Citadel Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Citadel Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

5307 reviews
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About Citadel Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Train at Citadel BJJ, Iowa City's premier self-defense school! Learn the martial art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Join us today!

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Citadel Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Reviews

5
307 reviews
Andy
2026-02-20

Citadel BJJ is the place for people looking to get better across all skill levels. I have learned more here in 1-2 months than I have my 3 years doing BJJ across the country. The high level rolling partners and excellent instruction have grown my jiujitsu to another level of understanding. After class, Coach Matt always has an answer for any question I ask.

Hayden Holladay
2025-08-28

Training at Citadel has been a game changer for me. I started here to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and the progress I’ve made in both skill and confidence has been huge. The coaches break things down in a way that actually sticks, and they make sure you’re improving every single class. The atmosphere is exactly what you want, tough enough to push you, but supportive so you never feel out of place. On top of that, the people here feel more like teammates than just training partners. If you’re looking to build real skills, get in shape, and be part of a solid community, Citadel is the place to be.

Anthony
2026-01-20

My son wanted to join and asked me to do it with him. He absolutely loved it. We had previously attended a class to check it out. Thanks Citadel, even at 16, I get some more time to hang out with my son.

Chad Bolen
2025-05-16

Citadel BJJ is a phenomenal place to train! They have classes at all different hours of the day so no matter what your work schedule is you should be able to find a class time that works for you. The coaching is fantastic and Matt and Jim have created an awesome training environment. It is a very welcoming place regardless of skill level and you will always leave better than when you entered and with a solid work out. Whether you are looking to compete, just learn a form of self defense, or wanting to get in shape then Citadel is the place to be!

Mysticookiebear
2024-04-26

Citadel BJJ is a phenomenal academy to train!!! I was in town for the weekend and inquired about dropping in and was welcomed with open arms. James and Michael are both extremely skilled and knowledgeable black belts who ran the class masterfully. I will definitely be back the next time that I am in the area, thank you Citadel BJJ!!!!!

Frequently Asked Questions

IS THERE A FREE TRIAL CLASS?

Yes! We invite all new students to try a class for free. Just show up in comfortable athletic clothing — no experience or gear required. Come see what Citadel Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is all about before making any commitment.

DO I NEED EXPERIENCE TO START TRAINING BJJ?

Not at all. Citadel Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu welcomes complete beginners with open arms. Our classes are structured to bring new students up to speed safely and progressively. Every black belt on our mat started exactly where you are now.

WHAT PROGRAMS DO YOU OFFER?

We offer classes for Child, Adult. Whether your goal is self-defense, getting fit, competing, or just having fun on the mat — we have a program that fits. Reach out to learn about our current schedule and which class is the best starting point for you.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR TO MY FIRST CLASS?

For your first visit, comfortable athletic clothing — shorts and a t-shirt — is all you need. Once you decide to train regularly, we will help you pick the right gi (the traditional BJJ uniform). We can point you to quality options at reasonable prices.

WHERE IS CITADEL BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU LOCATED?

Citadel Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is located in Iowa, Iowa, and we are an independent BJJ academy. Contact us to get exact directions, parking information, and the current class schedule. We look forward to welcoming you to the mat.