Bender Martial Arts and Fitness Introduce
For those living in the dynamic city of Chicago, Illinois, finding a sports club that is not only dedicated to high-quality training but also fosters a truly inclusive and supportive community is a top priority. Bender Martial Arts and Fitness stands out as a premier destination that meets and exceeds these expectations. This is more than just a place to work out; it is a community hub where individuals of all ages and backgrounds can come together to learn, grow, and challenge themselves. The club prides itself on its welcoming atmosphere, ensuring that everyone who walks through the door, from a seasoned practitioner to a complete beginner, feels instantly at home. This sense of belonging is a core component of the experience, as highlighted by a reviewer who noted, "The community here is truly special. Everyone is friendly, supportive, and great to be around." Whether your goal is to master a new martial art, get in shape, or simply find a positive outlet for stress, Bender Martial Arts and Fitness provides a top-notch environment to help you achieve your aspirations.
The success and positive reputation of the sports club are directly linked to its expert instructors and welcoming culture. The owner and head coach, Jason Bender, is consistently praised in reviews for being a "fantastic instructor" and one of the "hardest working people I know." His teaching style is described as both "encouraging and effective," making it easy for beginners to learn complex techniques step by step. A review from a student who had never watched a single BJJ match before starting noted they "instantly became hooked on the sport," crediting a large part of their love for the sport to the "culture that Coach Jason Bender and his instructors have created here." This culture is defined by "zero intimidation" and a "100% welcoming" attitude, which is a significant factor in creating a safe and comfortable training environment. This is a place where you can feel secure in your training, knowing that the community is built on mutual respect and support. The dedication of the instructors, combined with a strong sense of community, makes Bender Martial Arts and Fitness a truly special place to train.
Bender Martial Arts and Fitness is conveniently located at 5547 N Ravenswood Ave B2, Chicago, IL 60640, USA. This location makes it easily accessible for residents of Chicago and the surrounding neighborhoods. The sports club provides several convenient parking options, including a free parking lot and free street parking, which eliminates one of the common hassles of city life. The facility is also committed to inclusivity and accessibility, offering a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot. This ensures that the club is open and welcoming to all members of the community, regardless of their physical needs. The ease of access, paired with a welcoming atmosphere, makes it simple for individuals to integrate martial arts and fitness training into their busy schedules, allowing them to focus on their personal growth without any logistical concerns.
Bender Martial Arts and Fitness offers a comprehensive range of programs designed to cater to a variety of interests and skill levels.
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Submission Grappling: The academy’s main offering, with classes for all skill levels. BJJ is a ground-based martial art focused on leverage and technique.
- Muay Thai / Boxing: High-energy striking classes that provide an excellent full-body workout and teach practical self-defense skills.
- Kids Martial Arts and Judo For Children: Programs specifically designed for younger students, teaching them discipline, respect, and confidence in a fun and structured environment.
- Adult Class and Kids Class: Dedicated programs for different age groups, ensuring that the curriculum is tailored to the specific needs of each student.
- Women’s Self Defense Training: Specialized classes for women that focus on practical and effective self-defense techniques in a supportive setting.
- Functional Fitness and Group Training: Programs that combine martial arts training with strength and conditioning, providing a holistic approach to health and wellness.
- Classes And Training: A wide variety of classes that cater to different skill levels and personal goals.
The sports club is distinguished by several key features and highlights that make it a truly unique and special place to train.
- Inclusive and Welcoming Community: The academy is proudly LGBTQ+ friendly and identifies as a transgender safe space, making it a truly welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone. This is a crucial factor for many individuals seeking a safe place to train and belong.
- Exceptional Instructors: Coach Jason Bender and his team are consistently praised for their patience, knowledge, and dedication. They are known for creating an atmosphere of "zero intimidation" and are highly effective at teaching students of all skill levels.
- Top-Notch Facility: The gym is described as "top-notch," with "plenty of mat space," and is always clean and well-maintained. It also features a boxing ring and a weight room, providing a well-rounded training experience.
- Focus on Community: The culture is built on support and friendship, creating a family-like atmosphere where everyone feels welcome and encouraged.
- Commitment to Growth: The academy regularly hosts top instructors for seminars and is dedicated to helping students progress, as noted in a review.
- Convenient Amenities: The facility offers gender-neutral and standard restrooms, along with free parking, adding to the comfort and convenience of the training experience.
For more information or to sign up for a trial week, you can contact Bender Martial Arts and Fitness directly. The address is 5547 N Ravenswood Ave B2, Chicago, IL 60640, USA. You can reach them by phone at (773) 655-6305 or on their mobile phone at +1 773-655-6305. Reaching out and signing up for a trial is the best way to experience the welcoming community and exceptional instruction firsthand.
When it comes to choosing a martial arts school or sports club in Chicago, Bender Martial Arts and Fitness is an excellent choice for a number of compelling reasons. What makes it particularly worth choosing is the unparalleled combination of high-quality instruction and an exceptionally welcoming and inclusive community. The reviews from real customers consistently highlight the zero-intimidation, supportive culture that Coach Jason Bender and his team have built, which is especially important for beginners and those looking for a safe space to train. The academy’s commitment to being an LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space sets it apart and makes it a true asset to the Chicago community. The wide range of programs, from Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to Muay Thai and women’s self-defense, ensures that there is a class for every interest and goal. The high-level instruction and well-maintained facility, complete with ample mat space, a boxing ring, and a weight room, provide everything you need to succeed. As one reviewer put it, this place is an "incredible way to build confidence, stay active, and connect with great people." For anyone in Chicago looking for a place to train that feels like a second family, Bender Martial Arts and Fitness is a highly recommended and rewarding destination.
Bender Martial Arts and Fitness Uniform
Martial Arts School
- Adult Class
- Brazilian Jiu
- Brazilian Jiujitsu
- Classes And Training
- Functional Fitness
- Group Training
- Jiu-Jitsu
- Judo For Children
- Kids Class
- Kids Martial Arts
- Martial Arts And Fitness
- Martial Arts Training
- Muay Thai / Boxing
- Submission Grappling
- Women’s Self Defense Training
Bender Martial Arts and Fitness Details
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Amenities
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Restroom
Crowd
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Transgender safespace
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
Bender Martial Arts and Fitness Photos










Bender Martial Arts and Fitness Location
Bender Martial Arts and Fitness
5547 N Ravenswood Ave B2, Chicago, IL 60640, USA
Bender Martial Arts and Fitness Reviews
jiu jitsucommunityskillclassesmatsfungoalshuman beingknowledgetrain
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1I’ve been training at Bender Martial Arts and Fitness for a little over a year now, and I can’t recommend it enough. I mainly train in jiu jitsu but I’ve also spent a few months taking Muay Thai classes and both experiences have been excellent.Even though I’m usually one of the youngest people in the jiu jitsu classes, I’ve always felt extremely welcome. The community here is truly special. Everyone is friendly, supportive, and great to be around. Jiu Jitsu is a sport for all ages. I recommend that more young people give it a try since it’s an incredible way to build confidence, stay active, and connect with great people. If you’re younger and trying to find a friendly, supportive place to start training, you’ll feel right at home here.Coach Jason Bender is a fantastic instructor. As a beginner, I really appreciated how patient he was with me, and I’ve seen firsthand how well he coaches people at all skill levels. His teaching style is encouraging and effective.The gym itself is top-notch. There’s plenty of mat space, the facility is always clean, and everything is very well maintained.Whether you’re looking for a great workout, a new hobby, or a welcoming community, I highly recommend checking out Bender Martial Arts and Fitness.
June 22 · Liam SchorrYes. Reach out and sign up for a trial week. You won't regret it. I started training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu here about a year and half ago before ever watching a single BJJ match and instantly became hooked on the sport. A big part of that was due to the culture that Coach Jason Bender and his instructors have created here (shout out Coaches Cruz, Justin, Mel, Christopher, and Bob). Zero intimidation. 100% welcoming. Jason is one of the hardest working people I know. In addition to helping his students progress, he regularly brings top instructors to teach seminars. Love the programming. BMAF has everything from an expansive BJJ mat space to a boxing ring and weight room. Don't think twice about it, come check this place out!
June 26 · Alexandro EstevezI come into to town from time to time and have made BMAF a home away from home training facility. It is hands down one of the best gyms in the Chicagoland area. Jason Bender’s vast knowledge of various martial arts infuses every teaching moment with depth. Also, every one was super warm and welcoming. Make it a destination on your Jiu jitsu training journey!
August 01 · Lariza Fenner-LuxBeginner friendly, fun atmosphere, tons of classes, great community. Bender Martial Arts and Fitness is an outstanding place to learn and practice combat sports in a judgement free community. Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, MMA, Judo, Wresting, Functional Fitness and more. Go to as many classes as you want. Definitely worth a visit.
September 05 · Collin CallahanI've been at a couple of academies and worked with numerous instructors, but Jason Bender is the best. He's an outstanding teacher and coach. He has built an open, supportive and yet appropriately challenging environment. If you are thinking about trying jiu jitsu or if you've done it for years and you're looking for a new home, you cannot go wrong with BMAF.
May 16 · Frank Eichenlaub
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