Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Rockford, IL at Core Combat Sports Train Smart. Build Strength. Learn Jiu Jitsu.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at Core Combat Sports builds real skill and confidence. Learn practical self-defense while improving strength, mobility, and focus. Classes are beginner friendly and led by experienced coaches who keep training clean, safe, and structured. Show up, put in the work, and leave each session sharper on and off the mats.
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What You Can Expect Here
Experienced instructors teach step by step with clear feedback so you build real skill. Beginners progress with confidence, and advanced students refine technique without guessing what to do next.
Train with respectful partners who support your goals. The positive culture makes it easier to show up, stay accountable, and enjoy the work.
Classes follow a plan. Clean mats, controlled drills, and smart pacing help you learn technique, manage intensity, and reduce the risk of injury.
Track Progress. Advance Skills. Earn Confidence.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at Core Combat Sports is built around steady growth you can measure. Our curriculum moves from fundamentals to advanced skills with clear checkpoints, age-appropriate classes for kids and teens, and targeted tracks for adults including Fundamentals, All Levels, No Gi, and Competition Prep. Every session blends focused drilling, positional rounds, and coach feedback so progress shows up in real ways like cleaner escapes, stronger control, and sharper submissions. You will see progress indicators such as stripe and belt promotions tied to skill standards, attendance milestones, technique checklists for core positions, and brief coach check-ins to set your next goal. If you are seeking Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Rockford that rewards consistency and keeps you improving, this is it.
Train Consistently. Learn Safely. Join a Solid Team.
Morning, evening, and select weekend options make it easier to stay consistent. Show up when it works for work, family, and everything else.
Train in a well-kept facility with experienced instructors who teach step by step, prioritize safety, and give clear feedback so you keep improving.
Partners are respectful, welcoming, and focused. You will find real connections that make it easier to show up, work hard, and stick with your goals.
Why Our BJJ Stands Apart in Rockford
Here is how Core Combat Sports stacks up against traditional gyms, casual programs, and rec sports. If you are searching for brazilian jiu jitsu in Rockford that delivers steady progress and a strong community, this is the place to train.
Workouts can feel random, and progress is hard to measure.
Many gyms offer little to no hands-on instruction or feedback.
You’re often training alone or in a setting with no real connection.
Without proper structure or safety standards, it’s easy to overdo it or get hurt.
You may get stronger or lose weight, but that’s where it ends.
Follow a clear curriculum with checkpoints, stripe and belt goals, and class tracks that move you forward with purpose.
Work with experienced instructors who teach step by step, give real feedback, and help you apply skills during live rounds.
Train with partners who support your goals, keep sessions positive, and make it easier to show up week after week.
Drills, positional work, and clean mats create a focused setting where you learn smart and reduce unnecessary risk.
Build strength, cardio, and mobility while sharpening problem solving and confidence, all in one Rockford gym.
Confidence Rises. Skills Grow. Strength Builds.
Our Kids BJJ track helps children grow in ways parents can see at home and at school. Classes are grouped by age so coaching fits the stage your child is in, and every session follows a clear plan that builds coordination, balance, and attention. We start with safe movements like breakfalls, hip escapes, bridges, and technical stand-ups, then layer simple controls and positions so kids learn how to move, not just memorize. Progress is measured with stripes and belts tied to specific skills, along with attendance goals that reward consistency. Coaches share quick notes so parents know what to practice and what is coming next. The result is a confident child who listens, shows respect, and enjoys training. If you have been searching martial arts for kids near me or Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Rockford, this track gives your family a reliable path with real wins to celebrate.
Push Capacity. Build Bonds. Love Every Session.
Teens and Adult Fundamentals are built to remove guesswork and build momentum. The first few weeks focus on core escapes, frames, and guard retention so you can stay safe and regain control, then we move into guard passes, top pressure, and safe submissions that work for everyday bodies. Each class pairs focused drilling with short positional rounds so new ideas stick under light resistance, and partners are matched by size and experience to keep things productive. Coaches give simple cues you can remember under pressure and they set one clear goal for your next visit, which makes progress feel steady instead of random. The culture is positive and respectful, which makes it easier to keep showing up after a long day. If you searched Brazilian Jiu Jitsu near me and want structure from day one, this is a smart place to start.
Define Goals. Practice Correctly. Measure Results.
All Levels and No-Gi connect technique to live movement so your skills hold up when it matters. Classes open with targeted drills that mirror the timing and pressure you will feel during rounds, then shift into positional training that starts in common spots like mount, side control, or closed guard. You will work toward clear tasks such as passing, escaping, or finishing, then reset and repeat to build reliable patterns. Coaches circulate to correct details and adjust intensity so you push without guessing. Over time you will notice smoother transitions, stronger grip fighting, and a passing or escape chain you can count on. Training stays clean and organized, partners communicate before each round, and safety remains the baseline. If you want a Rockford gym where coaching turns effort into measurable results, you will feel at home here.
Pursue Purpose. Expand Capacity. Carry Confidence.
Competition Prep is available for students who want an added challenge, and the lessons translate even if you never enter a bracket. You will learn to set specific goals, identify your best positions, and build a simple game plan that fits your body type. Rounds include time and score awareness, edge-of-mat scenarios, and short conditioning blocks for grip, core, and pacing so you finish strong. You will practice managing nerves, making quick decisions, and resetting after mistakes, which carries into work, school, and family life. Coaches provide honest feedback and a clear next step so you always know what to improve. The outcome is confidence that feels earned, stronger problem solving under pressure, and a steady habit of showing up. For students seeking Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Rockford with a real path to long-term growth, this track brings everything together.
Real Feedback from Core Combat Sports Members
The clearest picture of our training comes from the people on our mats. Read real reviews from beginners, parents, and long-time students who built confidence, learned practical self-defense, and found a supportive team. Their stories reflect steady progress, a welcoming culture, and results that carry into everyday life. If you are exploring Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Rockford, these voices will help you see what sets Core Combat Sports apart and why members keep showing up.
I have been training BJJ at Core Combat Sports for about a year and half now. This being my first bjj/martial arts experience, I was a bit apprehensive about trying it out but Tommy and the rest of the students were very welcoming.
I think the single greatest thing about the gym is that through jiu-jitsu and muay thai, we are helping each other work towards our individual goals. Whether its self defense, sport, or conditioning. Someone will always help you drill, work on breaking down a technique, or roll until your heart gives out. That's what keeps it fresh for me and keeps me coming back.
I highly recommend Core to anyone looking for an amazing and positive experience for their child. We love all of the coaches and Tommy has been amazing!
I’ve been training at Core for one year now and I’m currently 28 years old. I was looking for something different to do that would keep me in decent physical shape for my career. Prior to signing up with Core, I was nervous about starting because I had absolutely no experience with Jiu-Jitsu or any other martial art for that matter. The beginner’s class is great and no one at Core gives you any problems for not knowing how to do certain drills and/or for being slow at performing the drills. I have found that training Jiu Jitsu at Core is a great work out and is fun as well. In my opinion, it beats the ordinary gym membership by just going in and running on a treadmill and/or lifting some weights. At Core, you get a great work out and you learn how to defend yourself at the same time. Like I stated before, I started with no experience (and I still have a ton to learn) but it’s been an excellent adventure thus far!
I have been with core for about 10-11 months and i love it. There were times i was losing hope in myself mentally and physically but core pushed me and motivated me to be the best me i can possibly be. I highly recommend this place to anyone who wishes to learn martial arts!!
Great facility! My husband and myself were driving through and looking for a place to train. Found the perfect spot. Not only was everyone very welcoming, but the intermediate GI class was awesome. Great sequence of techniques and instruction taught by a top notch Black Belt, who is diverse in self defense and sport BJJ. If ever in the area we will stop back by.
Currently I am training in Brazilian ju-jitsu and Muay Thai and couldn't be happier. Core combat sports is by far an amazing place for many different people with different goals to come to. Weather it's to lose weight, to get into shape, or learn self defense. I'm happy to be fighting underneath the core name and to have the great coaches that train me and my fellow fighters/peers. As well as being a great place to train, it is also a very friendly environment for any age. I strongly recommend core to anyone else who's considering taking classes in the martial arts
Very professional and fun for all ages! My oldest child started a year ago and has become obsessed! Can't say enough good things about all of the programs offered at Core!
I have studied Martial Arts for a very long time. The thing that was missing in my life was ground game. I did some research and found Core Combat Sports. I have known coach Tom since I was little. I knew the passion he has for BJJ. I called him up and without hesitation he said "come try it out". I am in my 40's now so the body wasn't in great shape (totally my fault). My first workout with the adult class was very tough. I'm not going to lie about it. Everybody encouraged me to push it in a positive way in which it made me work super hard. I am in 3 months and have lost 27lbs. I am getting ready to do my first BJJ competition (which isn't required but why not?).
Tom has some highly skilled coaches on staff. Coach Ryan and coach Chris are excellent all around. I am to the point where I cant wait for class. Come give Core a chance and hopefully see you on the Mat. You won't be disappointed.
Been going to kickboxing for a month now and couldn’t love it anymore than I do now great people and atmosphere incredible coach just all around awesome place!!!
Core Combat Sports has been a God send for the Parkinson's community. Coach Tommy has run the program since early October. I feel that in my case, it has slowed the progression of the disease and has improved my determination to keep on fighting. Thank you Coach Tommy and all of the volunteers for making a huge difference in our lives.
Core Combat Sports is the best place to train at in the 815. I have been training at Core for about 3 years, and my love for the martial arts has only grown. Since my first class, I have excelled in Jiu Jitsu, my wrestling skills for high school improved, and it also taught me many things. I became focused on things on and off the mat, including my schooling/homework. I have also completed an Instructor's Course, and I became the head coach for the Core Kids classes. This role was a great responsibility, after all, I was going to be a huge impact on some of these little guys/gals. In the end, teaching became a thing I loved to do, so it didn't even feel like a hard responsibility. I have also competed in Jiu Jitsu and MMA, and I was successful in both. Core Combat Sports will definitely, without a doubt, prepare you to do whatever it is that you want to do: Competing, getting in better shape, losing weight, and most importantly learn how to defend yourself. As soon as you walk in the door, you are greeted by coaches and other students. Everyone is really nice which creates a very safe and friendly environment. The walls are all murals which adds another element to the academy's atmosphere. There are plenty of training options, and at least one is bound to fit you! Whether it is Jiu Jitsu, MTK (kickboxing), wrestling, fitness, you name it! Core has it! There are just too many great things to say about Core, just check it out and see what it's about! Finally, since August 2015, I moved off to college in Iowa City, and I really miss Core and all of my Core friends! Thanksgiving and Christmas break can't come soon enough!
My son has had some long standing issues. Since joining Core he has drastically improved 2 of his toughest problems. I appreciate how the Core Team does their best to get to the Core of problems beyond just what happens on the mat! Thanks Tommy & Chris! Samuel still needs much help in multiple areas but I trust you will continue to provide positive insights into whatever issues arise.
ACCESS OUR EXCLUSIVE
Secure your spot and get started today with our EXCLUSIVE offer!
FAQs
Book your first class and we will place you in the right track on day one. You will get a quick tour, meet your coach, and learn the basics before you step on the mats. We also offer a beginner-friendly intro option so you can try the program and see how training fits your schedule. Stop by our facility at 7135 Clinton Rd, Loves Park, minutes from Rockford.
No. Beginners are welcome. Our fundamentals classes teach core movements step by step so you can learn safely and build confidence. You will work with partners and coaches who match your pace.
Wear athletic clothing that covers shoulders and knees, bring water, and bring sandals for walking off the mats. If you have a gi, bring it. If not, you can start without one and we will guide you on gi and no-gi gear after your first session. Cleanliness and good hygiene are part of every visit.
Classes follow a clear plan with controlled drills and positional rounds. Coaches set the pace, partners communicate before each round, and you will learn how to tap early and build technique before adding speed or pressure. Clean mats and a respectful culture keep training focused and productive.
Most new students make steady gains training two to three times per week. Progress shows up in cleaner escapes, better control, and improved conditioning. We use attendance milestones, skill checklists, coach feedback, and stripe or belt promotions tied to clear standards.
Additional Benefits You’ll Only Notice
Once You Start
BJJ gives you a productive outlet to burn off stress and clear your head. It helps you reset after a long day so you leave feeling better than when you walked in.
Every roll is a puzzle. You’ll learn to stay calm under pressure, think strategically, and apply problem-solving in real-time: skills that carry over to daily life.
When you train with a team that shows up consistently, you start showing up too. That built-in accountability makes it easier to stay committed and motivated.
Regular training builds habits that go beyond the gym. Showing up, staying focused, and putting in effort week after week creates real structure in your life.
ACCESS OUR EXCLUSIVE
Secure your spot and get started today with our EXCLUSIVE offer!