Celebrating our 45th year of Martial Arts Excellence since 1980! (1980-2025)
Learn from the best Martial Arts instructors in the area who are dedicated to providing a stable, family environment where you can excel in your personal goals and find a varied and supportive community. Whether your plan is to compete, lose weight, meet new like-minded people or increase your day-to-day life, we will help you get there faster than you ever thought possible while having fun doing it! Degerberg Academy is the premier martial arts school in Chicago, Illinois.
Joined this school in 1984. It has molded my life in the most positive ways. Learned confidence, awareness of my surroundings, how to prevent being a victim, how to help others. I have formed my family out of that academy. I have gotten the opportunity to train in various parts of the world and have found it easier to incorporate that knowledge because of what I have experienced at DAMA. Fred Degerberg has developed an unbelievable place to play. It gets better every year!
Greg Znajda
January 11
Degerberg Academy of Martial Arts is a wonderful martial arts school, emphasizing respect and confidence through their well-rounded self-defense program. As a mother, I've seen a positive transformation in my child, with top-notch instructors who are adept at teaching a variety of martial arts disciplines. The academy offers a disciplined yet nurturing space that has been instrumental in developing my child’s skills and character. It’s more than a martial arts school; it’s a community that supports personal growth and lifelong friendships.
Molly Lee
November 11
I've had 2/3 kids training at Degerberg since 2021. The eight-year-old daughter has gained (much needed) self-confidence in addition to quality instruction in martial arts and strength & conditioning. Six-year-old son is right behind her. My four year old asks all the time when he can start.
This academy is a Lincoln Square treasure. The instructors and staff are all top notch, and the programming is what you would expect from an institution that has lasted in the Square since the '80s. They have figured out how to teach kids martial arts.
Really nice parent community and quickly but charming facility.
Alicia Pederson
November 08
I returned to this practice as an adult after training at DAMA for some years as a teen and I’d say it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made all year. Every instructor has a unique approach that meets the student where they are. Students of all skill levels can train at their own pace and the class schedule is flexible with classes offered mornings, afternoons and evenings. If you’re looking to build physical strength and increase neuroplasticity in the brain for more expansive living, check out DAMA, they are a lovely community of humans and their curriculum offers something for everyone.
