By: Logan C. (BJJ Brown Belt & coach) Posted: 1/20/25
Why Citadel BJJ Iowa City is the Best in Iowa
1. A World-Class Training Facility
Our newly built gym in Iowa City is designed specifically for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training. With spacious mat areas, separate training zones, and top-tier amenities, we provide an environment that promotes learning, safety, and community growth.
2. Highly Experienced Instructors
At Citadel BJJ, our coaching staff consists of highly skilled and experienced BJJ black belts and competitors who are dedicated to helping students improve their skills, gain confidence, and reach their goals—whether they are training for fitness, self-defense, or competition.
3. A Wide Range of Class Options
We offer BJJ classes for all skill levels, including:
- Fundamentals Program – Perfect for beginners.
- Advanced BJJ Classes – For those looking to refine their technique.
- Wrestling for BJJ – Focuses on takedowns and control.
- Women’s Only BJJ Classes – Creating a welcoming space for women to train.
- Kids’ BJJ Program – Teaching confidence, discipline, and self-defense skills to young students.
With up to four classes a day, there is always an opportunity to train and improve!
4. A Supportive and Friendly Community
BJJ is more than just a martial art—it’s a lifestyle. At Citadel BJJ, our members form a tight-knit, supportive community where everyone encourages each other to succeed.
5. The Most Five-Star Reviews in Iowa
With 274 five-star reviews on Google, Citadel BJJ Iowa City has built a reputation as the best BJJ gym in Iowa. Here’s what some of our members have to say:
A Great Investment for your Kids' Future
Review:
“Citadel is a phenomenal training ground for your children! The coaches are all kind and caring while holding the highest standards of discipline and respect. The facility is beautiful and of the highest quality. This is a great investment for your children’s future.”
— A.N. (Dec 2024)
A Top Training Spot for BJJ Athletes
Review:
“I stopped by on a Saturday for a wrestling practice, and as a black belt with over a decade of experience, I can confidently say this is the place to train in the Iowa City area. Jim provided detailed instruction, offering alternatives to suit different styles and answering questions with clarity.”
— Derrick Flaig, BJJ Black Belt & Coach
A Community That Supports You
Review:
“My name is DC, I’m 44 years old and I’ve been training at Citadel BJJ in Iowa City for 9 months.
I am a husband, a father, I have a role in a locally owned business, and I am a full-time blue-collar worker. Like many of you from all walks of life, I sometimes find myself fatigued and stressed.
Consistent exercise has been proven to combat these issues, and that is one reason I train. Another reason is that I think it’s important to try new things, learn new skills, stay active, and meet new people.
The professors here at Citadel have a proven background of excellence and do a fantastic job of explaining techniques, demonstrating them, and guiding us through drills.
Finally, the community at Citadel is the best. The professors are down-to-earth, approachable, and genuinely love what they do. The students support each other on their individual journeys.”
— Dustin Chase
The Perfect Gym for Kids
Review:
‘My son is in the kids’ program on Tuesdays and Thursdays. We wanted to enroll him in this program to help increase his confidence, discipline, and self-awareness skills. The coaches are great, and he loves it. I’d highly recommend ☺️.”
— Lynde Nedved
The Best Jiu-Jitsu Gym I've Trained At
Review:
“I’ve trained at 6 jiu-jitsu gyms over the last few years, and I’ve definitely had the best experience training at Citadel.
Jim and Matt are top-notch instructors who have cultivated an environment that is both welcoming to newcomers and conducive to developing a high-level jiu-jitsu game.
Everyone I’ve met at Citadel has been great, and I can’t recommend the gym enough.”
— Cooper Wilson
Weight Loss Success Story
Why You Should Train at Citadel BJJ Iowa City
f you’re looking for a high-quality, welcoming, and top-rated BJJ gym in Iowa, Citadel BJJ Iowa City is the best choice. Here’s why:
✅ Newly built, state-of-the-art facility
✅ The most 5-star Google reviews in Iowa (274 and counting!)
✅ Highly experienced instructors
✅ 7 days a week training, up to 4 classes per day
✅ A supportive, friendly community
No matter your experience level, we welcome everyone—from beginners to seasoned martial artists. Whether you’re training for fitness, competition, or self-defense, you’ll find a home at Citadel BJJ Iowa City.
FAQs
Yes, Citadel BJJ is the highest rated Martial Arts gym in the Iowa City with over 274 Five Star reviews. We have been opened since 2019 & continue to grow for the Iowa City Community.
Join Citadel BJJ Iowa City
Stary your BJJ expreince with us at Citadel BJJ. With a FREE TRIAL for newcomers, there’s never been a better time to start. Whether you seek personal growth, physical fitness, or a welcoming community.
Bonus: 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
Local Directories:
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https://dojos.info/CitadelBJJIowaCity/
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