Chicago Martial Arts / Brazilian Top Team Jiu-Jitsu
About
This Chicago martial arts gym offers both MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training under experienced instructors. John Troy Hanson brings first-degree black belt expertise in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu from Brazilian Top Team, while founder and head instructor William Lee is a Tae Kwon Do Master with black belts in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Hapkido, and Kumdo. The facility provides practical amenities including free parking and Wi-Fi for members' convenience.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise Master Lee's exceptional teaching style, describing how he balances discipline with warmth and creates a fun yet focused environment. Parents highlight how their children develop confidence, respect, and perseverance alongside physical skills, with many noting their kids are excited to attend classes and reluctant to leave. Reviewers specifically mention the clean facility, clear communication, and reasonable pricing as additional strengths. Several families have trained at the gym for multiple years, expressing continued satisfaction with the community and instruction.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Heidi Thedwall
2 months ago
I am so grateful that a friend recommended CMA to us when our son was first interested in trying martial arts as a young teen. Master Lee is incredible. He is deeply knowledgeable about the Taekwondo, but more importantly, he truly understands kids. He works with kids of all ages and while he pushes each of them and challenges them, he meets them where they are and is a such positive force for them. Every kid there knows that he cares about them and their development. The studio is clean, communication is clear and regular, the schedule is accessible, and the price is reasonable. Our son loves it here. We have been a part of the CMA community for three years now and we couldn’t be happier!
Rachel Suarez
2 years ago
My 5 yo son has been attending classes for almost a year and absolutely loves it! Master Lee does an amazing job of demanding focus and respect, and creates a culture which balances discipline and fun. My little one comes running out with a smile every time! We have seen him become confident this last year, and are excited to continue to watch him learn and grow!
Minkyu Park
2 months ago
It feels like just yesterday that my child and I first visited Chicago Martial Arts, but as we welcome the new year of 2026, nearly four and a half years have already passed. We began Taekwondo hoping to build my child’s physical strength and a strong mind, and it has given my child not only solid fitness, but also perseverance, confidence, and respectful manners toward others. Most importantly, the Master leads the students with both discipline and warmth—sometimes like a father figure. Beyond teaching Taekwondo techniques, he also guides them in the values and character that are especially important during the teenage years. Through this teacher-student relationship, my child is learning how to respect and honor others and continues to grow day by day. I sincerely appreciate everything you do, Master Lee.
mike lobosco
a year ago
I am so glad that we decided to sign out son up for Little Ninjas. Master Lee is amazing with the kids. He makes the class fun but also is not afraid to let the kids know when they are doing something wrong. Our son had never been so excited about any activity. He is all smiles from the minute he walks in the door and doesn't want to leave when it is over. Master Lee is the best. I definitely recommend Chicago Martial Arts / Brazilian Top Team Jiu-Jitsu.
Inesa Bezuhla
2 months ago
It’s a perfect place to practice endurance, discipline, and self-confidence. Master Li is the best teacher.
fitness_centerAmenities
Contact
151 S Pfingsten Rd #H, Deerfield, IL 60015, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 2:00 – 8:00 PM
Tuesday: 2:00 – 8:00 PM
Wednesday: 2:00 – 8:00 PM
Thursday: 2:00 – 8:00 PM
Friday: 2:00 – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
groupCoaches & Instructors
John Troy Hanson
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Instructor
First-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu from Brazilian Top Team
Began training in 2009 while serving as an Active Duty Navy Diver. Competitor at IBJJF Black Belt World Championships (Masters).
William Lee
Founder | Head Instructor
Tae Kwon Do Master, Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Hapkido, and Kumdo
Founder of Chicago Martial Arts (1999). U.S. Navy veteran. Skilled in Tae Kwon Do, BJJ, Hapkido, Kumdo. Has trained hundreds of Black Belts.