Valko Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Chicago, Illinois

“Have been training at Valko for a little over three years now and canu2019t recommend it enough! I was new to BJJ when I started but immediately felt like Valko was home after my first class. Now I go to class 3-5 times a week Not only is there a great community and atmosphere, but the facility is great too. A little difficult to find the first time but find HiFi Fitness and itu2019s in the back. There are showers with towel”

— Sara S. · ★★★★★ · 2025-10-29

“I am a black belt from CT and recently came to Chicago for a week long work conference and have always wanted to train while traveling solo. I looked up a few places in the area but when I saw Valko it just looked like what I was seeking. I texted J the owner and asked if there are uniform requirements, mat fees, anything to be aware of. He wanted nothing from me, just a positive vibe and to spread a good word about ”

— Will T. · ★★★★★ · 2025-10-28

“Valko BJJ is one of my favorite gyms in the world. The mat space is beautiful and spacious (plenty of room to work the standup game), there is a large diversity in skill levels so you can always find your match, and the people are both highly skilled and genuinely kind. I started here as a white belt, and while I donu2019t live in Chicago anymore, Iu2019ve made lifelong friends from Valko that I continue to stay connected wi”

— Ryan T. · ★★★★★ · 2025-10-28

“Absolutely love this gym! From the moment I walked in, everyone was so warm and welcoming, it really feels like a family. The environment is super friendly and supportive, but also filled with highly skilled people who push you to improve. Coach Jay is the best u2014 knowledgeable, patient, and truly passionate about helping every student grow. The team regularly competes in IBJJF tournaments, and itu2019s awesome to train a”

— MNS · ★★★★★

“I dropped in from New Jersey for a morning class the guys here are the real deal and super welcoming. The academyu2019s located toward the back of the gym, very clean, with great instruction and fun rolls to finish the session. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a great drop in experience! (if you drop in buy a rash guard ud83dude42)”

— Jonathan H. · ★★★★★ · 2025-10-19

“We are visiting from Austin TX. Searched on Internet for a great open mat and here we go. There is no doubt that Jiu Jitsu is the best platform to meet like-minded people and today it delivered again. Phenomenal vibes, and great hospitality in the heart of Chicago downtown at Valkobjj The owner Prof. Jay Valko welcomed us with great vibes. We noticed even on a Saturday morning of Easter weekend They have huge classes”

— Kickboxer 2. · ★★★★★ · 2025-4-19

“Iu2019ve been training here for about two years, and canu2019t recommend Valko enough! Jay, Jose, and all the other instructors are excellent teachers who care about their students. I had some BJJ experience when I joined Valko, but I was still a beginner. The fundamentals classes are a fun and efficient way to learn the basics of grappling. I found myself progressing quickly and like many of the students here, Iu2019ve done wel”

— Caitlin M. · ★★★★★

“I recently moved to Chicago and was a bit nervous about finding a new gym as a black belt after training at my previous academy for over a decade. I visited several gyms around the city, and Valko was by far my favorite. The instruction is excellent, the culture is welcoming, and thereu2019s no shortage of great training partners for any skill level. Whether youu2019re new to jiu jitsu, a dedicated hobbyist, or a seasoned co”

— Josh L. · ★★★★★