Business Details
Master Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Willowbrook, IL
Living Art BJJ is dedicated to providing high-quality Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instruction that empowers individuals of all ages and skill levels. Our mission centers on fostering physical development, self-defense proficiency, and mental resilience through structured training. We emphasize inclusivity, welcoming students from diverse backgrounds, including working professionals, competitive athletes, and families. Our programs are designed to enhance strength, endurance, and body awareness while cultivating confidence and community bonds.With experienced instructors and a focus on technique over brute strength, we create a supportive environment where students overcome challenges both on and off the mat. Located in Willowbrook, Illinois, we serve local suburbs and prioritize cleanliness, approachable coaching, and lifelong skill development.
Services
Adult BJJ
Kids BJJ
Striking Classes
Self-Defense Training
Fitness Programs
Highlights and features
- We offer expert instruction from experienced BJJ practitioners with competitive backgrounds.
- Our inclusive environment welcomes students of all ages, genders, and fitness levels.
- We emphasize technical skill development over physical dominance in self-defense training.
- Free trial classes allow new students to experience our structured, community-focused approach.
- Flexible class schedules accommodate working professionals, children, and families.
What people say
Second to none instruction
Great people
Inclusive environment
Excellent teachers
Worth the commute
Services
Adult BJJ
Structured Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes for adults focusing on technical proficiency, physical conditioning, and self-defense applications. Our program accommodates beginners through advanced competitors with personalized instruction. Training develops strength, endurance, and strategic thinking through grappling techniques.
Kids BJJ
Age-specific Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instruction for children aged 3-12, emphasizing motor skill development, discipline, and confidence building. Classes use progressive curricula to teach technical skills while promoting physical fitness and mental focus in a safe environment.
Striking Classes
Specialized striking instruction combining Brazilian Jiu Jitsu principles with stand-up combat techniques. Focuses on proper form, timing, and defensive applications while maintaining BJJ's emphasis on technique over brute strength.
Self-Defense Training
Practical self-defense programs teaching real-world applications of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu techniques. Curriculum addresses common attack scenarios with emphasis on situational awareness, de-escalation, and effective countermeasures for all body types.
Fitness Programs
BJJ-based fitness regimens designed to improve overall physical performance, including strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular endurance. Sessions incorporate functional movements and partner drills to enhance practical athleticism through martial arts training.
People
Ramses Bugarin
Instructor
BJJ practitioner since 2012 with competitive experience, specializing in technical instruction. Former classical clarinet student who transitioned to full-time martial arts coaching. Focuses on making BJJ accessible to all skill levels while maintaining technical rigor.
Jim
Professor
Experienced BJJ instructor with expertise in developing inclusive training programs. Emphasizes proper technique, community building, and practical self-defense applications. Known for approachable teaching style and commitment to student development.
Questions
What is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?
BJJ is a grappling martial art focusing on ground fighting, submissions, and positional control. It teaches smaller individuals to defend against larger opponents through technique rather than strength.
Do I need prior experience?
No prior experience required. Our classes accommodate all skill levels from complete beginners to advanced competitors with personalized instruction.
What should I wear for my first class?
Wear comfortable athletic clothing. We provide loaner gis for trial classes. Avoid loose jewelry and ensure clean, trimmed nails for safety.
Are kids classes safe?
Yes. Our children's programs use age-appropriate techniques with strict safety protocols. Instructors focus on controlled drilling and positive reinforcement in supervised environments.
What are class sizes?
Class sizes vary but maintain instructor-to-student ratios ensuring individual attention. Peak times have multiple coaches available for personalized guidance.
Do you offer trial classes?
Yes. We provide free trial classes for new students to experience our training environment and teaching methodology before committing to membership.
Reviews (5)
Anderson Joyle
Dec 22, 2021
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Great place to training. Coaches are very technical, kind and willing to repeat the techniques as many times as necessary. Students are really nice people. It's always a good time.
North Greenfield
Jun 29, 2021
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
Ramses and Jim REALLY know jiu jitsu! They are excellent coaches and I have learned a lot from them already. I highly recommend this gym.
Ramses and Jim REALLY know jiu jitsu! They are excellent coaches and I have learned a lot from them already. I highly recommend this gym.
Luke Evans
Feb 19, 2021
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Positive:Value
A much more personalized experience than any other school I've been to. Jim and Ramses give great feedback and attention to each student. Great place for beginners looking to start training.
A much more personalized experience than any other school I've been to. Jim and Ramses give great feedback and attention to each student. Great place for beginners looking to start training.
Eric Lindstrom
Dec 16, 2020
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Positive:Professionalism
This is a fantastic place to learn Brazilian jiujitsu. Both coaches, Jim and Ramses, are great people from whom to learn. The environment is relaxed but the students definitely get after it. I would highly recommend this place and am glad my son and I found it!!
This is a fantastic place to learn Brazilian jiujitsu. Both coaches, Jim and Ramses, are great people from whom to learn. The environment is relaxed but the students definitely get after it. I would highly recommend this place and am glad my son and I found it!!
Gianna Gibson
Sep 08, 2020
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Coach Ramses & Coach Jim are amazing to work with! They are incredibly skilled and have put together an amazing program for adults and kids alike. My 7 year old daughter loves going to class and has learned so much!
