In the grand state of Illinois, where skyscrapers kiss the clouds and cornfields dance in the breeze, lives a peculiar group of kids. They are part of a secret society known as the 'Illinois Whirlwind Kickboxers' (IWK for short). These aren't your regular video-game-playing, ice-cream-eating, school-going kids. No, siree! These are kids who can perform a roundhouse kick before you can say "corn on the cob." Under the watchful eyes of their wise and slightly eccentric coach, Master CornKicker, these kids train hard. Don't be fooled by Master CornKicker's appearance - a tall, lanky man with corn husk hair, cauliflower ears, and a carrot nose. Behind those twinkling blueberry eyes, hides a fierce kickboxing champion. Our young IWK champions are fun-loving and full of beans, quite literally. They fuel their training with a special diet of Illinois' famous succotash. Their punches are as swift as the Windy City's breeze, and their kicks, as powerful as the mighty Mississippi. But what makes them truly special is their laughter. They can turn the toughest workouts into a comedy show, with their non-stop banter and funny faces. They even have a 'Burpee-Clown' routine, where they make the funniest faces while doing burpees! So, if you ever find yourself in the "Prairie State", keep an ear out for the sound of laughter, mingled with the distinctive 'thwack' of a punchbag. That's probably an IWK training session in progress. And you never know, maybe the 'Cornhusk Kickboxer' will invite you over for a laugh... and a kickboxing lesson! Anything is possible in the land of Lincoln!

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best kickboxing programs in Chicago, IL

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Chi-Slam Table Tennis Club (Age 6–Adult) is Chicago’s premier table tennis destination, welcoming players of all ages and skill levels—from beginners just getting started to advanced competitors. Founded in 2003 and located at 2412 W. North Ave, Chi-Slam offers everything a table tennis enthusiast could want: one-on-one and youth lessons, open play sessions, league play, table rentals, and even pro shop selections like Butterfly equipment. Lessons are tailored by Coach Ardy, who brings over 20 years of experience and a passion for teaching that not only builds skill but also fosters confidence, coordination, and competitive spirit. Whether you’re looking for a fun after-school activity or serious training for tournaments, Chi-Slam delivers a community-oriented, energetic environment that makes every swing count.

Chicago, IL 60647
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At Kensho, we offer Chicago Style Mixed Martial Arts, which includes training in Boxing, Kickboxing, Muay Thai, Savate, MMA, Kali Weapons, and JKD. We are located at the northwest corner of North Ave. and Kingsbury in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood. Our amazing team of highly experienced instructors offer a variety of classes to suit all skill levels. Our classes are designed to help you reach your highest potential and become the best version of yourself. Our experienced instructors will help you to develop physical and mental skills as well as self-discipline. We will also teach you the importance of respect, humility, and positivity. Through these teachings, you will gain a new sense of confidence and self-awareness. At Kensho, we believe that martial arts is more than just physical training, it is also a journey of self-discovery. We strive to create a safe and supportive environment for our students to explore the many benefits of martial arts, including increased physical fitness, improved mental clarity, and greater self-confidence. We are dedicated to helping you achieve your goals and become a better version of yourself.

Chicago, IL 60642
5(5 reviews)
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At TAC Karate & Fitness Inc., we offer Shorin-Ryu karate classes for children and adults of all ages and skill levels. Our classes focus on building self-defense, fitness, technique, strength and more! Our experienced instructors provide excellent guidance and support to ensure that each student gains the most out of each lesson. Our founder, owner, and Chief Instructor is Dr. Larry C. Tankson. Born in Chicago, Illinois in 1995, Dr. Tankson began his training at the Dravidian School of Self-Defence and Karate under the instruction of the late Mfunddishi Russ Meek. He received his first-degree black belt from Hanshi Shorty Mills in 1974, and has been teaching karate ever since. At TAC Karate & Fitness Inc., we provide a safe and supportive atmosphere for students to learn and grow. Our experienced instructors have decades of knowledge to help our students achieve their goals and hone their skills. We strive to help each student reach their full potential and become the best martial artist they can be.

Chicago, IL 60649
4.7(3 reviews)