What to Expect at Your Child’s First Citadel BJJ Class
By: Logan C. (BJJ Brown Belt & coach) Posted: 4/28/25If you’re considering signing your child up for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), you’re making a great choice! At Citadel BJJ, the highest-rated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gym in the state of Iowa, we pride ourselves on offering an encouraging, structured, and fun environment for young students to grow physically, […]
2025 IBJJF Chicago Spring Open Recap | Citadel BJJ Iowa City
By: Logan C. (BJJ Brown Belt & coach) Posted: 4/14/25This year’s IBJJF Chicago Spring Open was one for the books — Citadel BJJ brought our biggest group of competitors to date, with 16 team members stepping onto the mats to represent our academy in both Gi and No-Gi divisions. Since opening our doors in 2019, […]
Wrestling vs BJJ, what’s the difference & where to train in Iowa city?
By: Logan C. (BJJ Brown Belt & coach) Posted: 3/31/25Wrestling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) are two different grappling arts, each with different techniques, philosophies, and cultural significance. For residents of Iowa City, a hub for wrestling excellence in the USA and a growing spot for BJJ.Understanding WrestlingWrestling is a combat sport focusing on takedowns, pins, […]
The Growth of Women’s Wrestling & BJJ in Iowa City
By: Logan C. (BJJ Brown Belt & coach) Posted: 3/20/25Women’s wrestling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) have seen tremendous growth in Iowa City over the past few years. With an estimated 65,000 girls participating in high school wrestling during the 2023-2024 season, the sport has exploded in popularity. The University of Iowa’s women’s wrestling program has […]
Where to Find a Supportive BJJ Community in Iowa City
By: Logan C. (BJJ Brown Belt & coach) Posted: 2/27/25Finding the right gym or martial arts can be the difference between just learning techniques and truly growing in a supportive, welcoming environment. If you’re searching for a BJJ community in Iowa City that is supportive & fun, Citadel BJJ is the right place for you.A […]
The Best Gyms in Iowa City | 2025
IntroductionUpdated(2/27/25)Iowa City has an extremely diverse fitness community. It’s vibrant and caters to various interests and fitness activities. Whether your interest is in martial arts, traditional gym workouts like weight lifting, or the zen practice of yoga, there’s a place for you. My name is Logan, the fundamentals coach and assistant kids coach at Citadel […]
No-Gi vs. Gi BJJ: Which Style Is Better for Beginners in Iowa City?
By: Logan C. (BJJ Brown Belt & coach) Posted: 2/21/25Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is an exciting and effective martial art that helps develop self-defense skills, physical fitness, and mental discipline. However, if you’re new to BJJ, you might be wondering whether to start with Gi or No-Gi training. The good news? There’s no definitive “better” style—both […]
5 FAQs Before Starting BJJ in Iowa City
By: Logan C. (BJJ Brown Belt & coach) Posted: 1/31/251. What Should I Wear for My First Class?No need for fancy gear! For your first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class, just bring: A set of comfortable workout clothes (gym shorts and a t-shirt are perfect). Sandals or slides to wear off the mat (you’ll train barefoot on […]
The Top Rated BJJ & Martial Arts Gym in Iowa
By: Logan C. (BJJ Brown Belt & coach) Posted: 1/20/25Why Citadel BJJ Iowa City is the Best in Iowa1. A World-Class Training FacilityOur 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 […]
2024 in Review for Citadel BJJ Iowa City
By: Logan C. (BJJ Brown Belt & coach) Posted: 1/15/25In 2024, Citadel BJJ Iowa City celebrated significant milestones, marking a year of growth, innovation, and community engagement.Celebrating Five Years in BusinessThe 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) […]