By: Logan C. (BJJ Brown Belt & coach) Posted: 1/15/25
In 2024, Citadel BJJ Iowa City celebrated significant milestones, marking a year of growth, innovation, and community engagement.
Celebrating Five Years in Business
The year began with the celebration of our fifth anniversary. Reflecting on our journey from a modest mat space to a thriving Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) community, we are filled with gratitude for the support and dedication of our members in the Iowa City & surrounding areas.
Building the New Facility
In late 2023, we announced plans to construct a new training facility from the ground up. Our vision was to create the best BJJ gym in the Midwest, featuring expanded mat spaces to accommodate new members and enhance training opportunities. The new facility includes:
Larger Mat Areas: Providing ample space for wrestling and advanced techniques.
Additional Mat Space: Dedicated areas for beginner programs and simultaneous classes.
Modern Amenities: Separate locker rooms for men and women, each equipped with showers, ensuring comfort for all students.
This development underscores our commitment to offering top-tier training environments for our
New Fundamentals Program
Recognizing the need for structured guidance for newcomers to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, we introduced a Fundamentals Program. This 45-minute class is designed to teach the essential techniques of BJJ, following a 16-week curriculum that is continually updated based on feedback from coaches and students. The program also includes 15-20 minutes of positional sparring, providing practical application of learned skills. For more details, read our blog on Fundamentals Jiu-Jitsu Classes in Iowa City | Citadel BJJ.
Women's Iowa City Jiu-Jitsu Program
To foster inclusivity and encourage female participation in BJJ, we launched women-only classes held twice a week on Tuesday and Thursday nights. Led by Brown Belt Coach Claire Leighton, who has competed nationally, this program aims to provide a supportive environment for women to train, build confidence, and connect with others in the Iowa City area. Learn more about the program here: Beginner BJJ Classes for Women in Iowa City.
Grand Opening of the New Iowa City Gym
On July 1st, we celebrated the grand opening of our new facility—a dream realized. The event saw over 100 practitioners on the mats, engaging in training sessions and witnessing several promotions. The grand opening attracted BJJ enthusiasts from across Iowa and the Midwest, highlighting the expanded mat spaces and modern amenities that reflect our dedication to our students and the Iowa City community.
Thank You from Citadel BJJ Iowa City
As owners, we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been part of Citadel BJJ’s growth. Your unwavering support and commitment have been instrumental in our growth and success in the Iowa City community.
Want to get your child started in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Iowa City area?
FAQs
The new facility includes expanded mat space, an additional separate mat area for beginner classes, and fully equipped locker rooms for both men and women, complete with showers. These upgrades ensure a comfortable and high-quality training environment for all members.
The Women’s Program is led by Brown Belt Coach Claire Leighton, who has competed across the USA. The program runs twice a week on Tuesday and Thursday nights, offering a dedicated space for women to train and improve their skills. Read more about the program in our blog on BJJ Classes for Women in Iowa City.
Citadel BJJ Testimonials
Author Box:
I’m Logan, a brown belt and fundamentals coach at Citadel BJJ in Iowa City. As an assistant kids coach with competition experience across the USA, I’ve been grappling since 2017. I focus on building a strong foundation for beginners and fostering a supportive environment for all students.
Read more Citadel BJJ Blogs: https://bjjiniowacity.com/iowa-city-blog/
Citadel Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Iowa City
Address: 2325 Naples Ave SW, Iowa City, IA 52240
319-855-8110
Url: https://www.bjjiniowacity.com
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