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Logo of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gracie Barra, Downers Grove, IL, featuring a red circle with a stylized "G" and text. The gym also offers Muay Thai classes to complement its renowned martial arts training program.
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Brazilian Jiujitsu School & Self Defense

Unleash your true potential with our programs

Gracie Barra Downers Grove

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Building Strength, Character, and Lasting Connections

Jiujitsu near Your Neighborhood Glen Ellyn

Gracie Barra Downers Grove
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Start your Jiu-Jitsu journey today and see how training with us can transform your life!

Our Training Programs

Welcoming Programs for Glen Ellyn Neighbors

Gracie Barra Downers Grove offers diverse martial arts programs designed to bring out the best in every student, regardless of age or experience:

 

Private Training Program

Gracie Barra Downers Grove PRIVATE TRAINING PROGRAM Excel your jiu-jitsu with our Private Training Program, designed to offer a personalized, safe, and enjoyable environment to

GB Kids Program

Gracie Barra Downers Grove Kids Program The GB Kids Program at Gracie Barra Downers Grove is designed to provide children with a safe, fun, and

Women Program

Gracie Barra Downers Grove WOMEN PROGRAM Our Women’s Program creates a welcoming space where women of all ages and fitness levels learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. You’ll

GB¹ Program

Gracie Barra Downers Grove GB¹ PROGRAM The GB¹ Program at Gracie Barra Downers Grove is designed specifically for beginners. Whether you’re brand new to Brazilian

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A man stands with four children on a blue mat, all wearing martial arts uniforms with belts, suggesting a session of private training in kickboxing.

Why Glen Ellyn Neighbors Choose Gracie Barra

Glen Ellyn embodies the perfect balance of suburban charm and cultural vibrancy. According to the Village of Glen Ellyn, this scenic community of nearly 29,000 residents offers “big city amenities with a small-town feel”—featuring a historic downtown filled with locally-owned shops, award-winning restaurants, and year-round special events that bring neighbors together.

As highlighted in Glen Ellyn’s rich heritage, the village traces its roots back to 1833 and has evolved into a prosperous, civic-minded community that values education, recreation, and neighbor-to-neighbor connections. This same spirit of community and personal growth is what makes Glen Ellyn residents such a natural fit for the Gracie Barra family atmosphere.

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Just Minutes from Glen Ellyn

Located conveniently close to Glen Ellyn, Gracie Barra Downers Grove is easy to reach whether you’re coming from the historic downtown area near the Metra station, the Roosevelt Road corridor, or anywhere along the Illinois Prairie Path. Our academy at 152 Ogden Ave in Downers Grove is typically just an 8-12 minute drive from most Glen Ellyn neighborhoods.

With accessible routes via Roosevelt Road, I-355, or Main Street connections, fitting training into your family’s busy schedule is simple. We’re proud to welcome students from Glen Ellyn, Wheaton, Lombard, Carol Stream, and throughout DuPage County.

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More Than Training—It's Family

The Gracie Barra Way of Life

Gracie Barra isn’t just about learning martial arts—it’s about becoming part of a global family built on principles established by Grand Master Carlos Gracie Sr. in Brazil. Our philosophy is built on three core values:

Family & Friendship

When you walk through our doors, you're joining more than a gym—you're joining a family. Glen Ellyn members quickly discover a welcoming community where training partners become genuine friends, where everyone celebrates each other's victories, and where mutual support creates bonds that last a lifetime.

Personal Growth

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu teaches valuable life lessons that extend far beyond the mats. You'll develop problem-solving skills, build mental toughness, cultivate patience, and gain confidence that positively impacts your work, relationships, and daily life challenges.

Positive Influence

Every student at Gracie Barra is encouraged to become a positive force in their community. Through regular training, supporting teammates, and embodying our values, you naturally develop the character and confidence to make a difference wherever you go.

Expert Instruction You Can Trust

Our head instructor, Professor Carlos Lemos Jr., brings world-class expertise to every class. As a 2x World Champion, Brazilian National Champion, and 2-0 MMA professional, Professor Carlos has proven himself at the highest levels of competition. But what truly sets him apart is his passion for teaching and his ability to make every student—from complete beginners to experienced practitioners—feel welcomed, challenged, and successful.

Together with our experienced coaching team including Alex and Vince, we provide safe, effective, and enjoyable training that respects each person’s unique journey while helping them reach goals they never thought possible.

Programs
A large group of people wearing martial arts gis, including several from Gracie Barra, pose for a group photo in a gym with blue mats and a framed picture on the wall.
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What Our Members Say

The Benefits You'll Experience

Glen Ellyn families training at Gracie Barra Downers Grove consistently report meaningful improvements across many areas of life:

Physical Health:

  • Better cardiovascular health and stamina
  • Increased strength, flexibility, and coordination
  • Weight loss and improved fitness levels
  • Enhanced balance and body control

Mental Wellness

  • Reduced stress and improved mood
  • Better focus and concentration
  • Increased self-confidence and self-esteem
  • Greater discipline and self-control

Life Skills

  • Practical self-defense abilities
  • Problem-solving and critical thinking
  • Respect for yourself and others
  • Goal-setting and achievement skills
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Ready to Get Started?

Hundreds of Glen Ellyn families have already made Gracie Barra Downers Grove part of their weekly routine. Whether you’re looking for kids’ activities, adult fitness, self-defense training, or simply a positive community to be part of—we’d love to welcome you to our family. All ages, backgrounds, and fitness levels are welcome!

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