The Facts: 1. (Currently) 4 hours a day of Small Group Training: morning, mid-day and evening classes of no more than 10 students and 1 instructor, but one-on-one training is also an option. 2. With a limited number of students in each class, Raul (the instructor) is really able to keep an eye on all his students, and ensure they're all executing the proper technique. 3. Classes/students are not divided up by level. Beginner students are learning with intermediate students who are also learning with advanced students, which means you can attend any session at whatever time best suits your schedule (allows for a lot of flexibility), and you're always learning from one-another. 4. The gym, though small, has all the necessary equipment (punching bags, boxing gloves, pads, hand wraps, weights, etc.) 5. You get a good workout while also learning proper technique. This is NOT a gym where all you do is focus on cardio (looking at you... T-Boxing). You learn how to throw a proper punch as well as block one, you learn to kick properly as well as block kicks. You are signing up to learn defense AND offense! You are almost always working with a partner! 6. The atmosphere is one where people are always looking out for you. Your fellow gym-mates want you and will help you to succeed as much as the instructor, and hopefully yourself! Personal Testimony: I've never been a big fan of working out at gyms--I feel very self conscious about working out in front of others for various reasons, so it's something I usually avoid at all costs. A couple years ago, however, I developed an interest in boxing which led me to one gym near my home, and fast forward a few years later, I found Dynamite. I literally walked in on a one-on-one session with Raul and one of his students, and he invited me to his 6:00 class that very same evening. I went back that night, still very nervous about working out around others, afraid I would look really silly trying to learn something new in front of a bunch of strangers (kickboxing adds a whole lot of new elements to boxing), but as soon as I walked in I was greeted by Raul and introduced to all the students in the class. I signed up for the 30-day trial immediately after class, and signed up for the year membership right after my 30-day trial. Dynamite isn't just a gym where you go to sweat and burn some calories (though you definitely do that, believe me). It's a place where you're welcomed in like family from day one, and encouraged to always push yourself to do better. You get out of it what you put in. If you don't like to socialize, come in, do your workout, leave after class, but it's hard to not want to get to know everybody when they're all so inviting! P.S. I've never been known for being concise. You're welcome ;P read more

Alright, Yelp. I'm going to be straight with you: Raul (the teacher and owner of Dynamite) is my friend. And he's my friend because one day, 3(ish) years ago at the YMCA, I decided to take a chance on a brand-new kickboxing class. And let me tell you - it's the best thing I've ever done. From that little kickboxing class came Dynamite Kickboxing. I had zero experience when I started, but Raul (and my fellow classmates) never made me feel dumb or embarrassed. The atmosphere of Raul's classes, like Raul himself, is encouraging, fun, and positive. And they'll kick your butt and make you sweat! It's a great way to shake up your cardio routine, learn something new, or improve your existing skills or techniques. Also, a great way to get out your frustrations in a healthy way. I like to call it "punching bag therapy." Raul is GREAT at working with students of all levels and making sure everyone gets something out of his classes and no one gets left behind. Raul gets to know each of his students and their learning styles and constantly pushes each individual to achieve their goals and put in their best effort. I've never had a more caring, compassionate, and motivated teacher. I honestly can't say enough good things about this guy. As an extra bonus, it's SUPER reasonably priced compared to a lot of martial arts classes, and Raul even offers personal training sessions as well. The schedule (which seems to be expanding all the time) gives you lots of options for making it to class. And if you're like, me, you'll miss a few here and there, but don't worry! It's super easy to jump back in, as each class can stand on it's own. Dynamite Kickboxing has not only helped me get in better shape, it's improved my confidence, and given me lasting friendships. If you've ever even been CURIOUS about kickboxing, give Dynamite a try. You won't regret it, not even after doing squat kicks. ;) read more

Raul takes the one on one time with each student which I needed...even within a group setting. He makes everyone feel special. This is not a job for him, it's his passion and it shows. He is always positive. He loves to push me until I can't go on. He creates a balanced workout even when I'm such a beginner paired with an expert. Boxing was outside my comfort zone, to say the least. With such encouragement, I saw fast results in my body shape and kept going. The workout is just as much mental strategy as physical. I travel a bit farther because he offers better workout times for my schedule. I also like the fact that I need to sign up and someone is expecting me to be there on time. I tend to get things done for others, more than myself. He's implementing a program where students can work toward different levels to lower their monthly fee. That will definitely help motivate me to reach specific goals. This is more of a gym with a trainer, rather than a health club class. read more

This is long overdue! Absolutely love Dynamite Kickboxing. I was gym hopping looking for a place that was welcoming yet would meet all my fitness needs/goals. After the first class at Dynamite, I stopped looking at other kickboxing gyms. Dynamite kickboxing truly is the place you want to be! Raul does a superb job at personalizing each class to meet the needs of all of his students. Raul's passion and expertise is represented in every class. Raul is the epitome of the following quote: "Behind every fearless player is a fearless coach who refused to let them be anything but the best they can be" Raul will motivate you and will coach you every step of the way! Whether you have years of experience in kickboxing or zero, Dynamite Kickboxing is for you! Give it a try! 7 weeks in and I'm pretty addicted to the workouts :) -Alex read more

This place is amazing! For anyone looking to train in one of the most fun martial arts out there, Dynamite Kickboxing is your place. Whether you just want to get in shape, or you want to compete, go check it out. I had no previous experience in martial arts before signing up a few months ago, and was really nervous the first time I went in. The owner/teacher/sensei, Raul, was extremely welcoming and had a great way of making me feel comfortable (even though I was pretty sure I looked ridiculous trying to kick). That was huge for me. Ever since that first class, I've been addicted! I feel great, I'm learning a ton, and it's changing my life everyday. I now go at least 3 days a week! Get up off your couch and try it out! "Everyday we get 1% better" read more

I have been training for about 10 weeks now. I look forward to every class with Raul. I appreciated his approach to improving my core strength from the very beginning. The improvement in all areas of fitness have made it worth it. The classes develop your ability on how to strike, defend and move. I really enjoy starting to put those all together. I have a long way to go but I can't recommend Raul enough. He is a friendly instructor who pushes you towards improvement. The rest of the people who attend classes are all pretty great and I've made a couple of friends as well. Highest recommendation. He also has cool seminars with people who actively train or fight. read more

Phenomenal coach. Raul really pushes your muscle endurance and cardio and, also, never slacks when it comes to constructively critiquing your technique. He's understanding of his student's limits, but, is definitely not a pushover. He will make you put in that work. It's not a bunch of meatheads flailing on bags here, either. At this gym, you will learn EFFECTIVE Muay Thai/Dutch Kickboxing technique. Most importantly, Raul is passionate about his chosen sport/profession and all of his students. He wants you to succeed, whether you're training for a fight or just trying to lose weight. If I lived closer to this gym, I would be training there everyday. read more

To say the least, this place is awesome! You could be a person who has never thrown a punch before in your life and be in a class next to a pro, & there is absolutely no intimidation. In fact, Raul has a way of personalizing classes to each individual and you will feel yourself progressing rapidly. Raul is very easy going and light spirited but when it's time to get it done, you have to put in the work and he will push you to your absolute limit . There were instances when I surprised myself with how much I could actually get done. Dynamite Kickboxing is most definitely the place to join! (You also get a free cool shirt) read more

I have been extremely pleased with my personal training classes with Raul of Dynamite Kickboxing.  Last summer I was looking for an intensive striking and kicking program to raise my preparation for a Kyokushin tournament.  I was pleasantly surprised that my initial training included a 3 hour group session with Duane "Bang" Ludwig.  Raul is passionate about learning from the best, incorporating multiple fighting styles into his training program and tailoring his training to fit to your skill and fitness level.  If you are looking to learn from the best and get in great shape, Dynamite Kick boxing is the place to be! read more

Training here is fantastic! I definitely felt some trepidation when starting, because I really had no experience, but Raul is excellent at tailoring the instruction and class exactly to the level that you are at. Every class is different, which I love! Each one has conditioning both at the start and end, though, and works on skills and combinations in the middle, so it's a great workout for the mind and body. Raul keeps the atmosphere relaxed but focused, both of which I appreciate, and he always teaches with passion and warmth. The personal training is really worth it, too. The whole experience is addictive! read more

With 8 years of kickboxing experience, I was having trouble finding a new gym/program that fit my style... until I found Dynamite. Raul is unbelievably motivating, understands my learning style and pushes me to improve my skills in every session. I am so happy to have found someone who respects all martial arts, explains different techniques from other practices and incorporates them into his workouts. I start my days very early and these workouts energize me for the entire day. If you are looking to get in shape, kickboxing is a total body workout and Dynamite Kickboxing is where you should be working out! read more

I am taking private lessons with Raul through Dynamite Kickboxing. After my first session I could tell right away he is a great person who really cares about you and wants you to succeed in not only kickboxing but to become a more fit, healthy and stress free person! Raul is a great trainer who really knows his stuff and can help you learn quickly even for a beginner like myself. He will push you and motivate you so be ready to work hard! :) *GREAT PRICES* *GREAT TRAINER* *GREAT WORKOUTS* HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!! read more

Dynamite Kickboxing might very well be the best and most empowering workout in Chicago! Raul is a phenomenal trainer who can break things down for the most novice athlete (as I was) while adapting to train a more tenured boxer. Even as a college athlete, it's probably the most challenging and exhausting workout I've done, but I leave every session feeling stronger and more confident. Every class is new, tough and fun - what more could you ask for in a workout? read more

I wish I had more time to train with Raul: he's a great teacher and conctantly tries to improve you with a lot of patience and understanding for whatever your background, build, age or sex is. Your confidence will get higher, your waistline thinner and your mood better if you just gave this a chance. It's worth it and don't worry about getting injured or having to spar or anything aggressive, you're in great hands! read more

Dynamite Kickboxing is awesome! Raul, the instructor is so motivating, he really knows how to push you to your full potential. This is an all out cardio fest with integrated kickboxing techniques. I'd recommend this class to anyone who wants to get in shape and feel accomplished! Anybody can do it if you're willing to work hard - male or female, all levels, any age. DO IT!!! read more

If you want a great workout definitely go and check out a class at Dynamite Kickboxing TODAY!!!! Raul is an absolutely amazing coach and instructor and really helps all of his students- from beginner to expert- Dynamite Kickboxing will help you bring the BOOM in your workout and help you reach the next level you strive for! :) read more

This place is great! Raul is very knowledgeable in what he does and has created a program that'll help each individual achieve their needs that is sustainable in the long run. Each class is always different which keeps the body guessing, constantly needing to adapt, and not let it hit a plateau. I highly recommend!! read more

This place is great! Welcoming, small kickboxing gym that has something for everyone. Weather your looking to become a fighter, or just want a fun and a challenging workout, you can find it here, in addition to a family-like atmosphere. Raul is kind while being a great teacher and motivator. read more

Had an absolute blast at my first class last night. Raul is an amazing trainer and coach who actually wants to see improvement in his students and takes the time to make sure the technique is correct. His positivity and good attitude are infectious. And I definitely broke a sweat (or two)! read more