Smash Hit Kickboxing Club
What We Like
- Experienced, qualified trainers
- All levels welcome
- Focus on fitness, self-defense
- Variety of membership options
- Rank reward system for motivation
- Recovery kickboxing program offered
What to Consider
- Metered street parking required
- Classes only in evenings/weekends
- Upstairs location
Frequently Asked Questions
About Smash Hit Kickboxing Club
Smash Hit Kickboxing Club, located in downtown Pontiac, Michigan, offers a unique blend of real boxing and kickboxing techniques combined with comprehensive total body conditioning. Situated at 48 N Saginaw St, the gym provides an accessible and engaging environment for individuals of all fitness levels to learn and grow.
The club's core philosophy centers on building fitness, self-confidence, and practical self-defense skills. Classes are structured to accommodate everyone from beginners taking their first steps into the world of combat sports to experienced participants seeking to refine their technique and push their physical limits. Each class is crafted to be both challenging and rewarding, fostering a sense of accomplishment with every session.
Location and Accessibility
Smash Hit Kickboxing Club is conveniently located at 48 N Saginaw St in the heart of downtown Pontiac, Michigan. This central location makes the gym easily accessible to residents and visitors alike. The gym provides metered street parking available for $1. After 4 PM on weekdays and all day on weekends, free lot parking is available, offering added convenience for those attending evening or weekend classes.
Facilities and Equipment
The gym is equipped with everything needed for effective kickboxing and conditioning training. A key feature of the facility is the provision of 100lb heavy bags for each participant during classes. This ensures that every member has their own dedicated training space, allowing them to focus on their technique and power without interruption. Members are encouraged to bring their own water bottles to stay hydrated during workouts.
Training Programs and Classes
Smash Hit Kickboxing Club offers a range of training programs and classes designed to cater to various interests and fitness goals. The Basic Kickboxing classes are the cornerstone of the gym's offerings, blending boxing and kickboxing techniques with total body conditioning. These classes are suitable for all levels, providing a comprehensive workout that improves strength, stamina, and coordination.
A specialized program offered by the gym is Recovery Kickboxing. This program is specifically designed for individuals in addiction or mental health recovery. Developed by Ken Levy, who has 18 years of recovery experience, Recovery Kickboxing focuses on promoting lifestyle change, empowerment, mood elevation, and motivation through a rank reward system. The program provides a supportive community and includes low-impact, non-contact classes in a sober group setting.
Additionally, Smash Hit Kickboxing Club features Warrior's Way Kickboxing, a specialized class tailored for individuals dealing with PTSD, stress, or anxiety. Led by Terrence Popp, a retired U.S. Army First Sergeant, this class offers a unique approach to managing mental health through physical activity and structured training.
Coaches and Staff
The gym boasts a team of experienced and dedicated trainers, including former professional boxers and kickboxers. These trainers bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the gym, providing personalized instruction and guidance to help members achieve their goals. Training specialties include conditioning, weight loss, basic techniques, mitt work, sparring, and self-defense.
Notable trainers include:
- Kathryn: A martial artist with Muay Thai experience.
- Eric "Spitfire" Wilkinson: A 2009 USA Boxing Lightweight National Champion.
- Ken: A former undefeated kickboxing champion who developed the Smash Hit Kickboxing Rank System.
The trainers are committed to creating a supportive and motivating environment where members can thrive.
Atmosphere and Community
Smash Hit Kickboxing Club prides itself on fostering a supportive, non-judgmental environment where members can develop technical skills, improve their physical fitness, and build self-confidence. The gym emphasizes community and camaraderie, creating a space where members feel welcome and encouraged to push themselves.
The gym utilizes a Color Rank Reward System to track progress and motivate members. This system provides a tangible way for members to see their improvement and stay engaged in their training. The gym also hosts community events like Smash Bash and fundraising initiatives, further strengthening the bonds between members and contributing to a positive and inclusive atmosphere.
The gym's location in a historic building built in 1886, adds to its unique character and charm. The wooden floors and rows of heavy bags evoke the atmosphere of classic boxing films, creating an inspiring setting for training.
Pricing
Smash Hit Kickboxing Club offers a variety of membership options to suit different needs and budgets. The pricing structure includes:
- First Class: $20, including complimentary hand wraps.
- Class Pass: $149.
- 35-Class Pass: $265.
- Unlimited Monthly Plans: Available for consistent and frequent attendance.
Glove and hand wrap rentals are available for $2 each after the first class. Purchase options are also available at $45 for gloves and $15 for wraps.
Recovery Kickboxing Program Details
The Recovery Kickboxing program, a notable offering at Smash Hit Kickboxing Club, is specifically designed to support individuals navigating addiction or mental health recovery. Created by Ken Levy, who brings 18 years of personal recovery experience to the program, it focuses on providing a safe and empowering environment. The program's core components include promoting positive lifestyle changes, building self-esteem, elevating mood, and fostering a sense of community among participants.
The Recovery Kickboxing classes are low-impact and non-contact, ensuring they are accessible to individuals of varying fitness levels and physical conditions. These classes are conducted in a sober group setting, further reinforcing the program's focus on recovery and well-being. The curriculum incorporates basic kickboxing techniques adapted to suit the needs of individuals in recovery, offering a unique and effective way to manage stress, improve mental clarity, and build physical strength.
A key element of the Recovery Kickboxing program is the Rank Reward System. This system provides participants with a tangible measure of their progress, motivating them to stay committed to their recovery journey. As participants advance through the ranks, they gain a sense of accomplishment and self-efficacy, which can be particularly beneficial for those overcoming addiction or managing mental health challenges.
The program emphasizes the importance of community support in the recovery process. Participants are encouraged to connect with one another, share their experiences, and provide mutual support. This sense of belonging can be invaluable for individuals seeking to break free from isolation and build a strong foundation for long-term recovery.
By combining physical activity with mental and emotional support, the Recovery Kickboxing program offers a holistic approach to recovery that addresses the complex needs of individuals seeking to improve their lives. It is a testament to Smash Hit Kickboxing Club's commitment to serving the diverse needs of its community and providing opportunities for personal growth and transformation.
Warrior's Way Kickboxing Program Details
Smash Hit Kickboxing Club further extends its commitment to holistic well-being through its specialized Warrior's Way Kickboxing program. This program is specifically designed to cater to individuals grappling with the challenges of PTSD, stress, or anxiety. The program is thoughtfully crafted to provide a safe and supportive environment where participants can harness the power of physical activity to manage their symptoms and enhance their overall quality of life.
Led by Terrence Popp, a retired U.S. Army First Sergeant, the Warrior's Way Kickboxing program brings a unique perspective and understanding to the specific needs of individuals dealing with the effects of trauma and stress. Terrence's military background and leadership experience enable him to create a structured and disciplined training environment that fosters resilience, self-control, and emotional regulation.
The program's curriculum integrates fundamental kickboxing techniques with mindfulness practices and stress-reduction strategies. Participants learn to channel their energy and focus their minds through physical activity, promoting a sense of empowerment and control over their emotions. The structured training sessions provide a predictable and stable routine, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals seeking to regain a sense of normalcy and stability in their lives.
Warrior's Way Kickboxing classes are designed to be adaptable to varying fitness levels and physical limitations. Participants are encouraged to work at their own pace and modify exercises as needed. The emphasis is on progress, not perfection, and the focus is on building strength, both physically and mentally.
The program also incorporates elements of peer support and group interaction. Participants have the opportunity to connect with others who share similar experiences, creating a sense of community and belonging. This social connection can be invaluable for individuals seeking to overcome feelings of isolation and loneliness.
By combining physical fitness with emotional support and mindfulness techniques, the Warrior's Way Kickboxing program offers a comprehensive approach to managing PTSD, stress, and anxiety. It is a powerful tool for individuals seeking to regain control over their lives and build a stronger sense of well-being.
Conclusion
Smash Hit Kickboxing Club offers a comprehensive and supportive environment for individuals seeking to improve their fitness, learn self-defense skills, and build self-confidence. With its experienced trainers, diverse programs, and emphasis on community, the gym is a valuable resource for the Pontiac community.