Evolution Dojo
About
Evolution Dojo offers world-class instruction in multiple martial arts disciplines including MMA, judo, and karate. The gym is led by elite coaches like Sensei Maje Omagbaluwaje, a three-time Olympian and 6th Dan black belt, and John O'Malley, a 3rd Dan black belt and multiple-time US National medalist. This high-level coaching creates an environment where students of all skill levels can develop their stand-up game and overall martial arts abilities.
Members consistently praise the exceptional quality of instruction, noting that Sensei Maje provides personalized coaching tailored to individual experience levels. The dojo fosters a welcoming atmosphere where both beginners and advanced practitioners feel comfortable training together. Reviewers highlight the diverse skill levels among students, with blue, brown, and black belts creating challenging randori partners that help everyone advance in their judo practice. Many members specifically recommend the gym to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners looking to cross-train and improve their stand-up techniques.
The community aspect of Evolution Dojo receives frequent mention, with members describing it as a privilege to be part of this dedicated judo community. Located conveniently near Rogers Park, Evanston, and Lincolnwood, the gym provides family-friendly training opportunities with world-class coaching that's rare to find in the Chicago area. Members appreciate the combination of elite instruction, supportive environment, and opportunity to learn from Olympic-level athletes in a setting that motivates everyone to work hard and progress in their martial arts journey.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the world-class judo instruction from Sensei Maje Omagbaluwaje, a three-time Olympian who provides personalized coaching tailored to all experience levels. Reviewers highlight the welcoming atmosphere where both beginners and advanced practitioners train together, with blue, brown, and black belts creating challenging randori partners. Many specifically recommend the gym to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners looking to cross-train and improve their stand-up game. Members describe the dojo as a privilege to be part of and appreciate having access to Olympic-level coaching in their neighborhood.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
E K
4 years ago
World class Judo instruction from a three-time Olympian. Sensei Maje is a true martial artist. Great team, very welcoming. Excellent place to learn for students of all skill levels. I also highly recommend Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners to cross-train here.
Kirill Magidson
a year ago
Very grateful to have this Judo school in the neighbourhood. Sensei Maje is a high class professional judoka and a great teacher. I also appreciate the level of other students; there are blue, brown and even black belts who make really tough randouri partners. Everyone is motivated to work and advance in the art of judo. It’s a privilege to be part of this judo community.
Ruben Tapia
a year ago
If you want to step up your stand up game, Evolution Dojo is the place to go. Just around the corner of Roger's Park, Evanston, and Lincolnwood - this place offers nothing but the best judo for the entire family. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to learn Judo and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu from the best around the area!
Elliot Benitez
4 years ago
You don't need to know a lot about Judo to give it a try. Maje's coaching is some of the best around, and he tailors it to your experience level. Where else in Chicago can you get one-on-one coaching from a 3x olympian.
Francesca Inman
a year ago
This is my first judo dojo and my last I’ll never leave this club!!! Sensei Maje is so knowledgeable and so willing to teach what he knows about judo to anybody. Don’t hesitate to try it’s a welcoming atmosphere for all judokas!
Contact
2813 W Touhy Ave, Chicago, IL 60645, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 5:00 – 7:00 PM
Wednesday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 6:30 – 8:30 PM
Friday: Closed
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
groupCoaches & Instructors
Maje Omagbaluwaje
Judo Instructor / Owner
Black Belt 6th Dan (Roku-Dan), 3-Time Olympian, Gold Medalist at the All-African Games, Silver at the Commonwealth Games, 7th in the World Judo Championships
Teaches Junior and Senior Classes. Owner of the Dojo.
John O'Malley
Judo Instructor / Owner
Black Belt 3rd Dan (San-Dan), Multiple Time US National Medalist
Owner of the Dojo.