Fit 2 Defend Academy
Creating champions for the game of life
Community, Integrity, Effective
Welcome To
Fit 2 Defend Academy
Welcome to Fit 2 Defend Academy in Lake Bluff, Illinois in Lake County! We are a safe and supportive place to train martial arts with a family-oriented community. While we have many skilled competitors, all skill levels and age groups are welcome in our doors. We want to make sure students learn self-defense physically and emotionally and can implement skills off the mat like true martial artists. Students learn lessons in integrity, leadership, respect, confidence, and so much more for their personal development. Come join a community of growth and fitness at Fit 2 Defend!
Two FREE Trial Classes
Experience Martial Arts with No Commitment. Take the first step in your martial arts journey with us—absolutely free.
Empowering Growth Through Martial Arts
About Fit 2 Defend Academy
About Our School
Fit 2 Defend Academy is a home to all those looking to train in Jiu-Jitsu and other martial arts disciplines. Led by our highly experienced founder Scott Gave, we’ve built an academy of learning and a close-knit community. Scott strives for each student to reach their full potential with the goal for every student to surpass him. Still, each student has their own goals to achieve and strengths and weaknesses, something we focus on and help with continuously. While martial arts is often individual, we teach accountability and make sure everyone understands that we all depend on each other. We are all in this together and invite everyone to join our martial arts family environment!
Our History
Founder Scott Gave started Fit 2 Defend Academy a decade ago, with eight years in his own building. Scott branched to his own spot after receiving extensive encouragement from others. He achieved his goal in building a more community based academy, providing a place for students to learn high-end Jiu-Jitsu and grow with a community. Scott himself has grown a lot through martial arts, training for 30 years with four different black belts. He has been teaching since 2000 and has instructed over 10,000 students. While leading many, Scott has kept and shared the value to always be a student, and to continuously learn on and off the mat.
Military and First Responders Discount
Honoring Service with Opportunity. We proudly support those who serve with an exclusive 10% membership discount.
Guiding Your Path to Success
Meet Our Instructors
At Fit 2 Defend Academy, our instructors are passionate about helping each student reach their full potential.
With years of experience in martial arts and a deep commitment to personal growth, they provide individualized attention to ensure every student’s journey is successful. Our instructors teach more than just techniques—they focus on building character, confidence, and leadership skills, making sure that you grow both on and off the mat. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner, our instructors are here to support you every step of the way.
Scott Gave
Owner & Head Coach
Blake Klassman
Adult Bjj Coach
Simon Park
Adult BJJ Coach
Adam Bautista
Adult BJJ Coach
Adam Whiteman
Adult Bjj Coach
Logan Szostek
Youth Coach
Lucia Seiden
Youth Coach
Current Class Schedule
Flexible Class Times for Every Student. Find a training schedule that works for your lifestyle.
Empowering All Ages to Learn, Grow, and Excel
Explore Our Martial Arts Programs
At Fit 2 Defend Academy, we offer a diverse range of programs designed to help every student thrive.
From our Youth Combative Blend Program (ages 6-14) that combines essential martial arts techniques to our specialized Kids’ Jiu-Jitsu (Gi and No Gi) classes, we provide an engaging and supportive environment for young learners. Adults can refine their skills in our Jiu-Jitsu (Gi and No Gi) program, focusing on discipline, self-defense, and personal growth, while our Kickboxing/Muay Thai classes deliver an exciting, high-energy workout that sharpens techniques and boosts fitness. Learn more about our martial programs below!
Youth Combative Blend Program (Ages 6-14)
Empowering Kids with Confidence and Real-World Self-Defense
Our Youth Combative Blend Program is designed for children ages 6 to 14, combining character-building with practical self-defense training. Students learn to handle real-world scenarios through modules such as:
- Bully Prevention and Stranger Danger awareness.
- Ground Defense, Weapon Training, and Multiple Attacker Defense.
- Conditioning to enhance strength, agility, and focus.
Multi-Discipline Approach:
This program incorporates techniques from:
- Krav Maga: Hand-to-hand combat.
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: Ground-fighting fundamentals.
- Muay Thai Kickboxing: Striking skills.
- Kali: Weapon-based self-defense.
By focusing on respect, responsibility, and goal-setting, we help students become confident leaders at home, in school, and beyond.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Gi and No Gi) for Youth and Adults
Practical Self-Defense, Confidence, and Growth for All Ages
Our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) program offers Gi and No Gi training tailored to youth (ages 8-15) and adults (ages 16+). Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner, this program focuses on building confidence, discipline, and practical self-defense skills in a supportive, community-driven environment.
Youth classes emphasize focus, self-control, and teamwork, creating a strong foundation for personal development. Adults benefit from Fundamentals and All Levels training, refining techniques, and progressing in their martial arts journey.
Key benefits include:
- Age-specific training designed to meet the needs of youth and adults.
- Practical self-defense techniques that build resilience and confidence.
- A welcoming environment where students of all levels thrive.
Discover the transformative power of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu—start building your skills, strength, and community today!
Kickboxing/Muay Thai
Dynamic Training for Fitness, Skill, and Competition
Our Kickboxing program combines the powerful techniques of Muay Thai with the precision of Western boxing for a well-rounded and high-energy training experience. Perfect for all skill levels, this class introduces traditional Muay Thai concepts and Western boxing fundamentals, providing a fun yet challenging environment.
Each session includes:
- Skill Development: Practice punches, kicks, elbows, knees, clinching, and sweeps to master both technique and form.
- Strength & Cardio: Start with a cardio warm-up and end with exercises designed to boost endurance and build strength.
- Custom Goals: Whether you’re looking to enhance fitness, learn self-defense, or train for competition, this class adapts to your needs.
Join us for an energetic workout that sharpens skills, builds strength, and keeps you coming back for more!
Birthday Parties at Fit 2 Defend Academy
A Superpowered Celebration for Your Child
Make your child’s special day unforgettable with a martial arts-themed birthday party at Fit 2 Defend Academy! Designed for fun, excitement, and a touch of heroism, our parties give kids the chance to feel like superheroes while learning new skills and celebrating with their friends.
Every child dreams of a birthday party that’s unique and memorable. At Fit 2 Defend, we provide an exciting experience where kids can explore martial arts in a fun and safe environment. Parents love it too—it’s a stress-free way to host a party that’s truly one-of-a-kind.
Let us take the planning off your plate. We handle the venue, entertainment, and even bounce houses, so you can relax and enjoy the day. Parents appreciate the ease, while kids leave with memories they’ll cherish forever.
What we offer:
- A fully equipped martial arts-themed venue with bounce houses.
- Interactive martial arts activities led by our professional instructors.
- A unique and action-packed experience that will have kids smiling all day long.
Celebrate your child’s big day with a party filled with fun, friends, and martial arts magic!
Fit 2 Defend Academy
Check Out What Our Students Are Saying
Joe V.
I’ve been training here on and off since 2020 due to injury. I’ve only since been able to train consistently thanks to the advice from the leadership at F2D. Coach Scott and his team are both assassins and meticulous teachers who truly care about your growth both as a BJJ practitioner and a human being. You and your children are in good hands.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Aaron
I’ve trained at many gyms and Scott at Fit 2 Defend has created a special culture. Very good training and a real acceptance of all backgrounds and skill levels. A welcoming gym full of highly skilled individuals. Don’t hesitate to check it out!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Brent M.
Fit 2 Defend is absolutely incredible! It’s hands down both the best Jiu Jitsu and martial arts gym I’ve been to. The mats are always clean, the people are some of the friendliest out there, and every coach is excellent and serves as amazing role models. I couldn’t recommend it enough for both adults, teenagers, and kids alike.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Two FREE Trial Classes
Experience Martial Arts with No Commitment. Take the first step in your martial arts journey with us—absolutely free.
Contact Us Today!
Fit 2 Defend Academy welcomes everyone in Lake Bluff and Lake County as well as the following communities: Winnetka, Great Lakes, Lake Forest, and Green Oaks, among others. We are located off Route 41 (Skokie Highway) and route 176!