In the sprawling landscape of Illinois, where the bustling city of Chicago stands tall, and the vast prairie lands stretch out endlessly, exists a secret society of brave and clever kids. The Illinois Jiu Jitsu Jamboree (IJJJ for short), as this secret society is known, is filled with kids who feel super-charged when they practice the art of Jiu Jitsu. Now, let me introduce you to their fearless leader, Sir Squiggles McMuffin, a lovable yet eccentric teddy bear with a purple belt in Jiu Jitsu and a floppy chef's hat. Squiggles, with his fluffy fur and squishy muffin-shaped belly, is not just your ordinary teddy bear. He is a master of sneaky moves, swift breaks, and unexpected giggles. Every afternoon, in the mystical halls of the IJJJ clubhouse (which might look suspiciously like your average community center to the untrained eye), Squiggles and his band of Jiu Jitsu journeyers gather. From Belleville to Champaign, Peoria to Rockford, these kids are as different and diverse as the state itself. But they all share the same love for Jiu Jitsu and their zany mascot, Squiggles. With a "hi-ya" here and a "watch-out-for-my-ninja-roll" there, these kids flip, twist, and tumble, laughing all the while. These Jiu Jitsu kids aren't just learning self-defense; they're building strength, courage, and a sense of teamwork that makes them more formidable than the fiercest of Illinois winds. The kids from the IJJJ are a funny bunch, with their secret handshakes and Squiggles-inspired jokes. But they're also the coolest kids you could meet in the Land of Lincoln, proving every day that in the world of Jiu Jitsu, there's always room for fun, laughter, and a teddy bear mascot who knows his way around a tasty muffin recipe!
Read morebest jiu-jitsu programs in Deerfield, IL


Nestled in the heart of Phoenix, AZ, we are a dedicated indoor playground committed to fostering early childhood development. We provide a safe and engaging environment for your little ones to explore, learn, and grow. Our playroom is specially designed to cater to children from infancy up to five years old, creating a unique space where they can let their imaginations soar. We take pride in our three distinct play areas, each purposefully designed to encourage different aspects of your child's development. One area is focused on promoting gross motor skills, providing children with plenty of opportunities to climb, jump, and run. Another area is set up for dramatic play, allowing your toddlers to engage in imaginative role-playing games. Lastly, we have a calming sensory room, a tranquil space designed to help children relax and recharge. This room is equipped with soothing sensory activities, providing a peaceful environment for your child to unwind after an energetic play session. We believe in the importance of balance in a child's day, and this calming sensory room is just the place for them to find it.


At CMA, our classes are tailored to the individual student's pace of learning. We understand that not all students learn at the same speed, and we recognize that everyone has different needs. Therefore, our classes progress with each student's individual speed. This means that if a student is dedicated and catches on quickly, their progress will be accelerated. On the other hand, if a student prefers a more casual pace, their martial arts experience will reflect that. We also offer a variety of classes for both children and adults. Our classes run at different times throughout the day and week, so it's easy to find a time that works for you. Whether you're looking for a fast-paced class or a more relaxed one, we have something for everyone at Chicago Martial Arts & Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Our Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy is proud to be part of the Deerfield community. We are delighted to be part of the growing Gracie Barra Jiu-Jitsu legacy in the northern Chicago suburbs. Our academy offers world-class instruction in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for individuals, families, and Law Enforcement personnel. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a reference for fitness, wellness, character development, self-defense, martial art, and brotherhood. At Gracie Barra, we offer classes for kids, teens, and adults so the entire family can benefit from the powerful lessons taught by Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Our goal is to foster the development of a strong, healthy, and confident community.