Josiah James

I’ve trained at a lot of different gyms across the state, and none of them come close to the level of training and the environment this place offers. The coaching is top-tier, with high-level instruction that pushes you to improve every session. Whether you’re looking to compete or just level up your game, this is the gym to be at. On top of that, the environment is incredibly welcoming—serious training without the ego it’s truly an amazing environment and a must try.

Posted 1 year ago

Landon Tourville

Very high quality instruction as well as a clean safe environment to train. I cannot say enough positive things about this gym in terms of how it has improved my Jiu Jitsu as well as my personal life. Hands down the best gym in the area to train and progress. I was reaching a plateau in training and coach Mike as well as everyone else has helped me to break through those plateaus. I have trained at over a dozen gyms all over the country and this is by far the best.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Kyle Haegele

Mike is one of the very few highly talented heavyweight coaches in the St. Louis area. A heavyweight coach is exactly what I was looking for when I started BJJ. If you are looking for a coach that can identify and critique your strengths and weaknesses, this gym is for you. I would also highly suggest that you inquire within about personal training from Coach Mike as well. He obtains the qualifications, knowledge, and has over 30 plus years of experience. He is always striving to help you be the best version of yourself. If you want to be surrounded by positive, hard working, supportive individuals that obtain an immense amount of knowledge about Jiu-Jitsu and personal health then this is the place for you.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Richard Zacker

Absolutely love this gym. As someone with little grappling experience, I was intimidated coming in but everyone has been so nice from the coaches to other members. This holds true for both the Belleville and South County locations.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Audric Doetsch

Definitely a good choice. Coach Mike is so friendly and creates a nice and friendly environment.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Matthew Obernuefemann

I started with Coach Mike and his team back in 2014 one year before joining the Army. Since then I’ve trained off and on all over the country and even in Europe. I’ve since been able to come in for drop-in sessions while visiting home. I have yet to find a better atmosphere for those looking to compete every training session and pushed to their highest potential. I’ve been to many gyms and each has their positives and negatives. The students and coaches are different here in respect to having a tight-knit family and training atmosphere. Each individual trains hard and everyone is looking to improve. You will be challenged each session. This group is also a family outside of the gym and they care for each other and take care of each other when needed. I have watched the development of many of the guys I started with and they are professionals of their craft thanks to their training, dedication and the professionalism of their team and Coach Mike. If you’re looking for a place to start and grow as an individual both physically and personally, I cannot recommend this academy enough. Show up, train hard, and change your life!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

josh piper

Mike is an Amazing instructor and creates a friendly non intimidating environment a great studio to learn Brazilian ju jitsu

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Alejandro Valverde

Finally, back to training. Great instruction on my first day at the gym. Looking forward to many more. Come and check it out. Thank you Coach Rethmeyer.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Calvin

Very knowledgeable instruction, great welcoming environment! Treated us like we were long time student when I only dropped in!

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Kenny Matt

Great gym for any level of Jiu-Jitsu experience. Coach Mike is a superb coach and leader, and the team there is very welcoming and helpful. I would recommend no other gym!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

James K

I've been attending coach Mikes academy for over a year now. The leadership is amazing, training will push your limits, and there are time slots accommodating nearly everyone. The friendship bonds you will gain thru Lifestyle BJJ will last a lifetime. Highly recommend giving it a try. Don't forget, the hardest belt to earn is the white belt.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Gio Romero

I have been training at the BJJ Lifestyle for about 2 years now. I had done my research and looked into other schools before joining and yet I kept hearing this school would be the best option. Right away on my first day of joining, everyone was very welcoming & I quickly realized that Coach Mike is a great instructor who cares about his students and is dedicated to teaching us the art of jiu jitsu. His past competitions & many years of experience prove that he is teaching high quality & efficient techniques. Whether you're simply looking to get in shape or want to be a serious competitor, look no further. 5/5.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Ralph Hernandez, III

Stopped in to train while in town on business. Mike Rethmeyer was welcoming and generous in sharing his knowledge with me, a complete stranger, and answered any and all questions throughout the session. The gym/mats were clean, and the roster was stacked deep with killers of whom were also hospitable and kind. Not big into cross training at other BJJ gyms, but definitely making the trip back out to BJJ Lifestyle Academy.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Garrett Hill

I was in STL doing some training for work and was able to stop in and train. I can tell you everybody in there including the instructor was more than welcoming and very respectful. As a black belt I appreciate that cause you never no how you might be received. It was outstanding training and class format with a lot of tough rolls. If you are in the area I highly recommend it!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

kody s

Joining BJJ lifestyle Academy was one of the greatest decisions I've made. I grew up doing various martial arts and all of those felt very watered down to me. When I started becoming interested in BJJ I did my research and looked around. I tried a few schools out and this one felt like the real deal. The coach was a high level competitor with real certificates and medals, and when did my trial the way he taught made me feel like he really cared about Jiu Jitsu and the improvement of his students. This was different than every other school. I have been training 2 years now and will never look back. Cant recommend this place enough.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Irmyca Rescuer

Love it

Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Taylor Sheeley

High level BJJ instructor and very friendly environment. Could not recommend this place enough.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Korre Hill

The open mat session I attended today was very eye opening. Which should be your experience with every Brazilian Ju-jutsu session. All the practionerrs were very helpful and gave insightful tips and lessons. The gym was clean and a fun learning experience. I highly recommend this Dojo!!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

Mark Meredith

I just took my 5 year old here yesterday to the kid's class to introduce him to jiu jitsu. Mike commands the class very well, and expects the kids and parents to be respectful. I was really impressed by some of the older kids and the techniques they already knew. They have been well taught. If you are looking for a place for your child to goof around and be told how great they are, this probably isn't the place for you.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

Keith Lynn

BJJ LIFESTYLE Academy is one of the best Jiujitsu gyms out there. I am a Navy veteran and BJJ LIFESTYLE Academy save my life. I deal with PTSD, I contacted Coach Mike he gave me a free week. It was the best thing that I could ever have started. I am now a purple belt under Coach Mike. BJJ LIFESTYLE has an incredible kids program, Has an incredible beginners program, it also has and amazing competition class and a great class for all levels from beginning to advance. If you are looking for a gym to start off or a gym to continue your jujitsu path I would highly recommend reaching out trying out a class and joining BJJ LIFESTYLE Academy.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

Danielle Lamb

5/5 stars. The coach and staff are amazing and professional. Highly recommend.

Instructors

Posted 5 years ago

Xander Moreno

Was a great gym to roll at i have rolled in a couple different gyms but this one has got to be one of my favorites great teacher and lessons with a good roll afterwards

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

Mike Stone

I did the first week amazing everyone was accepting and helpful and friendly definitely going back thank u

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 6 years ago

Lance Fister

As a lifelong wrestler, I have always been interested in jiu jitsu. Naturally, I did my research to find the best dojo in the area and ended up at BJJ Lifestyle Academy. It didn’t take long for me to feel that I was part of a tight knit family driven towards self improvement, not only in the sport but in all areas of my life. Great, ego free atmosphere for all ages and walks of life to learn and grow in the art of jiu jitsu. Highly recommend.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 6 years ago

Nicklas Hartman

Great facility with a world class instructor and great group of training partners. I highly recommend this place!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 6 years ago

djpome932

Recently been going through a tough time with stress of sick father and personal things in my life. This place has brought me peace and love. All the people are great. Coach mike is a no nonsense guy that helps not only in martial arts but bettering yourself. Affordable and great for the mind body and soul. Vick

Instructors Facility Classes Pricing Atmosphere

Posted 7 years ago

Jenny Milligan

Excellent gym! I've been going to this gym about two months and I absolutely love it. As a petite female I can say that I feel welcomed and completely comfortable. Everyone is really friendly and encouraging and the coaching is top-notch. The jiu-jitsu is a really great workout and a really really fun! I definitely recommend it to anyone interested regardless of size, gender and experience.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 7 years ago

Trey B

We are very happy that we found Mike and his school when we moved here. My son wanted to try a new sport and we needed something that would teach him to open up and not be afraid. Mike has taken the time to show my son how to perform techniques as well as not be afraid of his opponent, which is HUGE for my emotional son. We like the school and coaches and how they take the time needed to show the kids the moves and still re-enforce confidence in the kids so we also signed up our younger son as well! We recommend this school to anyone looking to try BJJ!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Ben Germano

This is a legit BJJ school run by a great black belt. I trained on a Friday night when he did a Q&A. In the Q&A the instructor offered each student the opportunity to ask a question and he would answer it, offering his opinion and instruction on how to improve. I asked about kimura from half guard and was offered some different ways to work that move. There was a good range of questions from basic all the way to takedowns. If was a fun evening and I enjoyed training. I look forward to training there when I am in town again.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Dragon Slayer

jiu-jitsu is really fun and you should try it out. BJJ Lifestyle Academy is a great place to learn it. they also offer a one free week trial. Go check it out.

Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Jesse Payne

Active duty militay member on TDY looking to train at a St. Louis area school. The professor was welcoming and knowledgeable. I plan on visiting again if back in the area.

Instructors Location Atmosphere

Posted 8 years ago

Mark Goodman

I was introduced to bjj a decade ago in the Joliet area. Bjj seemed to be the best fit for my past experience ( wrestling) and my current job as a state trooper. As a control and arrest tactic instructor for my department, bjj goes hand in hand with staying on the cutting edge of self defense. Mike is an outstanding coach, he explains the intricacies and ideas behind the techniques that he shows. This enables me to go back during my classes at work and spread the knowledge that he has given me to my coworkers. I urge anyone that has had an interest in checking out bjj to check out Belleville Bjj lifestyle academy. It the best.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 9 years ago

Kody Montgomery

Tried it while visiting my folks. Awesome facility, great instructor, super friendly guys over there. If you're interested, give these guys a shot!

Instructors Facility

Posted 9 years ago

Robert Chade

What an amazing studio! The facilities are great and the people were wonderful. I am a white belt from out of state and I was made to feel right at home. The instructor Mike is a class act, I will be bring my children to his classes when they come to Illinois. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 9 years ago

Jacob Salyers

An excellent place to train. Everyone is incredibly friendly, and the instructor is very knowledgeable and is also an effective teacher/coach.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 9 years ago

morgan freed

This school was recommended to me by my first jujitsu instructor when I moved to Belleville because of the amount of talent this school produced. After seeing the way the coach taught I knew I was in the best place. I have trained with UFC fighters, belator fighters, UFC vets and can say with 11 years of experience this school is amazing. To find a place like this in belleville is actually crazy. Look up mike and his accomplished record along with his students and you will know this is a school for the serious as well as the family. My kids train here, I train here and i totally recommend it.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 9 years ago

Justin Trumpet

Been going here about a 1.5 years. Very friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Plenty of people willing to help you improve, and the best coaching in the area!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 9 years ago

R M

I started training here about a year ago after receiving my blue belt in Germany and I was looking to continue my bjj journey. It was a perfect fit. Great Intrusctor, great students, awesome atmosphere. A place im definitely proud to be a part of.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 9 years ago

Bart Johnson

My experience at BJJ Lifestyle Academy has been great. I used to train at a gym 5 minutes from my house, and now I drive an hour one way to train with Mike, and the other great students there. I knew after my first class that this was the gym for me. I've been there ever since, two years and counting.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 9 years ago

Reo Quarles

I am not sure how people can say that they chose the right school on their first attempt to training Brazilian Jui- Jitsu; I can. From the first day of walking into this academy until now (a little over 2 years) it has been like a close-nit family. Many things that start off great tend to fall off and be as great. This does not apply to BJJ Lifestyle Academy. At the very least we all have become closer to one another. There is no belittling because of skill level or anything of the sort. The head coach runs an organized, yet fun academy. It is obvious that his great methods and ways have rubbed off on everyone. We all continue to get better and that is because iron sharpens iron. I do want to give a huge thank you to coach Mike Rethmeyer for his endless support of all the students.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 9 years ago

Russell Hogue, PhD

I have studied martial arts for nearly 35 years and trained and competed all over the world. The owner and head instructor at Lifestyle BJJ is incredible! He will absolutely help you achieve your personal goals: self-defense, weight loss, or competition. The people at this gym are really friendly and easy going. Check it out, you won't be disappointed.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 9 years ago

Gloria Hogue

We have been a part of Coach Mike's BJJ family for over 3 years. My kids train at both the Belleville and South County schools. They always look forward to seeing their friends in class and learning new techniques. Coach Mike is great with all the kids and breaks down even the most complex moves into something the children can understand. Your child's safety is his first concern. This means he only teaches what is in the IBJJF rule book. You absolutely cannot find more authentic BJJ instruction anywhere else in the area and you definitely would not find a school where the kids' classes are taught by a World Champion black belt at this price.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Pricing Atmosphere

Posted 9 years ago

MICHAEL PALLONE

If you are considering or looking for a place to train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in the Metro East area you would be hard-pressed to find a place better than the BJJ Lifestyle Academy in Belleville, IL. Mike Rethmeyer is an amazing instructor. Both his adult and children's programs are top-notch and the level of instruction cannot be matched in the Metro East / StL area. My son started training with Mike when he was 12 years and had an absolute blast while learning this amazing martial art from Mike. Mike is, among dozens of other titles, the 2016 IBJJF Pan-American Gold medal winner in the Ultra Heavyweight Master 1 Division. The level of instruction one receives from this Black Belt (second degree) is unparalleled in our area. Mike trains with his students each class; not only teaching, but participates and instructs during all drills and rolling sessions. If you are new to BJJ or are a practitioner of the art and have relocated, you would be doing yourself a disservice if you did not check out Mike Rethmeyer and his BJJ Lifestyle Academy!!!

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 9 years ago

Ty Louis

Chill place.Good people.

Atmosphere

Posted 10 years ago

Ricardo Gonzalez

Great coach , great atmosphere and you will learn a lot how to defend yourself. To gain respect you need to gain it , the formation as a human in bjj is very important in here they have a great focus on that. Great facilities, best martial arts place in town

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 10 years ago

Rogelio Mendoza

In 2007 I wanted to start BJJ so I checked out a couple of gyms around the area. I chose This school because I liked his method of training and the amount of time he spent helping me. I was the smallest guy in my class at the time so I really had to use technique to survive. We trained in both Gi and nogi. I was skeptical of the Gi at first but then I realized it's like fighting with my military uniform on, same moves apply. Brazilian Mike highly encouraged technique and he especially didn't sugar coat the class because of my small size. Rather I became better technically and stronger mentally. The warm up is tough but doable. Instruction followed warmup and we drilled the technique over and over again. After drills we went live rolling which was horrible at first because everyone there was more skilled. But in due time I found my own style and I started winning. The other guys usually go at your pace so you can learn when rolling, each with their own style. however if your ego gets hurt because a small guy is beating you expect to get a lesson. Coach is good for weeding out those who don't respect the class. It was tough and I didn't expect myself to go as long as I did but it was well worth the time and money. For the new guys, it may seem what you learn isnt working but it will come if you just stick with it. It sucks I had to leave the state but it was an awesome experience. I can't wait to rep the school when I get a chance at army combatives.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 10 years ago

Shannon Walsh

This place is one of the best bjj schools in the area. I've trained at other schools and none compare to the instruction and family oriented school. Mike takes individual interest with everyone helping them be the best they can be, never holding anything back. He doesn't have an ego and trains right along side of you daily. He brings top Brazilians in monthly to expose different games to everyone. If you like to come and learn in a high level environment from people who actually understand mma and bjj without the tough guy attitude this is your place.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 10 years ago

Martell Benitez

When i found out i was moving to Scott AFB, I asked my BJJ family in Biloxi for any recommendations where to train. They pointed me to BJJ lifestyle saying its the best school out there. After settling in, I finally got my foot in the door. I have to say at my very first class with Coach Mike I new I was at the right place.. i knew this was where I wanted to continue my journey. His instruction is very detailed and methodical. He teaches world class techniques. What i love most about Coach Mike is he has a plethora of knowledge that he shares willingly to all his students equally. He is passionate about the art. Selfless when teaching... even if only one student shows up at the 530am session. He truely is a mentor and wants the very best for his students. Youre not just joining a world class team but more impotantly becoming part of a family. I'm so glad I found this school and Coach Mike. This is truely a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu school at its finest. Osssss.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 11 years ago

Eddie Gillon

I have trained at some really good gyms around the world. Mike's place ranks right up there with the best. The word that best describes that gym is "RESPECT". You get that from the first time you walk in. You feel respected, and you know that it is expected from you. Exceptionally high level instruction, from a really talented black belt, in every class. Professor Mike teaches and trains hard. This is a gym where you and your kids can safely train without the threat or risk of "thuggery" where guys come in off the street and try to hurt someone. Mike runs a family-friendly operation where there's something for everyone: kids, adults, recreational, competitive, fitness...it's all in there.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 11 years ago

christopher Brickeen

From the moment I stepped into this gym I was astounded with the atmosphere. Coach Mike makes his learning environment fun without compromising his professionalism. He breaks down each drill so that even newer members like myself can get a full understanding of not just the drill, but why it is completed in the way that he shows. Like with any physical sport injuries are bound to happen and when they do Coach takes the time to check to see how you are doing and keeps a level of care for each of his students from what I have seen.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 11 years ago

Jonathon Farmer

I trained with Mike and the team a few years back for quite awhile and I have to say it is an amazing place to train. I've been fortunate to get to train at many places all over the country and can honestly tell you there isn't a whole lot better than Mike's gym. It is a comfortable atmosphere where everyone has a good time and almost feels like family. Mike has a good set up too where you can get what you want out of the gym, if you are looking to train hard and win medals or fights you can do it (the teams record speaks to this) or if you are looking to just catch a few workouts a week to stay in shape you can do that as well. I hope to get back over and train with the team in the near future.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 11 years ago

Zach Hagely

I did not get enough time training under coach Mike Rethmeyer at BJJ Lifestyle Academy! I would absolutely still be training there today if I did not have to relocate for college. I would describe this gym as extremely student focused, and Coach's style even moreso. Every member seemed like they wanted to assist each other member in any way possible, creating a strong bond within the group of teammates. It quickly became evident that you can only get out what you put in to a program such as this. I felt that Mike Rethmeyer pushed me to succeed, and motivated me to put as much effort forth as I could. He has successfully created and cultivated an environment in which a diverse (in every sense of the word) group of students can return home after drilling their first, fiftieth, or five hundredth time feeling like they've learned or honed their skills - and improved themselves and their team. Whether you are looking for BJJ, no-gi, self-defense, wrestling, striking, or MMA, I would whole-heartedly recommend you drop by to check out BJJ Lifestyle Academy. OSS!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 11 years ago

Luke Bay

Mike runs a great jiu-jitsu academy. He drills the basics into you and is also training the latest innovative techniques.He brings in top talent from Brazil to keep the flow of ideas between his school and other Nova Uniao schools in brazil. He is always willing to help his students achieve more and has helped my jiujitsu grow tremendously.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 11 years ago

David Shipley

Mike is absolutely one of the best BJJ Professor's in the area. I have black belts in 4 different Martial Arts and Mike is top notch. Extremely professional, he brings in top level BJJ Blacks belt in internationally to help his student excel in BJJ.. If you want to learn the true form of BJJ this is the place..

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 11 years ago

Andrew Eugene

You will not find a better or more welcoming gym in the St. Louis area. Everyone that trains here treats each other with respect and they help one another to build a stronger team. The focus is not only on training but the lifestyle that comes along with it. I've trained under Mike Rethmeyer since 2007 and he has a vast knowledge of not only BJJ but all aspects that compile into MMA. If you're looking to try something new or get back into training this is the place for you. No matter your race, religion, gender, or skill level everyone is welcome to come be part of the BJJ Lifestyle family. Oss!

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere

Posted 11 years ago

Aman Walia

This is one of the best Jiu-Jitsu gyms in the midwest. Mike Rethmeyer is a phenomenal Nova Uniao Black Belt and Instructor. Not only does he have countless years of experience he even brings in world class athletes from Brazil to train with us. I have known him for a while, and even moved from another state to train with him. He has helped me improve tremendously with my Jiu-Jitsu and have developed so much more since training with him. He is a great guy, humble, and very down to earth. The gym is great has a ton of mat space, a ring for MMA, and even workout equipment. It is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gym, but still offers MMA, Kickboxing, and Wrestling. It's a great environment with great people. If you want to train at a legit martial arts school BJJ Lifestyle is the way to go.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 11 years ago

Eric Waltemate

This is a world class Jiu-Jitsu school taught by multiple Gracie National Champion and Arnold Classic Gracie World Champion, multiple Chicago Open Black Belt Champion and 3 time IBJJF Pan Am Medalist, "Brazilian" Mike Rethmeyer. He has trained multiple World and Pan Am Champions. The quality of the instruction is top notch. We frequently have other World, and Pan Am Champions from Brazil who come to train and teach due to our affiliation with Nova Uniao. This is one of the very few schools where the black belt instructor teaches all the classes. Try getting a black belt to come in for a 5:30 am class. My final thoughts are: top notch instruction; friendly, family atmosphere; and an instructor who TRULY cares about his students.

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Posted 12 years ago

200kk

I grow up at this gym for almost 2 years great gym. Once I decided to leave to better my career my coach basically disowned me. The gym is like high schools you have 2 face people and favoritism. As I left just a lot of negativity feed about me that came from people that I thought was friends and family. Join but watch out for they inner circle.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

billy Courtier

I visited the facility and rolled with the gentleman there... Despite what the owner state's... I am an adult with autism who faced bullying inside their gym...

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

BJJ Lifestyle Academy

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