The first thing you should be aware of is that Tactical Mixed Martial Arts is truly the type of…read moresmall family business that politicians just love to gush about. There's Tony, his wife Jennifer and their two kids, Jasmyn and Destiny, (OK, young adults) running the place and doing an excellent job at it! I started here about two years ago after wanting to get in better physical shape for Krav Maga lessons at another school, and business owners take note, I saw an advertisement at the Spring Hill Mall advertising Tactical MMA's 90-Day Kettle Bell challenge. Fans of Tim Ferriss already know about the impressive weight loss and muscle gain when just practicing with kettlebells, so I really didn't need any convincing, I signed up for the class and have slowly have been toning my body while gaining muscle mass. Tony, Jennifer, Jasmyn and yes, Destiny truly care to see their students perform to the best of their abilities. I've been training for ruck marches, a planned Goruck Tough in September and between starting a small security start-up and the extra workouts and rucks with 30-50lbs of weight I've added outside of working out at Tactical Mixed Martial Arts, there is never a negative word spoken, its an extremely friendly, positive training academy with life-affirming words to keep you working out, even if you find some of the workouts too much. Recently I've started taking their Cardio MMA class, which is three nights a week of a high-intensity circuit workout that I generally attend two and have added a weighted vest to add some variety to my workouts. Please don't let the name scare you, everyone attending kettlebells and the Cardio MMA classes are friendly, and like Tony and Jennifer, want to see you succeed with your physical fitness goals and have a good time doing it. The only complaint I have (Its a small one!) is the music sometimes gets a little repetitive, but they have been soliciting others for more music to add to the rotation. Definitely consider Tactical Mixed Martial Arts if you are looking to make a real change in your life when it comes to your workouts!

This gym is amazing! Such a great atmosphere and people. I've been doing the cardio MMA classes and…read morethe class is challenging but fun!

Best Martial arts program around. Highly recommend checking them out in person. Real self defense…read morebased school that sets you up for success.

Master Darius, and his instructors are a different partial arts academy in the sense of that they…read morecreate a community. My son has been attending for just under a year and his confidence and physical ability have greatly increased. Lions teaches tae kwon do, escrima, and akido. Very traditional but very caring staff.

I've been at Curran for more than two years and can't speak highly enough of my experience. The…read moreenvironment is so supportive, no matter your goals. Everyone always goes out of their way to talk with new members and make them feel welcome, and over time I've developed several great friendships. Jeff, Chuck, and Justin go out of their way to make Muay Thai and BJJ as accessible as possible. It's a community-oriented, family-friendly environment. I see lots of parents come for kids' classes, then stick around to train themselves. As a woman and a beginner, I usually prefer training with other women, and no one has ever pressured me to work with someone I'm not comfortable with. There are almost always great women to train with, and as I've gotten more comfortable training with men, I've had great experiences with them, too. I live pretty far away, and the coaches are also very understanding that I can only come once or twice a week. Since some members are there almost every day to prep for competitions, even people who are more self-defense oriented (like me) have the opportunity to experience more intense sparring if they want it. If you've ever considered learning Muay Thai or BJJ, or just want to learn to defend yourself, Curran is a great place to do it, regardless of age. You can take it at your own pace and will feel encouraged, not pressured, to aim higher. The coaches care about ensuring you can protect yourself, so if you stick with the program, you'll know you're being prepared with solid techniques. If I ever leave the area, it'll be one of the places I miss most!

I started training here in the spring. Most of the gym was welcoming, and I genuinely enjoyed…read moretraining, rolling with members and attending almost every class. The first issue arose when a longtime teammate came to me visibly upset and said she and another student were kicked off the mat by blue belt Alexa, who she said lacked authority to do so. Staff initially seemed understanding, but when they later asked her, she retracted what she'd told me. She had personally told me she cared about her reputation at the gym and didn't want to seem like a complainer. I was questioned about why I stood up for her when it "had nothing to do with me." Chuck labeled me a problem and said I was stirring up drama. I also raised concerns about another woman's passive-aggressive jokes. Chuck dismissed it because she jokes with him, but what he considers a joke isn't necessarily what I do. There was also an incident I never reported because I feared being labeled a complainer. I've never had an issue rolling with men there; this was one specific interaction. After rolling with an older man, the clock stopped and we sat while I listened to his advice. He rested his hand on my upper thigh. I stayed quiet because of how my previous concerns were handled. I discussed concerns with morning instructor AJ and coach Justin. Owner Jeff Curran later called this "cornering" instructors and spreading gossip. I was trying to communicate how disrespected I felt by Chuck labeling me the problem. Chuck talked down to me, cut me off and became upset when I asked questions, so I left. During the next eight days, my membership was apparently canceled without informing me, even though I kept attending morning classes with AJ. I avoided evenings because of Chuck. When I saw him again, there was no apology; I was told he "deals with things a certain way." I still listened to Chuck and the other coaches. When Chuck later tried having a joking/personal relationship with me again, I didn't want that. I wanted to train, take instruction and leave, but apparently that was interpreted as disrespect. After I borrowed a gi, Chuck told me to put it in the bin and he'd wash it. I heard him, we made eye contact and I understood. I guess because I didn't respond how he wanted, he immediately followed me. When I looked back, he kept pace and maintained eye contact. He followed me to the rack, watched me put the gi away, then watched me leave. Later they said there was only one exit, but he followed me to the rack first, not simply toward the exit. The situation reached its climax when Jeff confronted me after morning class while I was talking with AJ. He said, "Let's talk about it." As AJ was leaving, Jeff said he didn't want to talk to me alone because I "put words in [his] mouth." He motioned for me to get out, then told AJ not to talk to me. Jeff yelled at me and accused me of calling Chuck "a bigot." I immediately made clear I DID NOT call Chuck a bigot. Jeff said he'd known Chuck for 39 years while judging me despite barely knowing me. He called me a "liability" and defended Chuck by saying he'd simply had a bad day. When I responded, "I can't have bad days too?" Jeff said I had a "victim mentality" and continued calling me a liability. He also said something like, "This is a combat sport. What are you going to do, cry if you jam your finger?" My concerns were NEVER about handling BJJ physically. I've trained through injuries. They were about how I was treated and spoken to. Jeff scheduled a meeting for the next day at 1:00. I agreed, but going in I already had a feeling how it would go, so I said I was going to stop training there. They recorded the meeting, so assuming it remains complete and unedited, there's a record of what happened. Chuck constantly interrupted me, and whenever I addressed one person, someone else jumped in. It felt like everyone was tagging each other in. I tried to understand their perspectives, but when I explained mine, it felt like, "Here's why you're wrong." I felt dismissed and gaslighted. Jeff eventually told me to get out and commented on my future personal relationships despite barely knowing me. When I mentioned mixed reviews about him, he felt insulted after making personal comments about me. I trained hard and cared about the gym. I believe this could've gone differently if they'd been willing to listen instead of becoming defensive. Others may genuinely have five-star experiences, but that doesn't negate mine. More five-star reviews don't erase what happened to me. As a woman there alone, I question whether I would've been treated the same way if I'd had someone supporting me, such as a partner or man present. I have no reason to lie. This reflects my experience and what happened when I raised concerns.

Amazing place and great people! I've been training at Kogan…read moreSelf-Defense & Martial Arts and can honestly say it's one of the best experiences I've had. The atmosphere is welcoming, disciplined, and full of real energy -- no ego, just pure focus and respect. The instructors are incredibly skilled and pay attention to every student, pushing you to grow while keeping training safe and motivating. Every session leaves me stronger, sharper, and more confident -- both physically and mentally. Highly recommend this school to anyone who wants real martial arts, not just fitness classes. ! Kogan Self-Defense & Martial Arts . , - , . , . , - . , .

Intense. Not for the faint hearted. The real deal. Excellent…read moreif you're looking for the above. All ages!

I was only in the Grayslake area for a couple of days...but I had to get a roll in…read more Ohana was wonderful. They were very welcoming, despite the fact I was not able to call ahead prior. The coach was excellent - he provided great instruction and...just to really drive the point home the instructor even rolled with me and demonstrated the techniques he taught in class by applying them to (on?) me! That was a great way to see/experience the lesson in action. All-in-all everyone was super nice, no one tried to smash me down because from a different place, but everyone still gave me a good roll and I had a great experience!! If you're in the Grayslake, Il area I highly recommend Ohana Martial Arts!!

I've been here for a little over a 2 years now. One of the biggest things which pointed me to…read moreOhana was the Instructor. Chris Lund is really laid back and there are no formalities here, which make it really easy to ask him for help with techniques or questions about how to do moves. Actually you can walk up to anyone for help and they'll be more than happy to do so. The quality of instruction you receive here is amazing. I am a science teacher at a local High School and even I have to admit the instruction/organization of the classes at Ohana are the best. The classes don't feel like a canned lesson and Chris likes to point out the finer details that I feel other places didn't spend time covering. Also while you're practicing, Chris will spend time with most everyone pointing out these details or answering questions. Another great thing is that you also spend time drilling what you've learned in class which reinforces what you've learned. I also really like that the adult class sizes stay small around 20-30 students from white to brown and mostly blue and purple belts who are all very friendly and humble. Check your ego at the door is the sign you'll see as soon as you walk in. Both the instructor and students pride themselves on their hospitality, and the camaraderie can be seen as you first walk in. If you are a beginner to the sport or an experienced grappler this is the place to take your game to the next level. Also, Ohana hosts a great seminar 2x a year with BJ Penn's BJJ coach Renato Verissimo. "Ohana" is not just a catchy name but more so a true representation of their philosophy and teaching. There is no need to feel pressured or intimated; your first class is free! I've been training at the school for over 2 years and still can't wait to attend class each week. BJJ itself is an outstanding martial art for self-defense, physical fitness, and overall wellness/confidence. The school also offers an excellent curriculum for kids. I urge anyone that is curious or considering BJJ to stop into the school to watch a class or jump in to try it for themselves.

We recently joined The Tiger Academy! The place is very nice and instructors are great! Friendly…read moreatmosphere and my child loves it! Thank you!

This martial arts schools is really good and the masters are very friendly as well. I took the…read moreself-defense training and I'm very thankful as I'm not a person who works out and it was pretty difficult for me to learn things but they are very motivational towards the students. I am a proud with what I have learn form them today. Thank you Barrington Tiger Academy !!!

I have been training with Shihan Gangi since 1984. I started in my 30's, and was not into sports. I…read moresigned up for a Women's Self Defense class. The class was 7 weeks long and I loved it. I signed up for another 7 week course. I tried to sign up for a third & Shihan Gangi suggested I might want to try the regular Kung-Fu classes. Well I did, and I absolutely loved the workout & learning new things. I progressed and earned my 3rd degree black belt. I never thought I could do it, but Shihan made me believe in myself. Eventually I became an instructor & participated in teaching Women's Self Defense classes, children's classes and competing in point tournaments. Sensei Bonnie Ross

I started training with Shihan Gangi in 1984 at the age of 18, eventually earning a second degree…read moreblack belt. He is an excellent instructor for practical self-defense, and working with children and families. I still use many of the same principles and techniques he taught me years ago.

Had our grandson's birthday party here-the owners are super nice and easy to work with. The boys…read moreand all their friends had a blast!

Keys Martial Arts Academy exceeds all of our expectations!…read more Master Key teaches Taekwondo in a fun, "kid Friendly," atmosphere. This child centered training makes learning Taekwondo a great experience for children of all ages. Our son decided on his own to perform a Taekwondo routine for his school talent show. We asked Master Key to help us with the choreography. Not only did he agree to help but he offered to come and help with the actual performance! The Key's gave up their evening in order to help our son achieve his personal best. The two years of training under Master Key paid off. Not only did our son break all of his boards, but he won first place at the talent show! We will never forget that night. If you are looking for a place to enroll your child, you should definitely check out Key's Martial Arts Academy!

It is a great honor to train under the guidance and patience (and occasional good-natured laughter)…read moreof Grandmaster Tae, the Masters and Assistant Masters at W Kim Tae Kwon Do in Lake Zurich, the Black Belts with whom we train, and my fellow students. I did not join W Kim TKD in LZ as a member in search of "a workout", though through my first eight weeks of training I've certainly discovered and felt muscles I did not know I had. To train with any instructor at W Kim TKD LZ is to feel at some point being truly "pushed", in ways I'd imagine nearly anyone seeking "a workout" would desire. I write this even having trained for and completed five marathons. I am new in my journey toward studying any martial art, currently a High White Belt in Tae Kwon Do. New as I am, even in my upper-40's, and for as much as I stumble along the way, I have no desire to stop training. I chose to pursue study of Tae Kwon Do out of the desire to inspire my 8 year-old son to finish what he started in his own training. About a year ago, when, as a Green Belt in his training, my son grew resistant to the increasing challenges presented to him, I chose to commit to my son that I would personally join him in his training en route to earning a Black Belt.. once he had advanced past Green Belt himself. True to the spirit of this school, my son persevered, and eventually earned his Purple Belt in a Belt Promotion that put his skills and training to the test. And so began our journey together. It is through the spirit of focus, concentration, and tenacity dwelling at the heart of all that happens in every lesson within the school at W Kim TKD Lake Zurich that my son and I have each found a unique but potent way to connect with each other, in participating individually in an experience that undeniably moves each of us beyond our perceived limits. We train in separate rooms, but we know the other is working hard, each in our own pursuit of becoming a better person. The mutual feeling of success after each lesson for each of us is undeniable, and makes for some very enjoyable conversation and celebration together on the ride home.. and for many hours to follow. More importantly, though, the shared experiences we have together at this school have deepened our mutual connection as father and son. These are truly priceless memories that are being formed. If all that I just wrote here still leaves anyone unconvinced, you can freely get a sense of what to expect at W Kim TKD in Lake Zurich simply by looking through the windows of its main training studio, toward its southernmost walls. Take in the Student Creed, the Tenets and Oaths of Taekwondo, and the Children Home Rules. Then, decide for yourself whether what you see written there would be of value to you and/or your children. I know that for me, and for what is plainly viewable as a true, vibrant community amongst the students and teachers, what I saw on that wall was worth pursuing. As both a father and as a midage adult working to improve upon my own internal resolve, I do not regret doing so. I am certain many other students would say the same. - Steve

I have been a student of the Kims at their Palatine locations for about 25 years. My wife and two…read morekids also went for a while. Although I admit, I have not gone for a while. On a shopping trip to Trader Joe's in Lake Zurich, I had forgotten they opened a second location in the same strip mall. So, at around noon on a Saturday, I dropped in. Hoping to run into Master Tae Hyung Kim, I learned he had already left for the day. But, I met the lead instructor and observed for a while. I remember when they had one location in downtown Palatine that was great, but very "lived in". This new location is really nice. It's well lit, the gym is large, the instructors have microphones they wear so they can easily be heard. And, since many of their students are kids, they have a great seating area where parents can watch the classes. I'm really sorry that I missed Tae, but I did leave my number for him. For a couple of years I've said I would go back again. I need to get back in shape. One day, I will be back.

This is my first experience with a Jujitsu class and I am just shy of 50 years old…read more Everyone has been very helpful, supportive and welcoming. All skill levels work together to improve everyone's knowledge and skill. Highly recommend

Love the family atmosphere. The jiu jitsu instructors treat you like family and not just a…read morestranger. The karate classes are fun and get the kids excited to learn more. Excellent academy to learn and grow your skills. Highly recommend