Find a martial arts class in Chicago, IL

Find martial arts classes in Chicago, IL

Find martial arts classes in Chicago, IL

Share a few details and we'll show you the best martial arts classes in your area.
Zip code

Disciplines interested in

Find martial arts classes in Chicago, IL

Share a few details and we'll show you the best martial arts classes in your area.
Zip code

Disciplines interested in

Top 10 martial arts classes in Chicago, IL

Students agree: these Chicago martial arts classes are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.
Martial Science  Boxing/Kickboxing Fitness

Martial Science Boxing/Kickboxing Fitness

5.0Exceptional(10)
8+ years in business
Serves Chicago, IL
Christopher D. says, "The class are ideal enough for beginners, but also teaches enough advanced techniques to really increase confidence in your abilities." Read more
None

None

New on Lessons
Serves Chicago, IL
The ability to help someone learn a new skill, and along the way see them learn about themselves. Someone did that for me, and passing that along and being a part of that process for someone else is something I take pride in. I enjoy the opportunity to help people develop a new skill, build confidence, and see things about themselves that they might not know.
Urban X Combatives Academy

Urban X Combatives Academy

5.0(1)
2 hires on Lessons
8+ years in business
Serves Chicago, IL
Sidney W. says, "He is the best Martial Arts teacher I know. I love his technique and I have referred him to other parents. 5 STARS. He’s the best." Read more
Krav Maga Illinois

Krav Maga Illinois

5.0(1)
2 hires on Lessons
14+ years in business
Serves Chicago, IL
Jason M. says, "The atmosphere is amazing. The facility is very clean and the students and staff very welcoming. The workout is fun, yet very serious. If you want to really learn to defend yourself, meet new people and get in great shape, you must try it out." Read more
Ultimate Martial Arts & Fitness Experience

Ultimate Martial Arts & Fitness Experience

New on Lessons
Offers online services
5+ years in business
Serves Chicago, IL
The type of intense training I offer is one of a kind. Being a Martial Artist and Professional Kick Boxer, I understand the training process and will help clients produce favorable results. I've been in Martial Arts since I was 4 years old training with my father who is a renown fighter and practioner of Karate, Kung Fu, Tai Chi, and several other systems in this field. I enjoy helping others achieve their goals and therefore receive gratitude when students achieve their goals in fitness. I truly enjoy helping others attain the ultimate results through several training modules and look forward to seeing both men and women gain their intended...

Your Martial Arts Classes questions, answered

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Lessons.

What is mixed martial arts (MMA)?

Mixed martial arts (MMA) is a full-contact combat spot that incorporates striking, footwork, and grappling techniques from boxing, wrestling, jiu-jitsu, and Muay Thai. Many MMA fighters also blend techniques from judo, karate, kung fu, kickboxing, and other martial arts.

Mixed martial arts competitions take place in an octagon-shaped ring, sometimes called a "cage", with fighters competing against others in their weight class. Fighters are free to punch, kick, knee, elbow, slam, and grapple their opponents. However, for safety purposes, biting, eye gouging, head butting, and certain other moves are against the rules.

How much do mixed martial arts classes cost?

Mixed martial arts classes cost $100 to $180+ per month on average, depending on the class age range, number of classes per week, combination of martial arts taught, and the coach's expertise and reputation. MMA gyms are typically more expensive if they have well-known coaches who are UFC champions on staff, with some membership fees reaching $300 per month.

Many MMA gyms offer a 1-day drop-in option for $10 to $20 to give you the chance to attend a class and see if the gym is right for you.

Is mixed martial arts good for self-defense?

Mixed martial arts (MMA) is ideal for self-defense training because you'll learn a combination of skills and techniques to help you escape dangerous confrontations without injury. MMA's "no holds barred" style is often considered the closest to real-life fighting when compared to other martial arts.

However, MMA does not teach you techniques like knife defense or how to disarm an opponent with a weapon. MMA training is also geared toward dealing with only one attacker at a time.

What does mixed martial arts training help with?

Mixed martial arts (MMA) training incorporates strikes—including punches, knees, and elbows—short and long-range kicks, groundwork, and grappling. You'll also practice controlled and supervised sparring. This training provides a wide range of benefits:

  • Build your confidence
  • Improve your discipline
  • Get fit and increase your endurance
  • Improve your strength, balance, and flexibility
  • Reduce stress and improve your concentration

Where can I learn mixed martial arts near me?

Follow these tips to find the best mixed martial arts gym near you:

  • Research the instructors' competition record and reputation.
  • Read gym and instructor reviews on Lessons and Google.
  • Confirm the gym offers classes for your experience level.
  • Visit the gym in person to confirm it is clean and well-maintained and the staff is professional.
  • Take advantage of their free one-day pass to take a class and ensure the gym is a good fit for you.
  • Get a copy of the membership contract in writing before making any payments.

What questions should I ask mixed martial arts gyms?

Before deciding on an MMA gym, be sure to ask these questions:

  • Is the gym beginner friendly?
  • What kind of membership contracts do you offer?
  • Do you offer a free trial class or one-day pass?
  • What is your class schedule?
  • How many students do you have?
  • How many students are in a typical class?
  • What is the instructor's competition record?
  • What kind of uniform or clothing is required?
  • Do your students and instructors compete regularly?
  • How often do you clean your mats?

Reviews for Chicago martial arts classes

Recent success stories from people in the Chicago area.
Dionna I.
Very knowledgeable, great attention to detail.
Martial Science Boxing/Kickboxing Fitness
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