Vianna Brothers Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy

2128 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, USA

4.9 (74 reviews)

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The Vianna Brothers have spent over 30 years studying the art of ground fighting known as Brazilian jiu jitsu. The Vianna Brothers opened their academy in 2004 and it has had the premiere instruction in Chicago, Illinois ever since. They have history in the sport and are proud of their lineage. Originally from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the Viannas, hold black belts under Carlson Gracie Jr. and Marcelo Alonso. The academy emphasizes attention to detail and using the body in the most efficient way possible. Our classes are physically engaging, mentally stimulating and community focused. You will train with partners, have fun, be challenged and learn from everyone.

https://www.viannabrothers.com/

(773) 908-7890

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Reviews

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Stephen Lee

Dropped in on Friday! Had a great time!

Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Graeden Bird

Stellar gym! Best gym in Chicago.

Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
d b

Friendly and welcoming. No pressure with great teachers.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Morgan Hasegawa

Excellent gym. Albert was quick in his response in regards to a drop in. Coach Evan was awesome, the class was a great progression of warm up, technique then rolls at the end. Good clean facility, good vibes, and even better people. Highly recommend.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Brandon Rubin

During a 2 week stay in Chicago I went to Vianna Brothers 5 or 6 times. The instruction was awesome and the training partners were great. This is one of the most welcoming gyms I’ve ever been to. I will definitely be back the next time I’m in town.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Jennifer Novoseletsky

My boyfriend visited this gym while we were in Chicago and I’ve never heard more positive reviews. Everyone is incredibly friendly and willing to learn from their visitors. The gym is clean and the rolls were fun! He will definitely visit again!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Nicholas Tambini

Went for a drop-in class during a weekend trip. Can't say enough great things about this gym. Welcoming environment, fantastic teaching with heavy emphasis on technique and fundamentals. Worth mentioning that the mats were super clean also. Will definitely be going back during any future Chicago visits! Thanks again Coach Izzy and everyone at the gym!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
John Koch

Was visiting the area for a few days and had the pleasure of training here for a few classes. Instructors were great and the group was very welcoming. Would highly recommend this gym!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
John Kenney

I've been training for 15 years. Every time I visit Chicago I make my way to Vianna Bros BJJ. Great community. Great rolls. Great times. Thank you!

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
zach hickey

Fantastic academy. The culture is one of camaraderie, inclusion and competition. I’ve attended for a year and it’s been fantastic. Great schedule availability as well and incredibly effective instructors.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Michelle Cai

best open mat in the city, probably

Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
mich

best open mat in the city, probably

Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Johan Antonio De La Rosa Laureano

I was visiting Chicago for a couple of days when I found Vianna’s Academy. I have nothing more to say than it was fantastic. Great people, and the class was smooth, very interactive, and technical at the same time. When I’m back in Chicago, I’m definitely coming back.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Lian Lucansky

Highly recommend for beginners! Felt a really awesome, welcoming culture for my drop in class. Our instructor was very focused on the fundamentals and was really helpful for me and my first time friends to help us get our form down.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
J.O.

Great Bjj Gym! Need to visit if your in town. I was just visiting Chicago for a few days and they were so welcoming towards me to train with them... Greetings from Germany!

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
William Maisonet

There are not enough positive words in any language great enough to describe the environment in The Vianna Brothers Academy. It is full of knowledge and humble souls always willing to help one another grow. From the kids classes to the adult classes, Daniel and the rest of his coaches have created a place for people to see them selves Excel and grow. True therapy.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
joseph delgado

Visiting from Texas and it’s a honor to train here! The atmosphere is great and very welcoming! Everyone who is visiting or want to create a better lifestyle should definitely come and try a class! This will be my go to gym whenever I visit Chicago!

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Sean O'Looney

We’ve been enjoying the Vianna brothers experience for almost 2 years now. They’ve created a fantastic environment built around community. Quality driven staff with great leadership that emphasizes proper technique and individual growth amongst the students. Thank you Vianna!!!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Raquel Queiroz

Exceptional Jiu-Jitsu Instructors at Vianna Brothers! My daughter has been attending jiu-jitsu classes at Vianna Brothers for over a year and absolutely loves it. The instructors are highly skilled and experienced, providing excellent guidance and instruction to all students. They have a deep knowledge of jiu-jitsu techniques and are able to effectively communicate and demonstrate them to the students. In addition to their expertise, the instructors at Vianna Brothers also create a supportive and encouraging environment for the students. They genuinely care about each student's progress and go above and beyond to help them achieve their goals. The classes are structured and well-organized, allowing for both individual and group training sessions. The community at Vianna Brothers is amazing. The students are friendly and supportive, creating a positive atmosphere that fosters growth and camaraderie. The instructors actively foster a sense of teamwork and sportsmanship, teaching important values that go beyond the mat. Overall, I highly recommend Vianna Brothers for anyone seeking top-notch jiu-jitsu instruction. The combination of exceptional instructors, a supportive community, and a well-structured program make it an outstanding choice for both beginners and experienced practitioners.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Przemysław Marcisz

I've been training at this place since 2018, came with a few months of BJJ experience from different gym. At the time of writing this review it is 2024, and I'm still here, coming to train few times a week. You will not only learn how to grapple but also make friends on the way. Coaches are very knowledgeable and atmosphere is great. Highly recommend if you're thinking of starting your BJJ journey.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Esperanza Pena

Great coaches! They focus on fundamentals and they are patient with the kids. My daughter has learned so much. She enjoys her Jiu Jitsu classes.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Charles Zvirbulis

Great people. Come train!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Christina Perez

Best decision for my daughter was bringing her to Vianna Bros. BJJ, all the coaches are exceptional, caring, attentive and kind. My daughter is always eager to go to class, enjoys herself and leaves with a smile !

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Devin Denney

I was In Chicago for a few days and dropped in for a Thursday night comp training. It was great! Everyone is super friendly and welcoming. The gym is very clean and well kept. It was a great training session with lots of excellent students. I would definitely recommend, and I will be coming back when I’m in town!

Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Paul Do

The best vibe in town. Daniel is the man!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Pete Ondish

I've trained at about a dozen different gyms across the country, and this is the best I've been to hands-down. The instruction is well-organized and confident, the space is great, and the community is super welcoming. Come roll with us.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Amy & Ed

My husband has been training at Vianna Brothers and absolutely loves the community. When we thought our son was ready to start jiu jitsu, we knew that he would also be training at Vianna Brothers. He loves it there. The coaches are thoughtful, patient, caring and firm. The instruction is incredible, they make sure the students are understanding the technique. Each class is fun and safe. The coaches are so supportive that they come out to every competition to coach the kids in their matches. They are the biggest cheerleaders when our kids win and provide amazing support when they lose. We are very fortunate to have found Vianna Brothers for both my husband and son.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Nathaniel Ward

I began training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu when I was living in Ames, Iowa. What attracted me to the gym there was the level of instruction and the community of people that also called the gym home. After my move to Chicago in 2021, I stopped into Vianna Brothers to see if it had similarities to where I began my training journey. It became immediately apparent that this place was extremely welcoming, friendly, and taught high level jiu jitsu. Daniel was beyond accommodating to my initial questions and I began training there the following week. Since that first meeting, I have been training at Vianna Brothers at least 4 days a week for the past 2 years. Between instruction from blackbelts' Daniel, Evan, Jermaine, Von, Eden, Izzy, Paul and other high level competitors like Mike and Joe, you simply cannot get better instruction, whether training GI or No Gi. If your brand new, come check this place out for outstanding fundamental instruction. If you are more experienced, the offering of advanced GI and No GI training by our black and upper belts is simply unmatched. This place is absolutely my second home and the culture that has been instilled there is welcoming, friendly, and professional. Regardless of your goals when starting this sport, Vianna Brothers will help you achieve them.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Luis Cruz

I’m leaving this review, not as someone who has ever trained there, but as a parent of a kid who competed against one of their students at the believeJJ tournament. My son had never competed before and couldn’t have had a better experience competing against Felix. The Vianna motto of “train Hard, be kind” couldn’t have been more apparent. The coach that I met, and the students that I saw compete embody what all of us wish there was more of, which is good people. I’m sure we’ll see you guys at competitions down the road, and wish nothing but happiness for you guys.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Sheila Ross

Whenever you visit Chicago and are looking for a great workout, do yourself a favor and visit Vianna Brothers Brazilian Jiu-jitsu! You won't be disappointed. Sensei Daniel Vianna is brilliant. The people who train there, the instruction, the classes and the rolling are amazing!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Bob Washere

Trained here while visiting from another state. If you’re looking for a place to train this academy has excellent vibes, the students are respectful and the instructor is top notch.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Wesley J. Claudio

Sensei Daniel Vianna and all his teachers are true professors of the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Chicago is blessed to have this academy steeped in the traditions and practices Daniel learned from the masters of the Gracie family in Rio. Kids through adults, you will find this academy to be a special place to study, learn and evolve your jiu jitsu game. 100% worth checking out!

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
ltfurlan

I can't say enough good things about Daniel Vianna (Vianna Brothers Academy) in Chicago! Despite now living in Florida, every time I return to Chicago, I make it a priority to visit and train with them. This academy holds a special place in my heart. The sense of camaraderie and welcoming atmosphere at Vianna Brothers is unparalleled. Every time I step through the doors, I am greeted with warm smiles and open arms, making me feel like I'm right back at home. Daniel, his fellow instructors, and practitioners have become like an extended family, and their passion for Jiu Jitsu is truly contagious. The level of instruction and technical expertise provided by Daniel and his instructors is top-notch. They have a remarkable ability to tailor their teaching to students of all skill levels, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned practitioner. Each class is thoughtfully structured, focusing on both fundamental techniques and advanced strategies, allowing me to continually improve and refine my skills. One aspect that sets Vianna Brothers apart is its hands on approach with the students. Daniel (founder, and instructor at Vianna Brothers) goes above and beyond to ensure that every student gets a chance to roll with him in each class. This thoughtful approach to teaching sets him apart as an exceptional mentor and cultivates a sense of inclusivity among all practitioners. Whether you're a Chicago resident looking for a fantastic Jiu Jitsu academy or a visitor like myself, I wholeheartedly recommend Vianna Brothers. Their dedication to fostering a positive training experience, combined with their exceptional instructors and friendly community, creates an unforgettable Jiu Jitsu journey. Thank you, Vianna Brothers, for being my home away from home and continuing to inspire my passion for Jiu Jitsu!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Martin Vittands

Have been training for 10 years and this school has some of the best instruction that I have seen.

Instructors
Posted 3 years ago
Christopher DeLucia

I’ve been training here since I started jiu-jitsu about 8 months ago. I came in on my first day with zero experience but was immediately supported by the upper belts and felt at ease. There are a variety of instructors - all of which are high quality with opportunities to train both no-gi and gi. Plenty of class options covering the morning, afternoon, and evening. Last but not least, the community is great and everyone is respectful and safe. Definitely recommend checking out if you’re looking to start BJJ or would like to drop-in for class or open mats.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Lance Lim

Great instructors and an amazing kids class!

Instructors Classes
Posted 3 years ago
Edward Kang

As a father nearing 50, I was really afraid to start anything new, especially something like jiu jitsu. Though I grew up doing tae kwon do and hapkido, it was well over 30 years since I last did any sort of martial arts. Jiu Jitsu, especially jiu jitsu at Vianna Brothers has been life changing. Daniel, the owner, is gracious and welcoming and has created an academy which accepts new members with open arms and makes everyone feel welcomed and comfortable. The instructors each bring their different expertise including judo and wrestling, so there is always a new skill to learn and hone in each class. We are very excited to start our son in their kids classes.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Chris Vilos

I've trained at a lot of different places and I've learned that you will train the most when you really love the gym you're going to. Daniel's welcoming attitude is infectious and it wholly rubs off onto every student here. Also, training and instruction at Vianna Brothers is super effective and you can literally watch yourself and everyone around you rapidly progressing.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Adam Koch

Awesome place to learn the art of Jiu jitsu, the teachers are very nice and the kids classes are great, Mondays, Wed and Fridays. They just did some remodeling too so it's ready for more students.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Rayane Chatrieux

This gym has one of the best atmosphere of any gym I have visited. The coaches are amazingly warm to beginners and newcomers.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Brandon Croke

Wowww what a great gym! I travel a lot for work and this group is in the top 1% of welcoming gyms I've been too. Lot's of different levels and sizes of training partners, head instructor had great energy and the gym was clean and had a good amount of room. Stop by for a Saturday open mat and see for yourself!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Joe Thomas

This school was recommended to me by a friend who knew I was visiting the Chicago area. I showed up early to find a student cleaning the mats, he invited me in and showed me where the dressing rooms were and said I could dress out and warm up. Shortly the rest of the students started showing up. As each student stepped on the mats they came over, introduced themselves and made some conversation. The instructor for the day was Aaron Brooks and he couldn't have been more helpful or more welcoming. My training partners as good as they come. I've visited quite a few gyms and can't always say this, but I left the gym a better grappler. We worked on some things that aren't a regular part of my game, but will be a little more going forward. If you live in the Chicago/Rosemont area or are visiting, check this place out.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Tam Dang

Have been training here for nearly a year and a half and I love it. The gym is always clean. The instructors are knowledgeable, kind, and passionate, and are extremely friendly to newcomers. I started from zero and they instantly made me feel comfortable and were dedicated to my learning. The other students are a colorful and welcoming assortment of characters, and if you stick with it, you're guaranteed to make a few close pals. Train here! You won't regret it.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Connor Butler

Incredible instructors, great practitioners, and a wonderful environment.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Quang Do

Top notch instruction + a really good group of teammates. I am new to BJJ and everyone was more than happy to spend time with me to make sure I had a great experience.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 8 years ago
Alex DiRienzo

I was looking to learn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and decided to give Vianna Brothers a try. From my first day of stepping foot into the gym I felt like I was a member of the family. Coach Daniel fosters an environment that allows his athletes to grow and push themselves. If anyone has ever wanted to give Brazilian Jiu Jitsu a try, Vianna Brothers Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy is the best place to do it!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 8 years ago
Bowser gorev

Amazing Academy filled with respect, attention to detail, and encouragement. I recommend anyone and everyone to come check it out!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 8 years ago
Matt Heffler

My daughter and I began studying Jiu-Jitsu about four months ago. Our experience at the Vianna Brothers Jiu Jitsu Academy has been extremely positive. The kids class is taught by an extremely patient, knowledgeable, and caring instructor. Your child will become more confident, competent, and disciplined. As for the adults class, it is the highlight of my day. It is immensely challenging, unforgivingly cerebral, and unequivocally fun.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 8 years ago
Bruno Vetter

I dropped in on three classes over the course of the weekend and was impressed with the instruction, culture, and facilities. Daniel Vianna is a fantastic instructor - kind of old school - while Aaron is great at explaining common details in a way that helped them click for this white belt. Also, I got to see a number of Vianna Brothers' athletes compete at IBJJF Chicago and was impressed by their skill and attitudes, plus the support they received from their teammates. In addition, it's nice to be able to shower at the gym and to be able to change in a designated locker room. Chicago is a big city with plenty of places to train, but it's hard for me to believe that any is a better blend of teaching and community than this one.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 9 years ago
Tommy Connor

Absolutely Amazing. Vianna Brothers hosts a wide range of instructors who take a personal interest in seeing every student succeed. With a mix of traditional and innovative instruction, BJJ practitioners of all levels can excel at the academy. But, more importantly, Vianna Brothers has one of the most supportive and friendly communities I've ever been a part of. While I've only been attending for a few months, I look forward to every class. The women and men that come to Vianna are simply the best.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 9 years ago
Nicholas Swanson

I greatly recommend this school. Take the risk of approaching the instructor and coming in to check it out, I'm glad I did. Now I find myself coming multiple nights each week, being around kind, humble, friendly, and helpful teammates. It's a good workout, an even better test of the mind as it's relatively technical, and just an awesome skill/hobby to have.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 9 years ago
Steven Weisman

Incredible place, amazing Instruction! I've only started training Jiu Jitsu at Vianna Brothers recently, and while I grew up practicing Tae Kwon Do, I have very little grappling experience. I'm 33, a beginner, and not in the best shape. Jiu Jitsu is one of the most challenging things I've ever tried, but so fulfilling. In every class I've taken, I've seen men and women, advanced and beginner, learning and improving side-by-side, and it is exhausting in the best way! Daniel Vianna and the other instructors I've learned from, break every move down, demonstrate it, and walk around to provide extra guidance and tips. There are some seriously talented, passionate, and welcoming people here, and everyone has welcomed me like I've been a friend for years. I'm hooked.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 10 years ago
Agnes Estes

Fantastic intruction. Warm, and friendly atmosphere. Most fun I ever had learning jiu jitsu and the most I have learned in this amount of time. Can't recommend it enough.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 10 years ago
Nick S

When I first moved to Chicago, all I wanted to do was find a Jiu Jitsu school to not only my liking, but accord to my schedule. When I say "to my liking" let me give you an idea of what I look for. The questions I ask are "how welcoming are the team mates, what is the instruction like, cleanliness, goals..." I have a lot in mind when looking for a new school and I don't think I could be happier with Vianna Brothers Jiu Jitsu. Both Sensei Pedro and Daniel. the head instructors and essential pioneers of the Jiu Jitsu scene in Chicago, have a deep level of detail in their instruction. I can't stress this enough. The quality of instruction here tops most schools in my opinion. With 20+ years of experience, they make sure their students not only learn proper technique but don't develop any bad habits. If you're looking to try Jiu Jitsu for the first time or take it seriously, you shouldn't want to learn under anyone else BUT these guys! As I've said, the cleanliness of a school speaks a lot, too. The locker rooms are always clean. I've been here for a year and I have yet to see anyone get staph which is a big problem in Jiu Jitsu. The mats are always kept clean. Everyone wears flip flops on their feet to keep from tracking anything back onto the mat. Impeccable is probably the word I'm looking for. My biggest issue with finding the right gym for me was one that could work around my work schedule. This was the first and last place I looked. Classes early in the morning, through out the day, and in the evening. I was looking for something that had classes early in the morning and this was it. Overall, if you're new to Jiu Jitsu you're gonna want start here. If you're a brown belt and need a new gym to train at, passing this up would be a mistake. Their prices are very reasonable for the quality of instruction you get here.Call Sensei Daniel today and get started today!

Instructors Facility Classes Location Pricing Atmosphere
Posted 13 years ago
Edgar Ovalle

This is probably the best Martial Arts instruction I have ever had. Both Daniel and Pedro are very knowledgeable and excellent teachers. They have an excellent staff and a class schedule that is good for any schedule. My advice to the new student, if you can, would be to either go as often as possible at first or take a few privates with either Daniel or Pedro. That will get you where you need to be right off the bat and put you in a good spot for understanding the BJJ game.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 13 years ago
George Brown

I highly recommend this academy. I have been training at Vianna Brothers Jiu Jitsu for about a year and a half and am grateful for the instruction and care of the professors. When I was injured outside of Jiu Jitsu, both students and instructors were there to keep my spirits up and encourage me to return. I have lost 35 -40 lbs since I started and have traded old aches and pains for the pleasant muscle fatigue indicating a good workout. I used to look for excuses to avoid working out, but now I look for excuses to go train at Vianna Brothers. I started at 37 years old and 265 lbs. I'm now 39 and about 225 lbs.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 9 years ago
Evan Mannweiler

Starting jiu jitsu is intimidating. Even if you've trained before and are looking for a new gym, walking through an academy's doors the first time can be stressful. I moved to Chicago recently after 12 years of jiu jitsu. Daniel and Pedro opened their doors to me immediately and welcomed me into their family. I thought I was getting special treatment, but I've watched them go to the same lengths to welcome brand new students to their academy as well. Their students are great reflections of the school, both technically and socially. The programming at Vianna Brothers is strongly rooted in old school, fundamental Carlson Gracie style jiu jitsu. They have multiple classes every day, six days a week. Very few academies are able to offer the experience or opportunity that Daniel and Pedro do. As my friends have come to Chicago to train, I've been proud to bring them to the Vianna Brothers' academy.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 10 years ago
Jay Co

Came in here for information regarding class schedules and pricing. So I sat down on their bench by the window and noticed they were a few people and an instructor sparring. So I figured he'll get to me in a few minutes after their little match or whatever. However, that did not happen, I waited approximately 20 minutes until another customer came in and spoke with him instead of me. I was a bit BOTHERED by that. So I figured I stand up and talk to the instructor (white guy with short hair on the sides low on top - kinda skinny) and gather some info. He referred me to the owner and come back another day. After this encounter I will not enter this place again! First impression makes a huge deal!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 6 years ago