, one year later, the change in my daughter is undeniable. She loves training, and she loves the community that supports and guides her. She feels empowered, and her confidence has grown tremendously. Now, whenever we have to miss class, I’m met with disappointment. It’s her outlet, and she truly looks forward to learning new skills. The coaches are amazing with kids. They show patience and discipline while modeling kindness and acceptance. This is a wonderful investment if you’re looking to enroll your child in something that challenges them while empowering them. It might even be great for you, too!
  • Dropped in here to train and everyone was friendly. Had a good time at the classes and will drop in again next time I’m in town.
  • Came here for a party, the gym was nice and very clean! The staff that was there was friendly as well.
  • Great jiu jitsu gym on the North side with fantastic instruction and a clean facility! The staff and members were super welcoming even though I was only visiting. Definitely stop in for a free class to check them out!
  • Really great school. Marcelo is a great instructor and clearly passionate about teaching. I'm very new to BJJ but everybody has been so friendly and patient with me. Great place to learn.
  • Gracie Barra Deerfield is amazing. Me and my wife and our 2 children are students here. Professor Marcelo is genuinely kind, patient and respectful. I feel like from day one we were welcome with open arms to the Gracie Barra family. My 6 year old daughter loves Gracie Barra. My 10 year old son is so mature and humble and his ability to learn and focus is all due to Jiu Jitsu at Gracie Barra. I highly recommend Gracie Barra Deerfield for kids and adults! What are you waiting for? Try a class for free!
  • I've been training at Gracie Barra Deerfield, for about a year now and there's no other place I would train at. Cleanliness, and atmosphere is impeccable. The detail and instruction by Professor Marcelo Souza is second to none. I highly recommend to anyone from a beginner with no experience to an advance practitioner!
  • My son has been going here for 3 years or so. He has made many friends and has competed in a few competitions. He absolutely loves it. The coaches are great and the professor there is amazing. All of the staff are kind, friendly, responsible, and accepting. It’s simply a wonderful place.
  • I took 2 years off from training and really wanted to get started again. Since I started my journey at Gracie Barra I chose to stop in here and check it out. The classes are top notch.. fellow students welcomed me with open arms. The Professor is very good at explaining techniques. I found my home on the mat again! Thanks!
  • Was on a business trip for work and decided to train, they welcomed me like one of their own. No egos, clean facility and good people!
  • Great atmosphere, excellent instruction, fantastic workout!
  • Great school and instructor. All ages and skill levels are made to feel welcome.
  • Very qualified teacher and staff, love to train there. Very positive and respectful environment. Great place to learn BJJ.
  • I give Gracie Barra the highest of recommendations. Once you walk in the door, you will immediately feel like family -- any nervousness you may have will wash away quickly. Professor Marcelo brings unbelievable insights both in terms of technical jiu jitsu and how jiu jitsu can better your life. I would encourage everyone to give it a try!
  • I've never had a place that I felt more at home than with Prof Marcello only a white belt but I have learned so much about life and jiu jitsu!!
  • Started training again after moving and have had a great experience. Great people, awesome professor. Started by taking my 5 year old for the kids classes (they're awesome with the kids) and he loved it so much I had to start rolling again! Good stuff. Thanks to everyone there.
  • Was in town on business and went to Gracie Barra Deerfield to train. Had a wonderful experience. The location was clean, sanitized, and had ample space to train. The team there were very welcoming and friendly. The academy also has showers, which is super convenient. I will definitely return if I am ever back in town. Thank you!
  • We have wonderful experience of attending classes for more than a year. My son loves them and increased self confidence. Customer service is great and I highly recommend this place
  • Our family has been so lucky to find Gracie Barra. When you enter, you are warmly greeted by the owner and the program director. The main instructor, Coach Odysseas, is so committed to the improvement of each student. His consistency, calm demeanor, and dedication to the practice is absorbed by the team. No matter what mood my son is in when he arrives, he leaves calm and proud of his improvement. The guiding principle of being a good teammate includes avoiding injury and watching this in practice has allayed my fears of this. I am grateful for the supportive instruction of this physical and mental exercise and its benefits that extend beyond class!
  • I started my son at Gracie Barra Deerfield when he was 7. He was excited and had issues staying focused and paying attention (as most 7 yr olds would). Professor Marcello did a wonderful job engaging him and the other children to create an atmosphere of growth, personal development, and fun. Seeing how well my boy was progressing I ended up joining myself. 6 months in I am thinner, stronger, smarter, and more confident. The GB Deerfiled team is supportive and provide and ego-free experience. I highly recommend trying it out.
  • My entire family and I go to this gym and we love it here! Professor Marcelo is an outstanding instructor who is so patient and caring with kids. He is super approachable and fun to be around. All of the coaches here are awesome and it is a great facility. I have been training in Jiu Jitsu for a few years and have been to other gyms. Everyone here is a pleasure to train with and their program is superb! I highly recommend Gracie Barra Deerfield to everyone.
  • An absolutely fantastic place. Every instructor is kind, patient and extremely knowledgeable. The culture is built on community, partnership and support. Kudos to Professor Marcelo and his team. I highly recommend Gracie Barra of Deerfield.
  • Great BJJ school. Friendly and welcoming. Highly recommend.
  • Gracie Barra is an impressive program to help children build Jiu Jitsu skills but also learn the importance of teamwork, respect towards others and maintaining a positive mental attitude. We highly recommend this training facility.
  • Gracie Barra Deerfield is a top notch facility that provides students a positive environment to develop their Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Coach Marcelo is very approachable and is highly effective at communicating lesson material with students of all levels of experience. The training environment is very clean, safe, and the students and instructors are all very welcoming. I have personally trained at a number of facilities and have over 10 years of grappling experience and can say that Gracie Barra Deerfield has one of the best gym cultures I have ever been a part of. I would absolutely encourage anyone interested in trying out a class or looking for a new gym to pay Gracie Barra Deerfield a visit.
  • I live in Minnesota and I did a drop in class. I was so impressed!! Everyone there is super nice, a great culture and they really know their stuff! Was an awesome experience and I learned a ton. If I'm ever back in town for any reason, it's a priority to go back. One of the instructors Mike was showing me a really cool combination of what to do in different situations and how to react based on how your opponent does. I asked him if I could take a video and he said absolutely.
  • I've been able to train at a few different gyms, but hands down Gracie Barra takes the lead. Not only do you have a high level Professor walking you through each technique, but you have a true family-style community that trains hard!!
  • I was a bit nervous to try this at first being a woman and having no experience with Jiu Jitsu but I have felt welcome every step of the way. A core tenant of Gracie Barra is Jiu Jitsu for everyone and they do a great job practicing this principle by welcoming all skill levels and people. The instructors and even other students are invested in the progress of all the students and I can really feel they want me to succeed. If you are thinking of giving it a try I would definitely recommend Gracie Barra!
  • Professor Marcelo and the entire coaching staff are absolutely fantastic! Such a great community and place to learn BJJ. I highly recommend Gracie Barra in Deerfield to all!
  • Great place amazing teachers and fun crowd
  • Great people, great instruction, great jiujitsu! Really solid place to train with high caliber instruction from a great teacher. Highly recommended for both adults and kids!
  • Jiu jitsu itself is an amazing art that teaches you not only how to defend yourself but to overcome obstacles in your life and continue pushing forward, but jiu-jitsu Barra Deerfield goes even beyond showing camaraderie and family ambience with all the support you would expect for a well known and professional gym. This is truly a place to enjoy learning self defense while working out and making friends, absolutely recommend it to everyone :)
  • After six months of attending, I am confident in saying all of these 5 star reviews are legit. The owner is professional and straightforward. The instructor is knowledge and patient--he's pretty funny, too. The guys (and girls) training there are all friendly and eager to learn. The facility is kept very clean. And, the curriculum builds systematically, which means after a few months things start clicking, and you really feel the improvement. If you're considering BJJ, I strongly urge you to set up a free class. You won't be disappointed.
  • Great school, amazing professors and coaches, and very friendly students of all ages! Our family of four goes to Gracie Barra Deerfield. On day one, we were warmly welcomed by Coach Phuong and Professor Marcelo. I immediately appreciated how Coach Phuong asked for the correct pronunciation of my name, and she has never forgotten it! She is very welcoming, attentive, and patiently answers all questions and concerns. Professor Marcelo is one of the most pleasant people I have ever met! He is firm but very kind, considerate, and explains all the movements very well. His passion for Jiu Jitsu is evident in his teaching and in the way he cares about all the students in the class. My sons, 10 and 12, also trained in both regular and private classes with Coach Luis. He is excellent with younger children, patiently correcting their movements. What I really appreciate is the coaches' approach, especially with kids; they always ask if they can offer a tip! Similarly, Coach Odysseas is an amazing trainer as well. He is very attentive and always kindly guides myself and my sons to correct our forms or improve our technique. He very patiently explains the move as many time as needed to myself :) After class, people often enjoy rolling on the open mat, having a great time and practicing the moves. This speaks volumes about the culture that Professor Marcelo and his team have nurtured at this location. They truly embody the motto "Organized Like a Team, Fighting Like Family". I highly recommend Gracie Barra Deerfield and cannot say enough good things about the team.
  • My daughter has been taking classes here for almost a year. When you walk in the door you are welcomed like family and made to feel like you are a part of a community. The professors care so much about the children. Every interaction is with deep interest, kindness and patience. I feel so grateful that my daughter found this academy. She is not only learning self-defense. She is learning confidence, problem-solving, calm under pressure and teamwork.
  • Great place for all ages! My kids can't wait to go to each class. I was not expecting to have many female training partners but was pleasantly surprised. The atmosphere is pleasant and welcoming. Always feels like home! Stop by and give it a try. :)
  • Absolutely amazing workout! Instructors truly care about you, nothing wrong that the eye can see!
  • What a great school! If you're looking to try out a BJJ gym, you can't go wrong with the Gracie Barra Deerfield location. Professor Marcelo and the entire coaching staff are nothing short of fantastic and are incredibly dedicated to the sport. 10/10 recommendation for this gym. If I could rate it higher, I would!
  • I have never been to any other BJJ schools but I don't think it can get better than this. I signed up my 4 and 1/2-year-old son 3 months ago and the amount of progress that he has made in past 3 months is amazing. The coaching staff and the front desk are very professional, helpful and patient. They'll go out of their way to help you. If you are reading this review and thinking about signing up your kid at Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Deerfield, Don't think twice do it! And the gym is super clean
  • I have been training with the team at Gracie Barra Deerfield for over 3 years and have nothing but positive things to say regarding their facility, staff, and community! We love this organization!
  • One of the best schools for jujitsu around the Chicagoland don’t waste your time to go somewhere else. Thank you, Marcelo.
  • I've been training at Gracie Barra Deerfield, for about a year now and there's no other place I would train at. Cleanliness, and atmosphere is impeccable. The detail and instruction by Professor Marcelo Souza is second to none. I highly recommend to anyone from a beginner with no experience to an advance practitioner!
  • Was on a business trip for work and decided to train, they welcomed me like one of their own. No egos, clean facility and good people!
  • Marcelo, Coach Steve and Coach Rob are the best in the business. If you are thinking about joining a school, this is the one. They are kind individuals with a passion to see you succeed while maintaining your absolute safety and that of others. Gracie Berra is a gem of an organization and the future template of BJJ. My 6 yo son is also in the program of study and loves it. He asks when the next day to go. I have noticed that he's more calm at home and gets a ton of exercise twice a week. The coaches are so nice to them. Please call and make an appointment to talk with Steve the owner and come join the fun, get some great exercise and become part of something greater than yourself.
  • Absolutely amazing workout! Instructors truly care about you, nothing wrong that the eye can see!
  • Professor is legit
  • Great school, amazing professors and coaches, and very friendly students of all ages! Our family of four goes to Gracie Barra Deerfield. On day one, we were warmly welcomed by Coach Phuong and Professor Marcelo. I immediately appreciated how Coach Phuong asked for the correct pronunciation of my name, and she has never forgotten it! She is very welcoming, attentive, and patiently answers all questions and concerns. Professor Marcelo is one of the most pleasant people I have ever met! He is firm but very kind, considerate, and explains all the movements very well. His passion for Jiu Jitsu is evident in his teaching and in the way he cares about all the students in the class. My sons, 10 and 12, also trained in both regular and private classes with Coach Luis. He is excellent with younger children, patiently correcting their movements. What I really appreciate is the coaches' approach, especially with kids; they always ask if they can offer a tip! Similarly, Coach Odysseas is an amazing trainer as well. He is very attentive and always kindly guides myself and my sons to correct our forms or improve our technique. He very patiently explains the move as many time as needed to myself :) After class, people often enjoy rolling on the open mat, having a great time and practicing the moves. This speaks volumes about the culture that Professor Marcelo and his team have nurtured at this location. They truly embody the motto "Organized Like a Team, Fighting Like Family". I highly recommend Gracie Barra Deerfield and cannot say enough good things about the team.
  • An absolutely fantastic place. Every instructor is kind, patient and extremely knowledgeable. The culture is built on community, partnership and support. Kudos to Professor Marcelo and his team. I highly recommend Gracie Barra of Deerfield.
  • Great people, great instruction, great jiujitsu! Really solid place to train with high caliber instruction from a great teacher. Highly recommended for both adults and kids!
  • My entire family and I go to this gym and we love it here! Professor Marcelo is an outstanding instructor who is so patient and caring with kids. He is super approachable and fun to be around. All of the coaches here are awesome and it is a great facility. I have been training in Jiu Jitsu for a few years and have been to other gyms. Everyone here is a pleasure to train with and their program is superb! I highly recommend Gracie Barra Deerfield to everyone.
  • Came in for a couple morning classes while in the area for a work trip. Everyone was super welcoming and accommodating, coach and students alike. I feel like I learned a ton and everyone was fantastic. Will be dropping in again when I'm back in town!
  • I've been able to train at a few different gyms, but hands down Gracie Barra takes the lead. Not only do you have a high level Professor walking you through each technique, but you have a true family-style community that trains hard!!
  • Our family’s journey with Gracie Barra Deerfield started after my kids had originally begun training at the Gracie Barra Evanston location in October 2024. When we moved to the Deerfield location, we weren’t sure what to expect, but the welcome we received was incredible. The environment was so warm and positive that my kids were instantly hooked. They’ve been training here since January 2025 and have truly found a home — not just a gym. They’ve built close friendships and feel genuinely supported by their coaches and professors, who clearly care about them not only as students but as people. Coach Odysseus is phenomenal with kids — patient, encouraging, and skilled at meeting them at their level while still challenging them to grow. Professor Marcelo is an outstanding mentor who leads by example and creates a culture of respect, discipline, and kindness. After seeing how amazing the community was for my children, I decided to try a class myself on June 21, 2025 — and I’ve been hooked ever since. Jiu-jitsu has become a grounding force in my life. I’ve met some truly incredible people and built meaningful friendships. I often find myself reflecting on how special the community at GB Deerfield really is. Yes, the instruction is top-notch, but what keeps me coming back 4–5 times a week are the relationships — the sense of belonging, encouragement, and shared growth. I only wish I had found GB Deerfield years ago.
  • After six months of attending, I am confident in saying all of these 5 star reviews are legit. The owner is professional and straightforward. The instructor is knowledge and patient--he's pretty funny, too. The guys (and girls) training there are all friendly and eager to learn. The facility is kept very clean. And, the curriculum builds systematically, which means after a few months things start clicking, and you really feel the improvement. If you're considering BJJ, I strongly urge you to set up a free class. You won't be disappointed.
  • Dropped in here to train and everyone was friendly. Had a good time at the classes and will drop in again next time I’m in town.
  • Really great school. Marcelo is a great instructor and clearly passionate about teaching. I'm very new to BJJ but everybody has been so friendly and patient with me. Great place to learn.
  • I was a bit nervous to try this at first being a woman and having no experience with Jiu Jitsu but I have felt welcome every step of the way. A core tenant of Gracie Barra is Jiu Jitsu for everyone and they do a great job practicing this principle by welcoming all skill levels and people. The instructors and even other students are invested in the progress of all the students and I can really feel they want me to succeed. If you are thinking of giving it a try I would definitely recommend Gracie Barra!
  • This is how Jiu Jitsu should be! Very professional and clean safe environment. My 3 kids love to learn and focus on the techniques. This gym has refocused and shaped my kids and their grades are better, they don't fight as much with each other and they seem to be very patient and humble!! Great for Adults too! Me and my wife go here and love to train and it has been wonderful for us! We have energy and we are allot less stressed and are much more happy outside of the gym. My work and home life has improved dramatically! I highly recommend Gracie Barra Deerfield!
  • Recently made the decision to join - it's a great place with friendly coaches and an awesome professor. The atmosphere is really supportive for beginners and I'm learning a ton! Everyone I've met over the last few weeks is very friendly and so far zero bad attitudes or stereotypical "tough guys" (in case that's something that worries you about potential martial arts schools). It's a pretty good workout as well, great way to break a sweat. If you have any interest in BJJ go ahead and call/email to set up a free class!
  • Amazing instruction, family and team atmosphere, proven technique. 5 stars all the way. Professor Marcelo, the coaches, and the staff are all awesome people and are great at what they do. Five star team and coaching
  • Came here for a party, the gym was nice and very clean! The staff that was there was friendly as well.
  • One of the best schools for jujitsu around the Chicagoland don’t waste your time to go somewhere else. Thank you, Marcelo.
  • Very qualified teacher and staff, love to train there. Very positive and respectful environment. Great place to learn BJJ.
  • Was fortunate to have the opportunity to train and visit with Prof. Souza while in Chicago! What a great chance for this area to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu from such a knowledgeable instructor and great person.
  • I have been training with the team at Gracie Barra Deerfield for over 3 years and have nothing but positive things to say regarding their facility, staff, and community! We love this organization!
  • Started training again after moving and have had a great experience. Great people, awesome professor. Started by taking my 5 year old for the kids classes (they're awesome with the kids) and he loved it so much I had to start rolling again! Good stuff. Thanks to everyone there.
  • This is a great place. My kids and I all train here. None of us had any experience with BJJ and kind of found this place. The professor is great and his instructors are great. They teach according to the program. It’s great for my kids as well. I would highly recommend for any person looking to explore BJJ.
  • Was in town on business and went to Gracie Barra Deerfield to train. Had a wonderful experience. The location was clean, sanitized, and had ample space to train. The team there were very welcoming and friendly. The academy also has showers, which is super convenient. I will definitely return if I am ever back in town. Thank you!
  • Great first experience. Newly navy enlisted hoping to go far with Martial Arts and hopefully this school will be part of that long journey there. The atmosphere from my experience has a great welcoming feeling there are mixed classes and I'm pretty sure most of the ladies there could easily man handle me....for now. Can't wait for my next class.
  • Great school and instructor. All ages and skill levels are made to feel welcome.
  • Our family has been so lucky to find Gracie Barra. When you enter, you are warmly greeted by the owner and the program director. The main instructor, Coach Odysseas, is so committed to the improvement of each student. His consistency, calm demeanor, and dedication to the practice is absorbed by the team. No matter what mood my son is in when he arrives, he leaves calm and proud of his improvement. The guiding principle of being a good teammate includes avoiding injury and watching this in practice has allayed my fears of this. I am grateful for the supportive instruction of this physical and mental exercise and its benefits that extend beyond class!
  • Gracie Barra is an impressive program to help children build Jiu Jitsu skills but also learn the importance of teamwork, respect towards others and maintaining a positive mental attitude. We highly recommend this training facility.
  • I have never been to any other BJJ schools but I don't think it can get better than this. I signed up my 4 and 1/2-year-old son 3 months ago and the amount of progress that he has made in past 3 months is amazing. The coaching staff and the front desk are very professional, helpful and patient. They'll go out of their way to help you. If you are reading this review and thinking about signing up your kid at Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Deerfield, Don't think twice do it! And the gym is super clean
  • I started my son at Gracie Barra Deerfield when he was 7. He was excited and had issues staying focused and paying attention (as most 7 yr olds would). Professor Marcello did a wonderful job engaging him and the other children to create an atmosphere of growth, personal development, and fun. Seeing how well my boy was progressing I ended up joining myself. 6 months in I am thinner, stronger, smarter, and more confident. The GB Deerfiled team is supportive and provide and ego-free experience. I highly recommend trying it out.
  • Jiu jitsu itself is an amazing art that teaches you not only how to defend yourself but to overcome obstacles in your life and continue pushing forward, but jiu-jitsu Barra Deerfield goes even beyond showing camaraderie and family ambience with all the support you would expect for a well known and professional gym. This is truly a place to enjoy learning self defense while working out and making friends, absolutely recommend it to everyone :)
  • What a great school! If you're looking to try out a BJJ gym, you can't go wrong with the Gracie Barra Deerfield location. Professor Marcelo and the entire coaching staff are nothing short of fantastic and are incredibly dedicated to the sport. 10/10 recommendation for this gym. If I could rate it higher, I would!
  • I love this place and am glad to join. The professor and staff are kind and passionate! Strongly recommend.
  • My son has been going here for 3 years or so. He has made many friends and has competed in a few competitions. He absolutely loves it. The coaches are great and the professor there is amazing. All of the staff are kind, friendly, responsible, and accepting. It’s simply a wonderful place.
  • Great place for all ages! My kids can't wait to go to each class. I was not expecting to have many female training partners but was pleasantly surprised. The atmosphere is pleasant and welcoming. Always feels like home! Stop by and give it a try. :)
  • I just started this program, and even with an athletic background, I was a bit apprehensive about starting because of never doing this sport before. But After 3 weeks I’ve fallen in love with this sport, the environment, you really feel the support from coaches and teammates. It feels like a team and family at Gracie Barra , everyone is there to help you improve and your there to help them improve. In just a few weeks I can say I have a lot more confidence, and I’m excited for this journey and learning all I can.
  • I took 2 years off from training and really wanted to get started again. Since I started my journey at Gracie Barra I chose to stop in here and check it out. The classes are top notch.. fellow students welcomed me with open arms. The Professor is very good at explaining techniques. I found my home on the mat again! Thanks!
  • Our journey began when I started taking a little girl to and from her Jiu-Jitsu class. I would bring my daughter along, and before I knew it, I saw that it sparked her interest. She started asking questions and then begging to join. I was hesitant at first because I wanted her to take it seriously and not ask to quit two weeks later. Well, one year later, the change in my daughter is undeniable. She loves training, and she loves the community that supports and guides her. She feels empowered, and her confidence has grown tremendously. Now, whenever we have to miss class, I’m met with disappointment. It’s her outlet, and she truly looks forward to learning new skills. The coaches are amazing with kids. They show patience and discipline while modeling kindness and acceptance. This is a wonderful investment if you’re looking to enroll your child in something that challenges them while empowering them. It might even be great for you, too!
  • Just signed up 2 weeks ago, awesome, real friendly environment, genuine instructors and people. If you have thought about signing up whether you are a beginner or experienced what are you waiting for?
  • We have wonderful experience of attending classes for more than a year. My son loves them and increased self confidence. Customer service is great and I highly recommend this place
  • I give Gracie Barra the highest of recommendations. Once you walk in the door, you will immediately feel like family -- any nervousness you may have will wash away quickly. Professor Marcelo brings unbelievable insights both in terms of technical jiu jitsu and how jiu jitsu can better your life. I would encourage everyone to give it a try!
  • I live in Minnesota and I did a drop in class. I was so impressed!! Everyone there is super nice, a great culture and they really know their stuff! Was an awesome experience and I learned a ton. If I'm ever back in town for any reason, it's a priority to go back. One of the instructors Mike was showing me a really cool combination of what to do in different situations and how to react based on how your opponent does. I asked him if I could take a video and he said absolutely.
  • Great place amazing teachers and fun crowd
  • My daughter has been taking classes here for almost a year. When you walk in the door you are welcomed like family and made to feel like you are a part of a community. The professors care so much about the children. Every interaction is with deep interest, kindness and patience. I feel so grateful that my daughter found this academy. She is not only learning self-defense. She is learning confidence, problem-solving, calm under pressure and teamwork.
  • Great BJJ school. Friendly and welcoming. Highly recommend.
  • Professor Marcelo and the entire coaching staff are absolutely fantastic! Such a great community and place to learn BJJ. I highly recommend Gracie Barra in Deerfield to all!
  • Great jiu jitsu gym on the North side with fantastic instruction and a clean facility! The staff and members were super welcoming even though I was only visiting. Definitely stop in for a free class to check them out!
  • Great atmosphere, excellent instruction, fantastic workout!
  • Gracie Barra Deerfield is a top notch facility that provides students a positive environment to develop their Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Coach Marcelo is very approachable and is highly effective at communicating lesson material with students of all levels of experience. The training environment is very clean, safe, and the students and instructors are all very welcoming. I have personally trained at a number of facilities and have over 10 years of grappling experience and can say that Gracie Barra Deerfield has one of the best gym cultures I have ever been a part of. I would absolutely encourage anyone interested in trying out a class or looking for a new gym to pay Gracie Barra Deerfield a visit.
  • Gracie Barra Deerfield is amazing. Me and my wife and our 2 children are students here. Professor Marcelo is genuinely kind, patient and respectful. I feel like from day one we were welcome with open arms to the Gracie Barra family. My 6 year old daughter loves Gracie Barra. My 10 year old son is so mature and humble and his ability to learn and focus is all due to Jiu Jitsu at Gracie Barra. I highly recommend Gracie Barra Deerfield for kids and adults! What are you waiting for? Try a class for free!
  • I've never had a place that I felt more at home than with Prof Marcello only a white belt but I have learned so much about life and jiu jitsu!!

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GB Deerfield
49 Waukegan Road, Deerfield, Illinois, 60015, United States
School Hours
Monday
9:00am - 8:00pm
Tuesday
9:00am - 8:00pm
Wednesday
9:00am - 8:00pm
Thursday
9:00am - 8:00pm
Friday
9:00am - 5:00pm
Saturday
9:00am - 12:30pm
Sunday
9:00am - 10:00am
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