Your first class could be Monday
Women training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at Journey Academy Madison

Zero Experience Needed

The 2-Week Intro to Jiu-Jitsu

$49 for 14 days of classes. A free uniform yours to keep. And a community of adults who started exactly where you are. All you have to do is show up.

You Know Who You Want to Be. You Just Don't Have the System Yet.

How many times have you pictured a fitter, more confident you… and then pushed it off until 'things calm down'?

You've thought about it. Maybe you even googled gyms, saved an Instagram reel, or told a friend you were "seriously getting after it this time."

But without a structured plan, real coaching, and a low-pressure way to actually start, motivation fades back into the same tired loop:

"Maybe after this work/life thing settles down..."

The real problem isn't desire or willpower. It's living stuck between who you are and who you know you could be — with no easy way to take the first step.

1,250+ Madison Adults Trained

The 2-Week Intro Is Your Starting Line

I'm Coach Alex. I've watched hundreds of adults walk through our doors for the first time — office workers, parents, people who hadn't worked out in years.

The ones who stuck weren't the most athletic. They had a beginner-friendly place to start, and people around them who gave a damn.

The 2-Week Intro gives you 14 days of classes, a free uniform, and a community of adults who started exactly where you are. $49. No long-term commitment. Just show up.

Coach Alex pointing at camera

1,250+ Madison Adults Trained

Why Madison Adults Train Here

Self-Defense That Works on the Ground

Know exactly what to do if someone grabs you. Most fights hit the ground in seconds — you'll have the muscle memory to stay calm and take control.

A Workout You'll Actually Want to Do

Burn 500-800 calories per class building functional strength. No treadmills, no counting reps — just an engaging workout you'll look forward to.

The Hour Your Brain Shuts Off

When you're rolling, you're not thinking about deadlines or bills — you're solving problems under real pressure. Students call it the only hour of the day their mind actually goes quiet. That calm follows you home.

Built for Adult Learners

Half our students are 30+. Structured curriculum, certified instructors, and a community of professionals and parents invested in your progress. This isn't your typical BJJ gym.

What's Included

What's Inside the 2-Week Intro

Women drilling a no-gi submission during a Jiu-Jitsu class at Journey BJJ Madison

Beginner-Friendly Fundamentals

$49 unlocks 14 days of classes — zero intimidation, beginner-friendly the whole way:

  • Up to 6 fundamentals classes per week to choose from
  • Morning, afternoon, and evening options
  • YOU pick the days that fit your schedule
  • No long-term commitment — try, then decide
Woman being promoted at Journey BJJ Madison

Everything You Need to Start — Included

  • Jiu-Jitsu Uniform ($120 value) — yours to keep
  • Member App with Chat & Curriculum — stay connected between classes
  • A coach who knows your name on day one
  • Friendly training partners who remember being new
Group of women together after Jiu-Jitsu training at Journey BJJ Madison

Your New Training Family

Meet like-minded adults who share your goals. The friendships people build here outlast every other benefit:

  • Group outings & social events
  • Private member community
  • Open mat sessions to practice together

Class Schedule

Morning and evening options — pick any classes that fit your schedule.

Monday

3 classes
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
7:00 AM – 8:00 AM · Alex
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
6:30 PM – 7:30 PM · Alex, Brian
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM · Brian, Alex

Tuesday

2 classes
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
7:00 AM – 8:00 AM · Alex
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM · Alex

Wednesday

3 classes
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
7:00 AM – 8:00 AM · Alex
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
6:30 PM – 7:30 PM · Alex, Brian
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM · Brian, Alex

Thursday

1 class
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
7:00 AM – 8:00 AM · Alex

Friday

3 classes
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
7:00 AM – 8:00 AM · Alex
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
6:30 PM – 7:30 PM · Alex, Brian
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM · Brian, Alex

Saturday

1 class
Adult BJJ Fundamentals
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Gi
No-Gi

Madison Adults Love Training Here

Real Reviews from Real Students

Real Google reviews from Madison adults who started exactly where you are.

Great environment and wonderful coaches who care. I'm grateful for the time I spent at Journey. If you're like me BJJ or any contact sport may come across intimidating at first but the coaches and fol…

Chahm Gahng
Google

Great place to learn BJJ! Awesome coaches, friendly practitioners, lots of mat space to comfortably sparring and roll. Everything is clean, new and the music is great too ;)

Alan Borsato
Google

I started training here two years ago with no grappling or combat sports experience, and I love it. Great facility and great coaches. You'll find welcoming and fun training partners at all skill/exper…

Jordan Parker
Google

I was looking for a fitness plan that offered more than the standard lift, pull and push approach seen in most gyms. I found so much more at Journey! The instructions are clear, the staff is world cla…

Christopher Harkrader
Google

Trying Jiu jitsu was probably one of the best decisions I've ever made. Excellent environment, clean facility, and incredible coaches who are passionate about the art of Jiu Jitsu. Alex, Bill, and Col…

Alexa Kellin
Google

Journey is a great place to build community and a better version of yourself. I recommend their facility for anyone, regardless of age. The environment is family-friendly and is great for whichever st…

Dalton Miles
Google

So good I became a life time member. Great community great coaches.

James Raynor
Google

Really strong onboarding program to be sure everyone new to BJJ is up to the challenge. All coaches and members are helpful and patient in assisting newer people to improve their own form & technique,…

Adam Populorum
Google

I can't recommend Journey enough for giving me an opportunity to try something totally out of my comfort zone. I've always been interested in fitness, but wanted to mix up my stale exercise routine. I…

Dot Silverman
Facebook

I have been training at Journey for just under a year. For someone who hates cardio, running, biking, etc, I find jujitsu to be a great alternative. I would recommend Journey BJJ to anyone. Their coac…

shane sweeney
Google

I took the 6 week challenge and learned awesome skills, while having fun in the sport of Jiu Jitsu. I improved my stamina, was taught a healthier way to eat and lost weight. I didn't starve and lost 2…

John Masters
Facebook

I started taking Jiu-Jitsu classes to work on my cardio, lose some weight and build some natural strength, while hopefully doing something fun. I have a hard time with the monotonous routines of runni…

Ignatius Lokai
Facebook

Your 14-Day Roadmap

What 2 weeks looks like, day by day

1

Days 1-4 | Your First Class

You show up in your free uniform. Your coach pairs you with a friendly partner and walks you through one position — top and bottom. You'll survive your first roll and feel the gas tank running. Most people walk in nervous and walk out energized.

2

Days 5-9 | The Rhythm Clicks

By class three or four, the warm-up stops feeling foreign. Techniques start to repeat, and you'll catch yourself recognizing them. Pick the days and times that fit your week — morning, afternoon, or evening — and lock in your routine.

3

Days 10-14 | The Decision

You've trained alongside other adults who started exactly where you are. By day 14, you'll know if Jiu-Jitsu is for you — and your coach will help you map what comes next. Either way, the uniform is yours to keep.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do your classes cost?

Our drop in fee is $25, however, we do not have a one size fits all program / membership. Pricing varies, based on the type of program you sign up for.

Who are Journey Jiu Jitsu classes not right for?

Our classes may not be the best fit for non-Madison Area residents (commute > 30 minutes to the gym), college students with heavy class loads and changing priorities, professionals with heavy/frequent travel, or individuals unable to attend at least 2 classes per week (on average).

Do I need to be in shape or athletic? Do I need any prior experience?

Not at all! Many of our current students NEVER did any kind of sports or martial arts prior to joining. Now, they're in better shape than most of their friends. So if you're not in shape or athletic, don't worry – we'll get you there in no time.

Do I need any martial arts background in Judo, BJJ, or anything else?

No, you don't. There are beginner classes available and many of the people who study Brazilian Jiu Jitsu have ZERO prior martial arts training.

Will I get hurt?

Although any physical activity carries risk of injury…We almost NEVER see any injuries in our jiu jitsu classes. We guide you through the perfect way to do each technique and provide special instruction to help students avoid injury.

Plus, you go at your own pace. That way you don't force your body to do anything that promotes risk of injury.

What's your guarantee?

We guarantee we hold up our end — every Monday check-in happens, the halfway coach meeting happens, your uniform arrives before your first class, and the curriculum is there waiting. 607 Madison adults have completed this program. The structure works.

What we can't guarantee is that you'll show up. That part's on you.

Do I need experience to start No-Gi classes?

No, even though no gi has a reputation for being "more advanced" our no gi classes are fundamentals level and beginner friendly.

Is No-Gi training harder than gi training?

No-Gi is different, not necessarily harder. It requires different gripping strategies and relies less on robust grips. Some find it more intuitive without complex gi grips, while others miss the control that gi provides. Both have unique challenges.

What should I do if I'm nervous about starting jiu jitsu?

Feeling nervous is totally normal. I think literally everyone is nervous before they try it. You just have to experience the culture :)

What is the cancellation policy for memberships?

Our cancellation policy requires a 60-day notice. We also allow you to pause your membership from 2-4 weeks without being charged.

Do you have any older grapplers?

We have people as old as 63 who train here. :)

Can I visit the academy before signing up to observe a class?

Yes, we encourage potential students to visit and observe a class to get a feel for our teaching style and community.

Start Your 2 Weeks This Week

Your 14-Day Intro Could Start This Week

—
Days Away
20
Classes Available
14
Day Trial
Women training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at Journey Academy Madison

$49 · Free Uniform · No Commitment

Start Your 2 Weeks for $49

It starts by claiming your spot — fill out a short form, schedule your first class, and we'll see you on the mats.

Call (608) 416-1140