I originally went to N-Flux just looking for a different kind of workout after realizing that I couldn't keep doing long-distance running due to bad knees, and I couldn't keep not working out due to bad eating habits. A friend of mine does martial arts and suggested looking into krav maga. Wasn't sure if it would be my thing or not, but I bought the two-class pack to check it out, and wound up loving it. The instruction is stellar. I can't speak to the non-krav classes, though I assume they are also good, but the foundations classes are structured such that you get something out of it whether it's your very first class or you've gone dozens of times. I do recommend having your first class be one of the striking-heavy classes, rather than the falling/rolling or fitness classes, but regardless of which one you go to, you don't need any particular ability to start. Colleen and Chris, the instructors, are both very good about starting off with the most basic elements (stance, movement, etc.) and weaving those into whatever the lesson of the day is. If you're looking to defend yourself, this class will absolutely help in that regard. No crazy unrealistic action-hero stuff here--you'll learn things that would actually help in a real fight. Especially at the lower levels, it's meant to be practical information that normal people can use (how to punch or open-hand strike effectively, how to use knees and elbows in close quarters, how to deal with someone trying to grab you by the waist or choke you, etc.). I've never had much occasion to get in fights, but I believe that if I had to respond to a threat, I would be much better at it now than before I started taking classes. The fitness aspect is stressed as well, for equally practical reasons. Fighting is extremely physically demanding (as you'll learn the first time Colleen makes you do a "flurry"--punching as hard and as fast as you can for 30 seconds to a minute) and fitness is crucial. As such, the class generally includes straight fitness elements (burpees, pushups, etc) in addition to the intense workout that is inherent to martial arts. That said, the instructors do a good job of working with everyone. You'll have to demonstrate a certain baseline level of fitness to pass the test and take more advanced classes, but the classes I've taken have included people of all fitness levels, body types, etc. I'm not exactly the most fit person myself, and I've never felt judged or shamed as long as I'm pushing myself. I can't speak to the advanced classes yet--between my limited time for martial arts (I work way out in the burbs, so I can only manage to get out of work in time for class about once a week) and the coronavirus, I haven't had a chance to test into the upper level classes--but having seen the start of a couple and talking with a few people who tested up, it sounds like the instruction continues to be excellent at higher levels, which does not surprise me. The thing I love most about N-Flux, though, is the environment. When I was talking to my friend, he said the biggest problem with krav maga was that a lot of studios are full of Tapout bros trying to out-MMA each other. I was worried that I'd spend half the time explaining that no, I don't listen to Joe Rogan. Turns out, that couldn't have been further from the truth. N-Flux is an incredibly welcoming space. Classes are diverse in every sense--gender, race, sexuality, national origin, body type--and the instructors make a conscious effort to make it that way. For instance, Colleen regularly speaks during class to the ways in which women are socialized not to take up space, not to react to aggression, to apologize for everything, ensuring that everyone is actively thinking about the role that can play in self-defense and threat scenarios. I never would have expected that from a martial arts class, and it's both really refreshing and also contributes to the quality and practicality of the instruction. Bottom line, if you're interested in martial arts, you owe it to yourself to check out N-Flux. I can't imagine recommending any gym or studio more highly. read more

I've been a member of N'Flux for almost a year now, but a faithful follower of Chris Torres' training since I moved to to DC in 2011. This past year, I trained 1:1 with Chris and joined his kickboxing classes to prepare for the FBI fitness test. Chris' strength and conditioning methods are intense but insanely effective. In only a couple months, I shaved over 2 minutes off my mile, went from 0 to 16 straight pushups, and dropped 25 lbs (1/5 my body weight). Chris pushes me and all his clients to new levels by addressing both our mental and physical obstacles. Chris is also one of the most well rounded combat sports instructors in the DMV area: Krav Maga black belt, Fit to Fight Defensive Options system double black belt, 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu Purple Belt, 2011 World Kickboxing Association Lightweight Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) World Champion...on and on. Finally, and maybe most importantly, N'Flux is by far and away the most supportive environment for women I have ever experienced at a combat sports gym (and I have belonged to many). Women here are taken seriously as fighters, and their self defense needs are addressed not only through specialized classes, but also through the respect Chris and the other trainers extend to the large female clientele so that we can train without the typical harassment experienced at other gyms. This is a serious gym with highly skilled and caring instructors that are genuinely dedicated to taking all members (from complete beginners to active competitors) to the next level. Don't think twice - come give it a try. read more

When I first began training at N-Flux, all I wanted was a place to burn off the stress of the workday and maybe make a friend or two after moving to a new city. 10 months later, I wonder why I set the bar so low. N-Flux has consistently exceeded every expectation I have had of a gym; instead of *only* wanting you to get in shape or have a good time, the instructors are incredibly invested in building your passion for martial arts and making sure that you understand everything-- the rationale, the effort, the payoff-- behind the moves that you are learning. The other students are encouraging, supportive, and often as invested in your progress as they are in their own. The community at N-Flux is one that will celebrate your dedication and your drive; one that will cheer you on relentlessly, whether you're on the mat at your very first tournament or in for a regular Tuesday class. If you just want a gym that will kick your ass into shape and introduce you to a few like-minded people, N-Flux will do the trick. And if you're looking for something more-- maybe a challenging new sport to rave over, or a way to build the kind of confidence that comes with believing in your own progress and potential-- N-Flux will have you covered there, too. I highly, highly, highly recommend signing up (but don't be like me and wait 9 months to try jiu jitsu... most contracts are unlimited monthly classes, so try it all and try it early!) read more

Excellent. High quality training. Been training here for more than a year now and I have to say the results were beyond my expectations. It improved my fitness significantly and equipped me with a new skill set. The curriculum is superb and the trainers Chris (who is having tons of experience), Colleen and Kathryn as well as their advanced students in class are highly supportive and just awesome to train with. They all know very well what they are doing and create an environment that makes you feel safe while learning even the toughest techniques and apply them in sparring. The trainers create a dynamic curriculum that picks you up no matter where you start or what your personal goals are. Due to this and the sheer variety of classes (different levels of Krav Maga, Yoga, Kick Boxing or even endurance and strength training, using kettlebells, heavy bags and other equipment) I have been constantly able to adapt my schedule to my changing needs and feel constantly that there is still more to learn. I had researched and visited other gyms prior to settling for NFLUX. For me it is the best in terms of pricing and contract within the area. The people at this place are so passionate about what they do and caring in terms of teaching that it is inspiring, this and the awesome results I have seen for myself make me recommend NFLUX without hesitation. read more

I have been training at N-flux for 1.5 years, and I simply cannot recommend it highly enough. The classes are without a doubt the most challenging and fun classes I have ever taken. No class is the same, and there is tons of equipment to play with, making the different fitness movements inventive and exciting. Chris and Colleen put so much thought into the programming for each class, ensuring that you are training functional fitness or in N-flux speak- "fitness that matters" Class offerings are numerous and include martial arts, defensive options, yoga (with the ever inspiring Scott and Macie), and strength and conditioning (Myke kills it with compound, complex movements). Even more important than the workouts is the community that N-flux fosters. I came into N-flux new to DC and looking to mix-up my workout while ideally making a friend or two. More than just a friend or two, I found an entire community of amazing people who are some of the most supportive and inspiring people I have ever met. It is not just about fitness, it is about people helping each other reach their goals and strive to be better every day. Since joining N-flux I've lost weight, gained muscle, found new confidence, made awesome friends, and am pushing to be stronger and better each day. Come check out a class, you will be SO glad that you did! read more

This place has been the best community since before the shutdown. The people here support each other and help each other learn. With COVID they've stepped up to the plate with keeping their members safe and healthy. Double temp checks, hand sanitizer, sanitizing body wipes, mat sanitizing between open gym sessions. Every member wears at least one mask (double masking isn't uncommon). The staff is friendly and understanding. Quick to help when needed. They teach in ways that the most inexperienced person will pick up quickly. Having access to class packs and being able to pause memberships really helps when it comes to affordability. They will always look out for you and make sure you get the best deals and instruction for your goals. They normally have programs that center on self defense, and are LGBTQ+ friendly and body positive. Colleen teaches tough love, but in a sense that you love yourself while becoming tough. This place and these programs have helped me immensely with the depression that came from the year that 2020 has been, and overall improved my mental health and physical wellbeing. In addition to being some of the best instructors, the staff is genuine, non judgemental, supportive, and still a bunch of bad a*es. read more

I've been training at N-Flux for a little over two years now, and I can say without a doubt that it's one of the best training environments in the area. Chris and Colleen are both fantastic instructors who strive to create a space that encourages the students to work hard and be safe whilst having fun and learning about the techniques involved in self-defense. The studio atmosphere is incredibly supportive and tightly-knit; the students are kind yet happy to push their partners, and the more advanced students make a point to partner with newer students to "show them the ropes." The overall goal of N-Flux is to craft students into competent practitioners (no matter their long-term goals) who are able to understand and apply self defense techniques in a variety of situations. Thus, the curriculum is holistic in nature; while Krav Maga is the school's core system, it is supported by Jiu Jitsu/grappling, sparring, boxing, and general fitness courses. Yes, the classes are intellectually and physically challenging (and often exhausting), but I cannot recommend this space highly enough to any and everyone, be they brand new to the sport or looking to change up their training routine with a new system. All are welcome! read more

I have been training Krav Maga and Jiu jitsu here for two years and cannot recommend this gym enough. The classes include a great mix of games, technique, and sparring to develop well rounded fighters. The instructors are extremely knowledgeable and passionate about martial arts which is evident in each class you take. I find N-Flux to be really unique in many respects, including the fact that you'll find a really good balance between female and male students in each class, along with a supportive and collaborative energy rather than one that's unnecessarily competitive and aggressive that can sometimes be associated with a martial arts gym. The encouraging and inclusive nature of the gym facilitates a smooth transition for those who have never tried martial arts. There is also a large focus on safety in every class; all moves taught to be executed with control with the wellbeing of our training partners in mind. When I travel I like to try out different jiu jitsu gyms and I've never found one quite like N-Flux. It always makes me extra eager to return to DC and train at my favorite gym! You can't go wrong with trying out a class here. read more

Literally made a Yelp account just so I can tell you all how utterly awesome N-Flux is. I first visited N-Flux on ClassPass thinking, "oh hey maybe I can learn Krav and reach my childhood dream of being a njnja." Little did I know that months later, it would be such an integral and positive part of my daily life. Chris and Colleen are inspirational, supportive, patient, amazing martial artists and teachers. They're able to credibly teach a diverse array of disciplines, including Krav Maga, No-Gi Grappling, Boxing, Kickboxing, and Urban Ninja Training (although they did recently discontinue yoga which makes me sad). This is awesome because you get to realize how interconnected the skills are and try new things all the time. Some of the classes I was originally most scared of are now the ones I enjoy the most. The community is also fantastic, especially Guerrera, the weekly training/brunching/social-issue-discussing women's fight club. My only real complaint is that evening Krav classes are now all really big. Overall, this place is a diamond--if you're on the fence about it, come. read more

I've trained in Krav Maga for over seven years in a few different schools, and Chris is one of the best instructors I've met. He is passionate about Krav Maga, and that passion comes through in the way he teaches. Above all else, Chris is committed to ensuring that his students have the tools they need to get home safe. You'll get in better shape training here, but part of what sets Chris apart in this very physical activity is actually mental. Ask Chris a question about a technique, and you can tell that he has given it a lot of thought (and that he enjoyed thinking about it). He's always searching for ways to improve the system. Dogma is less important than what actually works. Don't think that you need to be an "alpha male" to train here. On a typical night, you'll find people across various age ranges, body types, and walks of life all working together. It's a welcoming environment. If you're interested in learning Krav Maga -- or just interested in learning how to defend yourself -- Krav Maga N-Flux is definitely the best option in DC. read more

I've been training with Chris Torres for over 5 years, and i have been thrilled to see the evolution of the N-Flux studio, curriculum, and community--with equal credit to Colleen Daly for putting her own stamp on it as well. The classes are challenging, rewarding, and difficult (in the good sense). For WHOOP users, I never see strain like in these HIIT classes. The martial arts programs are accessible for beginners and experienced practitioners. And the community is supportive, fun, and dedicated. If you need evidence, consider that many people have stayed part of the N-flux team through two studio relocations--demonstrating their commitment and loyalty. Finally, Chris and Colleen are a much greater whole than the already considerable sum of their talents. Together, they've come up with an incredible program, and they've diligently worked to put new digital content on blast for folks to enjoy at home during the pandemic. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE consider supporting them by buying a gift card or paying for the free digital classes. read more

I absolutely LOVE N-flux! I was looking all over DC for a good place to box and kept ending up with mediocre spots that were over priced, and was beyond ecstatic when I found this place. Colleen in particular, one of the instructors, is INCREDIBLE. She has the most amazing balance of being able to meet beginners where they are at and be patient with them in helping them learn while also pushing and challenging more experienced folks. I came into this not knowing hardly anything about boxing and I now feel like I'm actually pretty good at it! I always leave n flux feeling so much better than I came in and I couldn't recommend it more! Best of all is the Sunday Guerrerra class that Colleen teaches! It's an INCREDIBLE class where you do one hour of krav/boxing/kickboxing/jujitsu and one hour of talking about a social justice issues and how we can make a difference. If you want to punch things and be a part of a community of affirming and powerful women, I seriously couldn't recommend this more. read more

I've been training at N-Flux since 2018 and can't say enough about how special, welcoming and supportive this community is. I came for a women's self defense class that was offered through work and stayed for the coaches, the Krav Maga & strength training classes and the people. This gym attracts the kind of people who reflect the rock solid integrity of its coaches: people who are learning to fight to better themselves spiritually and physically - and are simultaneously dedicated to supporting fellow n-fluxers to be their best selves. Whether you've trained before or are dipping your toe in the water for the first time, there's a place for you here to grow your skills and strength. The coaches are all extremely knowledgeable across disciplines (Krav, Jiu jitsu, MMA, etc) and intuitive when it comes to working with individual students across all levels. If you're considering a class, just give it a try. You'll be happy you did and may just find a new hobby/community/journey in the process. read more

When I moved into DC I started looking for a new workout. Like everyone else, I have very little motivation to go to the gym and even less motivation to KEEP going to the gym. I tried out a couple of activities, one of which was Krav Maga at N-Flux. I can't say I loved that first class- the women were super intimidating and the workout was really tough. But it was fun. And mentally engaging. I needed something that would keep me SO busy I would forget that I was exercising. The next day I woke up and couldn't move - everything was sore! Perfect. So I went back. And those super intimidating women (one of whom was Kathryn who now teaches!) were funny and nice and helped me through every class. The more I got to know Chris and Colleen the more I fell in love with the studio not just because they're excellent instructors but because they care so much about their students. Come check it out for the workout. Stay for the skills and the crew. It's totally changed my perspective on fitness. read more

Best place to train for self defense / Krav Maga in DC. After my first Krav Maga studio closed, I searched for a place that allowed me to continue my training. N-Flux is the place I've chosen because of the quality of the training and the training space. Students can sign up for multiple disciplines that supplement self-defense including Grappling, Kickboxing, or Urban Ninja. Chris, Colleen, and Kathryn are superb teachers that structure the classes to safely train you both physically and mentally. Also, the Nflux app is great - super easy to sign up for classes, cancel, etc. They also have community events and workshops (like knife defense or a women-only self-defense). If you're hesitant, give it a try using their 2 class for $30 trial. All of the students are very welcoming and will help to show you the ropes (it's almost expected that the more experienced students help out since it's everyone's responsibility to train properly). Can't say enough about this place! read more

The experience here is always positive, challenging, and way more fun than exercise should be! Each class is mentally engaging--we're always learning something new and drilling it hard. I personally get a lot out of Chris's instruction style--he's thorough, thoughtful, and tough. He and Colleen take great care in shaping a strong and unique culture; body shaming just does not happen here, and everyone is expected to be encouraging and constructive in partner work. Plus there are lots of opportunities to socialize (happy hours, weekend trips, UFC viewings, Guerrera). If you're thinking about learning self-defense, definitely check out N-Flux! I chose Krav Maga because it's a practical style for an urban context and I've tried other studios. None compare to N-Flux. This place is 10/10. Plus there is nowhere else in town where you spar around stripper poles, so you should at least drop in to see what that's about. read more

If you are looking for a safe and welcoming community to learn self-defense through Krav Maga and other classes, look no further. I started training with Chris, Colleen and Kathryn a year and a half ago. My "gateway" class was kickboxing. I could hardly throw a punch, let alone imagine how the hell I would defend myself in a violent situation. I can honestly say this team and these classes have transformed my life in ways I could not have expected, both on and off the mat. Not only do I feel more confident about having a menu of options to choose from should I suddenly have to protect myself, my training at NFlux has had unexpected benefits like improving my dance and yoga skills, as well as, building confidence in the way I approach my work. This team has a unique way of building community and pushing you to constantly improve. My one caution about attending these classes - be careful! You may get addicted! read more

I've been training with Chris for more than a year now and since I started I never even thought of looking for other place or other trainer. As mentioned in review below, Chris is constantly improving his teaching techniques, so you'll never get a feeling of boring routine. He is also very knowledgeable and can always explain the purpose of any technique, as well as how to better master any specific movement. Overall, for me, Krav Maga has been perfect option to get a great exercise and to stay fit: it is challenging, will definitely improve your stamina, will make you stronger, will help to reduce stress, and most importantly - it is a practical skill. I'd also like to mention that classes are perfectly safe for women, in fact, more women have been showing up lately. All of the students are always supportive, atmosphere is super friendly, so I am always looking forward to the class. read more

Whenever I pick up/try out a new hobby, the sense of community and the people who I do it with really determine whether or not I come back/stick with it. The community at N-flux is **amazing**!!!! Everyone is SO incredibly welcoming, friendly, and supportive!!! Much much much kudos to Chris and Colleen, there is as much an emphasis on building skill as there is on building a community!!! On top of that, the mission of N-flux to use fitness/movement as a way to engage with the world really resonates with me. The classes are not only fun, taught by VERY well qualified instructors, and leave you increeeeeeeeeeedibly sweaty and exhausted, but they're SO functional and useful!!! I've definitely gotten stronger and more confident in my fighting capability since training at N-flux!!!! Thank you so much, especially to Chris and Colleen, but also to the greater N-flux community!! read more