Stronghold Jiu-Jitsu Academy
About
Stronghold Jiu-Jitsu Academy offers comprehensive training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, and MMA, led by a team of experienced black belt instructors. The gym is co-owned by Luis Alejandre and Isabella Alejandre, with Luis serving as Head Instructor. The coaching staff includes BJJ Black Belts Alex 'Wasa' Rosario, Chris Pinto, and Pete Roehl, along with Judo Black Belt Brian Higgins, providing diverse expertise across multiple martial arts disciplines. The facility welcomes practitioners of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced competitors, in a structured yet accessible learning environment.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the exceptional quality of instruction, describing professors like Luis, Chris, Wasa, and Pete as amazing practitioners and even better teachers who make beginners feel comfortable. Reviewers emphasize the unique family-like atmosphere where everyone helps each other both on and off the mats, with experienced members immediately welcoming newcomers on their first day. Specific coaches mentioned by name include Professor Luis, Professor Chris, Coach Wasa, Professor Pete, Sensei Bryan, Coach Rob, and Coach Carlos. Members report no negative experiences, with multiple reviewers stating they never plan to leave and are enrolling their children as well.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Jack King
5 years ago
This is a great gym. Professor Luis, Pete, Chris and coach Wasa are all amazing bjj practitioners and even better teachers. You truly learn from the best. The gym also offers judo with Sensei Bryan and it is all beginner friendly. The environment at this gym is not like any other place. At the very least, give it a try. It can help you in all aspects of life.
Mike F
8 months ago
Been training for 6+ years. Not many gyms foster an environment like stronghold. Prof. Luis, prof Chris, prof wasa, coach Rob, and coach Carlos, amongst many other professors and coaches, are all top tier instructors. Whatever your jiu jitsu goals may be, you can accomplish them at stronghold.
Luis Cruz
5 years ago
Been a student for the last several weeks and I couldn’t have asked for a better place to learn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Incredible instructors, who are also great at making us inexperienced people comfortable. The environment that they’ve created at stronghold is top notch. From day one I’ve felt like a member of the family, and I never plan on leaving. My kids will soon be students here as well. Much respect to Stronghold, and Professors Luis, Pete, and Chris.
Brian MarFlo
3 years ago
Luis, the owner, is an amazing and experienced brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt. He is an excellent instructor as well as all the other instructors. In this gym you will find a great and fun atmosphere. No ugly egos at all. You want to be the best, come train with some of the best in the game. See you on the mat🤙
M Thoma
5 years ago
Family! Stronghold Jiu-jitsu Academy is 100% Stronghold Jiu-Jitsu Family. Everyone helps everyone here in every capacity. If someone says they need help with something outside the academy, there are 20 brothers and sisters asking when and where! Professor Luis has created such an awesome learning environment. DO NOT be tentative to join, on your first day, EVERYONE will come up to you, shake your hand, introduce themselves, and welcome you to our Stronghold Jiu_Jitsu Family. Myself and my two boys are part of this family, and we are never leaving this Academy!
Contact
4120 N Nashville Ave, Chicago, IL 60634, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, 7:00 – 8:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 – 11:00 AM, 4:15 – 5:00 PM, 7:00 – 8:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, 7:00 – 8:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 – 11:00 AM, 4:15 – 5:00 PM, 7:00 – 8:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 – 11:30 AM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 – 10:00 AM
groupCoaches & Instructors
Isabella Alejandre
Owner
Co-owner of the academy. The inspiration behind the gym's founding principles and family atmosphere.
Alex "Wasa" Rosario
BJJ Instructor
BJJ Black Belt
Chris Pinto
BJJ Instructor
BJJ Black Belt
Brian Higgins
Judo Instructor
Judo Black Belt
Sensei with many years of experience who loves teaching the art of Judo.
Luis Alejandre
Owner/Head Instructor
BJJ Black Belt
Founder and Professor. Inspired to open the academy to share his passion for Jiu-Jitsu with his daughter and create a family environment.
Pete Roehl
BJJ Instructor
BJJ Black Belt