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Anderson's Martial Arts Academy
Category: Active Life Fitness & Instruction Martial Arts Martial Arts
394 Broadway3rd Fl
(between White St & Walker St)
New York, NY 10013
Neighborhood: Chinatown
(212) 766-6622
- Nearest Transit:
-
Canal St (N, R)
Canal St (4, 6, 6X)
Canal St (J, N, Q, Z)
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 12 pm - 9 pm
Sat 11 am - 5 pm
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
FICA New York
Get 25% off your purchase at FICA New York
26 reviews for Anderson's Martial Arts Academy
26 reviews in English
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Review from Viktoria B.
Sun Valley, CA
3/10/2012
This is for Kettle bell Kickboxing.
Amazing workout, pushes you to your limits and the instructor, Dasha, is amazing! She is so supportive and really wants you to get better, to believe in your abilities and make the most out of your workout. She is also a trained martial artist, so lot of the things she says and teaches are directly derived from that discipline. I highly recommend it. -
Review from Anna V.
5/3/2012 1 Check-in Here
How did I end up here? Kettle Bell Kickboxing.
How did I know about Kettle Bell Kickboxing? Groupon.
How did I know about Groupon...ok you get the point....
So, what this comes down to is that my only familiarity with the "Anderson's Martial Arts Academy" is just the physical space that is used for the Kettle Bell Kickboxing classes which is by now its own separate empire. No joke! Those are more suitable to fitness equivalents, however, rather than martial arts, but hey, whatever, I got my work out on.
So back to the space. I like it! The front desk is very welcoming, you get your own key chain scanner key type thing for checking in which makes it way easy and fast. There is really one huge mirror room that holds all the equipment from what I could tell (and the bathrooms towards the end). The rest of the floor is really more like a hallway with a couple of coffee tables and chairs and vending machines. Not sure how this leisure time fits into the work out time, but it looks nice :).
Since I cannot comment on the men's locker room (or I may be thrown out if I tried) I will describe the ladies one. It has some lockers, JUST BRING YOUR OWN LOCK! Some mirrors. Some benches. It gets a little crowded before/after classes, but everyone seems to be on the same mission, i.e. change as quickly as possible and go. So that's not too bad.
Now on to Kettle Bell (or Kettlebell) Kickboxing:
I have now had two out of the five groupon classes I purchased (back in January or so). It has taken me that long to take the classes mostly because it is IMPOSSIBLE to sign in to classes, they got filled so quickly you forgot to blink. I know they are trying to arrange/open some new slots (just recently added a 5:15pm Tuesday and Friday class) but guess what those got filled up quickly too.
So your first couple of classes will be INTENSE. After a few swings with say a 12lb-er (I think its the orange one) you'll be wondering, how do these girls do this! Well they do, because they're girls and girls rule! Well, it becomes easier once you get used to it. I've met a bunch of women that have been coming here for over a year and enjoying it.
My second biggest tiny peeve after the scheduling, is that I don't really get why there's even music. It's sort of in the background, although the instructor keeps turning the volume higher or lower as she/he is instructing, and everyone basically has their own rhythm of swings. But its not really a musical kind of workout, at least not to me.
There is that much demand, or that much Groupons, or that many people with nothing else to do. I guess its really the demand that comes with excellent marketing. Kudos to Dasha, a very smart business woman. -
Review from Valerie L.
New York, NY
2/5/2012
Kettlebell Kickboxing is great for strengthening, toning, and feeling like a badass. Dasha is the most vigorous instructor, so I would recommend her classes for the best overall workout, but the other instructors are great/friendly too!
The blessed/cursed Groupon deal was so popular that many of the classes are booked and I had to rake through the site for a few days to find open slots. But now that I've gone a handful of times, I have to say that the deal is actually a steal. $20 for 5 classes in a very clean, professional facility with awesome, encouraging instructors? Yeah, I'm a fan.
Even if you work out regularly, the classes will challenge your body and leave you totally, wonderfully sore the next day. Be sure to go early to reserve a spot in the room and grab the kettlebells you want. You don't want to be stuck with the gazillion-pound kettlebell.
After just a few sessions, my arms are more toned than they've ever been. Carrying groceries is no big deal. The classes are the right level of intensity and you never feel bored or listless. Just make sure to bring your own water (they only have vending machines). -
Review from matthew s.
Brooklyn, NY
5/24/2012
This is a great place to train. Sifu Anderson takes great care in structuring a program that delivers on its promise to make you a better fighter and get you in great shape at the same time. I was in reasonable shape before, but 7 months of training at Anderson's have knocked off that stubborn last bit of belly fat I had, and my cardio has never been better.
The program can feel pretty fast-paced at first, but with some honest work it's pretty easy to get the hang of it. The best part about the program is that Sifu is constantly fine tuning it to make sure it's as tailored to the students as possible. In class, the instructors pay very close attention to your form and if you feel like you're not getting it, or if they missed you on a walk around, you can always just raise your hand and they'll come over and answer whatever questions you have.
If you're looking for a martial arts gym where you can chat and socialize while you train, this is not the place for you. We work very hard here and everyone is focused about their training. That said, just about everyone that I've run across here is very nice. I have made new friends and it's extremely rare to encounter anyone with an ego or an attitude problem.
In response to a couple of rogue comments on this board accusing Sifu of playing favorites, don't buy them, because they're bullshit. My curriculum is primarily with other instructors since I'm still developing my basics, but I'm always psyched when Sifu teaches class. He really is a gifted teacher who knows how to explain things clearly as well as inspire you to work as hard as you can. He takes time with everyone, without exception.
Whether it's Jeet Kune Do, Kali, Muay Thai or Jiu-Jitsu, I plan on training here as often as I possibly can. -
Review from Freya S.
Astoria, NY
1/30/2012
My OH started training here mid last year and was raving to me about a Kettlebell Kickboxing class that just started. Not being a very active person, I brushed it off... that is till he told me that there was a $20 groupon for 5 classes, which I should buy OR he would buy it for me.. LOL..
Taking the hint I bought the groupon, signed up for my 5 classes and I WAS HOOKED!!!!!
Now I am a member and I try to take atleast 1-2 class with Dasha and 1 class with Jenel every week. The classes are challenging and they are not easy, but that's why I am always coming back for more. You will come out drenched and feeling good! Never was there a dull moment in class, all the instructors can keep each class fresh and exciting... it just gets me all pumped out thinking about it right now.
Yes I see some comments saying how the locker room is small and that the place smells a little... but this IS a martial arts academy NOT a gym. Regardless, they keep this place REALLY clean and I am impressed..
Clean training space... friendly instructors... heart-pumping & top- A quality classes... can it get any better?!
Sooner or later I definitely want to try the other classes, since my OH can't stop gushing about it! -
Review from Mariana S.
Brooklyn, NY
12/23/2011
Dasha's kettle-bell kickboxing class is amazing. She really whips you into shape! No pain no gain!
I started taking her class to help me strengthen up for my triathlon and it worked!
I had fatigue around my pelvic area and it was making it hard for me to run pass 2 miles and with the strength training that I did with Dasha's kettle-bell class it strengthen my whole body and took away the pain from running and also gave me a butt that even makes white boys want to shout! I strongly recommend her class. It's Fire and after 5 weeks your butt, arms and tummy will look amazing! (must do twice a week)
The gym is not like Equinox or NYSC but it does the trick. No fancy locker rooms or shower and it smells of sweat, but not as bad as those men's boxing gyms, they do a pretty good job in not having a crazy smelly gym. The ladies locker room, is just a room where you can change and secure your items, you must bring your own lock. There are no showers so don't make plans to go out after. They have restrooms but that's it. Don't plan on refreshing up there.
All in all if you are looking for a good workout this is the place, if your looking for a fancy gym with cute classes this is not the place! -
Review from Helena H.
9/28/2011 8 Check-ins Here
************* THIS REVIEW IS FOR KETTLEBELL KICKBOXING *************
Intersting Enough, I've been taking regular Turbo Kickboxing classes at 24 hr fitness, Thought i would look better and toned up.
After I saw this deal thru Groupon. Kettlebell Kickboxing class? Sounds interesting, and it was a great deal!. (5 classes, each class is one hour workout).
I underestimated my body... I can do better by Lifting a kettlebell and Cardio Kickboxing! (You have to PUSH yourself). One Trainer (Dasha Libin) and about 40 students (from Beginners to Regulars) Kettlebell weight starts from 12, 15, 20 lbs and so on. Make sure try the light one for first timers and then try to lift a heavier one. My Abs, and legs are looking better than it was before!
Dasha is an awesome trainer, She tells you every little details where your body will be working out, results and pretty helpful. You can do this at home, but Is easier to have people doing the same routine with you (More competition and challenging). The only problem is that mixing levels in one class is not as effective (Unless you count your workouts yourself which is pretty hard). This is what happened to me when I took 5 classes (one class per week*)
1 WEEK: You will be in Pain (All over your body)
2 WEEK : Your body will be sore, but not painful
3 WEEK : You start feeling your body to be harder and Leaner
4 WEEK: Toning Up
5 WEEK: Lifting heavier weights, more sets, and more active.
I would recommend this place. check out her site. They have a trial class for first timers, See if this fits you.
The Location is very close to Chinatown (where the Canal street station is). The place looks pretty new, so is not dirty at all. They have lockers (make sure to bring your own lock). And comfy gym outfits. Bring a bottle of water and small tower (You'll be sweating a lot here).
Membership is a tad high, but this is better than regular Gyms. They have other classes available (Check the site). I am getting addicted to this!
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* - You can take more classes in one week, but since I have other activities to keep me going. The more you do, the better results you get instantly. -
Review from Rahsaan C.
Brooklyn, NY
Updated - 8/30/2011 1 Check-in Here
I continue to be both amazed and astounded with what we learn here. Specifically, last night's class.
Before I go on y'all... I'll make an admission... for a while there, I was scared to return to BJJ. Yeah, I'd gotten swamped for several months with school and work, but that period had come and gone, and I was still using excuses to punk out. Ground fighting ain't all that pretty! And word is bond... being choked out while on your back or being arm-barred while your head is being squeezed between a guy's thighs or kneecaps... well, you get my drift. I hope you're still reading though.
Y'all know I'd never steer you wrong. Sifu Anderson has a rhyme and reason for everything. In last night's Phase 2 class, we pretty much had a free-for-all brawl, streetfighting style to highlight the importance of ground-fighting. And those who practice BJJ and MMA regularly at the school rocked the house! While those of us, like me who are out-of-practice or who don't grapple at all... well, got our asses handed to us. Ha!
Of course, before jumping into this brawl, we did learn some key survival techniques for sweeping when one's back is on the ground. Techniques that anyone can use whether they normally roll or not.
However, it was cool that Sifu used this free-for-all to drive home the realization that no extended fight with an opponent/adversary/enemy/the random neighborhood bully ever stays standing, and you most assuredly should training ground-fighting if you're true to wanting to be well-rounded. Part of the reason I decided to man up (no sexism. There are some badass women who could destroy me... and most of you... if you roll with them) and return to grappling.
Even more spectacular, Sifu announced last night that on Tuesday night starting next month, there'll be a Greco-Roman style wrestling class. A dope art to add to your arsenal and a nice fit with all the other disciplines we learn. One can never have too many alternatives at their disposal.
And again, for those of you who are as vainglorious as me... grappling and wrestling are one of the absolute best workouts for getting seriously ripped. You've got some intense interval cardio in there and some heavy resistance-training having to throw around other people! No joke! Your fast-twitch muscles will be on fire, but you'll be strong and fast as all fuck. Bygones on the profanity. It's seriously cool though and much more in a real life skill-garnering way that's physical yet strategically cerebral. Much different than the typical meathead workouts I grew so very bored of. All of this is discipline, skill, art. and most of all purpose. The physical boons are just sweet icing on the cake.3 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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7/9/2011
The community here is beyond belief. I'm trying to find a word that tops "supportive" and am… Read more »
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Review from OH K.
Brooklyn, NY
2/2/2012
This review is for the Kettlebell Kickboxing class.
Went to my first exercise class (ever really). I'm not a "class" type of exerciser. I prefer doing more purpose-like activities like playing sports or chopping wood (seriously). Anyway, it was a pretty good class considering I am totally out of shape after having a kid and not going back to serious exercising for almost 2 years. I feel like it's worked my entire body evenly which is great. Ms. Libin is a solid instructor who explained things very clearly and slowly and who pushes you to work harder but w/o being condescending. It was very encouraging considering I have no stomach muscles anymore :P It is a conditioning class much in the way martial artists would condition (except they don't get cute colored kettlebells, they get sticks with concrete on the end). Many things you could do w/o a class or equipment like pushups, holding squats, situps, but it's nice to have someone instructing/motivating you. Other folks in the class keep to themselves and are a really nice mix of people and fitness levels.
Facilty-wise, it's like a dojo. It's not a health club. It's fine--neat, clean, sparse. Good space and available equipment.
I think my BIGGEST complaint, and I feel that it is a big one is that there are NO CLASSES available to take. This is perhaps more a Groupon comment that is tied to this class but Buyer Beware if you are going to sign up!
Right now, I am looking into May at this point on the calendar. I clicked on *every* date for the week of May 7 and the only class available out of 13 classes that week is one at 7 a.m. There are NO spots available on a Thursday until July 5! B/c I work and have a kid and other obligations, my dates are somewhat limited. I'm guessing this is a result of the Groupon offer and frankly, I think they should have planned better by adding more classes at prime times (like a late morning or an afternoon class) to accommodate their success or staggering the coupon activation dates. The Groupon is good for a year, but really, I'm going to have to keep trying or wait til June or something at this point and I'm going to try and just book all my classes at once (which is what I suspect the thousands of people did before me). I've heard this complaint about other Groupons and now I am one of them.
Lesson learned. . . Staying away from places that offer Groupons with high success rates. -
Review from Jaclyn L.
9/6/2011
Have you ever worked out SO hard, that you could taste the blood in your mouth? What about sweating SO hard within the first 10 minutes of the Total Body Scorcher Warm-Up, you cause the girl next to you to back it up, up, up UP away from your sweat pool?
Well, you haven't tried Anderson's Martial Arts Academy.
A few tips for those that are just experimenting and are totally intimidated:
1) Bring your own water; you're gonna need to re-hydrate ASAP!
2) Bring a towel; unless the girl next to you enjoys you sweating from your elbows.
3) Bring a lock and key; although not 100% necessary, it's just nice to have the option.
4) Eat like 2 hours before-hand or else I can almost guarantee you - you will throw everything up!
This place is completely "no excuses" which was what I was told prior to class starting. Well, I had no excuses to jump, lunge, stretch, grunt, groan, sweat on repeat for a whole hour!! This class is not for those that are weak of heart; it's for those that want a sexy body without the love handles. Good going girl! -
Review from Lauren F.
Cincinnati, OH
8/31/2011
As a personal trainer and fitness enthusiast, I was stoked to check out the Kettlebell Kickboxing class, recommenced by a friend at Anderson Martial Arts Academy. In short? One of THE BEST workouts I have had in my life. No joke. Dasha, the creator and instructor of said class is fun, engaging, extremely knowledgeable (her grandfather taught kettlebells to the Russian Army!), and known to get you to crack a smile or chuckle through your grunts. She also incorporates her in-depth martial arts and self-defense training into the workout, bringing you moves that will not only sculpt you sexy, but also make your strong and smart.
The studio itself is a beauty, despite its proximity to Chinatown. More than clean, it has a calming minimalist design, including a wall of quotes to inspire, and an area for private cardio or lifting in addition to the rooms for the renowned martial arts taught there on the above floor.
Forget the gym with the rows and rows of ellipticals and treadmills. get to AMAA and get moving, get sexy, get strong. You won't regret it and you will guaranteed have WAY more fun doing it. -
Review from Jane A.
New York, NY
4/23/2012
This place is likely to make a good first impression on you. Unfortunately all the good got wiped out for me as I realized they stop caring about you if you get injured. I got injured because I was a beginner paired up with a another beginner who was clueless and hit me really hard- all power and no technique (Dasha Libin had told me that beginners would be closely watched and that I would never get injured more than I would in a dance class). It took me months to recover and while they let me freeze my membership while I was recovering, they completely ignored me during this time with respect to returning phone calls. Even physically stopping by and leaving messages did not result in them answering questions I had regarding training that I could do while I was recovering among other topics. Dasha comes across as nice and at first I really admired her. But with all that talking she does she doesn't always keep her word. Overall the bottom line seems to be as long as they get money from you, you won't be ignored. But if you are a beginner or not one of their favorites that they're going to pay enough attention to so that you don't get injured, watch out.
Comment from Dan A. of Anderson's Martial Arts Academy 4/25/2012
Jane, Firstly I apologize for the inconvenience created by… More » -
Review from Arthur L.
Chinatown, Manhattan, NY
3/27/2011 5 Check-ins Here
I got an online deal for 1 month of unlimited classes here at Anderson's and I have to say that my overall experience is pretty good.
I have to say the instruction was pretty good. A normal class starts off with warm up exercises and stretching (15 mins?) and is followed by the instructor showing you some drills. You partner up and go practice. While practicing the instructor(s) and senior students will walk around and help correct your form, answer any questions you have, etc etc.
I've never got to work under Dan Anderson (he probably only teaches advanced levels) but the people that I did work with were very friendly and willing to help. Everyone says hi/hello to teach other when they walk by. Very friendly environment! I definitely didn't feel out casted even though I was obviously new.
Pricing is pretty average for NYC standards. Ranges from $150 - 200+ depending on the type of program you pick.
My only beef is that you have to sign a 1 year contract (I wish that had 3 and 6 months options) and that there are no showers.
If my future becomes a bit more stable and I'm still in NYC I would definitely come back and sign up!Listed in: The 36 Chambers
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Review from H A.
New York, NY
7/28/2011
I have been going here for Kettlebell Kickboxing and I love it.
Dasha, who's the instructor for this women-only class, really seems to know what she's talking about and cares about your fitness goals. The classes are definitely challenging, and she pushes you hard, but also lets you know it's okay to go at your own pace. And she's freaking hilarious!
I'm totally soaked in sweat after every class and feel amazing. You should at least check out a class or two... you might feel a bit lost in the beginning (I had never worked out with kettlebells before), but Dasha will get you there.
Kat, at the front desk, is super awesome and sweet. And everyone who works there seems really committed to their work and open and helpful.
I've been going twice a week and only wish it was a bit less pricey ($150 for 10 classes, or $120/m for unlimited classes). But it's comparable to what else is out there. So hey, if it works... -
Review from Joseph F.
New York, NY
2/3/2011
All I have to say is that it is such an honor to train with the martial arts experts at Anderson's.
Sifu Anderson is an amazing mentor that teaches you practical methods that you can apply in real life situations. No BS here.
And the fact that Guru Dan Inosanto has seminars every Summer here is priceless. -
Review from Flo T.
New York, NY
11/10/2011
i have only been here for the kette bell kickboxing class with dasha. the academy also has other types of martial arts classes you can take. from what i see, they have a really big following, every time i've been there, the huge studio is packed. the facilities are very clean, though with a bunch of sweaty men running around all the time, it can't help but smell a little. they have a tiny locker room (haven't seen any showers though) and a nice sitting area with tables/chairs/vending machines.
the kettle bell class is held in the big studio on the third floor, it's nice that its for women only, but i noticed that men still walk in and out of the room A LOT because the bathrooms are located in the back of the room we are in...so for women who don't like to work out in front of men...be aware. i don't mind, but i do find it VERY distracting when people keep walking in and out of the studio to use the bathroom while we are doing our work outs.
the work out itself can be a little boring because you are stationery most of the time, working out with the kettle bells, but it WORKS. after my first session with Dasha, my entire body ached for 3 days. i think if you commit to the work outs, you will see results. The location is a little out of the way for me, but i would still come back. -
Review from Elizabeth S.
Brooklyn, NY
11/18/2011
I really enjoyed the Kettlebell Kickboxing classes here - it's an amazing workout. Dasha, the instructor, is a huge motivator and will make you work your glutes off! I had a Groupon deal for these classes and I would have absolutely kept going except the location isn't convenient for me and the classes at full price are a little beyond my budget. The class is great, though, the hour flies by, and I highly recommend it for changing up your usual gym routine.
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Review from Mimi A.
Brooklyn, NY
10/19/2011
This review is for Dasha and kettlebell kickboxing.
First off, this class will kick your ass. Seriously, working with kettlebells has got to be the most effective workout there is, and this is a great way for women to try them out.
Secondly, I've got a pain issue that's annoying to work around, and the instructor, Dasha, made me feel welcome all the same. She even commented after class on her willingness to show me alternatives in future classes for certain moves I can't manage.
I came here on a Groupon, but I'll probably be coming back without one. -
Review from Christan M.
Brooklyn, NY
7/13/2011
Got groupon for 5 kettlebell kickboxing classes and hadn't been to a gym in a long time so I wasn't sure what to expect. I was really impressed with Kat, the receptionist. She's always super friendly and even though I hadn't reserved a class (didn't know I had to), she was really accommodating and got me into one right away. Dasha, the instructor and co-owner, is really sweet and personally greets everyone before class. She is extremely motivating during the class and also gives tips to do outside of the class. She also has a great sense of humor and always cracks jokes. I'd definitely going to try to take these classes on a consistent basis now.
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Review from Martin N.
Brooklyn, NY
10/12/2011
I initially signed up for a month through a living social or groupon or one of those back in April. Tried the Filipino boxing (Panatuken) and some of the phase (curriculum) classes. Was awesome to learn a bit of Jeet Kune Do (if you're gonna learn martial arts, can't do better than learning the art Bruce Lee developed), Muay Thai, and Kali (Filipino Weapons training). Learned so much and enjoyed it so much, I immediately signed up when the discounted month was over. I've learned so much in the past several months, and training at the academy has become a regular part of my life. The instructors are fantastic, the facilities among the cleanest I've ever stepped barefoot on, and the students are both friendly and helpful. Whether you want to learn to fight MMA, just protect yourself, or simply get in better shape, this is the best place to train in the city, imo.
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Review from Jerry B.
Brooklyn, NY
9/12/2010
This is such a chill place to workout. The classes were really well done. I liked it so much that I'm gonna try it out for a month and try to get in shape.
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Review from Ms. T L.
Brooklyn, NY
12/21/2010
This company is not even worth a rating! I was emailed a promotion being offered by Anderson's until Dec 31st and when I called to see if the promotion would be honored, I was told a completely different story. While the promotion clearly stated the discounted rate to join would be the same rate every month an employee told me otherwise. I was told the promotion rate is only for the first month and after that the regular rate would kick back in (which is only 7 times the promotion rate.)
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Review from James v.
Bronx, NY
12/14/2010
The arts taught here are good, however the instructor Sifu Anderson, is a egotiscal, arrogrant, nasty, rude, individual. He obviously has a self esteem issue, and has his favorites in the school, if ur not one of them, u won't have a good expierence in this gym. Plus they put u in a one year contract, instead of pay as you go memberships, which are always better. As a former student of this school, don't join here, there are better places to go.
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Review from M K.
New York, NY
4/2/2009
Very cool mixture of different martial arts styles--hand to hand, kali, grappling, MMA, Muay Thai, and Jeet Kune Do (Bruce Lee's discipline). I don't know of any other place in the city with as much of a variety, plus you can do any of the classes for one price.
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Review from Kenneth P.
Brooklyn, NY
2/14/2011
It's a good place to learn. The people here are friendly. The only downside is the smell. Granted, I only went for a free trial session, the smell was unbearable. We had to use the communal gloves, which left my hands smelling horribly. I had to wash my hands 4 times and sanitize my hands 3 times. If you do go, do buy your own gloves. Your nose and hands will thank you.
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Review from Andrea W.
Corona, NY
9/5/2011
before I came to anderson martial arts - I was overweight, lazy, and discouraged. I hated the monotony of the gym and would never push myself to my full capabilities. However, all that changed when i ended up purchasing a Groupon for the female kettlebell class. Though I was sore and exhausted after the first class (and a little intimidated walking in), I felt great! Soon I went from struggling with 10 lb kettlebells to easily pressing 20 lbs with one hand. My strength and endurance levels are up, my weight is down, and overall I feel stronger and better about myself. It's only once a week, and Dasha is the absolute, most supportive trainer I've ever met. She wants you to be healthier and fit and makes you laugh during class. She is amazingly encouraging and makes class so much fun. Best yet -- the class is only one hour and you only need to go two-three times a week to see quick results!
