I've been coming to strikers since February 2025 and it has been an incredible experience! Coach Joe is truly one of the most excellent teachers I've ever met. The space he cultivates here isn't your run of the mill martial arts gym. It's an encouraging, collaborative, and welcoming learning environment where Coach takes time to focus on and refine technical skill, depth of knowledge, and rhythm. I recall in particular how Coach Joe took the time to fix my middle kick in a way that really clicked. He takes special care and attention to help you learn not only the proper form of a move but also the why behind it. Once you have it, it's impossible to forget. If he takes the time to help you correct something, just know that he believes in your capacity for growth and improvement. He is a wellspring of expertise. This learning environment is also reinforced by the athletes and experienced students who I've had the pleasure of training with. Through drills and sparring, everyone works to support each other and reinforce our learning. What you get here is not just an education; it's also a didactic community. I can't recommend this gym enough. read more

We took our very gentle and sweet six year old here one summer after a bullying incident where we realized she needed some skills and confidence to defend against a brat at school. Duveen was a phenomenal teacher and we saw great progress in just one summer. She is skilled at teaching, has patience and keeps the classes engaging and varied enough to maintain the students' attention. Although our child was not in love with the sport as she is with other activities, we felt it was a very valuable experience and a summer well-spent. read more

The gym is my safe space. From young to old, heavyweight to featherweight, all are respected and welcomed. We leave our ego at the door and work together to sharpen each other. read more

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Ten year update. Coach Joe has expanded to a better location in SGV and added more classes. I still drive 45 mins each way to train whenever I can. Strikers Inc still provides the best technical coaching from one of the only World Muay Thai Council (look it up) accredited trainers in California. The culture is still welcoming and friendly (especially to beginners) and the beats are still great. read more

Strikers - Strikers' new, bigger location with better light and air flow! - Boxing Near Me - San Gabriel, California

I'm officially in love with Muay Thai. The support at Strikers has been phenomenal and I'm about 3 months into training. Every single person supports you no matter where you're at on your journey. What I love the most is this not just a class to get some exercise instead Coach Joe focuses on training you to be stronger. And everyone in the community is super welcoming and willing to help beginners like me. read more

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Even though I'm very uncoordinated and kept hitting the coach's knee with my foot he had a lot of patience and corrected . Very good coach for a complete novice read more

过来尝试一节课，这将是你给自己一生中最好的礼物！ A 5 star for Strikers is an understatement! It's like diamond, it's priceless! I started muaythai boxing training with coach Joe in 2019 March, what I've gained is not only a top notch physic, badass self defence skill and deep rooted confidence, but also SELF TRANSFORMATION, a deep understanding about myself, it shows me my strength and weakness, helps me to become the best version of myself! I wasn't even aware that I had a victim mentality, which prevent me from being the best version of myself. From practising muaythai boxing, I have developed a warrior mentality, confidence inside out, the real confidence that rooted in my blood and in my being! Coach Joe is the real deal, very straight forward no bullshit, he cares about your training from bottom of his heart. Don't try to slack off, he's always watching you!! The community is very supportive and loving! It's like the perfect family! Ok enough words, come check it out yourself! I'm looking forward to meeting you! read more

Strikers - Boxing Near Me - San Gabriel, California

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I have been training with Coach Joseph since 2007. What separates Coach Joseph from other instructors is his close attention to each student, his demonstration of each technique and his willingness to work with your conditions, i.e. previous experience, age and athletic abilities. I have been training martial arts over 40 years and consider Coach Joseph to be one of the best instructors. read more

Strikers - Boxing Near Me - San Gabriel, California

Strikers isnt just about getting a great workout, the members here are all super friendly and help each others get better. Coach Joseph is an old school coach that really helps you focus on technique and fundamentals to make sure you dont get hurt and do things the right way. Classes are a great workout and kicks your butt (literally and figuratively). Just try out an introductory class, make sure to bring an extra shirt and lots of water. read more

I've trained with Joseph Del Real for 13 years now and I can easily say it's been one of the best decisions of my life. Wether you are looking to get into shape, learn a new skill or gain confidence by learning self defense, Joe and Strikers Inc. has you covered. Muay Thai/MMA gyms can give off an intense, off putting vibe but at Strikers there is a real sense of community. From the professional to the beginner everyone treats each other with respect. All the people I've met at Strikers have been friendly and truly have the intent of bettering each other. This is of course cultivated by our head coach Joseph. Joe's laidback demeanor with his good sense of humor couples well with his desire for excellence. I've seen Joe mold truly uncoordinated students into formidable opponents in a matter of months. If you've ever been curious about Muay Thai or are just looking for a new way to get into shape I highly recommend checking out Strikers Inc. read more

Do you like ínstense workouts? Would you like to learn a self defense strategy and work out at the same time? Do you want special attention to help you learn how to properly strike? If you answered yes to either question you have to come to Strikers Inc. Coach Del Real is amazing coach, he hosted great workout classes teaching how to properly strike and get a great workout at the same time. Just when you feel your about to stop your same classmates will encourage you finish strong. That's just how much of a great vibe goes on. I love to take there classes and love being there overall. Definitely recommend you coming out and trying it for yourself. Hope to see you there read more

The best Muay Thai gym in SoCal! Now a coach myself, all of my peers and students are always curious where I've learned my authentic Muay Thai from. It all came from this "hole in the wall" gym called Striker's Inc in San Gabriel. Coach Joseph is not only very knowledgeable in Muay Thai, but he's become a life long mentor and friend who I look up to. He has coached me in many fights and has guided me to become number 8th rank in California MMA. If you're looking for fitness or even to become a formidable weapon in the art of 8 limbs, come checkout the best striking gym in SoCal. read more

Strikers - Coach Joe always wants us to stretch post training. He's probably telling me that he wants to see more head kicks. - Boxing Near Me - San Gabriel, California

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My son has been going here since last year and comes home more engaged and talkative. I feel this is such a great program and a way great way he can unwind in a safe palace while also learning a skill. So impressed with the whole o read more

I am so excited! Strikers is open again and in a brand new location! The new spot is bright and airy with lots of room to train. As always Coach Joseph Del Real delivers his exceptional level of instruction in the striking arts. Classes are small with individualized attention. It doesn't matter what your level of experience is Coach Joseph and the other students are welcoming. I have been a member since 2016 and in the best shape of my life! Wouldn't trade this for the world! read more

Hands down THE BEST Striking coach in the area! Joseph Del Real not only turned my life around by setting me down a path towards great health and wellness, but also helped shape a positive approach toward many facets of life. As an instructor, he's spent his time in Thailand learning directly from the best in the world as well as learning the physiological side of movement from UCLA. His many years of teaching has him instructing people on multiple levels of understanding, where he can convey his lessons in ways unique to the individual, putting each person in their best learning environment. I owe a lot to Strikers Inc. and Kru Joe and cannot recommend his program enough!!! read more

Strikers - Boxing Near Me - San Gabriel, California

I have been to all types of gyms in la for the last decade plus and I would have to say that Strikers is one of the best. Classes at strikers are always physically challenging but at the same time you will learn and get better. Coach Joe is one of the most detailed oriented coaches you will ever meet and has a great way of explaining technique that helps the information sink in. Everyone at the gym is very friendly and helpful. The new location is a lot bigger and has new mats. read more

Strikers - Boxing Near Me - San Gabriel, California

Omg! Just had the best work out at Strikers...First time I've ever done kickboxing and it was so much fun. Loved the learning lesson and the intensity of the workout. We did the class with my family and will definitely come back. read more

Strikers - Saturday Family Fun Work Out at Strikers! Had a group session and our family loved it. We will definitely come back. - Boxing Near Me - San Gabriel, California

This place is amazing! I have been learning so much about the art of Muy Thai with Coach Joe that i am so grateful to have found this place. His training stems from deep roots. The respect for the art speaks volumes. It's both a philosophy and a profound way of being once you begin training. Always come here. read more

Strikers - Muy Thai - Boxing Near Me - San Gabriel, California

Best coach ever. There are lots of gyms out there where you can get a good workout in but there aren't many coaches like Joe Del Real. He trains from his heart and brings out the best of your inner fighter. Bring a change of clothes because you will be soaked in sweat...every time, never fails. He keeps you on your toes, sharpening your skills, strengthening your strikes and all the while still having a good time while doing it. Strikers will give you the best Muay Thai workout around. If you are looking to get strong, learn a new practice, or just meet your fitness goals this coach and gym is where to put your faith into. read more

Some teachers are just gifted at their craft and that's Coach Joe. His passion for the art and his students constantly shines through. If you're looking for a light cardio class, then this is not the class for you. This is a class for those who seek community, strength and would like to really understand the art of Muay Thai. This class is for those that want to be pushed and push themselves further than they thought possible. Once you've consistently attended Joe's class you will walk down the street taller and know that you can defend yourself if the occasion arises. read more

Strikers - Coach Joe holding pads for me. - Boxing Near Me - San Gabriel, California

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Strikers' new location has a glass facade, and often times both the front and back door are open while we train. It's become common now for curious spectators to linger around the front windows, the front entrance, even peeking in the back door, trying to get a glimpse of the passionate intensity going on inside. The energy here is contagious; everyone there is hungry to learn and to grow as a fighter and as a human. I've been training with Coach Joe and many of these amazing people for *cough muffle* years now, and there is still always something to learn. There's always a way to improve, and Coach will find a way to get through to you if you're humble enough to listen. Training here has been by far the most challenging and the most rewarding athletic endeavor of my life, and I plan to train as hard as I can for as long as I can. As a veteran grandma member, it warms my heart to see so many new faces spilling in, catching the bug, and working their asses off. If you're on the fence about learning this art, hop off. Come in. Wrap up. read more

If you're intimidated by the prospect of having to actually touch other people (let alone hit/kick them/get hit/kicked by them) I understand. I understand the idea of being freaked out by the intensity of this place, or even just the prospect of entering a "dungeon" filled with ripped, sweaty, shirtless people making loud noises. But surprise, surprise, these are the nicest people, and they're not there to hurt you- they're there to teach you and to learn with you and to grow with you. Strikers is truly a family environment, where all levels of experience and skill are welcome and function in harmony. Coach Joe is incredibly passionate and one of the most skilled teachers--in any medium--I've ever had. Trust what he's telling you. He wants you to be better, and if he's bothering to critique you, it's because he knows you CAN be better. Yes, you'll get into better shape physically, but functional training like this, where you learn a skill/art, will improve your mental clarity and agility as well. Plus it's really fun to have friends you're encouraged to hit. And buy a mouthguard. They're much cheaper than the alternative. read more

I honestly never thought how important Strikers Inc going to become in my life, I don't know what I would have done without Coach Joe & fam in Striker Inc. pushed me and made jokes about how funny it looks like and we all laughed about it. Always believing in everyone have potential becoming better, passionate about martial art. Best gym, best Coach, real fighter. Thank you Joe for everything. read more

1 year ago, I woke up and decided I was going to start learning martial arts. I wanted to learn something that would challenge me both physically and mentally, and that I could one day feel a sense of mastery over after a lot of hard work. I did some research, and decided that kickboxing and/or Muay Thai was what I was searching for, and I began looking at gyms in my area. There were several gyms within walking distance from where I live that offered classes in one or both of these styles, and a few more gyms just a short drive away. Those gyms weren't bad, but it wasn't until I walked in to Strikers that I knew this was where I was going to begin my journey as a martial artist. As soon as I walked in, the complete immersion of my mind and body began. I was nervous, but I felt welcomed by both Coach and the other students. There was no pep talk or tutorial, we just went right into training. I immediately saw that Coach Joe isn't the type of instructor who is just going to let you hit the bag, or attempt any kind of move mindlessly. It wasn't just about the workout, although I don't think I'd sweated that much since high school football practice a decade ago. That first day, I learned that every strike is an opportunity to improve my foundation as a martial artist. After the first day, I knew that if I continued to train in this gym, I was going to learn how to kick, punch, elbow, knee, move, breathe, block, slip, weave, and fight with the mastery of a true artist. I was also going to get insanely fit in the process. And that was it. I was hooked. I've been training at Strikers for almost a year now, and I look and feel like a different person, both in and out of the gym. My journey as a martial artist will always be a work in progress, but I know I've come so far from that first day, and it's a great feeling. It's a healthy addiction, and I'm so glad I found Coach Joe, the gym, and all my buddies who I get to sweat with, beat up, and get beat up by every other day. I know I can speak for all of them when I say, we're so glad to be a part of all of it. Whether your training to compete or not doesn't matter, this place is the best. Long story short - come check it out, it's what you've been looking for. read more

After coming here for almost 5 months now, I can say that this is the best gym I've ever been to. Coach Joe is truly one of a kind and will take you to heights that you've never thought possible. He is very meticulous in demonstrating techniques and correcting little flaws that will make your martial art look like what it should, an art. The classes are no pushover, you will be tested, and you will sweat....alot, but those moments where you come back each time and feel your punches getting stronger and faster, and seeing your kicks getting higher and higher make it all truly worth it. The environment is also nice and friendly, the people who practice there are very kind and supportive, so don't be afraid to talk to them! Thanks to Coach Joe, I have never been more fit in my entire life. Not only do I feel stronger, faster and healthier, but I sure look like it now too. I've also gained a deeper understanding of Muay Thai and truly understand what it means to push myself past what I thought was my limit before. I hope to continue training and never stop, because in the short time I was here, I've come to call this place my second home away from home. read more

Strikers - My weight loss journey that wouldn't have been possible without Coach Joe, seriously if you're reading this coach, Thank you. - Boxing Near Me - San Gabriel, California

I have been training out of Strikers Inc. since 2016 and this place has seriously changed my life. Coach Joe teaches with a passion and hunger to make all of his students a better fighter than the last time they came to class. From pro fighters to new beginners, Joe has the experience and patience to train anyone. read more

I had some issues that I needed to work out and boxing was literally the first thing that came into mind. So I searched up any place that involved punching bags and boy was I glad to come here. In about two weeks, I picked up a lot of techniques details that I would not have picked up elsewhere. Coach Joseph was the toughest and one of the best coaches out there. He was so effective that I've picked various combos and practiced them by myself from time to time. At this point of my life, I've never been more healthier, faster, stronger, and had more stamina ever. But you know what? I still got my ___ beat. His classes aren't easy which is actually a good thing, trust me. The people there are really cool as well. They're nice and super supportive, especially to the new people. If it weren't for financial difficulties and some other things, I would be here on a weekly basis. I should be coming back sometime in a couple months and hopefully more prepared too. read more

I have been a member at Strikers Inc since November, when they opened, and its been one of the best decisions. I usually go to the 6 or 7 PM classes which a taught by owner/coach Joseph Del Real. Joe has many years of experience in the striking martial arts, and has a unique ability to use words to teach. Constantly using metaphors for students to understand the movement better. A lot of coaches teach by doing, but Joseph does, and verbalizes which has really helped my growth as a striker. The members at the gym are very friendly, and have become like a second family! If you're interested in getting in shape, or learning some cool life skills, come check out Strikers Inc!! read more

I have been learning from Joe for a few months. Joe is a coach who gives honest feedback, which I highly appreciate. I also enjoy the dynamics with other students here. To me, this place is way better than going to a regular gym. If you want to give it a shot, try one class and see if it could be a good fit for you. read more

I LOVE Strikers Inc!! The coach there Joseph Del Real is amazing! He is the most skillful, humble, caring, motivating, sincere, talented trainer I had ever had. He has a passion to teach and to inspire his students. You can see how much he cares about his students because he takes the time and patience to emphasize the importance of the technique in muay thai. You will not find that in any other muay thai gym in los angeles, trust me Ive been to many muay thai gyms in the los angeles area. Everyone that I have seen train here with Joseph Del Real has impeccable technique. Stikers inc. workouts are the best I have ever had in my life. Even if you don't want to learn muay thai, Joseph Del Real will customize your own workout to whatever your fitness goals /needs are. He does a variety of intense workouts and always switches it up so its never boring. Ive been to many personal trainers, bootcamps, crossfit, zumba, fitness classes, boxing/muay thai gyms, but I always come back to Joseph Del Real. He has gotten me in the best shape of my life. Not only has my body completely changed but so has my mind emotionally and mentally. I feel like if Im ever in a situation where I need to protect myself I can. Strikers inc. has taken my fitness to another level which I thought I could never reach. Joseph Del Real pushes u and motivates u. After his workouts u feel dead tired and exhausted but at the same time so accomplished. The people who train here are very friendly and treat each other like family, they motivate one another and it's great to be part of that environment. You won't find any creepos here starring at you like other gyms I have been to. If an intense workout is not what u are looking for then this place is probably not for u. If you're not looking to shed weight, burn calories, get toned, or look or feel your best then don't bother coming here. :P Schedule a private session with Joseph or come check out one of his classes! read more

I've read and agree with the other positive reviews. I thought people should also know that Coach Joseph can teach in Spanish as well. So............ Me, fascina este gimnasio. Es todo lo que yo estaba buscando y más. Mi entrenador Joseph del real es, espectacular. Enseña un currículum MEGA efectivo, y fácil de entender. Por el......... hoy tengo un cuerpo que nunca imagine tener. Y lo mas importante, aprendí como defenderme de los maleantes. Definitivamente tengo mas Confianza de salir a cual quier parte sin temor. Estoy, addicta a strikersinc. Totalmente se los recomiendo. Si es sólo para cambiar tu físico, o entrenar como todo un profesional, este gimnasio es para ti. read more

Update 11/21/16 Years has gone by since I started training with coach Joe. I came and went every few month or so. As of today I have probably around 7 month of consistent training with coach under my belt. What coach Joe taught me is something far more valuable than some simple work out routine. He taught me how to be tough. I'm not talking about acting tough, or being a punk, and pick a fight. Coach taught me how to a man, how to be a fighter, by learning how to push through when my mind and every muscle in my body tricking me to give up. Then only finding that I am able, I am worthy, to push through, to hang in there, TO ACHIEVE IMMORTALITY... JK... ... ... Lol... But seriously though that feeling when you thought you can go no further than only finding HOLY SH*T, what just happened?!?! I didn't die... I was able to do it. It feels pretty darn good. And those experiences really helps me build a strong mental fortitude. I always like to give this analogy: If you ever watched the movie "127 Hours" you'd have a vivid image in your mind... Lol... If I was trapped in the desert with my left arm stuck in the rocks or something, and I need to cut off my arm to escape from death. The me from 2 years ago probably wouldn't have the balls to cut off my arm even if I had a sharp 6 inch blade with me.... The me today on the other hand would not hesitate even if I only had a rock... I WILL USE THAT ROCK AND SMASH MY ARM RIGHT OFF WITHOUT ANY HESITATION!!!... ... ... Ok.. Ok... maybe not that extreme... ... ... Lol... But I'd definitely would not hesitate with the same 6 inch blade. Now this kind of sh*t you will never learn in school... ... ... Thank you coach for all you had taught me, all you had shared with me, it's been one hell of a ride the past years. I look forward to the many years to come. read more

Cannot say enough about coach JDR, the gym, & the people who train here. Aint no half steppin' when you walk into STRIKERS INC! Be ready to pay attention & to put in work. When I joined, I was looking to train in Western Boxing primarily. But after being exposed to many other forms of martial arts, I found myself most interested in Muay Thai/Kickboxing. Coach is constantly opening my eyes to new techniques, skills, forms of training, etc... I HIGHLY recommend this gym to anyone looking to improve on their fitness, test their mite, learn a martial art(s), break a sweat, meet some cool people, train to fight, practice self-discipline, relieve some stress, &/or burn massive amounts of calories!!! My favorite aspect of this gym by far...Coach's willingness to train anybody, no matter your age, gender, skill set, previous training/knowledge, desires, etc. In other words: If you're scared to STRIKERS INC because you're out of shape, come anyway. If you're worried if this is the place to send your kids, send them. If you only want to train in a certain discipline, tell Coach what you're looking for, you won't be disappointed here. read more

Coach Joseph is one of the most impatient person I've ever met. Maybe he has been treating everyone nice. I don't know. But me and my two other friends were scolded, cursed at and even kicked at when we did mistakes that were understandable as we were first timers in Muay Thai. Maybe because we were three young Asian boys. Even when I asked a question about how to do a specific combo, I got scolded and cursed at. Another time, my friend was doing a combo and did a kick a little too early while Coach Joseph was holding the pad, he gave my friend a full kick to the body and scolded my friend. I would suggest not to ever train under him. He is impatient, arrogant, ignorant and extremely rude. I have no reason to write this review if this was not true. read more

Strikers Inc. is the best martial arts gym in SoCal. Coach Joseph Del Real is an exceptional coach. If you are interested in learning "the art", there is no better place. The sessions are 1 and a half hour or 1 hour long. After couple training sessions, you will start to call Strikers Inc. your home!!! read more

Strikers - Boxing Near Me - San Gabriel, California

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So I've been to over 10 schools in SoCal during the past decade, small to large gyms. Coach Joseph is the real deal. He cares about your personal growth and will give you feedback to make you better. His attention to detail is second to none, so they'll never be a day where you feel like you're not progressing...unless your Anderson Silva. Also, every class has an amazing music playlist which is super motivating especially when you get tired. BYOWT (Bring your own water + towel :) read more

There's nothing that I can say about Strikers that hasn't been communicated by another in a more genuine or significant manner. This place is great and is well deserving of any praise that comes its way. Don't worry about some the possibility of some silly injury coming your way, say a fractured toe off the foam floor linings. The floor is layered with foam. Can you imagine a situation in which the fulcrum of your bones and foam matting causing a fracture? Your bones would have to be made of some derivative of cardboard for that to happen. read more

5 Stars because: 1) Fantastic training - coach Joe is a great coach who knows how to work with different individuals coming from different fitness & athletic backgrounds. He is also able to work with different "mental states" (from a beginner who needs to build confidence, to an experienced fighter who might be more aggressive). He is able to help take you to the limit, and drive you to push even further. 2) Fantastic atmosphere: one of collective progress without any egos. I have felt my technique and athleticism both improve - and I have seen everyone else around me improve as well - and there's a great sense of community and progress at the gym. 3) Fantastic martial arts: I feel like I have learned a whole new language - and am achieving a great deal of fluency. I never thought I would learn to love Martial Arts and did not intend to become a "fan" of it - but coach Joe has been able to make me a huge fan of it! He has introduced me to Muay Thai, Boxing, MMA, and Tai Kwon Do techniques, and has catered my training to my body and fitness type. In addition to enjoying the athleticism and sport of Marital Arts, he has helped me learn to appreciate the "art" of it as well. Coach Joe is all about helping students learn to express themselves through Martial Arts. I am not a person who enjoys exercising or being sore - but Coach Joe has a way of motivating and driving me to want to improve and keep coming back. He has helped me capitalize on my strengths and has pushed me to address my weaknesses - he doesn't make it easy and is passionate about my improvement (and the improvement of my classmates) - but is able to do it in a way that is motivating. One of the best investments I have made for myself to date - I feel stronger & healthier mentally and physically. read more

Best Striking in So Cal!! Joseph the trainer respects the art as well as the sport, and will get you in to the best shape of your life. Getting in shape, learning self defense and learning an artform is all guranteed when going to Strikers Inc. With an extremly initmate and personal setting Joseph will help you sharpen your skills and develope a style that is uniquely your own. Great with beginners and also expeirenced strikers Joseph will make you sweat and teach you perfect technique. Great trainer and also just an all round cool guy!! read more

I've been coming out to Strikers and working with Coach Joe for almost a year now. I walked in with zero experience. Part of me felt excited to try Muay Thai, but another part of me felt unsure about what to expect. Little did I know this would be one of the best decisions I'd make for myself. I've gotten so much out of training here - I discovered a passion for martial arts, a true desire to learn and improve, supportive friends, stress relief from school, and more. And I have Coach Joe and my teammates in the Strikers family to thank for that. It is rare to find a guy like Coach Joe - he brings so many good things to the table. As a person, he is empathetic, funny, intelligent and passionate about what he does. As a trainer, few people have his depth of knowledge in multiple striking disciplines. If you come out to Strikers, Coach Joe will teach you techniques from Muay Thai, Western Boxing, and Taekwondo integrated into a cohesive, effective package. His teaching style is intuitive - he has the ability to impart his knowledge in a simple, easy-to-understand way that beginners and experienced students alike can immediately improve from. During sessions, Coach will push you hard, expect you to be 100% there physically and mentally, and will point out mistakes until you fix them. He genuinely cares about seeing improvement in every one of his students. I am far from a natural - I came in with horrible flexibility, coordination, and balance. My own stiff joints fought against me when I tried to throw kicks. I would trip and fall over all the time. I had trouble learning the most basic combinations. I looked and felt really awkward, and wondered if I was meant to be doing this. But no one ever judged me. Rather, the people at Strikers provided me with the guidance, patience, and positive environment I needed to improve. It took a little time, but I started getting the hang of it. But soon, getting the hang of it was not enough for me. As I kept coming out, I watched Coach and older students execute difficult techniques with beauty and grace. I would hear their powerful kicks make thunderous echoes on the heavy bags. They inspired a desire in me to get there one day too. I started stretching regularly outside of sessions. If I struggled with a new a technique or if Coach pointed out a mistake, I would drill it at home on my own time so I could execute them better at the next session. I would stay after class to ask Coach questions details about form/technique. All this hard work has paid off. I've come a long way since I first started. While I still have so much to learn, Coach Joe and Strikers Inc have rekindled a primal, deep-rooted desire to be the best I can, a feeling I haven't had since I used to run 50 miles a week preparing for a marathon in 2013. I look forward to every session, and make time to go 3 times a week even as a medical student. When I see people come into Strikers for the first time, I am reminded of myself in many ways. I see them make the same mistakes I made. I see them struggling with the same techniques I had trouble with when I first started. It's tough, and martial arts are not mastered overnight. But I also see the possibility that each one of them might discover the joys of training at Strikers like I have - that can be yours too, if you are willing to walk through the door and give it a shot. read more