Black Flag Jiu-Jitsu
Rockford’s home for world-class grappling.
Black Flag is built on discipline, community, and the relentless pursuit of growth, no matter your age, background, or experience.
Representing
Pedigo Submission Fighting
Black Flag is proud to be part of PSF, one of the most accomplished American jiu-jitsu teams in history. Our students benefit from elite-level instruction, proven competition methods, and a culture that rewards hard work over hype.
About Us
The Heart of Rockford Grappling
Founded by Rockford locals Kenneth Martin and Aaron Lynde, Black Flag was built for those who want to earn everything. From kids just starting out to adults chasing championships, we train with intention, respect, and intensity.
Location
21 Airport Dr. Rockford, IL 61109
Office Number
+1 (815) 905-5557
Coaches Number
+1 (815) 566-9275
Our Classes
Classes for all ages and skill levels
All Levels Jiu-Jitsu
Our All Levels classes are for everyone, from day-one beginners to experienced grapplers looking to refine their game. Whether you train early in the morning or after work in our Intro to Grappling class, this is the foundation of our gym culture. We use the Constraint-Led Approach (CLA) to guide development through live interaction, exploration, and problem-solving.
Youth I Jiu-Jitsu (Ages 5–9)
We want kids to love training. That’s why our youngest students are introduced to jiu-jitsu in a playful, encouraging environment. Coaches focus on building attention span, body control, and teamwork while keeping class fun and engaging. Your child will sweat, laugh, and occasionally struggle, but they’ll grow stronger in every sense of the word.
Youth II Jiu-Jitsu (Ages 9–17)
Our Youth II program is where things get a bit more real. Designed for older or more experienced kids (younger students may join with coach approval), this class features deeper positional understanding, live rounds, and training similar to what the adults do. Whether your child is a competitor or just serious about improving, they’ll get the coaching and environment to thrive.
Competition Training
Black Flag is proudly affiliated with Pedigo Submission Fighting, and our competition room reflects that standard. Built for athletes chasing high-level results, this program is open to visitors, hobbyists, and dedicated competitors alike. We structure training to simulate real match intensity, develop pressure-tested systems, and push each other with no separation between pros and newcomers. If you’re chasing excellence, this is your room.
Wrestling
We’re excited to expand into wrestling and offer a program that complements our jiu-jitsu curriculum. Details are coming soon follow us on Instagram or check back here for updates as we build this new chapter.
Why Jiu-Jitsu?
What You’ll Gain
Stamina That Lasts
Jiu-jitsu builds your engine on and off the mats
Strength & Endurance
Bodyweight strength meets functional movement
Real Self-Defense
Learn to protect yourself against actual resistance
Mental Toughness
Pressure-tested training for life and sport
Friends & Community
More than just a gym or a sport. Jiu-jitsu creates family and community.
A Fun Challenge
Doing new things is always difficult to start. It’s hard. It’s humbling. It’s worth it.
Our Reviews
Actual Google Reviews
They treat you like family here.
Awesome place to train, great environment and coaches/instructors are amazing very knowledgeable and friendly they treat you like family here. Very welcoming to everyone even people who are beginners/new. I Highly recommended coming here if you’re interested in getting into Jiujitsu to either learn self defense or to compete.
Devin S.
Great gym and great people
I came here while on a week vacation, showed up and was welcomed immediately by the staff. Everyone there was well experienced and extremely knowledgeable and helpful. Great gym and great people, if you’re looking for a gym to start at, this is the place.
Angel B.
The best place to learn grappling in the Rockford area.
This is the best place to learn grappling in the Rockford area. This gym goes above and beyond by bringing out some of the best talent in the business regularly to help it’s students and the Rockford jiu-jitsu community in general get better. My daughter has gotten so much better since we started coming to Black Flag. So glad to be a part of a team that just want you to do better.
Trevor S.
Blog
News from on and off the mats
The Void Trials Jiu-Jitsu Tournament Crowns Two PSF Champions in Wisconsin
The inaugural The Void Trials Jiu-Jitsu Tournament took place this past weekend in Waunakee, Wisconsin, and Black Flag Jiu-Jitsu and Pedigo Submission Fighting made their presence known. Jeff Larsen represented Black Flag in the 84kg division, while PSF teammate Joey Alexander competed in the 70kg bracket. Both athletes finished the tournament undefeated and walked away […]
New Wrestling Mats at Black Flag Jiu-Jitsu Give Athletes More Room to Train
New Wrestling Mats at Black Flag Jiu-Jitsu Create More Space to Train Black Flag Jiu-Jitsu is continuing to make improvements around the gym, and our latest upgrade is focused directly on the wrestling room. We have replaced the tatami-style mats in the wrestling area with traditional wrestling mats, giving our athletes a larger and more […]
New: IBJJF Chicago Summer Open 2026: Black Flag Brings Home More Strong Hardware
Black Flag Jiu-Jitsu was back on the competition mats this past weekend for the IBJJF Chicago Summer Open 2026, with Jeff Larsen representing Black Flag and Pedigo Submission Fighting against another strong field of competitors. IBJJF Chicago Summer Open 2026 Brings Two More Medals Back to Rockford Jeff has continued to make competition a major […]