Fit 2 Defend Academy

419 W Washington Ave, Lake Bluff, IL 60044, USA

5.0 (85 reviews)

Disciplines

Gi Muay Thai No-Gi Self-Defense Striking Wrestling

Classes

Adults Classes All Levels Fundamentals Kids Classes

Facilities

Mat Space

Culture

Welcoming Environment

Access

Free Trial

At Fit 2 Defend Academy, we are a safe and supportive place to train martial arts with a family-oriented community. Come join a community of growth and fitness!

https://www.fit-to-defend.com/home

(224) 490-4063

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Reviews

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Natalie Goeks

Fit2Defend is an incredible gym! Coach Scott and everyone there is very supportive and welcoming. It's a great place for people of all skill levels!
Posted 9 months ago
Mustafa Apaydin

One of the best gyms in all of Illinois, hands down. Amazing technical instruction, inspiring coaches who compete themselves, and you’ll almost always find someone your size to roll with.
Posted 9 months ago
Erin O

Our entire family trains at Fit 2 Defend Academy, and I truly can’t imagine training anywhere else. My kids first started working with Scott (owner and head coach of F2D) when my oldest was just six years old — he’s now 18! Over the years, my husband joined for jiu jitsu, and eventually I did too. As a woman and a mom, I love how Scott has created a community that is warm, welcoming, and genuinely safe, which says a lot in a combat sport that can feel intimidating. No matter your age, experience, or goals, you feel supported and respected. Expectations are clear, progress is encouraged, and students are truly met where they are. Fit 2 Defend Academy does a fantastic job of fostering growth through challenge at every level. They have set the bar incredibly high for instruction, culture, and community. We highly recommend this gym and their amazing coaches if you're looking to start or continue your training!
Posted 9 months ago
Anthony Rogers

Fit 2 Defend is one of the best gyms I've been to for training jujitsu. Head Coach Scott and his team of coaches are second to none with the knowledge they have in their craft. My first day in, I immediately felt as if I had been coming there for years, from the warm welcoming from the coaches and members. It is truly a family atmosphere and I will always consider myself as part of this gym home!
Posted 11 months ago
Sali Leonhart

The most profound thing that I've experienced at F2D is the high level coaching. Coming from a family of coaches all the way from youngsters to qualifying Olympian level athletes, I have a very high standard and expectation when it comes to coaching. From day 1 I could tell that the coaches were unlike previous coaches I had throughout sports I've played throughout life. They give their all in teaching the art and the same goes with their investment in their students and teammates. There's respect on and off the mats. Rolls are always high-level and educational. The purple+ take the time to assist at any given time. I have been an athlete my entire life and F2D just hits different! Scott (and the other coaches) displays openness to new/different concepts along with a great respect to the foundations of bjj and I feel that's important in a sport that is constantly progressing. The bar is set high at F2D and everyone helps their teammates reach their goals. Hold them accountable, as well. The comradery and sportsmanship is also a bonus. All are welcome and there's no bs. I appreciate the open door policy Scott has. The passion he has for his students and martial arts is clear. Clean Professional Welcoming Access to fitness equipment Sauna Decent parking Flexible training schedules Down to earth and non-judmental crowd/group

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Jeff Castro

The classes are both fun and informative. I find that it is a great balance between learning/maintaining the fundamentals and learning advanced techniques. A valid environment if i do say so myself.

Classes
Posted 1 year ago
nna y

Fit 2 Defend has been nothing but amazing. My fiancé has recently started coming back to jiu jitsu and Scott, the instructors, and the students have all been welcoming and kind to us. Scott really cares about his students and wants them to work hard. He is very passionate with his job and makes everyone feel welcomed, even the spectators. Thank you Scott for providing a great atmosphere for jiu jitsu!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
bart omielan

Have been with Scott and crew for 10+ Years Friendly and knowledgeable coaches for any age Highly recommended

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Al Kh

Great place, friendly environment, and awesome coaches. Coach Scott is very knowledgeable and very passionate about martial arts. Great sense of humor too!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Mike Wallis

The best BJJ gym in the area and I wouldn’t consider any other location unless I moved out of state. Instruction is great but the character of the instructors and members is phenomenal. Also listening in to the life lessons taught in the kids classes by the same instructors, it’s exactly what parents want and need to reinforce great values

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Adam Whiteman

I have studied jiu jitsu with Scott Gave at Fit2Defend for over 11 years and many of my training partners have been training there at least that long or longer. It is a community of wonderful people where you learn to fight in a safe and friendly environment. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Julia Goeks

Best part of my week, hands down. I joined kickboxing after moving to the area; I had some boxing experience but the folks at Fit2Defend are so welcoming of all experience levels. Friendly people, great coaches, small class sizes with individual attention, clean facilities. There’s a 3-week rotation of technique, conditioning, and sparring so you get the chance to develop your skills. I was initially hesitant about the sparring but it’s light touch with the guiding tenet “take care of each other!” so all the fun without the impact. Good workouts, cathartic. Highly recommended!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
dan heyflea

Been to several gyms in my time, and there is a reason F2D is my home gym. Great culture and team in general

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Francesco Severini

Returning to jiu jitsu after several years of inactivity, I was met with a warm and enthusiastic welcome that immediately rekindled my passion for the art. The coaches, with their deep knowledge and dedication, have been instrumental in my training, offering insightful guidance across every aspect of the discipline. My experience has been profoundly enriched by the positive changes I've seen in my 5-year-old son, whom I enrolled in the combattive blend program. Within a few weeks, there has been a remarkable transformation in his behavior. Previously struggling to stay attentive and follow instructions, he now participates actively, eagerly lining up and proudly reciting the club's creed with his peers. This club has not only revitalized my own practice but also fostered significant personal growth in my child. I wholeheartedly recommend this club to anyone looking to deepen their skills and witness genuine improvement in their kids

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Aaron

I’ve trained at many gyms and Scott at Fit 2 Defend has created a special culture. Very good training and a real acceptance of all backgrounds and skill levels. A welcoming gym full of highly skilled individuals. Don’t hesitate to check it out!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
J Taube

I love training here! Great training environment and high level instruction. Very welcoming toward newcomers and all levels of experience. Come check it out.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
speedbump326

One of the best places to train in the north Chicago suburbs. Scott and his team are so patient and knowledgeable about so many parts of martial arts. Every time im in the area I drop in for a class and learn something new.

Instructors Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Brent Meilman

Fit 2 Defend is absolutely incredible! It’s hands down both the best Jiu Jitsu and martial arts gym I’ve been to. The mats are always clean, the people are some of the friendliest out there, and every coach is excellent and serve as amazing role models. I couldn’t recommend it enough for both adults, teenagers, and kids alike.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
E Z

Coach Scott and his coaches are wonderful. We take our kids there, and they love every minute of it.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Genelle Andersen

F2D has caring and professional coaches, a very clean facility, and most importantly, Fit 2 Defend has cultivated self-esteem and courage in my 14 yr old son. You can't afford NOT to sign up.

Instructors Facility
Posted 2 years ago
James Randorff

Fit 2 Defend Academy shines with skilled instructors, positive atmosphere, and an excellent kids program. Coach Scott and all the instructors are adept in both the technical aspects of Jiu Jitsu and the art of teaching, valuable to students of all levels. The gym's culture promotes respect, discipline, and camaraderie, creating a supportive environment where every member can grow and excel. The children's program is particularly commendable, focusing on developing behavior, focus, and confidence through a curriculum that's both fun and educational. It has balance of serious training and enjoyable activities, rigorous enough for our oldest daughter (10yo) to win multiple championships up belt levels and age brackets in tournaments, and fun enough that our younger daughter (6yo) can stay focused and enjoy training.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Dong Yeob Lee (노기짓수)

Scott is an amazing instructor. He’s very knowledgeable, kind, and humble. He’s very easy to talk to, has a good personality, and is willing to work with you regardless of what your background is. His depth of knowledge in bjj is impressive. The best thing about Scott is probably the fact that he always tries to get better himself despite his excellence in the field. Classes are amazing. Many high level grapplers in the gym. Safe. If you want to learn how to defend yourself, if you want to learn some high level jiujitsu, or if you just want to make some friends and be surrounded by good people, this is the place to go.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Sanjar Djuraev

Very good place to learn basic self defense for kids, and high level Jiu-Jitsu for adults and kids 10+

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Joseba Regil

Fit 2 Defend is hands down the best BJJ school I've ever been to. The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable and supportive, and the sense of community is unmatched. Whether you're a beginner or advanced, this place will take your skills to the next level. The facilities at Fit 2 Defend are also fantastic. The mats are clean and well-maintained, creating a safe and hygienic environment to train in. Plus, the class schedules are flexible, making it easy to find a time that works for even the busiest of schedules. Highly recommend! Cheers,

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Drew Appleman

Excellent folks at this gym. Very welcoming and knowledgeable. I hope to visit again next time I’m in Chicago. Thanks again for everything!

Instructors Location Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Emilly Felvey

If you're looking for a place to train in IL this is THE spot! On top of the *elite* training you'll receive-this will be a home away from home. Everyone you come in contact with here is genuinely good people. A huge shout out to Coach Scott! The passion this man has for the sport, and his students is unmatched! Go check them out! Better yet sign up 😉

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Josh Jackson

Scott and his team are incredible coaches who value teaching kids about leadership and character as much as self-defense and combat skills. This gym has been a big part of our kids' lives and has enriched them significantly. Highly recommend.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Joe Vasquez

I've been training here on and off since 2020 due to injury. I've only since been able to train consistently thanks to the advice from the leadership at F2D. Coach Scott and his team are both assassins and meticulous teachers who truly care about your growth both as a BJJ practitioner and a human being. You and your children are in good hands.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Charles Baylis

I live in Florida and was in North Chicago on business for two months, so I had to find a gym and keep my skills sharp. The folks at Fit 2 Defend did a fantastic job of making me feel welcome and part of the team. I can't remember the names of all the coaches that I worked with (there were many great coaches), but Coach Scott Gave and Coach Simon Park are amazing! If I find my way back up there, even for only one day, I will hit these guys up and drop in because it's such a great place to train. OSS!

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Andy Toledo

I started coming to fit2defend back in 2021. Since then I have had the pleasure of learning from good coaches who will truly help elevate your jiu-jitsu. It a great environment with many different people to help you alone the way. Great academy to come and learn and start your journey.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Hrishikesh Puzhankara

Excellent place to learn fighting skills. Both jiujitsu and combatives have a great team and above all, fantastic coaches.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Scott Viscomi

Coach Scott Gave is a phenomenal leader and Coach for kids as well as adults. His gym's culture embodies respect, integrity, safety, personal goal achievement, and fun among other positive qualities. I've had the honor to travel the world visiting martial arts academies in my career, and I can honestly say I'm grateful that I not only get to train here myself, but that my young son can begin his martial arts journey in this academy. If you are an adult looking for a safe and welcoming place to train, or you are a parent looking for a safe outlet for your kids, this is the place. I can't recommend Fit2Defend enough.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Jordan Davis

All around best bank gym and instructors in the area! Definitely give it a try!

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Jordan H

Fantastic place overall. Always clean and welcoming. Scott delivers knowledge in an easy to follow way. This is the place to train.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Daisy Felix

Fit2Defend has been a great place to train! I joined their adult combatives class and have been going for a year and a half. The members, staff, Ms. Monica and Coach Scott are very friendly and welcoming. Taking this class has challenged me and given me confidence as a woman. I highly recommended this academy for anyone that wants to train in jiu jitsu, kids or adults combatives.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
isabel romero

UNBELIEVABLE…BRILLIANT! This is without a doubt the best Martial in the country. The second you walk in, you’ll feel like family. Coach Scott and Brent are just amazing, humble, always eager to help out. My son had improved so much. Thank you for everything you do!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Luis Garcia

great environment! Nice and clean, everyone is so friendly you will feel at home and grow with everyone! F2D has became like a new comfort zone that I can come to and just feel so excited to be around with!

Facility Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Kevin K.

My kids and I have been training at F2D for over 4 years. I’ve learned a lot about myself and had growth opportunities beyond martial arts. Scott is a leader. High level training partners, varied technical skills. Kids, adults, all levels welcome. Great community and safe place to train.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Edyta Brenska

Professional and very nice people.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Roberto Dominguez

A lot of people can be nice, but it’s rare to find genuine and authentic-to-themselves individuals, but this place has got it. From the coaches, students, and even people that drop by to visit, i have been showered with only kindness and genuine interactions by everyone I’ve been fortunate enough to talk to. Not to mention the jiu jitsu in that room is unbelievable, every time I drop by to train I’m learning something new and the coaches are more than happy to give all they know not just to their students, but to the art of jiu jitsu. We need more academies like Fit2Defend….

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Brandon M. Coldiron

Amazing people at this place. I am very impressed with the professionalism presented along with a very friendly welcoming atmosphere. The coaches here are very informative and are always willing to assist! I would give 6 stars if I could

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Delisa Houchins

Been going to F2D for over a year and couldn't imagine training with any other coach. Coach Scott is a great trainer who has helped me gain confidence and pushed me beyond my comfort zone.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Vic Carranza

Good vibes and awesome people! always learning something new.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Noel Schutt

Great gym with high level training partners. I’ve been training jiu jitsu for a long time and I really enjoy being here. Great instruction and training for all levels.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Camille Lovering

From my very first interaction with Profesor Scott Gave, Owner at F2D, I felt welcomed and comfortable. Immediately, I was met with professionalism, respect, kindness, and patience. Oh, their patience! Each instructor and student I have met has been friendly, open, and helpful. Everyone is super safety-conscious as well, so that was a huge plus for me. I also must admit, I continue to be impressed with the cleanliness at F2D as well as the size of the main training room, which is notably large. I am very happy and more dedicated to my training than ever before, and so very grateful to be a part of this team. I would invite any person—young or old, novice or veteran, to check out the academy—you will NOT be disappointed.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Al K

Great coaching staff and outstanding instructions!

Instructors
Posted 5 years ago
Brian Hirvela

Honestly, best introduction to martial arts I've seen. Scott was gracious, kind and honest. The people there are friendly and perfect for training. Highly reccomend.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 6 years ago
MEV

Scott and his black belt teachers are easily some of the best jiu jitsu teachers in chicago and north shore. I live abroad and come here to practice; they are always welcoming, supportive and make me feel like family. No stress trainings, focused on technique and in a positive, clean gym. Look no further if you're getting into the sport or self defense

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Nicholas Fritchen

Best coaching staff I have ever delt with.

Instructors
Posted 7 years ago
audrey

Instructor Scott is engaging and helpful. I always look forward to class, even after a long day.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 8 years ago
Lauren Rosberg

Fit 2 Defend was exactly what I was looking for to bring my jiu jitsu to the next level. Before finding F2D, I was cross training all over the place and looking for a gym that had a class schedule that would work around my family / work-life, have active competitors, good mix of upper and lower belts, great instruction, and have that warm welcoming, family-like atmosphere. I almost didn’t think it would exist, but I kept meeting these really nice guys that would invite me to come train. From day one of training with them, I felt like I was part of the team. The instructors are top notch. Whether, you are in Mark, Erik, Blake, Simon, or Scott’s class, you are going to learn great jiu jitsu. The guys and ladies at F2D are wonderful training partners. Everyone is down to roll, respectful, helpful, safe, and encouraging. One of the things that makes F2D really special is the “team” feeling. The upper belts are really committed to helping everyone. There isn’t that belt hierarchy feeling where upper belts just work with each other or guys just work with guys. It is more of “what is going to make us all better” then “what’s in it for me” mentality. The passion to train is very strong and there is a class every day. Also, there is a great affiliation with Jeff Serafin BJJ who opens his doors to us as well to train. He is just as an amazing instructor as he is a competitor. F2D is also under a larger affiliation headed up by legend Chris Haueter. My six year-old son started BJJ with Instructor Scott about two months ago. He absolutely loves it! Once he learned how to forward roll, he refused to walk and would roll wherever he had to go. Scott has instructing kids BJJ down to an art. His classes blend technique with life and leadership skills. F2D has events for the kids, newsletters to keep us up to date, and a great curriculum. My son always leaves happy and wanting to come back for more. I often get woken up to, “Mom, is today a jiu jitsu day?” That question makes me smile, because all days are jiu jitsu days. Thanks Fit 2 Defend!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 9 years ago
Elika Nskw

I never thought i would feel comfortable training brazilian jiu-jitsu but i found F2D to be a great place to train with the most welcoming and skilled instructors and training partners. As a woman that enjoys training, we worry about what kind of place we are walking into, but F2D has a respectful group of gentleman that are always there to help you to improve and have a good time at the same time. Thanks!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 9 years ago
Garrett Foster

Great training partners, a patient head instructor, a variety of amazing coaches and ample opportunities to train- as of now, there are classes 6 days a week and an open mat on Mondays. I absolutely love training here

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 9 years ago
Michael Torok

Exactly what I was looking for! F2D has many amazing instructors and daily classes which fits my crazy schedule. To top it off, the team's collaborative vibe really helps me develop my jiu jitsu game in what feels like a family atmosphere. It's a special place full of champions at all belt levels, men & women, all ages, and body types. The jiu jitsu journey is a challenging one - I'm blessed to have found this place and this incredible team!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 9 years ago
Erik Hayner

I love training at Fit 2 Defend. There's always a great, fun-loving and welcoming atmosphere accompanied by hard training. It's what we all enjoy training grappling for--a sense of camaraderie to help sustain the intensity of what we do. Our doors are always open to anyone who wants to come train--day one beginners to long-time grapplers. With the best of training partners, we also have fantastic instruction from head coach Scott Gave, instructors Mark, Simon and Blake, as well as regular visits from tremendous instructor AND accomplished competitor Jeff Serafin, who we are affiliated with locally, as well as annual or semiannual visits from our larger affiliation with the legend Chris Haueter. We are always looking to expand our grappling abilities as a gym, so we welcome the influence of many local grapplers and others and as such bring them in to see what other strengths we can build as a gym. Those strengths as I see them comprise a strong balance between the contemporary style of submission-oriented jiu jitsu and the traditional, positional control leading to submission-style game. I believe we can provide a great foundation for any student entering our doors--from kickboxing instruction to fundamentals and advanced BJJ (gi and no gi) to self defense for the competitor and the hobbyist alike.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 9 years ago
Mark Foster

Been training jiu jitsu with coach Scott for years. Awesome environment for kids and adults, amazing teammates, and lots of higher level partners with varied styles to keep everything fresh.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 9 years ago
Deadaim0713

Great instructors, great instructions, and great classmates. Don't have anything but great things to say about F2D.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 9 years ago