Buffalo Grove Martial Arts

12/01/2007 Posted by jerica808

Upon entering Buffalo Grove Martial Arts, I was hesitant to join because of how demanding it appeared. But once I stepped into my first class, I was hooked. Not only was it the best work out I had ever experienced., but also the only work out I have felt the affects of two days later. I even discovered muscles that I was not aware existed! If you are looking for a work out that is worth your money and time this your best option. The instructors are amazing people who truly care about your best interest and what will benefit you the most. All in all, BGMA is the place where you want to go in order to obtain the best shape of your life, at any age.

Pros: Instructors are great, and it is actually clean!

Cons: none

11/28/2007 Posted by phinfreak

I was a 45 year old fat out of shape guy that was bummed because I used to be an athlete, football, basketball, racquetball, but after 25 years of the corporate life I lost my game, not to mention my youthful energy. Like most people, I went to the typical health club and worked out but was totally bored of treadmills and just lifting weights. I wanted something more competitive and intense. I looked into the convential martial arts but I didnt want to learn Japanese or wear a Gi etc. I wanted contact. I wanted to learn how to knock someone out if I had to and protect my family, especially after 9/11. I wanted something competitive where other guys like me trained, where I would be coached and pushed beyond my limits. I found BGMA on the internet, took an introductory class, and Wow! I knew Krav Maga was for me. After the first 15 minutes of that intro class I was off in a corner searching for oxygen! Two years later, I am taking two classes back to back (2hrs), I am keeping up with the young bucks in their 20's. I've lost 30 lbs without dieting...in fact I eat more now, sleep better, and am totally addicted to this place. I love to spar, I love the "live" workouts, the competition, the hitting and contact. I've learned how to defend myself and my family against gun and knife attacks, chokes, head locks, bear hugs everything. I'm 2 years into this and feel great. I get adrenaline rushes during the day thinking about class later that night. The instructors are the best, they push you to your limit but safely. The instruction on technique is first class. The school is clean and always kept up. The members are all great and I expect to continue well into my 60's. If you're tired and bored of the same old routine and want to jump start your fitness and learn self defense in a safe, clean and intense environment, this is the school for you. Take an intro class and see if it's for you. I'll see you there!

Pros: Intensity, live training, sparring, instructor skill level

Cons: Not for the ego maniac. Leave your ego at the door please.

11/28/2007 Posted by justjohn7

I have practiced other martial arts and BGMA is by far the best. Incredible workout, very gifted and knowledgable instructors, friendly atmosphere, no hype or high pressure. Whether you are trying to become a better fighter, lose weight/get in shape, have fun or just learn how to protect yourself, Krav Maga at BGMA is the best. I joined when I lived close by, but moved 35 miles away in Naperville now. I still drive there twice a week because its that good.

Pros: Instructors are excellent, atmosphere is great, everyone is friendly.

Cons: None!

11/28/2007 Posted by zacelanadad

What a great place and great instructors. I have been attending Krav Maga for 2 years; after testing moved up to Level 3 after 1.5 years. There is no problem to take a Level 1 or 2 class or even kickboxing if so desired; or several classes back to back. It's a heck of a workout, with 'real-life' self defense which includes several martial arts disciplines & loads of fun. Staff and students are very friendly (everyone gets along with each other and friendships have been made); nobody is out to prove how great they are as a martial artist, even if they have attained a high level in another discipline. If the staff wasn't so friendly and approachable, I wouldn't be attending. The students range in age from high school to 55+ yrs. When we spar box, nobody is out to hurt anyone, (we wear protective equipment as well); it's a learning experience for all. Beside the instructiors (who have black belts in other disciplines (some more than 1) if a student notices someone else incorrectly performing a technique, advice is given and taken without criticism. We never go at 100% to insure no one gets hurt. The beginning of the class starts with stretching (even that makes me sweat!) and a warm-up; I have become so much more flexible since starting out; I can even reach my toes without bending my knees! There are 2 classes in separate rooms at the same time, such as Krav Maga class and kickboxing, therefore if a student wants a different workout or has an injury he/she can attend the other class. Once I finished the hour long class on a Saturday, I was hooked! This was no 'intro' class; it was a regular Level 2 class. I have played many sports, some including aerobic & anaerobic training (such as marathoning, but this is one heck of training; plus during the winter, I don't have to brave the ements, my workout is Krav. I highly recommend this to all men and women.

Pros: Great staff, great workout and applicable to real-life self defense situations.

Cons: None

11/28/2007 Posted by danishere

Buffalo Grove Martial Arts changed my life, I finally found an activity I love to do. My brother and I both go there for Krav Maga and we both love it. I have personally lost over 70 pounds since I have been going there. The staff are excellent and are extremely helpful. The rooms are good sized and bright with excellent equipment. There are a lot classes to choose from and different payment options available. If you are looking for martial arts, fitness, and fun then I highly recommend Buffalo Grove Martial Arts. -Dan

11/28/2007 Posted by wyldejackyl

I first sought out BGMA as a place where I could learn self-defense and stay in shape. While it is a little far for me, I appreciate the expert instruction, my fellow students, and the cleanliness of the facility. The price and plans offered are reasonable, too. I joined in January 2006 by first taking an introductory class. I'm lucky I made it until the end of that hour- I was out of shape! I liked it enough though that I signed up, and kept attending. After a few weeks, I was definitely hooked; the soreness and anxiety had worn off, and I was hooked on something I didn't know if I'd like or not. I'm now in Level 3 and do my best to make it in as often as possible- when something comes up that keeps me from going to class, it's a total downer. I have received nothing but the best support from Bert and the rest of the instructors, and they work with you to make sure you are doing everything right and to the maximum of your potential. Self defense is important - only you are responsible for your safety (not the police, the government, etc.). If you want to learn, this is definitely the place. The classes are structured so you aren't expected to be an expert right away. Remember: this system is designed for the Israeli military, where EVERYONE serves. It was built on the fact that new recruits would range from physically fit to, well, not-so-fit. You start off with the basics, and move your way up from there. There is no pressure; you work at your own pace. If I had to start over again, I'd still stick with this system.

Pros: All stated, and more

Cons: Travel time, if you live in the City (but still worth it)

11/27/2007 Posted by 1999_vette

I take the Krav Maga Class. IMO, its the most practical and useful self defense system out there. As a bonus you get a GREAT cardial workout too! Price is fair, instructors (and students) are friendly and very willing to help and answer questions. I look forward to my workouts each week.

Pros: Great classes, great instructors, great students!

11/27/2007 Posted by yazheirx

With a family of four we have had the ability to sample just about every service BGMA has to offer and find them all to be quite excellent. Our children have taken the karate classes and have enjoyed them. My wife, older son and I have taken both the Fitness Kick Boxing and Krav Maga classes. The Fitness Kick Boxing is perfect for both men and women. My wife and her friends like the aerobic aspects of it. Whereas me and the men I talk to there like that there is emphasis placed on form and combinations that can be rolled over into Krav Maga. Best of all with several instructors that teach on different nights there is always a new workout. One word of advice if you are new to Fitness Kick Boxing go at your own pace at first do not burn yourself out. It can be a bit much if you were a couch potato and are trying to get back in to shape. But if you stick with it you will feel the results in no time. For those looking for defensive skills Krav Maga is a simple to learn system that quickly gives you the basics. There is a good mix of males and females in the class allowing for more realistic training scenarios. The atmosphere is relaxed but structured. The instructors are approachable and will spend the time needed to help you understand anything you may be struggling with. Overall we would recommend BGMA to anyone from 4 to 70.

Pros: Great atmosphere, awesome instructors

Cons: You will read this and the secret will be out

11/27/2007 Posted by 4foreman

We don't know where to begin!!! Not only has Buffalo Grove Martial Arts exceeded any expectations we had when enrolling our son, but after each class session we comment "that we should have done this sooner". We can't express enough how grateful we are for the personal and individual care/attention each of the instructors gives our son on a weekly basis. The students are not "just a number" for Buffalo Grove Martial Arts, they become part of their martial arts team. The focus is always what can be done to enhance the child's comfort level as well as offering continuous praise and encouragement for each developing task in a given class session. The Instructors truly take an interest in the children and go above and beyond by having unconditional patience. They capitalize on any strenghts and work on enhancing any weaknesses. The entire staff is not just professional, but approachable and this is something we want to commend them for. From day one, we had a good feeling about Buffalo Grove Martial Arts!!! The Foreman Family.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful

11/27/2007 Posted by paulcon

I was sort of hesitant to join a martial arts school where it would be full of guys who want to go around and beat on people. Boy was I wrong. Buffalo Grove Martial Arts is a really cool place. the instructors are friendly. the school is VERY CLEAN (it doesnt smell like a gym!) and the rest of the students are respectful and friendly. Often there are just as many women in class as there are men. I do the Krav maga classes as well as the fitness kickboxing class. The Krav Maga classes are really informative with a particular emphasis on saftey and the kickboxing classes are just outstanding. I would reccomend them to anyone who is looking to train in the martial arts.

Pros: Great staff, very professional.

Cons: Cant really think of any.

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful