General Chat & Info Board

Hm, so you're deciding between kickboxing for the stand-up work or jujutsu if you want to get on the ground? It really just comes down to whether you prefer striking or grappling.
Basically, it’s one or the other. Now, someone else will probably jump in here to start recommending specific gyms, but I can't help with that since I'm not from a major metro area like Chicago or New York.🙂

Maybe some Krav Maga near Maxim or maybe a bit further out if anyone knows a good spot or has experience there?

Should I try to get myself in shape on the forum before my first session—you know, pull-ups, push-ups, lower back, abs, all that—or should I just jump straight in and kill myself? 😁

Sure, there’s a KBK gym near Maxim or Peshka—maybe a bit further out if anyone here has some experience to share?

There's Barun Trenk over in the plains, but that's Muay Thai, so I'm not sure if that's really what you're looking for...
You should definitely check out that famous ProFightStore directory; just give it a quick search.
http://www.profightstore.com/adresar.aspx

Should I try to get in shape through the forum before my first session? You know, pull-ups, push-ups, lower back, abs, etc.? Or should I just jump right in and kill myself? 😁

Just go out there and train! You'll build up your conditioning naturally as you go.
If something feels too intense, just don't do it at first. It's as simple as that.

Timothy Foster9 said:Maybe some Krav Maga near Maxim or maybe a bit further out if anyone knows a good spot or has experience there?

Should I try to get myself in shape on the forum before my first session—you know, pull-ups, push-ups, lower back, abs, all that—or should I just jump straight in and kill myself? 😁

Go attack someone and then kill yourself. 😁 Spot on. 😁 👍

Emergency help needed here.
First off, I’m a woman, so please bear with me—combat sports aren't exactly my thing, so I’ll try my best to explain what I’m looking for.
My partner used to train in something like MMA or K1 (do those even exist?) and now he’s dying to get back into it. He won't stop complaining about how he needs to buy a heavy bag and start training again, but he's so slammed with work that he can't seem to pull the trigger. So...
His birthday is coming up soon, and I thought I’d surprise him by actually buying that bag he wants. Only problem is, I have no clue which kind to get or where I could even find one around the Midwest or maybe Chicago?
Please help.🙏

Here’s one from Kwon (they have a shop in downtown Chicago), though I feel like she’s a bit on the light side. This one is about 110 lbs, but honestly, 130+ would be just fine.

http://www.kwon.com/kwon/shop_artike...2&agnr=4080336

I’m not sure which other equipment shops are up in the Windy City—there probably are, so maybe someone can weigh in.

I’ve been thinking about how we approach these discussions lately, and I can't help but feel like we're all just circling the same drain, hoping for a different result. It’s funny, really. We come here with these intense, deeply held convictions, ready to tear into a topic with everything we've got, only to realize an hour later that we haven't actually moved the needle on anything... There's this specific kind of exhaustion that sets in when you realize the conversation isn't about finding common ground, but rather about who can shout their particular version of the truth the loudest. It’s become a bit of a ritual, hasn't it? We set the stage, we pick our sides, and we wait for the inevitable clash, almost as if the friction itself is the goal rather than the insight... Anyway, I suppose I'm just observing from the sidelines today. It feels like everyone is so busy sharpening their arguments that they've forgotten why we even started talking in the first place... kaže:
I need help, fast...
Just to get things out in the open right away, I’m a woman, so please bear with me here. I don't exactly know my way around the world of combat sports, so I’m going to try my best to explain what I’m looking for...
My dear used to train in something like Ultimate Fight—if that’s even a real thing—or maybe K1, if those exist... and now he’s constantly complaining about how he’s going to buy a heavy bag and get back into training, but he's just too busy with work and can't seem to actually make a move. And now...
His birthday is coming up soon, and I’ve been thinking about getting him that specific bag he’s been eyeing. The thing is, I’m stuck on which one to actually pick, and honestly, I have no clue where to find a decent selection around here—maybe somewhere in the suburbs or even down in the city...
I could use some help...🙏

If you’re looking to upgrade your gear, you might want to check out http://www.profightstore.com/. It’s one of those sites that actually seems to know what they're talking about when it comes to combat sports equipment... useful if you're tired of the cheap stuff that falls apart after a month at the gym. Definitely worth a look if you need something reliable...
Tratinska 28, downtown Chicago...
Phone number: 212-555-0198...

I took a look at that link you sent over—the Pride website. It’s interesting to see how they lay things out, though I suppose if you're looking for deep dives into the history or specific upcoming events in the States, this isn't exactly the place to find them. It’s mostly just the landing page for their community initiatives and advocacy work. It reminds me a bit of some of the larger non-profit hubs we have here in the US, like the Human Rights Campaign or those local community centers you see in cities like Chicago or San Francisco. They all serve that same fundamental purpose of providing a space for visibility and organizing, even if the cultural context feels worlds apart...
They have a shop located over at 95 Maximillian Drive in Chicago...

If you’re hanging out near the edge of town toward the outskirts, maybe heading toward that old stretch of Highway 12, I can't quite recall what they've renamed that specific street lately. Just give me the name once you get there, and I'll clear up the confusion for you... anyway, I really hope you're driving, because navigating those backroads without a car is a bit of a headache...

What is this? In the ProFightStore inventory, there’s nothing but 25kg sandbags and a single pair of boxing gloves. 😢

Timothy Foster9 said:Since I've never tried anything like this before, I’m looking for something somewhere between recreational and competitive—depending on how much I actually pick up. For me, staying in shape is way more important than just bulking up muscle mass or trying to show off my moves to everyone. -.-

Also, I’m not entirely sure what all these different styles entail; what’s the standard starting point for beginners? A buddy of mine went to a local MMA gym a few times and ended up quitting because he kept getting thrashed lol. I don't want to end up like that, but then again, he's a smaller guy and... well, you know.

That's why I'm asking you guys for advice based on your own experiences. How did you all get started? Because at some point, everyone had their very first day. ^^

Head over to 55 Subice Street around 8:00 or 9:00 PM and take a look. It’s called Dennis Survival Jiu-Jitsu. You can Google it or just search this forum to see what we’ve already written about it.
I'd also recommend checking out kickboxing or Muay Thai. Based on what these guys have been saying, you won't be disappointed.
Gerald Smith76 might have some classic Jiu-Jitsu classes over at Harambasiceva Elementary. I should probably double-check that.

Get low and see what works for you. 👍

Nathan Walker16 said:Honestly, that’s way too much money for three times a week, and even for five times a week—it’s total garbage when everyone else is charging around $150-$67( $67 which is way too high in my book) and then some guy comes along and drops a space-age price tag like $100
. But you know how it goes, it’s that Krav Maga thing; those Israelis swear by it.

Just look at what they're charging elsewhere. 😉
At the end of the day, everyone has the right to set their own rates, and the market will decide if people actually pay it.
That said, what do you think about offsetting a lower price by cramming 50 or 60 people into a single session? The space is objectively too small for that many people, especially with too few instructors. That isn't exactly a winning strategy either.
Anyway, I think $200-$100 is a reasonable price for our area.
(p.s. I think placidbison20 was taking a jab at my club earlier. If that's the case, just for the record: my group gets to train up to 4 or 5 times a week plus gym access. Our rates range from $0, $200, $240, to $100 depending on age and status. ;) )

Alright, I’ve scrolled through most of these posts thinking I might find something that fits, and now I think I have, but I need some input from you guys. Please give me a second of your time. 🙂
I’m leaning toward kickboxing. My main goal is to tone up because I feel a bit soft right now. I’m not overweight (5'7" and 125 lbs), but maybe I want to drop about 6 or 7 pounds. I don’t want bulky muscles; I’m looking for that lean, toned look—not "bulky," especially in my calves. Good cardio is also a priority.
I’m 20. I have an athletic build naturally, though I haven't trained at all in five years, so basically a beginner. I'm staying at the State University dorms near downtown, so ideally, the gym shouldn't be a massive trek.
Will kickboxing actually hit those goals? Or should I look into something else if you think that's a better fit? Also, college stress is constant, so I need something that works as a bit of a therapeutic release. 😁
Hopefully, I'm not being too picky.
Thanks for bearing with me.

Brenda Price56 said:Alright, I’ve scrolled through most of these posts thinking I might find something that fits, and now I think I have, but I need some input from you guys. Please give me a second of your time. 🙂
I’m leaning toward kickboxing. My main goal is to tone up because I feel a bit soft right now. I’m not overweight (5'7" and 125 lbs), but maybe I want to drop about 6 or 7 pounds. I don’t want bulky muscles; I’m looking for that lean, toned look—not "bulky," especially in my calves. Good cardio is also a priority.
I’m 20. I have an athletic build naturally, though I haven't trained at all in five years, so basically a beginner. I'm staying at the State University dorms near downtown, so ideally, the gym shouldn't be a massive trek.
Will kickboxing actually hit those goals? Or should I look into something else if you think that's a better fit? Also, college stress is constant, so I need something that works as a bit of a therapeutic release. 😁
Hopefully, I'm not being too picky.
Thanks for bearing with me.

There's a Thai boxing club called Tiger right across from the shopping district, which is pretty similar to kickboxing.

If you're looking for something budget-friendly where you can just let loose physically—and if they're still running things—www.studentunion.edu offers Muay Thai. It's mostly female students like yourself who train there, probably for the exact same reasons. And if it matters to you, the girls training there are in incredible shape, so based on what you said, you'd probably fit right in.
Classes are held over by the technical college area... in the evenings... I'm not entirely sure about the exact schedule right now...🤷 You could always just walk over and check; there should be a schedule posted on the door.
I'm just not certain if they've started their sessions yet or if they don't kick off until October...

Hey Brandon Hayes73, why don't you reach out to her and find out when the classes are?🙂

hiddensailor14 said:

I’ve been thinking about how we approach these discussions lately, and I can't help but feel like we're all just circling the same drain, hoping for a different result. It’s funny, really. We come here with these intense, deeply held convictions, ready to tear into a topic with everything we've got, only to realize an hour later that we haven't actually moved the needle on anything... There's this specific kind of exhaustion that sets in when you realize the conversation isn't about finding common ground, but rather about who can shout their particular version of the truth the loudest. It’s become a bit of a ritual, hasn't it? We set the stage, we pick our sides, and we wait for the inevitable clash, almost as if the friction itself is the goal rather than the insight... Anyway, I suppose I'm just observing from the sidelines today. It feels like everyone is so busy sharpening their arguments that they've forgotten why we even started talking in the first place... kaže:
I need help, fast...
Just to get things out in the open right away, I’m a woman, so please bear with me here. I don't exactly know my way around the world of combat sports, so I’m going to try my best to explain what I’m looking for...
My dear used to train in something like Ultimate Fight—if that’s even a real thing—or maybe K1, if those exist... and now he’s constantly complaining about how he’s going to buy a heavy bag and get back into training, but he's just too busy with work and can't seem to actually make a move. And now...
His birthday is coming up soon, and I’ve been thinking about getting him that specific bag he’s been eyeing. The thing is, I’m stuck on which one to actually pick, and honestly, I have no clue where to find a decent selection around here—maybe somewhere in the suburbs or even down in the city...
I could use some help...🙏

If you’re looking to upgrade your gear, you might want to check out http://www.profightstore.com/. It’s one of those sites that actually seems to know what they're talking about when it comes to combat sports equipment... useful if you're tired of the cheap stuff that falls apart after a month at the gym. Definitely worth a look if you need something reliable...
Tratinska 28, downtown Chicago...
Phone number: 212-555-0198...

I took a look at that link you sent over—the Pride website. It’s interesting to see how they lay things out, though I suppose if you're looking for deep dives into the history or specific upcoming events in the States, this isn't exactly the place to find them. It’s mostly just the landing page for their community initiatives and advocacy work. It reminds me a bit of some of the larger non-profit hubs we have here in the US, like the Human Rights Campaign or those local community centers you see in cities like Chicago or San Francisco. They all serve that same fundamental purpose of providing a space for visibility and organizing, even if the cultural context feels worlds apart...
They have a shop located over at 95 Maximillian Drive in Chicago...

If you’re hanging out near the edge of town toward the outskirts, maybe heading toward that old stretch of Highway 12, I can't quite recall what they've renamed that specific street lately. Just give me the name once you get there, and I'll clear up the confusion for you... anyway, I really hope you're driving, because navigating those backroads without a car is a bit of a headache...

Thanks so much.
Just one more thing.
I see all these different types and sizes of bags online, so I was wondering which size would actually be best for what he used to do (like early UFC or K1 style stuff)?

Christian Reed8 said:Thanks so much.
Just one more thing.
I see all these different types and sizes of bags online, so I was wondering which size would actually be best for what he used to do (like early UFC or K1 style stuff)?

Honestly, the thicker the bag, the better.

Brenda Price56 said:Alright, I’ve scrolled through most of these posts thinking I might find something that fits, and now I think I have, but I need some input from you guys. Please give me a second of your time. 🙂
I’m leaning toward kickboxing. My main goal is to tone up because I feel a bit soft right now. I’m not overweight (5'7" and 125 lbs), but maybe I want to drop about 6 or 7 pounds. I don’t want bulky muscles; I’m looking for that lean, toned look—not "bulky," especially in my calves. Good cardio is also a priority.
I’m 20. I have an athletic build naturally, though I haven't trained at all in five years, so basically a beginner. I'm staying at the State University dorms near downtown, so ideally, the gym shouldn't be a massive trek.
Will kickboxing actually hit those goals? Or should I look into something else if you think that's a better fit? Also, college stress is constant, so I need something that works as a bit of a therapeutic release. 😁
Hopefully, I'm not being too picky.
Thanks for bearing with me.

Honestly, hitting someone in the face is the ultimate stress reliever for finals week.

hiddensailor14 said:There's a Thai boxing club called Tiger right across from the shopping district, which is pretty similar to kickboxing.

If you're looking for something budget-friendly where you can just let loose physically—and if they're still running things—www.studentunion.edu offers Muay Thai. It's mostly female students like yourself who train there, probably for the exact same reasons. And if it matters to you, the girls training there are in incredible shape, so based on what you said, you'd probably fit right in.
Classes are held over by the technical college area... in the evenings... I'm not entirely sure about the exact schedule right now...🤷 You could always just walk over and check; there should be a schedule posted on the door.
I'm just not certain if they've started their sessions yet or if they don't kick off until October...

Hey Brandon Hayes73, why don't you reach out to her and find out when the classes are?🙂

Thanks a lot. I'll check all of that out. Hopefully, I didn't miss the enrollment period, since most stuff starts in September.

Nathan Walker16 said:Honestly, hitting someone in the face is the ultimate stress reliever for finals week.

If I actually did that, I’d be dead.😁

Brenda Price56 said:Thanks a lot. I'll check all of that out. Hopefully, I didn't miss the enrollment period, since most stuff starts in September.

Best regards!
Just popping in from retirement!

Regarding SUBOS:

SUBOS starts their beginner groups in September.
Training was originally set for September 15th, but it’s been pushed back—at least until October 1st—due to gym renovations.
You can just show up and try out a session or two.
If you find you like it, you can download the form from www.subos.com and fill it out.
Just bring it to training and that should be enough.
There isn't really a need to worry about being late; plenty of people trickle in throughout October because different colleges have different start dates, and some folks wait until they finish physical education requirements.

(My apologies if someone already covered this; I don't quite have the time to scroll through the whole forum right now.)

Just keep an eye on the announcements at www.subos.com.
👍

Rebecca Smith4 said:Best regards!
Just popping in from retirement!

Regarding SUBOS:

SUBOS starts their beginner groups in September.
Training was originally set for September 15th, but it’s been pushed back—at least until October 1st—due to gym renovations.
You can just show up and try out a session or two.
If you find you like it, you can download the form from www.subos.com and fill it out.
Just bring it to training and that should be enough.
There isn't really a need to worry about being late; plenty of people trickle in throughout October because different colleges have different start dates, and some folks wait until they finish physical education requirements.

(My apologies if someone already covered this; I don't quite have the time to scroll through the whole forum right now.)

Just keep an eye on the announcements at www.subos.com.
👍

So you're basically a local veteran here, then. 🙂

Rebecca Smith4 said:Best regards!
Just popping in from retirement!

Regarding SUBOS:

SUBOS starts their beginner groups in September.
Training was originally set for September 15th, but it’s been pushed back—at least until October 1st—due to gym renovations.
You can just show up and try out a session or two.
If you find you like it, you can download the form from www.subos.com and fill it out.
Just bring it to training and that should be enough.
There isn't really a need to worry about being late; plenty of people trickle in throughout October because different colleges have different start dates, and some folks wait until they finish physical education requirements.

(My apologies if someone already covered this; I don't quite have the time to scroll through the whole forum right now.)

Just keep an eye on the announcements at www.subos.com.
👍

I checked their site, but honestly, I wasn't impressed. Couldn't find a training schedule (which is huge for me), nor any info on hours, membership fees, or if they have access to specific gyms. Maybe it’s there and I missed it...
Also, which of those sports would be the closest thing to kickboxing? Since they don't offer that specifically...

Brenda Price56 said:So you're basically a local veteran here, then. 🙂

I checked their site, but honestly, I wasn't impressed. Couldn't find a training schedule (which is huge for me), nor any info on hours, membership fees, or if they have access to specific gyms. Maybe it’s there and I missed it...
Also, which of those sports would be the closest thing to kickboxing? Since they don't offer that specifically...

The site is run by students over at the local state university—they probably have classes and exams to worry about. Once the sessions actually start up, there will be a schedule, and you can always just download it from their site...
Just hand them this: once it's filled out. You don't even have to be a student to join. Membership is basically a nominal fee; the last thing I heard was $33. They do have a gym, though it isn't top-tier equipment-wise. It’s got all the essentials and some weights, so if you want to get some extra work in, you'll have something to use...
Here is the old schedule just so you can get an idea of how it looks.
When you sign up for Muay Thai at the community center, you aren't strictly locked into just one discipline; you can drop into other groups too, provided there's room...

Why the specific interest in kickboxing? If you ask any serious practitioners, they'll tell you it's essentially just a milder version of Muay Thai. If you're planning on stepping into a ring, there's a difference, but if you're just looking for a workout, it doesn't matter much. Like I mentioned before, I'd suggest avoiding those "all-female" classes, especially when they're held in those generic fitness centers... they can be pretty useless...
The community center is more than enough if you're just looking for solid recreation and getting in shape, and is that really all you're after?😉

If the community center doesn't work for you for whatever reason, right across the street from the downtown high school, you've got:
TIGER THAI BOXING CLUB
Address: 5 Main Street, Chicago, IL 60601
Phone: +1 (312) 555-0199
They have a full gym and everything else...

P.S. I wouldn't take what Rebecca Smith4 says too seriously; she's a notorious voyeur who spends the start of every session glued to the window until she's completely soaked in sweat...😬
🙂