BJJ Gyms in Iowa, United States

API - Ascension Athletics

Ascension Athletics MMA & BJJ is a martial arts school in Bristol, Connecticut, offering comprehensive training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, and striking arts. Founded in 2016 by Jeff Haddad, the academy has become a fundamental part of the Bristol community through its uplifting environment and commitment to student success. The school welcomes everyone from beginner hobbyists to competitive martial artists, providing programs for all ages starting from 5 years old. The academy's philosophy centers on supporting students in achieving their dreams through promoting healthy habits in competition and life. Ascension offers a unique scholarship program funded by local businesses to ensure martial arts training is accessible to families in need. The supportive atmosphere is built on respect, inclusivity, and perseverance, where students of all skill levels train together in an anti-ego environment focused on personal growth. Head instructor and owner Jeff Haddad brings exceptional credentials to the academy. A former pediatric and occupational therapist, his background gives him unique expertise in working with various learning styles and physical abilities. As a 1st degree BJJ black belt, 2-time IBJJF World Champion (Purple M1 and Black M2), #1 IBJJF World Ranked M2 Black Belt (2023), and undefeated 5-0 professional MMA fighter (Reality Fighting Bantamweight Champion), Jeff combines world-class competition experience with compassionate instruction. The academy is supported by a skilled team of instructors including Jack Stapleton, Casey Norton, Rob Cole, Glenn Pierce, James Comerford, Kat Torres, Rob Grillo, and Dan Wilcox.

Ares - Cadejo BJJ

Cadejo Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a proud affiliate of the Ares BJJ Association, located in Laredo, Texas. The academy operates from a spacious 5,000 square foot facility featuring over 1,300 square feet of open mat space, making it the largest training area in town. The facility includes a dedicated BJJ mat area, a well-equipped gym space with Rogue Fitness training equipment, changing rooms, showers, and a separate Muay Thai Box Academy. The academy offers comprehensive Brazilian Jiu Jitsu programs for all ages and skill levels, from children as young as 5 years old through adults. Their kids classes are divided into two age groups (5-9 and 10-15) and focus on building confidence, discipline, and technical skills in a safe and caring environment. The fundamentals program provides beginners with essential BJJ techniques, self-defense skills, and fitness development, while the advanced adult classes cater to both recreational practitioners and competition-focused athletes. As part of the Ares BJJ Association network, Cadejo BJJ maintains high standards of instruction and provides students with access to a broader community of training partners and competition opportunities. The academy emphasizes that the benefits of consistent BJJ training extend beyond the mat, fostering discipline and excellence that often translates into positive behavior at home and school for younger students.

Arise Jiu-Jitsu

Arise Jiu Jitsu was founded in July 2018 in Miami, FL, created out of a strong passion and ceaseless commitment to making learning easy and accessible. The academy provides quality, high-level training to students of all ages and levels, teaching not only the sport aspect of jiu jitsu but self-defense as well. Arise is an IBJJF Certified school focusing on developing good moral character and respect, which is a founding virtue of the bushido code. Arise Martial Arts is family-owned and operated, led by Professor Daniel "Diesel" Fundora, a 2nd Degree IBJJF Certified Black Belt who is also a Masters World Champion (2017). Professor Fundora received his black belt in December 2018 under Professor Michel Porfirio Pereira at Carlson Gracie Miami. His wife, Professor Michelle Fundora, is a black belt (promoted January 2025) who manages the academy and heads the Little Kids Program, Women's Self Defense, and various other programs. She is a retired law enforcement officer with 10 years of service. The academy offers programs for children starting at age 3 through adults, including Little Kids, Kids, Teens, Adults, and Competition Team programs. The facility is well-kept, clean, and welcoming, with a team dedicated to helping students acquire foundational skills and develop confident minds. Arise Martial Arts is extremely involved in evolving the sport of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and regularly hosts seminars with high-level instructors including Clark Gracie.