HeadNodHQ – American Jiu Jitsu – Edwardsville

HeadNodHQ - American Jiu Jitsu - Edwardsville is a martial arts school in Glen Carbon, IL. The school focuses on American Jiu Jitsu, a discipline centered on grappling and ground fighting that enables smaller, less strong individuals to defend against larger opponents through leveraging techniques and effective groundwork. The curriculum emphasizes self-confidence, improved focus, physical strength, and positive social interaction, teaching members to set goals, work hard, and follow through. Newcomers can begin with a four-week trial that includes unlimited classes and a free gi.

The school operates three locations in the St. Louis Metro East region: Granite City, Jerseyville, and Edwardsville. The path to HeadNod began in a garage in 2002 when owner Josh McKinney and his father Steve started training together. Josh opened the first Granite City location in 15, added the Jerseyville school in 2019, upgraded the Granite City facility in 2020, and opened the Edwardsville location in 2025. The training style has evolved from Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to an American Jiu Jitsu centric approach, focusing on wrestling roots, pressure, and continuous adaptation rather than traditional rituals. Many adult instructors are black belts promoted under owners Josh and Steve McKinney. The school utilizes Designated Winner Training, a method originating from HeadNod that avoids over-practicing the same techniques to help students maximize their potential and reach their goals.

HeadNodHQ - American Jiu Jitsu - Edwardsville holds a 5.00 rating. The school serves the local community by providing Jiu Jitsu lessons to students in Illinois, with the Edwardsville location being the newest addition to its growing network of schools.