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
Contact Number
+1 (815) 905-5557
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
Wrestling in Rockford | Youth & Adult Wrestling at Black Flag
Wrestling in Rockford: About Black Flag Wrestling If you are looking for high level Wrestling in Rockford, you are in the right place. Wrestling has always been one of the toughest and most effective combat sports, and it continues to grow in popularity throughout Northern Illinois. At Black Flag Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling is not treated as […]
No-Gi Open Mat at Black Flag Jiu-Jitsu
No-Gi Open Mat: Fridays at Black Flag If you’re looking for extra mat time and more live rounds, the No-Gi Open Mat at Black Flag Jiu-Jitsu is the perfect opportunity. Held every Friday night at 6 PM, right after our 5 PM Grappling Foundations class, this session gives students a chance to train freely, experiment […]
Why Black Flag Is the Kids Jiu-Jitsu Academy Rockford Families Trust
Kids Jiu-Jitsu Academy: Why Black Flag If you’re looking for a kids jiu-jitsu academy that offers more than just a single path for growth, Black Flag Jiu-Jitsu offers two unique programs tailored to different age groups and development levels: Youth I and Youth II. These are designed to meet kids exactly where they are in […]
Wanna try a class?
Fill out this form and someone will get in touch with you.