Dragon Budo Jujutsu Martial Arts Academy

Dragon Budo Jujutsu Martial Arts Academy, 6619 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60621, USA

4.9 (52 reviews)

Disciplines

Self-Defense

Classes

Adults Classes Black Belt Instruction

Facilities

Mat Space

Culture

Welcoming Environment

Access

Free Trial

Dragon Budo Jujutsu Martial Arts Academy is a top-rated martial arts school in Chicago, IL. We offer karate, self defense and fitness classes for all ages and experience levels.

Reviews

Sort by

Let’s Talk Teeth live

I believe I found my class. You start learning day one! This is awesome.

Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
D R

I've been studying and training at the DBJ dojo for nearly two years and it's been one of the best combat experiences! This is coming from a 4 year wrestler who also has nearly 2 years of boxing (training only), minor Judo trianing in Cameroon, and a handful of months at a Gracie Academy. Not only does the dojo uphold its set principles and values, but it also pushes its students to do the same. Strikes are taught off the rip because they're woven into the curriculum; and by extension, your technique. Under Grandmaster Starks, if you take it seriously, you'll become a legit student under the Gyawn Atiko Jujutsu system-a more traditional style of Jujutsu. Belts aren't given; we're students, hence the set tests we take to earn our promotions. In addition to the mats, full boxing ring, and MMA cage, the DBJ dojo fully embraces a healthy fight culture while creating the next generation of strong and dedicated warriors. While I could go on and on, I'll end by saying you just have to come try it for yourself! Here is a short clip of how it be! https://youtu.be/bzI6Z7X4t3A?feature=shared

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Eric “E” M

My son has been a part of this dojo since 2020. He is now 10 and the highest ranking Junior Dragon. He is also a junior instructor for the newer kids. I myself most recently joined earlier this year. Grandmaster Starks and his amazing wife Julia have created a remarkable environment for adults and children to be challenged , become stronger mentally and physically and be a part of a growing family and legacy. Grandmaster Starks was most recently featured on the front cover of Deadly Art Of Survival (15th Edition) where his story can be read. I encourage anyone in the Chicagoland area to come visit their dojo, you will not be disappointed.
Posted 2 years ago
Eric Hargett

My son has been a part of this dojo since 2020. He is now 10 and the highest ranking Junior Dragon. He is also a junior instructor for the newer kids. I myself most recently joined earlier this year. Grandmaster Starks and his amazing wife Julia have created a remarkable environment for adults and children to be challenged , become stronger mentally and physically and be a part of a growing family and legacy. Grandmaster Starks was most recently featured on the front cover of Deadly Art Of Survival (15th Edition) where his story can be read. I encourage anyone in the Chicagoland area to come visit their dojo, you will not be disappointed.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
ibrahim balde

This is a great place for anyone who is interested in learning martial arts or self defense. The staff and instructors are very professional and personable. You will learn how to overcome mental/ physical limitations. I highly recommend DBJ. By far the best Dojo to join in Chicago and Midwest.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Shaka Ahru Mancil

Great atmosphere and great teaching. You will leave class each time smarter and stronger!!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
EeLLss

I started personal training with Sensei in October 2022. I came with a set goal in mind, to physically prepare for the dream trip of a lifetime. You see, I'm very overweight and that fact had me concerned that I would be stuck on a tour bus while everyone else is out enjoying the beautiful sights. All because I couldn't walk well or climb stairs without being short of breath due to years of inactivity. When I came in, Sensei Darrell did an assessment to see what my starting level should be, and it wasn't great. No matter, he started me off and let me know that with time and consistency, I would start to see results. Now, I'm a month in and I am so pleased to see results already. From my twice a week personal workouts and "homework", so far I've increased my stamina from cardio on the treadmill and elliptical machines, and strength from weight training. I've lost weight snd inches already. It's going to take work to where I need to be but I'm in a great friendly and welcoming environment that I feel is a safe space for someone my size.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Jay Sturdivant

I am a current student of Hanshi Starks his energy his humbleness his overall enthusiasm to want to train those whom are truly serious and dedicated their time patience and effort to this Japanese African jujitsu art. He pushes you to your limit, pushes you to your inner greatness. I did not want to take up jujutsu from other instructors based on professionalism, and that he most certainly have. You will not regret paying for phenomenal instructions in this beautiful art of jujitsu. Sign up and get started as I’ve done.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
William Watson

Legit Jujutsu school. Tough but rewarding. If you’re looking for real martial arts work, look no further.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Nathan Haymon

Great place to train, the staff is very helpful and supportive

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
elenzia Booker

This is one of the MOST authentic jujitsu schools there is hands down. Gotta check it out👍

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
J DeRose

Going to class at Dragon Budo Jujutsu has been a great experience! The people are welcoming and everyone in the gym is invested in helping you develop your skills and seeing you improve. I would recommend this gym to anyone trying to begin or continue martial arts training.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Alexis Smith

We absolutely love and appreciate Dragon Budo Jujutsu Martial Arts, if your looking for a great martial arts classes come here. They provide benefits such as assistance with structure, coordination, building confidence and of course great self- defense practices, our daughters enjoy themselves.We even had a wonderful time with the adults class, overall great for the family.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Sylvia Watson

My son enjoys coming to class! I would definitely recommend any parent to sign their children up. He's been attending classes here a little over a year now. I definitely notice a postive difference with his behavior. He looks forward to all the new techniques his Grand Master will teach him and moving up with his belt ranks. Julia the director is great! She's a wonderful communicator and does very well with the children. This place is family friendly, there's something for everyone to do.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Erika Pruitt

I found out about this academy through someone’s referral and I’ll say I wasn’t ever disappointed. I signed up with my sister, and it was both of our first times experiencing the world of martial arts. I came in with tendonitis and my sister came in with a medical condition and they ensure to adjust certain things when we were vocal about complications with some of the moves. I ended up learning so much and it kept me in shape physically and mentally. All the moves were specified well and it was always enforced that I did everything right. I still hope to make a return since as of now my injuries are preventing that. So I really recommend this for anyone interested in martial arts.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
James Bridges

The training and expectations for the members are first rate and the head Hanchi of the dojo comes with an impeccable history of accomplishments in the world of Martial Arts.

Instructors
Posted 5 years ago
brian williams

Grand Master Starks is an expert. He creates a safe environment to deal with unsafe situations and treats students like extensions of his own family. This does not save classes from hard work or hard truth. (quite the opposite). It does provide the opportunity to be prepared and proficient.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
C T

I knew exactly where to go to she’s the quarantine weight I had put on this past year! I’ve been a member over the past 3-4 years and I’m always pleased with my results! Sensai does the job! Body look so good you’d think it was bought! #builtNOTbought! Highly recommend!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Darryl Starks

This place is like a second home for me. The classes are always competitive and engaging. The students there work hard to earn not only their ranks but their sense of self. The teachers there strive to teach each and every student to push past their limits and find their inner strengths. If you're just looking to workout but want to stay within the local area , I would really suggest you go here. The equipment available is sanitized prior to use and ready for you to get started on putting in that work. All in all, this place is a great way to jumpstart your year and move foward with either your own developments or a loved one's.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Keisha Owusu

I've been going here for years you get the best quality trainings workouts massages and more that's offered within the facility. It's a small but spacious gym great for private training sessions and group work outs

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Elizabeth Pryor

Dragon Budo Jujutsu has provided me with the best martial arts training I have yet received! Sensei Starks is a perfect combination of leadership and compassion; classes are challenging and super fun!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
kelly voris

I am happy I started working out here. Everyone is friendly and welcoming. My trainers Darryl and Kenny are motivating and encouraging. They are a wealth of knowledge. I feel myself building muscle and getting stronger every week. In the two months we have been training I have lost over 25 lbs and totally changed my mindset. There have been several times when something has kept me from the gym and Darryl has had a zoom workout session with me (he has pushed me when I wouldn’t have done it on my own). He has gone above and beyond as a trainer and a coach and I am happy to have him on my team. I feel like he will help me reach my fitness goals.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Nicole McGee

My daughter wanted to learn martial arts and I’m glad I found this studio for her. Mr. Starks is an amazing instructor! I highly recommend if you are looking for martial arts training.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Da Don

I love this place. It's a GREAT experience.

Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Dustin Voris

Love this place!! I’m in my 40’s and haven’t worked out in a long time, my trainer Darryl pushes me and I feel great and have so much energy! Highly recommend.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Sherell Slaise

We receive excellent training and mentorship here!

Instructors
Posted 5 years ago
Megan Starks

Filled with a lot of good people, wonderful programs and an awesome instructor! Expect the best here!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Julia Starks

DBJ martial arts is awesome!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Lene body

When you come to the Dragon Budo Jujutsu Martial Arts Academy, you will receive a warm and inviting welcome and that’s very crucial for me because if you are not personal or engaging with me, I will turn around and walk right back out of the door. Hanshi, the Master, the Guru of his art of jujutsu technical skills are amazing. Hanshi will challenge you and push you to your ultimate limits to get you the maximize results that you are looking to achieve. You will receive a great and amazing workout while learning different techniques to defend and strengthen your body. I’m so glad that I’m a part of a wonderful organization. Marlene Snipes LeneBody.net

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Felicia hill

Good place good people very informative and professional .

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Cyle Colbert

Yooooo, this place was introduced to me by my bro, and ever since, I’ve been thrilled to see what this place has in store. I’ve learned so much, and getting back to the physique I once had is a super plus. Hanshi has made this a world away from the world to test out and unlock the hidden potential that exists within us all. I would recommend this to everyone, so they could taste a fraction of the victories that come from the community that’s here, the technical and physical aspect of learning is something that you can cherish at any age..

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
danielle gawlik

Every time I come for class everyone is very welcoming and helpful. The more classes I come to the more potential I see in myself. I would recommend people of all ages to come and join.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
adaycia dion

Thank you to Sensei Starks for providing the Dragon Budo family with the true no nonsense warrior art form. Thank you for the gift of mental and physical conditioning in preparation for lifes obstacles not just martial arts. If your SERIOUS about learning jujutsu, improving your health and or physical conditioning, it's a must you come in and give it a try. Highest recommendation no question...

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 6 years ago
Marc Hilary

Absolutely a MUST for anyone looking to test and improve their mental, physical and technical capabilities. Sensei Starks' training and teaching style is excellent - especially for those that are SERIOUS about reaching their potential - at any stage/age in life. Highest recommendation!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 6 years ago
Tabitha Scott

I love this place😍😍. I started four months ago and it is exactly what I needed. I started because I wanted to lose weight which I am but I'm learning a skill that will help me with my confidence to protect myself. I take Jujutsu and kickboxing. My 8 year old niece take jr jujutsu and she loves it. I love the people who goes here. This place is great.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 6 years ago
Gilisa B

Master Sensei Darryl Expert Teacher and Skilled Martial Artist provides a professional setting to develop balance leverage and technique. Pleased with the services my body is absolutely stronger.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 8 years ago
Ashley Glover

My son loved this dojo, but they moved locations and it was no longer convenient. I have been waiting since July to receive a refund for a month of class. The owners have been non-responsive and its now the end of October. And since the owner replied and said I’m a troll here is picture of my child at the Dojo with the uniform on with their logo. Very unprofessional!
Posted 11 months ago