★ 1

Falling ruefully short of expectations for gender inclusion, staff friendliness, usable space, and safe sparring practices.
If you’re coming from another gym just know the head coach liberally allows hazing dynamics to go on and will turn right around to then shame you for having an “ego” for simply showing up and putting in the work.
The way people talk to you at this gym is condescending and competitive. They will compare you with their fighters if you come from another gym. You will be at the mercy of their temperament towards you. Expect double standards and to be spoken down to, especially if you’re any good, they really can’t stand that.

Source: Google

★ 5

Kale (owner) is one of my favorite humans. I have trained with him for several years having started with boxing and expanding that to include some muay thai and other martial arts

It can be intimidating to go to these gyms that are strictly geared towards training in any combat (as opposed to doing a group boxing class) but Kale just brings you in and finds a way to get you to connect with and love the art of fighting and training

He himself has experience at all levels of muay thai fighting yet, irrespective of where you are and where you want to go, he is so attuned to his clients and their needs that he can adapt and provide a training path that is impactful yet not overwhelming.

Whether you want to become a pro fighter or, like me, you’re a professional looking for a good workout (and some key nuggets for fighting)...Kale will prove exceptional in fulfilling your goals

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Reached out with a ton of questions because I like to be prepared and I’m traveling from Indiana, Kale was fantastic with getting those answered and not making me feel like a bother. Excited to try this place out and see where it goes. Based off the communication alone id recommend them!

Source: Google

★ 5

I had a great trial week at Viking Muay Thai. Only ever had text communication with the owner but he was very helpful and available. Worked with 3 different coaches and they were all fantastic. The members were also welcoming and helpful. They have community events like watch parties which help to stay active in the world of Muay Thai

Source: Google

★ 5

Kale can teach beginners through advanced. He is knowledgeable and welcoming. You won't regret it!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Kale knows his stuff! Heck of a coach and instructor!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Kale is the best. I highly recommend him whether you are a complete novice or an experienced fighter. Try it out and you won’t regret it!

Source: Google

★ 5

I found a flyer for this gym at a coffee shop and randomly signed up for a drop in class. I received a personal follow up after the class, and then an offer for a gratis 1:1 session. This is unheard of in larger gyms! It was incredible! The personal touch of the text along with a truly generous offer for what was a 10/10 training session with Kale has me completely dedicated to returning. Kale is an incredible teacher and has a great energy, cannot recommend highly enough.

Source: Google

★ 5

It’s a great place to learn boxing and Mauy Thai without feeling overwhelmed. Come check it out

Source: Google

★ 5

Viking Muay Thai is an amazing gym for either beginners or experienced fighters. I came in a little over a year ago with zero experience and Kale did a great job training and coaching me to success. They also have a fight team that competes regularly. If you want to join a gym lead by a world champion. This is the right place.

Source: Google

★ 5

Rarely have I come across a gym with coaches that are so welcoming and thoughtful to each of their members. Kale, alongside his team, bring a solid foundation of Muay Thai knowledge and concepts to integrate into your style of fighting. Whether you're looking to compete or learn self defense, Viking Muay Thai covers all your bases for the most effective and efficient! Thank you for making this place a safe haven for me as well as others, and for all the hard work you put in for us! Much love!
Christina-

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been training with the Viking Muay Thai fight team for about a year now, and it has been a fantastic experience! As a non-binary person, it can be intimidating to find a gym, much less a place to train that is so traditionally binary, so I feel incredibly lucky to have found Viking Muay Thai. The team is incredibly inclusive and welcoming of all kinds of fighters. I have never felt uncomfortable correcting people as to my pronouns if need be, and everyone has always been really good about correcting themselves. The fact that I don't have to worry about being misgendered at the gym/during training means I can put all my energy where it should be--training. Kale has also done a great job seeking out opportunities for the trans and non-binary fights to compete as our authentic genders, including the World Gay Boxing Championship this past June. There are a lot of complications to fighting as a trans or non-binary person, but I know that when I choose to compete in a Muay Thai fight, I will have the full support of my team and coaches behind to make sure that I am not only comfortable but treated with respect throughout the event. I can't recommend Viking Muay Thai enough to anyone--cis, trans, non-binary or whatever--who's looking for a team to take their skills to the next level.

Source: Google

★ 5

I love training with Coach Kale, Christian, Rosie, and Isiah at Viking Muay Thai (VKMT)! Each coach offers me a different kind of support from pushing me to train harder to giving me practice tips for the days out of the gym, to giving me a pep talk before my first off-site sparring event. I transferred from a different gym after 2 years of frustratingly slow progress and lack of focused guidance. Now I've been taking lessons with Kale and attending the all-levels classes with Christian for 9 months, plus training with VKMT for 6 of those, and I can't believe how much stronger, more mobile, and confident I've become in my body and in this sport. It's an amazingly supportive team that Kale and the rest of the coaching staff are growing at VKMT, and I'm so happy to be a part of it even though I am clearly much less experienced than the rest of the team. I trust that Kale and team will help get me in the ring in no time, and I'm proud to be a part of a team that challenges and affirms each other.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great fighters training in a truly inclusive environment. Kru Kale and Rosie have been staples of Chicago Muay Thai scene and you will get to learn from the best

Source: Google

★ 5

Hidden gem of a gym, the coaches (Rosie and Kale ) are some of the best in town whatever if you're a beginner or a pro you'll learn a lot at Viking muay thaï

Source: Google

★ 5

Es un gran lugar , con personas muy amables así como los entrenadores y compañeros , ideal para cualquier objetivo que tengas , si solo quieres ejercitarte , o quieres pelear pero nesecitas conocimientos básicos hasta conocimientos de nivel superior ! Además de que no solo es un lugar de ejercicio si no un lugara dónde encuentras una comunidad que se convierte en buenas amistades y te ayudan a progresar ! Sin duda dense la oportunidad de ir a tomar una clase ! Les aseguro que regresarán por más.....

Source: Google

★ 5

I came in as a complete beginner to Muay Thai at the start of summer looking for a way to change up my workout routine. I was so lucky to come across Kale who is incredible! He is always challenging me to do my best while being supportive and patient. There’s no trainer I’d rather work with!

Source: Google

★ 5

Learning how to fight and defend myself is always something I’ve wanted to do, and Kale does an excellent job starting with the fundamental basics and making me feel like progress has been made after every session. He’s very knowledgeable on the techniques needed to become a great fighter! I’ve only done 1:1 sessions with him and he’s a very personable teacher and always provides great conversation while we train. For anyone looking to get started or even train at an advanced level, Kale is a great teacher and I’d recommend him to anyone!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been itching to learn to fight for years now but had concerns starting off in a group setting with experienced fighters as such a novice so I started looking for tailored 1:1 training in Muay Thai to get a hands-on experience to build my skill and technique and I’m super grateful I found Viking Muay Thai. Exactly what I was looking for!

Kale is an amazing trainer! He breaks everything down to the fundamental and builds at your pace. He’s not only skilled and knowledgeable but a great teacher and very personable. 100% recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

Kale runs a really cool gym and is a great trainer, but an even better person. Exactly the guy you’d want in your corner in and out of the ring.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Kale’s passion for Muay Thai is contagious, and his dedication to his craft is evident in every aspect of his gym.

Viking Muay Thai itself is a haven for those seeking to improve their physical fitness, learn self-defense techniques, or simply immerse themselves in the discipline of Muay Thai. The atmosphere is welcoming yet focused, with Kale leading by example in both his training and coaching style. His knowledge of the sport is vast, and he takes the time to ensure that each student receives personalized attention and instruction.

Beyond the physical aspects of training, being a part of Viking Muay Thai has also fostered a strong sense of camaraderie among its members. Kale cultivates a community where everyone feels supported and valued, regardless of their skill level or background. Whether it’s through challenging workouts, team bonding events, or simply hanging out after class, members have forged meaningful friendships that extend beyond the walls of the gym.

Overall, Kale’s expertise, passion, and dedication make him an invaluable asset to Viking Muay Thai. I highly recommend his classes to anyone looking to learn Muay Thai, improve their skills, or simply have a fantastic workout in a welcoming and supportive atmosphere.

Source: Google

★ 5

Training with Kale is the best. Super knowledgeable and easy to work with and learn from. Taking lessons with him is such a great way to get in a workout while also building foundational Muay Thai skills. Also as a bonus tip Kale has like an encyclopedia of information about history in his head. Learning about the cCrusades and different types of kicks all at once. Can’t beat it!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I trained with Kale for about a year and loved it so much! Felt good for my body and my brain. He’s very skilled, patient and always thinks about what’s best for you! He pushes you to always improve, challenge yourself while making sure that you don’t push your body too much (to avoid injuries). Highly recommend Viking Muay Thai!

Source: Google

★ 5

Kale is an outstanding coach! I came to him years ago wanting to fight, 3 years after that I already had 10 plus fights under my belt. He is great with beginners and fighters alike! I tend to be more shy and nervous when it comes to performing or any kind of sport. Kale is great at encouraging you to do your best whether you want to fight or are just there to learn something new. Additionally, he has a wealth of knowledge that helped me continue to grow throughout my Muay Thai career!

Source: Google

★ 5

An excellent, well thought through program of training, the professional, practical and determined ethos of which is exemplified by the business side itself: responsive, respectful and sincere. I've been training here for a year and a half and would 100% recommend it for the following:

- Genuinely invested coaching
- Developing a powerful and fast striking style
- Honest but always encouraging feedback
- Fantastic work rate in sessions that adjust perfectly each time
- Flexibility around training times, venues and requirements
- High standard of professionalism
- Excellent knowledge of health, hygiene and Covid restrictions

There are many more reasons. Kale is a very smart and respectful guy who really motivates you.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been training with Kale for 2 years now and I've gotta say he is an outstanding coach. He's extremely knowledgeable, super friendly, and always takes the time to provide feedback and instruction in a fun and easy-to-understand manner. I'd highly recommend Kale to anyone looking for a great boxing trainer.

Source: Google

★ 5

Been working out with Kale for years. Professional and super knowledgeable with his training. Also just a great guy all around. Highly recommended!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Started with Kale back in 2018 when I wanted to start getting myself back in shape. Never in a million years did I think I’d be in the ring fighting, but he gave me the tools and training necessary to be confident as a fighter and I’m forever grateful for how far I’ve come as a fighter because of him. He always pushes you to be better than you were the day before and I would highly, HIGHLY recommend training with Kale. Whether you’re just wanting to get in shape and blow off some steam or whether you aspire to be a fighter, he will get you exactly where you want to be.

Source: Google

★ 5

Kale has been training me in boxing for the past 3 years. I started out as a complete novice and now I am comfortable sparring. It has been an amazing journey. Whether you are interested in getting into shape and learning some self-defense or want to learn how to fight at a high-level, Kale is your guy. He is an excellent trainer, would highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

I was lucky to find Kale who has trained me in boxing for the past 4 years. He is passionate about combat and compassionate towards his fighters and their goals. He wants you to grow as a fighter but most importantly to grow as an individual. He's an amazing trainer and I recommend him for all skill levels. Keep punching!

Source: Google

★ 5

Kale is such a good trainer and coach! I have been training with Kale for 3 years. In the beginning, I was interested in building strength and losing weight. Then I switched to learn boxing and self defense. Kale did an excellence training with me to achieve my goal. I would definitely recommend Kale!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great teacher for beginners or those who are competing at the top level!

Source: Google

★ 5

Kale is a great teacher - super patient, skillfull and easy going. I started working with Kale in group classes my employer offered which were unfortunately a casualty of COVID. The classes were challenging and fun, and got me into the best shape physically I have been in for quite some time. I liked the workout and training experience so much I signed up for a package of personal training / muay thai with him. Highly recommended whether you are keyboard warrior like me, and are looking for a new flavor of workout to reinvigorate your routine or a serious MMA fighter planning to fight for real.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been training with Kale for a few years now. Started out knowing nothing about Muay Thai. Kale has been super patient and supportive, has gotten me to the point where I'm sparring now. It's been a fun journey!

Source: Google

★ 5

My son Jared traines with Kale. He loves the individual attention he gets. Kale has renewed his love for kick boxing.

Source: Google

★ 5

I was considering a career change and decided I wanted to apply to the FBI. In order to do that I knew I would have to pass a rigorous fitness test that consisted of push ups, a 300m sprint, push ups, and a 1.5 mile run. When choosing a trainer I wanted someone who could get me in shape to pass the test and in better condition overall. I didn't want someone who was just gonna yell at me until my arms fell of but someone who actually cared about healthy progression.

Kale was the perfect choice! He helped get me from not being able to do any of the things I listed to passing the official test! More importantly we took a reasonable and sustainable approach so I felt safe and didn't get hurt. He takes a holistic approach and includes stretching and mobility work into each training. We even talk about my nutrition and how that could be impacting things. Who knew you could gain muscle without destroying yourself at the same time! My favorite thing about working out with Kale is how encouraging and positive he is. No matter how hard I was being on myself, how little I wanted to do anything, he remained positive and helpful. I wouldn't have been able to reach my goals without his help and insight.

Kale does it ALL! Flexibility and mobility work, strength training, boxing, muay thai, cardio, nutritional guidance...all of it! Go see Kale!

Source: Google

★ 5

Kale is an excellent instructor! I started weekly training sessions with him during the pandemic as a way to exercise and get out of the house. Throughout all of the complications of life during covid he has been professional and accommodating- always respecting any concerns or requests I had regarding safety. As a coach, he walks the perfect line of challenging you and pushing for more, but also understanding your limits and speed of learning. Sessions with Kale are fun while also being one serious workout. I usually find working out incredibly boring and frustrating, but Muay Thai is exciting, challenging, and honestly just cool. I’ve been taking lessons at Viking Muay Thai for a year now and have no plans of stopping. There’s no place I’d rather workout, and no trainer I’d rather work with.

Source: Google