Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu · Lakeview, Chicago
The highest level of Jiu-Jitsu in Chicago.
World-class instruction. Strong community. Train with purpose — from your very first class.
- Black belt instructors
- 6+
- Classes/week
- 35
- Days/week
- 7
- Ages, from
- 3+
01 The academy
Molinaro Jiu-Jitsu is a premier Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood, dedicated to high-level training for all ages and skill levels. More than a sport, Jiu-Jitsu here is a discipline that builds strength, confidence and lasting community.
Every class is structured and progressive, giving each student a clear path for improvement — whether it’s your first day on the mat or you’re chasing mastery.
Our story02 Programs
Find your
program.
Four programs, one standard. No experience required — just show up ready to learn and we’ll meet you where you are.
Traditional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Build your foundation in the Gi.
Our Gi program focuses on traditional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, emphasizing technique, control and discipline. Whether you’re brand new or experienced, classes are structured to help you progress with clarity and confidence.
What you’ll gain
- Technical precision and strong fundamentals
- Positional control and submission awareness
- Improved conditioning and mobility
- Composure under pressure — on and off the mat
Built for every level
- Beginners building a strong foundation
- Intermediate students sharpening detail
- Advanced practitioners pursuing mastery
Fast-paced · no kimono
Control, without the gi.
No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu emphasizes speed, athleticism and control without relying on the traditional kimono. Training focuses on grips, body positioning and transitions that translate directly to competition, self-defense and mixed martial arts.
What to expect
- Stretching and movement drills
- Technique with detailed breakdowns
- Positional drilling and instructor feedback
- Live sparring — optional and level-appropriate
Who it’s for
- Complete beginners
- Gi practitioners expanding their game
- Competitors and athletes
- Anyone who loves fast, dynamic training
A welcoming, supportive room
Build confidence on your terms.
Our Women’s program provides a welcoming environment where women can build confidence, learn effective self-defense and improve fitness while training alongside a supportive community. Women are also more than welcome in our All Levels and No-Gi classes.
What to expect
- Warm-ups designed for all fitness levels
- Technique instruction and breakdowns
- Partner drills in a controlled setting
- Optional live training, at your comfort level
The benefits
- Confidence and self-defense awareness
- Strength, mobility and conditioning
- Stress relief and mental resilience
- A strong sense of community and support
Safe · structured · fun
Confidence that starts early.
Our Kids program helps children build confidence, coordination and discipline while learning effective self-defense in a positive, structured setting. Classes are grouped by age and experience level.
Age groups
- Little Kids (3–5) — movement, balance, listening skills and fun
- Kids (6+) — fundamental positions, control and teamwork
What kids learn
- Confidence and self-control
- Respectful behavior and discipline
- Focus, listening and teamwork
- Basic self-defense and awareness
03 Schedule
Seven days
a week.
Filter by program to find the class that fits your week. Your first class is on us.
Schedule is subject to change on holidays. For updates and announcements, follow @molinarojiujitsu on Instagram.
04 Founder & head instructor
AlexandreMolinaro
Alex discovered Jiu-Jitsu at 13 in Rio de Janeiro and quickly fell in love with its technical, strategic nature. After years of competing and coaching, he built Molinaro Jiu-Jitsu around high-level technique, strong fundamentals and a supportive team environment.
- Rio de Janeiro
- Started training at age 13, after swimming and judo
- 2017
- Black belt under renowned coach André “Alemão” Vasconcelos
- 2023
- Opened Molinaro Jiu-Jitsu in Lakeview, Chicago
05 Members
In their
words.
A welcoming room, top-level coaching and a crowd that makes new people feel at home. Here’s what the team says.
Fantastic gym with a perfect location, skilled instructors, and a beautiful mat area. As a woman in BJJ, I really appreciate how welcoming, safe, and supportive the atmosphere is. The coaching is top-level and the community is even better. Highly recommend!
Jessica SwansonMolinaro Jiu Jitsu does an incredible job of making new people feel right at home. Alex’s attention to detail and management of the gym creates an inviting atmosphere and attracts a great crowd of friendly and knowledgeable members. I’m happy to have found such a great gym!
Justin CartwrightAmazing coaches and teammates. I’ve visited/trained at Molinaro’s school a few times and am now finally joining the team. Best decision ever! Come train with us!
Natassia Del Fischer06 Community
More than
a gym.
A positive environment where students support and challenge each other — built on teamwork and growth, on and off the mats.
Follow @molinarojiujitsu
07 FAQ
Good
questions.
Still wondering about something? Call +1 773-800-6686 or email info@molinarojiujitsu.com.
Do I need any experience to start?
None at all. Every program is open to complete beginners, and classes are structured and progressive so you always have a clear path for improvement.
How does the free trial work?
Send us a message with what you’re interested in and we’ll reach out to schedule your first class. You’ll tour the facility, experience a class and get your questions answered.
What ages do you teach?
Little Kids (ages 3–5) focus on movement, balance, listening skills and fun. Kids (6+) learn fundamental positions, control and teamwork. Adults of every level train in our Gi, No-Gi and Women’s programs.
Do I have to spar?
Live sparring is always optional and level-appropriate. You train at your own comfort level, with instructor guidance and feedback along the way.
Can women train in the co-ed classes?
Absolutely. Alongside our dedicated Women’s classes, women are more than welcome to attend All Levels and No-Gi classes.
Gi or No-Gi — which should I choose?
Gi training emphasizes traditional technique, control and discipline. No-Gi is faster-paced, built around grips, body positioning and transitions that carry over to competition, self-defense and MMA. Not sure? Tell us your goals and we’ll help you pick.
08 Free trial
Your first class
is on us.
Send us a message and we will reach out to schedule your free trial class.
- 01Send us a message
- 02Tour the academy & meet the coaches
- 03Step on the mat — no experience needed