Gideon Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu/ Self-Defense (Bloomington)
About
Gideon Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Bloomington, Illinois is a well-established academy that provides structured training programs for all skill levels. The gym, led by Professor Don Fox, emphasizes technical instruction in a clean, family-oriented environment that balances competitive training with safety and respect. Students particularly value the practical self-defense techniques and the supportive community atmosphere.
Jiu Jitsu VerifiedOur weighted 10-point scoring system for martial arts academies prioritizes instruction quality, training environment, and overall student experience.
We consider factors like instructor expertise, class structure, and facility quality. Our assessment combines student feedback, expert reviews, and website information.
Scores above 9.00 denote world-class quality, signifying premier martial arts training experiences.
Overall VibeInstructors QualityClassesFacility QualityPricingLocation & AccessibilityPublic Review Sentiment
Instructors
Professor Don Fox is frequently praised for his technical knowledge, attention to detail, and genuine care for his students. Many reviewers mention his passion for teaching and willingness to provide extra help to students who are struggling with techniques.
Facility
The facility is consistently described as clean, spacious, and well-maintained. Multiple reviewers specifically mention the quality of the mats and the large locker room area.
Pricing
While specific pricing details aren't provided in the reviews, the gym offers month-to-month memberships with no contracts. They also provide a money-back guarantee if you change your mind within 5 business days of signing up.
Facility
Gym
Instructors
Classes
Pricing
The gym offers a free trial class that many reviewers recommend taking advantage of to experience the training environment firsthand.
Location
Opening Hours
| Monday | 5PM - 8:30PM |
| Tuesday | 6PM - 8:30PM |
| Wednesday | 5PM - 8:30PM |
| Thursday | 6PM - 8:30PM |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | 9AM - 11:30AM |
| Sunday (Today) | Closed |
Location
The gym is conveniently located in Bloomington, Illinois, serving the Bloomington-Normal area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this gym suitable for beginners with no martial arts experience?
Yes, many reviewers mention starting their jiu-jitsu journey at this gym with no prior experience. The structured curriculum includes a Fundamentals program specifically designed for beginners.
Are there classes for children and what ages are accepted?
Yes, the gym offers kids classes. Based on reviews, children as young as 10-12 years old have trained here successfully, with several parents mentioning positive experiences for their children.
Does the gym focus more on sport jiu-jitsu or self-defense?
The gym appears to balance both aspects well. Multiple reviewers specifically mention the practical self-defense applications they've learned, while others note competition preparation and success.
Is the gym affiliated with a larger organization?
Yes, the gym is part of the Gracie Barra network, which has over 600 locations worldwide. This means members can potentially train at other Gracie Barra schools when traveling.
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