TL;DR: Martial Athletes is life-changing. The coaches are incredible, the classes are challenging…read morereal combat sports, and the community is amazing. In just six weeks, I've gained confidence, improved my fitness, and seen benefits in hiking, running, and even how I focus at home and at work. Keep reading for my full experience below.
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I've been training at Martial Athletes for about six weeks, attending striking with Coach Cannon, Jiu-Jitsu with Coach Freddy, and HIIT with Coach Maria. From day one, the gym has been welcoming, encouraging, and energizing.
I'm a woman in my 40s with a background in weightlifting and CrossFit-style sports, and I was looking for a new challenge to get back to the fitness and confidence I once had. That mindset has helped me dive into these classes. These classes are challenging and real combat sports, not just cardio boxing. Don't let that be intimidating! Just something to keep in mind. Aside from watching Pride and UFC with my husband, I had virtually no martial arts experience before joining.
Six weeks is still a short time in a martial arts gym, and my skill level definitely shows. It can be frustrating at times, but I keep showing up, and little by little, I'm improving. The coaches are incredible. They make you feel welcome no matter your skill level. They won't sugarcoat your abilities, but their feedback always comes from a place of honesty, patience, and kindness. The community is amazing, supportive, and genuinely invested in helping you grow. Walking into the gym can feel intimidating at first, but by week three you will be hooked.
You might wonder, if I'm still learning and not very good, what's the point?
Here's a story. I love hiking, but I used to constantly look down, never fully trusting myself on the trail. On Christmas Eve, after just five weeks in class, I went for a long hike and found myself looking up, confident, and trusting my body and my feet. I was able to enjoy the golden hour sunset and take in the horizon instead of staring at the trail beneath me.
I recently ran a full mile, something that may not sound impressive, but I did it without pain. Unlike weightlifting, my training here strengthens my joints and ligaments along with my muscles, so I don't experience the usual aches. Again, I ran with my head up, chasing the horizon instead of watching my feet.
Striking and BJJ demand focus. You have to pay attention, follow your opponent, and anticipate what's coming next. This practice has also improved my active listening at home and at work. I thought I was a good listener before, but now I can tell I'm much more present.
Coach Cannon, Coach Freddy, and Coach Maria, you are patient, skilled, and inspiring. I can't say enough about the gym and its community.