Pica Pau Jiu Jitsu and Grappling

Pica Pau Jiu Jitsu and Grappling opened its doors in March 2021, bringing together instructors with deep roots in the Midwest jiu jitsu scene. The founders built the academy to create a space where people of all backgrounds and ages could develop their skills, drawing on over a decade of experience in teaching, training, and competition. Their approach is captured in the motto “Train Hard, Be Kind,” which guides the daily culture and interactions on and off the mats. Classes at Pica Pau cover a wide range of disciplines and age groups. Adults can train in both gi and no-gi Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, join striking sessions, and participate in open mat times that welcome visitors and drop-ins. For younger students, the academy offers gi jiu jitsu, youth no-gi, and wrestling, with separate classes for little kids and older youth. There’s also a dedicated yoga class for adults, rounding out the program for those looking to improve flexibility and recovery. Safety and hygiene are central to the academy’s operations: the facility is AED-equipped, mats and equipment are sanitized after every session, and instructors maintain current certifications in Adult and Pediatric AED/CPR and First Aid. The team works to make training accessible and inclusive, with policies and practices that encourage students to help one another improve every day. Located in Aurora, IL, Pica Pau aims to serve the western suburbs of Chicago with quality martial arts instruction grounded in practical experience and a strong sense of community.

Amenities