Comprehensive martial arts training for all ages, focusing on self-defense techniques and belt progression.
Kid-friendly classes that build discipline, confidence, and positive behavior in a fun, structured environment.
Personalized coaching for adults to improve strength, lose weight, and learn practical self-defense skills.
Advanced programs for youth to develop leadership skills and assist in teaching newer students.
Flexible training options including one-on-one coaching and group classes for all skill levels.
Virtual training for remote support, ensuring consistent progress and motivation outside the dojo.

Empowering minds and bodies through Japanese-African Jujitsu in Chicago.
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Dragon Budo Jujutsu Martial Arts Academy offers expert training in Japanese-African Jujitsu for all ages and skill levels. Led by Grandmaster Starks and Director Julia, our family-friendly dojo focuses on building mental strength, physical fitness, and discipline in a supportive community environment. With a 4.9-star rating, we provide personalized coaching, belt ranking, and a welcoming atmosphere for children and adults alike. Join us at our Chicago location to develop self-defense skills, improve behavior, and achieve your fitness goals.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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