Parallel jiu jitsu

Parallel Jiu Jitsu in Champaign was founded in 2017 by Jose Becerra, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under world champion Diego Bispo. Jose brings nearly two decades of experience to the academy, and his teaching reflects a deep belief that everyone deserves equal respect and opportunity on the mats, regardless of background or experience. Over the years, Parallel has grown into a place where students and families have built lasting bonds through thousands of training rounds, promotions, competitions, and shared milestones. Classes at Parallel are structured to support both new and experienced grapplers, with a strong focus on fundamentals and technical development. Adult classes are open to anyone 15 and older, and younger students may join adult sessions after evaluation. The kids’ program welcomes children from age 7, with lessons tailored to keep younger students engaged while building a foundation in the fundamentals. Private lessons, Q&A sessions, and video breakdowns are also available, allowing students to focus on specific positions or techniques and get feedback on their own training or competition footage. The academy’s approach is centered on helping each student grow at their own pace, whether the goal is competition, self-defense, or personal development. Questions are encouraged in every class, and instruction is scaled to meet individual needs. The team at Parallel values consistency, resilience, and measurable progress, striving to make every student feel seen and supported. The facility is wheelchair accessible, and drop-ins are welcome for visitors looking to train with the team.

Amenities