Ed Krieger

I started my martial arts journey December 9th, 2024. I wrote down my goals. Two of the goals: I wanted to be alive long enough to see my son grow up, and I wanted to be a better husband for my wife. I was one more A1C test away from being diagnosed with diabetes, my liver was hardening, starting to scar as shown in liver scans and I was on the edge of cirrhosis of the liver. Also, my heart was starting to enlarge. My next step was surgery to lose weight before I died. A neighbor had asked me to join Gracie Barra New Lenox 2 years ago and I blew it off. I said didn't have time, I didn't want to get injuried, I'm too old for Martial Arts. I have bad knees, a bad shoulder. Excuse after excuse. Thank you Rob Keane for planting the seed. My son Zach is a member of Pride Martial Arts Taekwondo and Judo training. I watched his journey and how it changed his life. The owner Ron Poholik pointed me to Gracie Barra New Lenox. Sensei Ron eased my mind telling me the men and women there were great people who ranged in age from twenty year olds to sixty year olds, from all walks of life and everyone was there to help one another. I have to say the Team at Gracie Barra New Lenox has changed my life. The whole team of professors and coaches are there for you. They believed in me, more than I believed in myself. I am down 45 lbs, blood tests are all back in normal range, my A1C is down in normal range and even my testosterone started climbing for the first time in 5 years. My energy is back and I'm not losing my breath going up stairs. I see my son's struggles and I can empathize with him in his Martial Arts journey and I'm a better husband for my wife. Best decisions I ever made was to join the Team Gracie Barra New Lenox.

Posted 1 year ago

Syzygy Ra

The professors and coaches here deserve a ton of praise for their dedication and commitment—but this review is especially for those who come and train here. I was nervous (and honestly a little scared) to try jiu-jitsu, having never done any martial arts before. But from day one, experienced students were incredibly welcoming, guiding me through drills and warm-ups and making it easy to get started. 🙌 Gracie Barra has a highly systematic and well-developed program that clearly outlines which techniques are taught at each level. The leadership team and professors are exceptional. They pay close attention, offer personalized corrections, and create an environment where safety, long-term progress, and team-building clearly come first. We trust them not only for our own growth, but also with our kids—to help build discipline, perseverance, respect, and physical strength. 🥋

Posted 1 year ago

Josh & Kayla Harvey

The environment here is fantastic, and the professors and class are incredibly welcoming. I highly recommend this place for both newcomers and experienced practitioners

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Lance Banister

just finished my 2 week trial! it's been a great time and experience! everyone's been extremely helpful and welcoming, the instructors are very knowledgeable and great at getting around to give individual help, i highly recommend giving it a try! its been a great way to get in shape and make new friends! can't wait to keep learning and growing with this school!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Justin Jordan

This is a great place to see what your truly capable of . Not only is it a full body work out but it is also great for you mentally as well . I remember being nervous signing up and trying somthing new . Coming from a predominantly striking background. This was the missing link to my self defense abilities. Not to mention the people , environment, and cariculum are great . I took advantage of the the two weeks and a starter gii for 19.99 . And havint looked back . The place is always clean and prestine. Professor Chris is an incredibly talented and also very down to earth person. Coach Garfield is an amazing teacher as well also using his outside the box strategies. Coach Eric and Coach Frank are also great teachers. Everyone else that participates are really cool and down to earth people . And you get to work with everyone learning different things from your fellow peers . Different strategies and body types increase your learning. Because yes the fundamentals are the same but everyone jujitsus different. So if you are looking to get in shape, maybe you are looking to learn how to defend yourself . Or possibly you are just refining the skills or even adding to your skills you already have . Look no further when it comes to Jujitsu nothing is better than Gracie Barra Jujitsu!!!

Instructors Facility Classes Pricing Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Kevin Holzinger

Best Experience! Decided to do a trial at Gracie Barra New Lenox and first stepping foot in the door it was such a welcoming environment. From Professor Chris to the other students there everyone has been very friendly and helpful. I decided to start a membership and it's been extremely worth it. If your thinking about trying BJJ come to this place!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

nick Gonzalez

Ive been at this school for a little over a year, so i have a decent idea of how this school is. I remember when i first came to this school. I honestly had zero clue what to expect. First of all, this is a jiu-jitsu school, which means you are mainly going to be practicing techniques on the ground. There is some stand up stuff like wrestling and judo techniques. However stand up sparring is for blue belts and above. (for safety i’m assuming) BUT jiu jitsu IS the focus and this school excels in that regard. I have tried out other martial arts schools in the area while i have been here. I believe the ethics of this school are what make it stand out. The biggest takeaway is the cooperative approach to training. I didn't sense from any other school i was at. Also, the school is clean which is great.

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Jessica Calderon

Great place for children to learn jiu jitsu. Professor Chris and the coaches are awesome with kids. Highly recommend.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 1 year ago

Gadiel Ornelas

great place to train !

Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Robert K

If you are looking for a place to train BJJ, look no further. I have been a member for 3 years. Here are the main takeaways: 1. Professor Chris is a great instructor. He is detail oriented and provides clear, concise instruction with immediate feedback. 2. Gracie Barra can accommodate all types of mentalities. If you are looking learn self defense, if you want a different type of work out, or if you want to compete, GBNL will provide you with opportunity to succeed. 3. The people who train here are welcoming and prioritize learning. Intensity always matches the skill set, so you do not need to be worried about being punished on the mats. 4. The facilities are clean and well kept. 5. GBNL has both morning and evening classes which makes training convenient.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Garrett Beckman

One of the most intimidating things you can do is walk into a BJJ school and step on the mats…until you meet some of the most welcoming and kind group of men and women and GB New Lenox. You couldn’t ask for a better environment to learn, grow, and get a great workout. Professor Chris is highly skilled and attentive to all students. I highly recommend this school for anyone looking to start their BJJ journey. Everyone is there to help you not smash you.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Jacob Cotham

Welcoming environment, everyone is always willing to help. They truly mean Jiu Jitsu for everyone.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Tylor Tofari

Very inviting people and environment! Nice facility and great coaches!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Edwin

I have been there ever since it opened and it has been a fun and safe training environment. I have also made many friends in Gracie Barra and I highly recommend this jujitsu school for anyone interested in starting jujitsu.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Pash Spice

What our kids have been learning here: 1. Respect for each other, siblings, elders, parents and teachers, JJ tradition 2. How to stay active and excercise 3. Self-defense and safety 4. Working on long term goals through routine, determination and "non-quiting attitude" 5. How to stay on schedule and be responsible 6. Developing leadership skills, communication, having athlete friends who are brave to compete although it's intimidating Professor/coach team here is excellent, lead by example and mentorship!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Justine Martin

Gracie Barra New Lenox has become the most uplifting part of my week. I came in for one class on a free trial with no intention of signing up. That was 6 months ago! I loved it so much I signed up immediately and since then I do my best to make it in for 2-3 classes a week. Professor Chris is awesome, very patient and an excellent teacher. The overall vibe of the class is so positive and welcoming - higher belts are quick to welcome new comers and work with them. Everyone is very encouraging of small progress made and I always leave class feeling motivated to come back. Love love love!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

David Mitchell

I came in with no experience in BJJ and knew after the first class that I was in. Everyone I met was easy to work with and focused on progression and not dominating the new guy. There are a good number of students of all ranks and ages for training partners. The classes seem to be activly growing with new students. Class times are varied for flexing with my availability. Prices seem comparable to other places. I'm in my 50's and have always have had an interest in martial arts. I have experience with other styles but wanted to round out my knowledge. The Professor and Coaches are approachable and give clear instruction. I'm excited to learn more!

Instructors Facility Classes Pricing Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Jeremy McDaniel

E.L.E - If you've never seen the movie Semi-Pro with Will Ferrell it means Everybody Love Everybody. That message applies here. Great people all around and I've learned a ton!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Keith Crittenden

I’m in my 50’s and just started BJJ here in New Lenox. I am instantly addicted. The students are great and help you to grow just as much as the professors do. Professor Chris is an amazing teacher. He’s patient and detailed. It’s a fabulous workout and great for personal confidence. Low impact on the body. I leave tired and never sore.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Collin Keene

Just joined Gracie Barra last week. Such a welcoming environment and everyone is eager to teach each other and grow together. If you are considering joining Gracie, just do it!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Joe Keene

Such an amazing school! I just started and am having a blast! Everyone is very welcoming and great to work with. Everything is spotless and super clean. If you are looking to start training for jiu-jitsu Gracie Barra is the place to go!

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Tyler

Gracie Barra is a fantastic martial arts school for beginners and seasoned participants. As a young man with a physical disability, I second guessed my abilities to participate in martial arts. The participants and instructors have been very supportive and provide a positive learning experience for everybody. I look forward to every class because I know that I am going to learn something new. I might not get the concept picture perfect, but the instructors and participants will always find a way to explain it to everybody. Patients is the key to learning a new martial art, and the atmosphere at Gracie Barra is patient while pushing everybody to achieve their best. If you still are unsure on joining, please call, ask to watch a class, and talk to the participants after. You will also find new friends, and community at Gracie Barra

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Mike Murphy

If you are looking for a place to train and learn more about jiu-jitsu, I highly recommend Gracie Barra New Lenox. GBNL has an incredibly professional staff that will work with you and make you feel welcome from the phone call you make to setup your first week of trial classes, to the knowledgeable & talented Professors that will help you along your jiu-jitsu training experience. In addition to the amazing staff, as a student I can personally attest to the positive & respectful environment the students at GBNL create and uphold for everyone who comes to train at Gracie Barra New Lenox. I had ZERO prior experience or training in martial arts of any kind when I signed up for my first class. I also have a health history that lead to a few mobility issues as a result from treatment. Needless to say I had a few apprehensions if I made the right decision or not. That was just 6 months ago, in no time I could feel the physical and mental benefits, I was becoming a better/ healthier version of myself (on and off the mat). The environment that Gracie Barra New Lenox provides for a new student like me was a huge factor to keep me coming back no matter how many times I felt like "this just isn't for me." Many other gyms will preach a statement that says "Jiu-Jitsu for Everyone," but Gracie Barra New Lenox is a perfect example of what that statement truly means.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Reuben Martinez

AMAZING! Visited GB New Lenox while in town on business. The team there are simply wonderful, warm and welcoming. Had a great experience and I will definitely return to train again when I am back in town. I highly recommend checking them out. 👍👍

Instructors Location Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Red Fawn

This is a wonderful school to train at, when they say for everyone they mean it. If you been afraid to try a place, especially if your a women looking to train, this is the home for you.

Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

James Phoenix

If you’re looking to start your training in Jujitsu look no further. This place has a great atmosphere with really good people who are willing to help you along the way in your journey.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Alexander Evers

Excellent school for those new to martial arts, as well as for those looking to advance their current skills to the next level. The GB training regimen is great not only for learning the art of BJJ but also for getting into and maintaining physical fitness. You will come to train and love it, and you will stay for the camaraderie. The other students (Adult & Teen/Kids) are supportive and want only for their teammates to improve. I've been to grappling schools where newer athletes are thrown into a meat grinder program, where "only the strong survive," and injuries are commonplace to the point of being expected. GB New Lenox is not that type of school. GB New Lenox is an environment wherein you are encouraged to train with the intensity that is best for you, they are able to balance rigorous training with safety because of the high-quality Professor and Coach who oversee the program.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Matt Roseland

Extremely welcoming environment. Very knowledgeable instructors that after just one class gave the vibe of being laid back but at the same time serious about teaching proper fundamentals and technique, as well as discipline. Overall great experience would recommend to anyone interested in martial arts

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Keith “Keith” Bibbs

Great place for beginners of all ages. Ego-free and safe environment.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Charlie Champene

A wonderful place to train, amazing Professor and coaches. Friendly staff and great team, They truly embrace the statement Jujitsu for everyone!!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Logan Biggs

Really great school, I joined with No experience at all! And I have already Impressed many of my friends and family with the skills I have acquired In this school! 10/10

Classes Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Logan Gott

So me and my brother started a little under two years ago and the belt promotions are good they take care of the kids they are very respectful twords the parents and the kids very positive energy and a positive atmosphere

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Ashley Howard

My daughter' started here about 4 months ago and she loves going to class and coming home and showing me what she has learned she's made friends and she is really shy and passive she would always shy away from men but she doesn't anymore and she cant stop talking about professor Andre and coach Chris this is a great place for your kids to be and they learn at their pace in a safe environment

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Benjamin Howard

I'm 12 years old I started here when I was 9 I train 6 days a week and I want to train everyday all day and night I like going to class I've made great friends and I love professor Andre and coach Chris and best of all I don't get bullied anymore and I'm not shy anymore my brother and I get a lot better now and my whole family comes now we do fun things to and play games after training I want to be like professor Andre and coach Chris when I grow up

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Dad's Music

My sons started Here about 21/2 years ago and I was amazed by how much my kids had learned and grown so I wanted to try it out and I was hooked I love this place I haven't felt this great or in shape in years the professor and coach are amazing and now my grandchildren go as well they have made great friends here and are taught respect and discipline along with self defense they are a place you definitely want to learn from and take your family to learn they treat you like family

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

Sheral Howard

I don't think I could have found a better school or group of teachers for my son's this place is simply amazing and they not only teach them at school they hold them to a high standard at home .the teachers are so supportive of the students and parents and they do an amazing job. They do so much for the community and the children. Update it's been two and a half years now and my kids and my husband and my grandchildren are all now members here and they still continue to learn and grow under the professor and coach and are thriving the best part is they learn how to be better friends and leaders and are held accountable for behavior at home which has really help my foster kids grow and taught them to be kind and paitent to others even when someone isn't kind to them

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 4 years ago

86aevers

Amazing facility and staff. An excellent experience for any any adult or child!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

Mark Eichenlaub

Great experience!

Facility Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

Nathan Majchrzak

Our boys both joined with zero experience. The instructors are knowledgeable and, most of all, patient. Along with the instructors, the system fosters peer-training; the other students in class have a desire to help the newer and less skilled teammates with technique as well as when they spar. To see 6, 7, 8 and 9 year olds helping each other learn and grow is simply awesome. Our boys have learned defense skills, gained confidence and we have noticed a drastic improvement at home with listening and chipping-in. To say this was a game-changer for our family would be an understatement. Highly recommended.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 5 years ago

Andrew Hashem

Phenomenal school of instructors and practicers. Coach Chris and Sensei Ron have made the school grow and push for everyone to be their best. The kids' program encourages them to be their best and try harder.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 6 years ago

Lindsey

I took our 5 yr old son for a free trial class yesterday. He is a bit shy and timid (especially with being in a new atmosphere) I was a little nervous that he wouldn't enjoy the class, but he absolutely loved it here! We were in coach Chris' class. Not only was coach Chris so helpful with our son, but he worked so well with all the kids. The other kids in the class were all so kind too. Everyone that was partnered up with our son was nice and helpful. The entire experience ( the atmosphere, the coach, and the students) exceeded my expectations. Best of all our son had fun and he wanted to come back to take more classes! Needless to say, we signed him up tonight after his 2nd class. I highly recommend Gracie Barra of New Lenox.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 6 years ago

John T

Thanks Coach Chris and my fellow classmates. Everyone here has welcomed me and made trying something new a fun experience.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 7 years ago

Joshua Markowicz

Amazing place to train! Everyone is very welcoming and friendly. No big egos and the instructor Chris is fantastic! So glad I signed up and grateful to Gracie Barra New Lenox for welcoming me like family since the moment I stepped through the door!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 7 years ago

Jason Markowicz

Great facility! Instructor Chris is outstanding. The environment is clean, friendly, and comfortable for all levels! Highly recommend giving it a go!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 7 years ago

Collin Bias

Best place I have ever trained at.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere

Posted 7 years ago

Branden Bias

Great place for a beginner with no experience! Great group of guys, strong brotherhood and everyone is there to get better! Let’s keep this up Gracie Barra New Lenox!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 7 years ago

Mandy Zohfeld

My son is in their kids program and absolutely loves it. Coach Chris is excellent with the kids. It teaches them respect and discipline from a young age.

Instructors

Posted 7 years ago

Kristopher Garza

Awesome kids program! My son loves it. Great instructor that keeps kids focused while having fun and being able to learn real life scenarios.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere

Posted 7 years ago

Jason

I've known the head coach, Chris, through brazilian jiu jitsu for over four years at the time of this review. He's an excellent instructor and competitor with a high competency and passion for the sport. More importantly, as an instructor, he has a gift for TEACHING and explaining information and techniques for a wide variety of audiences, both with regards for the ages and style of learner he's coaching. (EG I've seen him take multiple routes effectively explaining/teaching a hip bump sweep to a young child vs a teenager vs an experienced adult wrestler not accustomed to being on their backs vs an older, novice adult taking their first class unfamiliar with vocabulary of grappling). Chris does an excellent job of making the classes welcoming, fun and engaging for all ages. If you're a parent looking for an effective martial art for your child or an adult who's been wanting to try brazilian jiu jitsu, Gracie Barra New Lenox would be an excellent academy to enroll in.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere

Posted 7 years ago

Matthew Millirons

I finally found a home for training. the instructor works with your strengths and weaknesses and builds you up. It takes time and effort but you will start to see the training come together and its addicting. highly recommended.

Instructors Atmosphere

Posted 7 years ago

Jerry Griggs

Wow. People wonder why this cult has such a bad name. This Gracie Barra doesn’t allow anyone outside the organization to train there. It’s not 1950 Brazil. I bet this school doesn’t allow cross training either. Run from this place.

Atmosphere

Posted 2 years ago

Brian Johnson

If you like having people take videos of you on there private phones while you train in compromising positions it’s the place for you, Also you will not be able to wear an American made gi more important to some people than others.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere

Posted 3 years ago

Gracie Barra New Lenox

Reviews

Other Academies Nearby