Annette P.
Kickboxing
May 8, 2016
When I was making my move from Logan Square to Noble Square last year, the one thing I was researching, was a boxing gym I can join. Once I came across Reach Fieldhouse, I knew I found a home. The website hooked me, especially the video. So I joined August 19th, 2015 and have been there ever since.
I remember taking Efrain's Boxing class at 7:30pm, me, a tiny girl, with lack of endurance/cardio activity. I was losing lots of oxygen, let's say that, Efrain being a great instructor and a good body language reader, was consistently asking if I was okay, and to take a break, drink water. Not many instructors tell you that. I appreciated that greatly because I am someone who doesn't take breaks.
EVERY single boxing instructor in this gym has his own way of leading the group. It's amazing. You never get bored but you SURE get tired wink emoticon The difference in this gym that I have experienced is that you have a round of mitting, counterpunching drills, etc. It helps you understand why you are punching the heavy bag the way you do and how it matches up to hitting a real person.
Arturo has a 10AM class that I have frequented on my days off. With his years of experience, his words of encouragment made me work harder. He always gives you a thumbs up if you are working on your arms or legs. To me, these little gestures mean a lot. I got hit by a car once and everyday since he's told me to be careful. Genuine heart.
Jayh has a 11am class. He will KICK your ass.He has taught me how to "corkscrew" jab/cross. He will come up to you to help you understand the speed bag. He will push you to exceed your limits. You better come and work hard in his class. His adidas track suit? ON POINT.
Efrain likes to change his class up. From mitting, to counter punching drills, to gearing up with a body protectors. He has the Jalomo twins play defense, while we pretend to be actual boxers in the ring. The twins work the desk and help around with the pads. Rani can kick your butt and make you work very hard. Both of them are genuinely friendly, and always smiling and greeting people on their way in and out. Martin, also works the front desk and is super nice, he teaches a strength and conditioning class, that will leave you sore for days.
I dare you all, drop by for a first free class!