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

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

One of the best places in the state top quality instruction learning from the best of the bestread more

My four-year-old son is having a wonderful experience here. The instructor is really great with all…read moreages of kids. I am really happy that we found this school. Highly recommend.

I've been training at Aces for about a year and a half now, and it has truly had a positive impact…read moreon my life. I've lost a noticeable amount of weight and gained confidence in myself. Professor Luis provides a great atmosphere that supports your growth. While jiujitsu may not be for everyone, you get what you put into it. Whether you're looking for a killer workout or looking to compete to test your skills, the support is there. They emphasize technique above all else. Aces offer a free trial to new students who want to try BJJ before committing to a membership, so I encourage everyone to test themselves. You'll wish you engaged in BJJ earlier in your life.

Brazilian Black Belt Academy has been one of the best decisions we've made for our kids. From day…read moreone, the atmosphere has been welcoming, supportive, and truly family-oriented. Filipe is an outstanding instructor--patient, incredibly knowledgeable, and amazing with kids. He keeps classes structured, engaging, and fun while still teaching discipline, focus, and respect. My children are not only learning real self-defense skills, but I've also seen their confidence and self-esteem grow tremendously. They stay active, build resilience, and actually look forward to every class. If you're looking for a place where your child will gain confidence, discipline, and lifelong skills in a positive environment, I cannot recommend Brazilian Black Belt Academy enough.

I've had the privilege of being one of the founding members of the school, and it's been incredible…read moreto watch it grow under the leadership of Professor Felipe Costa. He's not only a world-class competitor but also a passionate and thoughtful teacher who truly cares about passing on the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. What sets this school apart is its well-structured class format and inclusive environment. Felipe offers a dedicated fundamentals class for adults that focuses on self-defense and foundational jiu-jitsu techniques--perfect for beginners. The all-levels class is ideal for those with experience and offers deeper technical instruction. Classes begin with a brief stretch, followed by a movement-based warm-up tied to that day's technique. Felipe often breaks down a sequence into an entry, core technique, and counters or reactions, which we drill before moving into positional sparring and full live rounds. Safety is always emphasized, and Felipe fosters an atmosphere where exploration and learning take priority over ego or "winning." The facility is clean, the mats are top quality, and the culture is incredibly welcoming. Whether you're just starting out or looking to sharpen your game, I highly recommend this school.

Good instruction and a nice and welcoming group of peopleread more

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

Mike is a fantastic instructor and owner. Very knowledgeable In the art of self defense. I have…read morelearned so much from him and his teachings. I can't believe how much I have learned in a short amount of time. This is place is extremely clean and the staff is wonderful.

Very nice establishment, young and vibrant. Detailed instructions, they pay attention to small…read morethings that are crucial in the techniques. Large and very inviting interior, plenty of parking too. Definitely check them out.

Results speak louder than words. I have lost 73 pounds as of today with Fit4Life by Alonzo. I chose…read moreto start my health fitness journey here with Alonzo's 21 day Jump Start Program. I was so successful with that program that I decided to continue with this journey and it as been the best decision for my health I have ever made. I put my trust in Alonzo's program and I have reached goal after goal. So much success that my doctor told me to keep listening to Alonzo!!! My doctor showed me how my health screenings have went from VERY BAD to EXCELLENT since starting with fit4life by alonzo. This is definetly the place to get fit, to stay fit or get stronger.

When I first met with Alonzo everything seemed great. I explained my situation and he talked a…read morelittle about why he became a trainer. The trial was great so I signed up for a year contract. This is when things changed. Alonzo has a habit of throwing your insecurities back in your face. I can handle a tough trainer but he was borderline verbally abusive. He ended my contract after a couple of months because I tried to tell him how hurtful his approach was to me. He came across very cocky and honestly I don't think he values his customers. His attitude is well you can go not what can I do to make things better. Before kicking me out he made a point to bring up the fact I was late on my payments before and he waived the late fees because of my situation. I never asked him to waive anything because he never even said anything to me about being late until bringing up the way he spoke to me. At first I was not going to leave a review but I will not allow anyone to silence me and act as if I were the problem. I'm not the only woman he has done similar things to and I hope they find the courage to speak up as well. If you decide to work with him please be aware he will be contacting you on social media, 2 apps and text messages and expects you to promptly answer him but he can only be reached during working hours and will take a few days to respond. Oh unless it is something bad. You won't really receive a personal nutrition plan it's more like a generic email he sends to everyone, he will show up late to 85% of your classes but will expect you to be on time or cancel within a certain time or pushups it is, and lastly never received one dexa scan even though its suppose to come with the membership.

Great instructors, fun for kids while learning Great techniques! Highly recommended! A trial class…read moreis available as well

Very nice students and respectful teachers! Sometimes makes the lessons fun and the exercises/warm…read moreups are just right. Teachers would motivate you to keep going together with the balance of keeping it fun. I recommend this Taekwondo School!