BRAZILIAN JIU JITSU classes IN lake county, IL • free bjj for veterans
Free lake county Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Classes for Military Veterans
At Northshore Academy of Martial Arts in Libertyville, we are proud to honor those who served by offering free Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes through our Veterans BJJ Support Group. Veterans train during designated times with peers who share similar experiences, building skills, fitness, and camaraderie. Enrollment is free and limited to 20 participants at a time to ensure personal instruction and a strong training environment. We encourage veterans, or anyone calling on their behalf, to contact us for details on the next available enrollment period.
empowering veterans with bjj classes in lake county, IL
Purpose, Discipline & Connection
For veterans, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is both physical and mental. It keeps the body moving, sharpens concentration, and builds discipline through steady practice. Training side by side with others creates bonds that feel genuine, giving veterans a familiar sense of teamwork and trust. Many find the same qualities on the mats that made their service meaningful.
meet head bjj coach joe flores
Committed to Supporting Veterans Through BJJ
Joe Flores began training in 2009 and earned his black belt under Professor Jon Friedland, a 4th-degree black belt under Master Pedro Sauer. Since 2018, he has led the Milwaukee Veterans Support Group, helping veterans manage stress and build confidence through steady, practical instruction. His dedication comes from a deep desire to give back to those who have already given so much. Joe views every class as an opportunity to honor veterans by providing them with the tools, structure, and support they deserve.
meet assistant BJJ coach amir deleon
experienced martial arts & bjj instruction in libertyville
Coach Amir has been part of Northshore Academy for over two decades. He holds a Gracie Veneration Purple Belt under Professor Dave Rosenmarkle, is Head Kickboxing Coach for our NSAMA Youth & Adult Kickboxing Program and ranks in several other martial arts as well. His work ethic is unmatched and his style combines technical precision with an intangible ability to inspire and bring out the best in his youth and adult students.
bjj training environment for veterans
safe, supportive & well equipped for BJJ classes IN LIBERTYVILLE
Our facility is set up for serious training with comfort in mind. Veterans practice on thick, padded mats, utilize high-quality equipment, and train in a clean, open and organized space that supports the best Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Classes in Libertyville. Our Veteran Martial Arts Classes are structured to be controlled, safe and welcoming for all. We encourage you to learn more about our Northshore Academy of Martial Arts Facility and Amenities.
Benefits of Free BJJ Training for Veterans in Libertyville
Veterans BJJ classes in libertyville • for those who have served
We created the Veterans BJJ Support Group at North Shore Academy of Martial Arts to thank those who have served. Training is free during our Veteran BJJ Support Group class schedule times. Classes move at a steady, safe pace with explicit instruction, controlled drilling and partner work. Instructors understand the military community and tailor their work to each individual. Some veterans come to lower their stress or rebuild their fitness; others want to be part of a team again or learn effective grappling. Reach out with any questions or to sign up during the next free enrollment period. In the mean time, here are just a few of the benefits our Free Veterans BJJ Classes in Libertyville, IL:
Stress Relief in Movement
Healthy Outlet with Veterans bjj
For many veterans, BJJ becomes an active way to ease stress. Training pushes the body, sharpens focus, and leaves the mind calmer. It’s a positive release, built in an environment that honors their service.
Rebuilding Camaraderie
Connection after Service
The bonds made in uniform don’t have to end. Training side by side gives veterans a chance to find that familiar sense of teamwork, trust and friendship with people who understand their journey.
Purpose-Driven Training
Mission Mindset in jiu jitsu
Veterans often thrive when they have a goal. BJJ offers a clear path forward; earning belts, improving skills, and staying committed. Each step brings back the sense of mission that military life provided.
Adaptive Physical Fitness
bjj Training for Every Veteran
Some veterans come in ready to push hard, others are rebuilding their fitness. Either way, BJJ adjusts to the person. It improves strength, mobility, and conditioning, always within a safe and controlled setting.
Mental Resilience Training
Learning to Stay Steady
On the mats, every roll tests patience. Veterans learn to breathe, think and respond under pressure. That habit of staying calm translates into daily life, where quick decisions and steady focus really matter.
Confidence in Self-Defense
bjj Skills That Carry Weight
BJJ gives veterans usable tools for real situations. Being able to manage and control another person builds real confidence. It leaves veterans feeling prepared, aware and secure no matter where life takes them.
Respectful Veteran Community
Training With Shared Understanding
Our instructors and staff deeply respect military service. Veterans walk into a place where they’re understood and appreciated, surrounded by others with similar backgrounds who bring the same sense of honor to training.
free bjj for military veterans
a No cost opportunity
Finances should never stand in the way. Veterans are welcome to train in designated Support Group classes at absolutely no cost, giving them full access to the benefits of Jiu Jitsu without barriers.
sign up for free bjj classes in libertyville for veterans
BRAZILIAN JIU JITSU for veterans near me IN LIBERTYVILLE • youth bjj classes
Northshore Academy of Martial Arts is committed to honoring and supporting our veterans. This program was created to provide a place of respect, community, and belonging where veterans know they are valued. Professor Joe Flores, who has a long record of success leading the Milwaukee Veterans BJJ Support Group, will be onsite and is dedicated to guiding this program and is available to answer any questions you may have. If you are a veteran who would like to participate, or if you are calling on behalf of one, we welcome you to reach out. Enrollment is limited to ensure personal instruction, so we encourage you to contact us to learn more about the next available period.