I am nearing the end of my second year at AMA, and it is crazy what a difference the time can make. I walked in as nervous as anyone and did my private lesson to see where I stood and whether I'd have any issues in the basic Muay Thai pad class. This is essentially to feel out the student for what they want, what their fitness level is, and to make certain AMA is a good fit. Also, as safety is number one, it gages your strengths and weaknesses. I began in the basic kickboxing class as one of the (then) few females that came during the day. I was paired up with one of the most terrifying looking men and was on my way to learning how to hit, kick, and hold the pads. It was one of the best decisions I ever made. Turns out, scary-looking or not- no one has an ego issue, and they will push you as hard as you push them, and they will help work your skill and technique in the process. Even after 2 years, I learn a lot from fellow students as well as the instructors. The instructors are very hands-on and observant, it is almost like having one-on--one instruction some days. Muay Thai led to BJJ- and again, as a female I was a minority in class. And as BJJ is rather up in your personal space, there can be some expected awkwardness. ...That being said, I have not really experienced that. What I have experienced is a lot of hands-on teaching, tight instruction in technique, and a lot of live rolling. Again, everyone is very respectful, insightful, and a lot of fun to grapple with. Sure, you will get bumps and bruises, but safety is key. So is having a good time. BJJ became my new love. I went from being a schlubby desk worker to anticipating my first grappling competition next month!!! For the record, I started out at about 181 lbs and close to a size 20, am now down to 160 and under a size ten- I'd weigh less, but I developed a lot of muscle over the time. :) As one good health decision begets other good decisions, you will find yourself wanting to eat better, sleep better, work out more... it's addictive. Highly recommend! read more

I started training at Absolute Martial Arts back in November of 2008. When I started, I had ideas in my head about what a Mixed Martial Arts gym should be like. I realized I didn't know what I thought I did. They don't have a big fancy cage, they're not hugely promoted, but they genuinely care about their students. A phrase my instructor used to repeat to me and I now repeat to newer members is "I'll go as hard as you go". At the time it was just meant to let me know I was setting the pace and intensity in sparring or grappling. But that phrase/idea applies to your training here too. If you dedicate yourself and show a willingness to learn, they will teach you more. Everyone gets instruction, but if you show that you want to get better and you're not just doing it to get a little cardio workout or just to be at an MMA gym, you'll get pushed more and taught more and you'll learn more. I think this is a good gym. Other gyms in the city may have big "UFC style" cages, or boxing rings, lots of weights and treadmills and whatnot... You'll realize that that stuff isn't what matters What this gym does have is knowledgeable coaches who compete or have competed, a legit BJJ/Shudo-Kan blackbelt instructor who's dedicated his life to martial arts and a good work ethic. There's a cage wall so you can mimic the cage setting. There are many kinds of pads to use to work out with.. Some gyms have tons of equipment and advertise ruthlessly and shamelessly, what this gym has is people. People that will work with you and help you with no egos. But no one is going to do it for you. You have to dedicate yourself and your level of dedication will show through in your training and the level of instruction and competition you receive. Edit: My introductory class nearly made me puke and showed me I had a long way to go as far as physical fitness. They showed me through some basic strikes and grappling techniques and the instructor worked with me to show me how they'd work for real. IT was intense. read more

It seems there are a couple of negative reviews that don't at all reflect the experience I've had. As far as the kickboxing goes, there's only one type of class that has the partner holding pads. Technique classes, which are light sparring in contextual educational settings, and sparring classes are different. I can understand if you haven't trained here how you might think it's all the "workout" aspect of kickboxing. Needless to say, you will get in shape while also learning your stuff. There are several pro and amateur competitors here in Muay Thai, BJJ, and MMA. Keith Brock runs the majority of the adult classes. He is a 2nd degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu under 8th degree black belt Master Murgel, a black prajiad in Muay Thai under Master Toddy, and a 6th degree black belt in Karate. The other instructor that helps out is Coach Eric, who fought in Strikeforce when it was around. I don't know much else about him, but I'm pretty sure he's a purple belt in Jiu Jitsu and on the verge of brown belt. He may actually be a brown belt. The point is, this place is legit. In fact, I'd place a handful of these guys against any of the top guys around town. Finally, I've never had anyone act rude to me. In fact, the complete opposite. Everyone is so friendly, willing to meet up at the gym outside of class to work on stuff, and travels to see each other compete. Whether you want to get in shape or compete, this place provides all the tools you need. read more

I've seen a few reviews for this business and while I can understand the experience people have had in the past I must admit that my experience was a good one and very different. First, let me say that I asked about a few of the low star ratings when I went back to the gym and was told that the scores came several year ago, and don't reflect who they are as a business and are not totally accurate. They also said they have been working diligently to continue to build a great business where people can come learn and practice martial arts. The kickboxing is amazing and if you want to get in shape, this is a great place to do it! My friend Tim and I will be members here for a long time! My experience has been so different from the negative reviews I read. I want to continue to encourage you to check out Absolute Martial Arts even if you don't join. I believe that when you visit you'll experience a great customer service staff , and you'll see for yourself why I felt they deserved the rating I've given them. read more

Both my son (14) and daughter (11) have been taking Karate at Absolute Martial Arts for 3+ years. They love it, and it has been very good for them. Professor ( Ana) and her entire top-notch staff do an excellent job of motivating the kids and keeping them enthusiastic about the martial arts. Both of my kids are Brown-Black belts, so yes, they can defend themselves. However, they have learned so much more from One Martial Arts--confidence, discipline, focus, respect--that help them in every aspect of their lives. It shows in their relationships with each other, their friends, teachers, and in their school work. I was recently driving my daughter to her lesson, and she said, "Karate makes me happy." And that makes me happy. I highly recommend Absolute Martial Arts. read more

Absolute Martial Arts is a great school. I have been a member for almost two years. I have trained at other local gyms and this is the first one I really liked. Everyone gets along almost like one big team or family. Regarding the other coment, what a joke! Absolute has both pro and amature fighters in MMA. Also, their brazilian jiu jitsu instructor is a black belt under Ricardo Murgel who is a 8th black belt in BJJ. Just because they don't push their student into competing, does not mean that their school does not compete. I would recommend they to anybody wanting good training and friendly enviroment. read more

Everyone there is very professional, friendly, and knows how to engage the children. We just started recently and my 5.5 yr old and 4 yr old boys seem to love it. I usually have to spend a whole day convincing my children to go to a class but they seem happy to go when I pick them up from school. They give out patches to the children at the end of each class and my boys get excited when they receive them. I love it when my sons ask me what does discipline mean (it's one of the patches) instead of telling me what toy he wants. Thumbs up all the way! read more

Absolute Martial Arts is absolutely the truth a very friendly atmosphere to learn for men women and children of all ages to anyone considering training or learning mixed martial arts I highly recommend Absolute Martial Arts the coaching staffs are highly skilled and have great training techniques I just recently started and I can already see results to Absolute thank you I represent read more

I really love the classes at Absolute Martial Arts. I started to get back in shape and I'm telling you it worked! I feel that I am in the best shape of my life and really look forward to taking class. I started out in Muay Thai Kickboxing but after awhile I started their Brazilian Jiu Jitsu program. I have recommended this school to my family, friends and co-workers. read more

I have joined to Absolute Martial Arts after participating in 2 trial class with my friend Gerry.Their techniques encouraged me to join here.Now 6 months has been passed I am taking training at Absolute Martial Arts.They allow only 20 people per class so that you get to know everybody.It make a friendly environment.I am learning fast. read more

My daughter has really built up her confidence taking karate with Miss Ana at absolute martial arts. she enjoys the classes and I enjoy the values it instills in her.My daughter always admires Absolute Martial Arts as she is learning better strategies here.She told me Miss Ana is her best teacher as well as best friend. read more

This is a great gym. The staff is helpful and treats all members equal. I am in my forties and receive the same attention to questions about technique and form as the pro fighters that train there. I have lost a lot of weight and gained a lot of confidence. Check it out for yourself and you will agree with me. read more

I love the kids classes with miss Ana. My daughters was a little shy and was getting bullied at school. After getting into the karate class her confidence has shot through the roof. NO more getting picked on. This place has a great family atmosphere. Highly recommended. :-) read more

I have joined with my boy friend in Absolute Martial Arts. We are now getting trained on martial arts.Their training method is easy and simple. They are serious what they are doing and I like their professionalism. read more

I was in St. louis and decided to try out the free class, and it was so awesome. Great customer service, and awesome class, highly recommended! read more

My friend got me a groupon to try kickboxing classes and it is the gift that keeps on giving. I decided to join up and I am loving it.