Student Success Stories
I had never done anything like this before, never even thrown a punch. I am not what you would call an “athletic type”-far from it actually. I'm more of a Klutz-the two left feet, always picked last in gym class variety. Because of this, I've gone through life avoiding most types of athletic activity. At various times, I'd tried to start exercising (step aerobics, treadmill, Tae-Bo, assorted exercise tapes, etc.) but I never stuck with anything for long. However, as my 30th birthday drew near, I realized that the couch potato approach to life was no longer going to cut it! I needed to do something to get in shape and undo the less than wonderful changes my body had undergone in the past 10 years. Also, I needed to find a way to vent some of the stress I was experiencing. The Indianapolis Martial Arts Club has been everything I hoped for and so much more! It's the best workout I've ever had. I work really hard. And I see the results! When I joined, I felt better almost immediately-I was less tense and slept much more soundly. Within two months I started noticing changes in the way my clothes fit. I've been coming to the school regularly for about 10 months now. I can see muscles in my arms and legs, where before there was only flab. I've lost 14 pounds without changing my diet! I've also gone down several clothing sizes-before coming to the gym I wore size 10-12 pants and I just recently bought a pair of size 4 jeans! I can't even remember the last time I wore a size 4 – not since high school at least. I'm much happier and more confident person now. For perhaps the first time, I feel like I'm in control of my life. When I look at where I started and what I've accomplished in these past months, I realize that I can do anything if I put my mind to it! In fact, I'm going to compete in my first match next month! The instructors at the school are wonderful. I found the whole experience pretty intimidating when I first started but the staff took the time to teach me the basics and made sure to keep an eye on me to make sure I was doing well. They don't just throw new people into the deep end-they help you learn and develop skills. I've really appreciated how supportive all the instructors are. They always encourage me to do better-I never feel stupid in class, even when I'm doing something completely wrong because rather than focusing on what you've done incorrectly they focus on how you can improve. Joining I.M.A.C. in one of the best things I've done. I have gotten so much out of it-I couldn't be happier with my experience.
KATHY WISE
I first contacted Indianapolis Martial Arts after receiving an email about their 8-week course which is an introduction to Kickboxing with the added benefits of weight loss. I was only going to be home for the summer from college and was looking for an intense challenge and workout. I have had some kickboxing experience from a course with a top level instructor in Missouri so I thought I knew the routine….HA! BUT after my first class with Ray and James, I quickly realized my past experience was “kindergarten” compared to Indianapolis Martial Arts! Every class is challenging in a different way. I used muscles and mental technique and form I never knew I had. They kicked my butt…but I love a challenge so I kick back! The 8-week course is soooooooooo worth the time, money, sweat, and intensive physical and mental challenge! Ray and James not only instruct their students with proper kickboxing form, but also encourage proper diet and nutrition plus safety tips how to be prepared in day to day situations that gave me a different perspective and awareness of myself and surroundings. I whole-heartedly recommend Indianapolis Martial Arts if you are serious about getting into shape….physically and mentally! Ohhhhh, and did I mention I have visibly lost several inches???....I should have kept track of the overall inch lost, but I have also lost 15 lb. during the 8-week course. Unfortunately, it's time for me to go back to college in Missouri …but next summer….I'll be back!!! ….to Indianapolis Martial Arts Club!
Jessica Crouch
About 2 ½ years ago my weight reached 284lbs, I needed a life style change. I changed my diet and started walking and that worked for about a year. One day I was at second hand sports store and saw a heavy bag, I bought it took it home and started hitting it. I quickly found out that I needed to do more than walk if I wanted to continue working with the heavy bag, so I joined cardinal fitness and tried weight training and cardio and that helped some. All of this took place over a period of about two years and during this time my weight dropped to 205lbs, and I stayed there. Over the next couple of months my weight went back up to 215lbs and I knew I needed to do some thing different but didn't know what. It just so happens a friend mine was training at IMAC, we were talking one day and I mentioned my dilemma and he told me I should go talk to the guys at IMAC and see. (What could it hurt?) I have been training at IMAC for a little over 4 months now and it changed my life. My weight has dropped to 195lbs and more importantly,
I have a pretty stressful job and training at IMAC has given me the ability focus and prioritize what is important and what is not, including my thoughts. Little things don't get to me any more, I sleep all the way through the night now and I feel comfortable where ever I am. I am stronger more flexible and have better balance and more stamina than when I was in my 20's. By the way, I am 49 years old. I'm finding it hard to put into words how I feel about the benefits I have received from working with the guys at IMAC, but unlike other places where a 49 year old guy would get over looked, Ray and James take the time to work with every one not just the rock stars. Training at IMAC is the best investment in me that I have ever made.
Tim McElroy
After College, I stopped exercising completely, lived on fast food and, over the course of a few years, I gained over 60 pounds and was a size 14. By far, I was in the worst shape of my life, I knew I needed to do something, but nothing I tried was working. I joined a few gyms and tried to work out on my own, but it turned out to be a waste of money. I never went, and I could not push myself to work out consistently. I felt like it would be impossible to ever get back in shape. I had taken some martial arts classes in the past, so finally, I decided to try kickboxing. Luckily, I found the Indianapolis Martial Arts club in the Phone book. I was impressed with Ray and his staff right away. They were patient, encouraging and provided the motivation I needed that I could not find at other facilities. At other gyms, you get lost in the crowd, and no one inspires you to even show up on a weekly basis much less help you to work toward any goals. When I walk in the door of the Indianapolis Martial Arts Club, I feel like I am part of something. It is like having a personal trainer three times a week. In every class, I get the special one on one attention, guidance, encouragement and instruction that I need to push me toward my goals. Over the last year, I have worked out consistently, learned to watch what and when I eat, and I've lost those 60 pounds! I just bought my first pair of size 4 jeans since high school and am on my way to a healthier lifestyle. I have more confidence now that I have had in a really long time, and most importantly, I feel better physically than I have since I was 18 years old. I have accomplished so much more than I ever thought possible, and I thank Ray and his staff of Trainers, Chad , Brian, and James, for being a huge part of that. They have been an inspiration and that coupled with the positive encouragement from fellow members of the club has given me the self-confidence and motivation I needed to improve my health and fitness. I could never have done it on my own. Now, the club has become an important part of my life, I look forward to going at the end of the day, getting a great workout, and relieving the stress from work and school. Thank you Indianapolis Martial Arts Club for helping me to make a positive change in my life!
Lesley Neff
I.M.A.C. has been a wonderful experience for me. I went to at least 5 or 6 different gyms/martial arts schools here in Indianapolis before coming to Indianapolis Martial Arts Club. As soon as I sat in on the very first class I saw the big differences between I.M.A.C. and the others I have visited. Not only does the Club teach practical, realistic self-defense techniques, they also offer seminars on different styles and weapons. The classes will really get you conditioned! Last year I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis (colon disease) due to which I lost a lot of weight and my energy level went straight down. I lost all the size I worked so hard to get weightlifting and working out became more of a chore than recreation. Since joining I.M.A.C I feel in better shape than I have in a very long time and I enjoy working out again.
DAMON JENNINGS
Ray, I would like thank you for all that you and your staff have taught me over the last few years. I have learned things about inner strength, health, and determination that I will carry with me.
SARAH SUMMERS
I have been attending the Indianapolis Martial Arts Club for a little over 2 months. I've never experienced anything like it before. I've lost 45 lb.! The workouts are great! I highly recommend Muay Thai Kickboxing training at I.M.A.C. for someone who wants to get in shape fast and also learn quality Martial Arts Training at the same time.
ZACH GENTRY
I have been a mother since I was 17 years old and have always felt everything else in life came before my needs. I've never been in shape, never had the commitment to do so, and I always felt like the fat, ugly girl in school. I joined Indianapolis Martial Arts Club when my 3rd child was only 5 months old and have been attending now for 6 months. I joined at first because I enjoyed Kickboxing, but I also really wanted something "out of my comfort zone". Everyone thought I was crazy, although I'm lucky in the fact that I have tremendous support from my husband and draw needed strength from him. Since I've started I've grown stronger than ever. I can accomplish more sit-ups, push ups and squats than I've ever been able to do in my life! I've dropped 10 lb.., so far, and my body composition has changed tremendously! I don't ever want to stop! My day is completely out of whack if I miss a training session. I've learned so much since I began my journey at I.M.A.C., not only about Muay Thai Kickboxing, but about myself and what I can and want to do. I want my kids to look up to me and be proud. I want to know I worked hard and can take care of myself. My goals have changed a lot, but mainly to continue learning, advancing and being able to stand in a ring and fight with confidence someday. The Instructors have given me more than I could ever write down or express to anyone. I am blessed that I have found the Indianapolis Martial Arts Club and are truly thankful for the help, guidance, and encouragement of the Staff.
SARAH JOHNSON
I came to I.M.A.C. with high hopes that I would finally lose the last of those unwanted pounds and once and for all get into shape. I was looking for something that would keep my interest and give quick results! At this point I had tried every type of workout possible. After visiting the school and watching a class in action I knew this was the workout for me. In only three months I have lost over 22 inches and a total of fifteen pounds! Not only have I lost weight I have learned a great deal about the art of Kickboxing and I look forward to coming to my classes as often as I can. I highly recommend Kickboxing to anyone that wants and needs a challenge and doesn't want to get bored.
HEATHER DUNNUCK
I really wanted to get in shape and become involved in an exercise program that wouldn't burn me out or be boring. I stopped in at the Indianapolis Martial Arts Club and met an instructor who suggested I do a trial run. After that trial my whole life changed! I knew at that moment, Kickboxing was what I wanted to do. At first I couldn't believe how hard of a workout I got. It felt great to feel every muscle in my body receive some exercise and work up a hard sweat. I couldn't wait for my next class! After about eight classes my body started to really tone up and I started to lose more and more weight. Now I weigh about 150 lb. (From 175lbs) and I feel Great! Since learning martial arts, I have changed mentally as well. My thoughts and actions are completely different from what they used to be, and my wife can't believe how much I've changed -I have more patience and don't become quite as upset when things go wrong. I am more focused and my endurance level is higher -I am not as run down at the end of the day and I have more energy to spend on the things I enjoy. The instructors at I.M.A.C. take the time to get to know you so they can help you in any way possible. They have become good friends, and I know you can't find friends like this anywhere, but I did at the Indianapolis Martial Arts Club.
JOHN BENNET
I reached a point in my workout where I was just not losing any weight, wasn't gaining, but stuck. I decided it was time for a change and take the Indianapolis Martial Arts Club up on the Free Trial Offer posted on the side of their building that I had driven by most everyday for five years. All I can do now is kick myself for not starting sooner; in 6 months I lost 16lbs. and trimmed my body fat by 6%. I'm in better shape now than I was when I wrestled in high school! All I needed was the push to work harder and set goals for myself. The instructors and I.M.A.C. definitely help you accomplish that! I was hooked after one lesson. Thanks IMAC for helping me get back into some of my old clothes I thought I would never fit into again!
FRANK CASCIO
April 2006 I tipped the scales at 219 lbs, which for me is extremely over weight. A lot of things ran through my mind, high blood pressure, potential diabetes, heart disease and over all health problems. At that time I decided my life drastically needed a paradigm change. I then began to ponder on past attempts at weight loss; for example, lifting weights, running (how about those knees, shins, hips and ankles), tread mills (running in one place with no scenery change gee what fun) and jujitsu. I had to admit that martial arts yielded the best results in the past. Although jujitsu is a great martial art and workout, I just do not feel it is a well rounded self defense art. Not to mention the way the school is teaching to kick and punch, just did not make since. Now I faced the daunting task of figuring out what martial art I would like to study, and most importantly finding a good school. Most instructors teach part time and have few years of experience at what they are trying to teach. Not to mention all the hidden cost of testing for belt programs and training with young kids. I want a school that has the complete package with professional trainers who have the patients to teach an extremely out of shape guy with two left feet. I am talking very little athletic ability here and it shows. Now that is a tall order to find such a school in the US let alone Indiana . I began my search via internet and found a very interesting web sight for Indianapolis Martial Arts Club. I took the time to read every thing on the web sight. I was very impressed with all the information about Muay Thai and the school. The fact that someone had taken the time to design such a professional web sight meant a lot to me. I have to admit after visiting www.indianapolismartialartsclub.com I looked no further. I decided to call and inquire about the school and spoke with Ray Sarkine . I learned a lot in a very short time by speaking with Ray, he has a very strong passion for martial arts and teaching others. I then went to see the school and complete my evaluation into the art of Muay Thai. Just in watching the class it was evident that students had great respect, not only for Ray and staff, but also for each other. I could feel the strong passion for this incredible art and way of teaching. The level of energy in the room was intense to say in the least. I then was introduced to the art of Muay Thai. I have to admit, usually I am not one to jump into things, or making quick decisions, and deep down inside I knew this is what I was looking for and signed up. After a few short weeks of training in level one I could see changes in my body. The pounds were starting to melt off. I was sleeping better, I had more energy. I was simply amazed at how much flexibility my body had gained. My first day I could barley bend over let alone sit in the splits. If someone had told me how flexible I was going to be in a few months I would have never believed it. Within a few months I had lost 35 lbs and was moving on to level two where the focus and intensity is at a much higher pace. I also started level 3, and have now participated in a few level 4 classes; it was here that I gained great appreciation and respect for the more advanced students. I was greatly impressed at how everyone was very patient with me, how they fought at my level and not their level where I would have been quickly pummeled; everyone was encouraging and showed much respect for each other and the art of Muay Thai. It is truly amazing the amount of stress our bodies takes on daily at work and with life in general. My body is most relaxed after class and life has a very serene feel when driving home. I find myself dealing with stressful situations better. I encourage people to perform to the best of their ability, to make the best out of every situation; you know the glass half full philosophy, and most importantly to never give up. I also enjoy showing up for class early, there is plenty of laughing and kidding around, Ray is always telling jokes and finding humor in the day to day events with life. I truly appreciate this. During class when training, Ray works with each and every person, he truly cares about each and every student and making them better. I find Ray to be an excellent philosopher not only in martial arts but also with life in general. The classes, his passion for learning how to teach others and the art of Muay Thai is constantly in a state of evolution to improve each and every day. Striving to make all of us better, to build character, to set goals, be healthy and eat healthy, and work together as a team. There has also been additional training outside of class, for example Bo-Staff training, boxing seminars, and jujitsu and nutrition seminars. There have been collections take at some of these seminars and that money went to Riley hospital. A ladies only self defense class that was basically free to anyone interested. There have been classes about philosophy and Dharma study where we learned how to understand the mind and our ability to control our body, rid our mind of all thoughts, and improve breathing, and heart rate through meditation. To stay focused, stay on the correct path and to achieve enlightenment. My life has improved immensely since joining IMAC. I have many new friends, better self-esteem, and self-discipline, commitment, and charter, inner and outer strength. I am much healthier, and overall a happier person. I found what I have been looking for, what has been missing from my life. The value far exceeds the cost here. Thanks Ray for being there for all of us, for sharing your passion for Muay Thai and life. I look forward to the next class, also the next level 4 and my first fight. Seeing all my new friends at class and striving with each person to be the best that we can be. I have to thank James and all my fellow students at IMAC for working with me, being patient. I am truly thankful for and proud to be a student of IMAC.
Sincerely, Greg Nolen Level 2, 3 and 4
"Since I started Training I've lost 25 pounds!" "I've got much more confidence" "I also have more energy at work" "I get a great workout and have a lot of fun!"
PHIL WATKINS
When I first walked into Indianapolis Martial Arts Club I wasn't sure what to expect except for a good hard workout. After my first summer training at IMAC I lost about 30 lbs! But sadly I had to go back to school. I felt great because Ray and his staff had taught me to believe in myself and push me physically but more importantly they pushed me mentally. I was able to do things I didn't believe I could and I was amazed. IMAC has a very friendly atmosphere where people come together, have a good workout, and most importantly have fun while learning a very effective Martial Art! Even while being away at school the training Ray taught me at IMAC and the attitude they gave be about working out was enough for me to keep the weight I lost during the summer off during the school year. During my spring break, I even came back to train with Ray because lifting weights at school just wasn't cutting it and I needed a good hard sweat! I would recommend anyone to Ray if they wanted to learn about Thai Boxing and have a good workout.
Ryan Dailey
7 Weeks. A lot of shoulda', coulda', woulda' can happen in that time. But not for me! Not this year. In the 7 weeks I have been a member of the Indianapolis Martial Arts Club, I have lost 4 pounds of real fat. I have also increased muscle actually am beginning to look good in tank tops again! When I started, I was a size 12, inching to a 14. Now, I am in a size 10 and even those are getting baggy! I have started to fit into some of my size 8 pants and skirts. The other night I went through my closet and tried on clothes I hadn't worn in a year or two. Not only did they fit, but I looked GREAT in them. What a feeling! Yes, the outward appearance has improved and the numbers are changing. However, I am not one to focus on that. More importantly, what I am learning and experiencing here has transcended into every other area of my life. I choose foods differently, I shop differently, and I have been reminded to encourage others. My experiences have also had a very positive effect in my classroom where I teach 25 first graders. I can't describe to you how much more confident I am. I worry less and I find myself handling stressful situations better. The best I feel ALL WEEK is when I drive home from class on Monday and Wednesday nights. My husband can't stop commenting on the new me. Really it's not a new me, it's the old me that has been covered up by long hours, fast food, and the constant feeling of being tired. He says I'm back to the same person he married four years ago. I feel this difference as well! I have always enjoyed being active but I wouldn't necessarily consider myself extremely athletic. I have always tried to stay fit. I dreaded going to the gym and never looked forward to the at home workouts. I did them because I knew I had to. Even then, I still didn't see the results I wanted. I can't wait to go to the IMAC each week and work out. I have FINALLY found something I love that takes care of me, inside and out. Thank you Ray and James for all you have done. I can't wait to see what the next year has in store.
Lyndsay Steward, 25.
Ray, I wanted to express my gratitude to both you and your assistants for introducing me to the sport of Muay Thai. The art has transformed my attitude and confidence, not to forget about the effects on my health conscience! In all sincerity, the best decision I made in my life was to join IMAC. Thanks for giving me a chance to improve myself both physically and mentally. Itís a debt I will never be able to repay. If my career brings me back to Indianapolis, I hope I am welcome to rejoin your club.
Best of Luck
KEVIN NIX
I joined the club for stress relief and to lose weight. While I have reached a better physical fitness level, the increase in my self-confidence has been the benefit I like the most and it is directly related to my Kickboxing training. The Indianapolis Martial Arts Club is a great place to increase your physical fitness, learn new skills and have FUN!
ANGIE THORNBURG
I was looking for a workout that was both challenging and interesting. Lifting weights and running are good workouts, but they get routine and boring after a while. So when I joined Indianapolis Martial Arts Club, I wanted a demanding workout that would keep me coming back for more. It was the best decision I ever made! The workouts are incredible! I like the emphasis on physical fitness. When I joined in June 2003, I weighed 194 lb.. By September my weight was down to 164 lb.. I lost 30 lb. in 4 months! Kickboxing workouts help you to lose weight, get in shape and learn a new skill while youíre at it. There are plenty of classes to fit my schedule, and I try to attend regularly. The workouts are structured and intense. I always feel good after one. I found that the instructors are committed to bringing out the best in every student. They are demanding, yet also friendly, positive and approachable. All the instructors pitch in to teach the students proper form and technique. I really like the supportive atmosphere at the school. Many things that are taught go beyond just Thai kickboxing to apply to your whole life. Intense, exciting, educational, holistic, positive ñ Kickboxing at I.M.A.C. is all these things and more. I canít wait for my next class!
SCOTT JOHNSON
In the past year and a half Iíve spent learning Thai Kickboxing at I.M.A.C. has been challenging, fun and educational! Iíve made a lot of progress, both physically and otherwise. I love the friendly atmosphere at the Club. The Indianapolis Martial Arts Club is excellent.
Steven Jones
I started attending Indianapolis Martial Arts Club in August 2005 because I needed to mix some cardio in with my weight routing. At that time I weighed 265 lbs. and I thought that I was in good shape. Since then, IMAC has helped me to get into the best shape of my life! Currently I weigh 210 lbs. and I am training for World Championships coming up in August. My target weight to get down to is around 195 and with IMAC I should have NO problem doing so. I could not even imagine what shape I would be in if it wasnít for IMAC. The club is a positive atmosphere where one can get into shape and relieve stress. The instructors help students to push themselves and are constantly teaching new things. One can tell that the Instructors care about the students and thrive on making them better. So anyone that is looking for a good workout, something to do to lose weight, or just an overall good experience I would recommend giving Indianapolis Martial Arts club a try to see for yourself. I am just one of the many that have seen results after joining IMAC. I canít thank the instructors enough for the accomplishments I have made at the Club and the ones that I will continue to make. Thanks Ray and everyone at the Indianapolis Martial Arts Club.
Jason Bradley
In the summer of 2005 I found out I had a brain tumor. I was told the tumor was large but operable and most likely benign. Not the kind of news that a healthy 38 year old expects. Facing the possibility of needing brain surgery, I decided that being overweight and out of shape was not acceptable. I needed to find a way to get in shape fast! Iëve tried all sorts of other exercise programs, but I wouldnít see results fast enough. Iíd end up getting discouraged and bored and eventually just quit. I needed to find some way to get in shape fast and keep me committed to doing the work needed. I found the IMAC website and thought that Kickboxing might be the answer I was looking for. And it was! In 2.5 months, I dropped 2 sizes, gained a lot of strength and confidence. I felt better about myself than I have in years! My surgery was a success, 100% removal of the tumor. My recovery was quick and painless. After 6 weeks, I was back to work full-time. I owe a lot to Ray, and the other trainers for getting me prepared mentally and physically for this ordeal. Thanks guys! IMAC is the best!
TRACY DITSWORTH
Hindsight is an amazing thing. How many times have you said if I knew that back then I would have...? That is what I think about when I show up at the Indianapolis Martial Arts Club every day. My experience there in the last fifteen months has been incredible. I have dropped 3 pants sizes and over 40 pounds. But that is not what keeps me coming back. It is the art of Muay Thai kickboxing. I strive to learn more everyday. I love that when I leave the gym there is a million things that I can work on! I am always trying to better myself. It makes working out fun and enjoyable. I never look at it as working out I look at it as learning an art. The second thing that attracts me to I.M.A.C. is the people. I moved to Indianapolis with no friends and I found a family at the school. People at the there are so nice and warm. The people at I.M.A.C. keep me coming back because I know they will always be there for me. Not only are the students great but also the trainers are wonderful. The trainers are always helping. The trainers always know your limits but help you pass your limits by making you better. Indianapolis Martial Arts Club has taught me discipline that I can apply to my personal life, career, and also school. It has taught me that hard work pays off. I.M.A.C. has been a great influence on my life.
JILL SCHMIDT
If someone was to ask me who and what I would be if I had never joined I.M.A.C. the answer would be simple--I sure wouldn't be the man I am today. For one thing I would be fat, out of shape, and have at least the 25 lb. I've lost back on! But, worst of all as a human being I would have no drive, no fire, and certainly no passion for anything much in my life other than to get by day by day blurring the differences between going to work and going to sleep. Making a true commitment to my Training has been the best thing that ever happened to me! Working out and learning Kickboxing and Martial Arts has been a shot in the arm of pure rejuvenation. The classes are intense, but very rewarding and fun. In less than six months I lost the 25 pounds and am now in the best shape of my life! I.M.A.C. has a staff that truly cares and they've made me love to learn and practice. I know I will love this for the rest of my life. Iíve learned humility and have also learned patience. The lessons I have learned have reflected on all aspects of my life giving me drive and passion in everything I do in life now.
JAMES SHIN
I learned more about speed, power, balance, and footwork from Ray Sarkine and the other trainers at the Indianapolis Martial Arts Club in my first 4 months of kickboxing than I did in the 4 years I spent earning a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. More importantly, I learned about myself. Ray teaches you to believe in yourself by pushing you to your limit and then challenging you to go beyond ñ both mentally and physically. After being involved in a variety of arts and sports I can honestly say there is no workout like it! I.M.A.C. is simply the best martial arts studio around."
STUART OUGH
When I first joined IMAC (Indianapolis Martial Arts Club) in November of 2003, I was a bundle of stress that was going to drive me to an early grave if something wasn't done. I had taken a new job in Indianapolis and had been living in a suitcase for about two months. I was trying to find a house, sell a house, move a family of 4 across two states, enroll kids in school ...I think you get the idea. I was eating take out and getting little exercise and knew I needed to get back into shape. As a parent, you want to be there for your children and protect them from danger. I started to realize that I was so out of shape that if there was a situation that required me to protect or save my family (my nightmare was trying to save them from a burning house) I could not because I was so out of shape. I have lifted weights for years but was looking for something to help with my cardio. I hate running and any type of aerobic workout bores me. That when I started to think about boxing or martial arts. I looked around and visited a couple of gyms but realized most of the members where as out of shape as worse or me. Then I visited IMAC to watch a couple of sessions and to take a couple private lessons with one of the trainers. A year and half later I am still here. In my opinion, Ray and the trainers want you to succeed both in the gym and in life. The fellow students (I call them students, anyone can be a member but a student wants to learn and improve themselves) are great to work with, willing to help, and fun to be around. During this past year and a half, life has continues to pile on the stress but thanks to the Ray and the trainers at IMC I no longer have the nightmare about protecting or saving my family. People deal with stress in many different ways; alcohol, drugs, food, and stress manifest itself in the body in the form of high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and ulcers. The way I deal with stress in a healthy fun filled atmosphere is to go to IMAC and kick its ass three times a week.
JR Humphreys, CFA
After taking a year and a half away from I.M.A.C. and then coming back, I can honestly say that there is no other experience like it. In my absence I tried cardio kickboxing, regular martial arts, and taekwondo at several different gyms across the Indianapolis area and none of their workouts or instruction came close to the level I was used to from the Indianapolis Martial Arts Club. If you are craving individual attention, intense workouts, practical self-defense, or if you want something more than the usual, the Indianapolis Martial Arts Club is by far the only place to be, if either you are brand new or have been a member for years.
AISHA CAUSEY
My Name is Tony Head. I am 37 years old and have been kickboxing over 5 years. The last four of these years Iíve been studying, competing and training under Ray Sarkine at the Indianapolis Martial Arts Club. These past four years have made a tremendous difference in my skill. I originally started at a gym that taught you some basic kicking, punching, and a few other techniques but they really never taught you any practical application or how things work together when you actually needed it to. While I at the first gym I had my first competitive fight. It was an eye-opening experience! People told me I did well but I felt like I got crushed! A few months later I started at I.M.A.C. with Ray and I learned a lot more than ever before right away. I learned defense skills and real applications for the first time. If I had learned just these two important concepts before my first bout, maybe the outcome would have been different! Being at the Indianapolis Martial Arts Club has really helped educate me about the true art of Thai Kickboxing. I enjoy always learning more and feeling like I am bettering myself. The atmosphere at I.M.A.C. is not like the other gym, it isnít about who is better, but, of learning and the drive to better ones self physically and mentally. I feel so strongly about Ray and I.M.A.C. That I know I am going to be a lifelong member.
TONY HEAD. 2 time 911 Police and Fire Games Boxing and Muay Thai Kickboxing Champion
Ray, A quick not to say thanks to you and your entire staff of I.M.A.C. for all that you have done for my son. His overall physical conditioning has greatly improved. Everything from his balance, strength, quickness and agility has reached a new level for him. That says a lot, because as you know he plays elite soccer and was in good shape to begin with. My wife and I can't say enough about how you and the staff have also helped him to become more focused, more disciplined more responsible and more appreciative. We have seen such a drastic improvement in so many areas of his life. It has been wonderful to watch. I look forward to having you work with my youngest daughter soon. Again, thank you for a wonderful experience.
DAN MIELE -proud parent of NICK MIELE....went on to become silver gloves champion of 04
In 1998, I was looking to get back into Martial Arts. I hadnít done any serious training since I graduated college back in 1992. I have a Black Belt in Hapkido as well as extensive experience in other Martial Arts (i.e. Judo, Aikido, Tae-Down-do, Wrestling, Isshin-RyuKarate and weapons training as well) I tried a few places around the Indianapolis area but just wasnít satisfied with their level of training. I heard about the Indianapolis Martial Arts club from a couple of friends who had visited for a trial session. I came to I.M.A.C. and sat down with the Chief Instructor and was invited to come back later to witness a couple of training sessions. After viewing the classes, I knew that this school would offer me the challenge I was seeking. The Indianapolis Martial Arts Club has an excellent training regimen, and some of the best instruction Iíve ever received. I also found a true appreciation for Muay Thai Kickboxing and Western Boxing. Studying these Martial Arts have shown me first hand the bad habits Iíve picked up over the years with the other Arts, and introduced me to a completely new system of training and self-defense. I truly appreciate how the classes have a cohesive structure, but a very flexible workout routine and training regimen. Sessions may consist of boxing and defense drills, another may focus specifically on physical conditioning, and the next may consist of kicking drills and defense against attacks. The staff takes ownership of your development and works hard to ensure you work towards your maximum potential (Yet keep the environment friendly and fun). Everyone is treated with respect and given a high level of personal instruction. If youíre looking to get in shape, learn practical fighting techniques, and to improve your focus and self-discipline, this (I.M.A.C.) is definitely the place for you! 
Darrius Joiner
As 2005 came to a close I found myself in a personal and professional rut. I was looking and needing something in my life not knowing exactly what it was. Being an individual in the health/fitness profession, a former division one athlete, and an adult that has struggled with weight issues her entire life, I have seen and done almost everything out there to get in shape and lose weight. Within the first lesson at the Indianapolis Martial Arts Club, I had found what it was I was missing. I found a program that actually produces results and people who are truly committed to supporting me. I would like to say that the Indianapolis Martial Arts Club has only given me a program that has changed my life, but they have given me MORE than that. They have given me the perspective that I deserve to live a happy, healthy life and tools to do so. They have restored my belief that I am worth the time, money, or any other excuse I could come up with for not taking control of my health. 
Thank you, Ray !
Sincerely, Jamie Bradley
I've been kickboxing for almost 3 years now and have trained at some of the best gyms in the country. When I moved from California to attend graduate school here in Indiana my expectations for finding a true Muay Thai Gym were less than optimistic. Countless schools claim to instruct the art of Muay Thai Kickboxing, but few really appreciate and understand the martial art, it's origin, or teach with any degree of competency. I feel very fortunate to have found the Indianapolis Martial Arts Club! This letter alone cannot express the gratitude I have for the school and it's instructors. Their focus on proper technique, form, and correct drills allows for thorough development and considerable results. In addition, they put a strong emphasis on discipline, hard work, and a positive mental attitude. These things make I.M.A.C. a great place to train!
JAY BANERJEE
As I go into my third year of membership, I can say with sincerity that my life has been enriched by my experience at the Indianapolis Martial Arts Club. When I started, my goals were lofty; I knew that I would like to become stronger and knew that I needed a more effective means by which to relieve stress. In both areas, I feel I have made strides, but that is not all that has kept me at I.M.A.C.... Although there are days when I donít feel like coming in, something draws me back. Even though there are times when it takes me an hour to get through traffic, I still return. Itís not because I have nothing else to do, because like everyone else at I.M.A.C, my life is a balance between school, work and everyday life. The reason I have stayed goes beyond that fact that I have gained nearly twenty-five pounds of muscle and only one dress-size. Itís not even due to the distinction of winning the IKF North American Muay Thai Championship this year. I have stayed at I.M.A.C. because when I get terrified before my fights, the trainers and students at I.M.A.C. Are always there. I have stayed because I know that when I feel busy and tired, so does everyone else. I have stayed because I have learned invaluable lessons from the people who have defeated me when I needed it the most. But mainly, I have stayed at The Indianapolis Martial Arts Club because in doing so, I have come to appreciate the discipline, patience and perseverance that are needed to succeed in anything. It is possible to exercise anywhere, and itís possible to fight without training, but I know that for me, that will never again be acceptable. Iím not just a member of a gym, Iím a student learning the efficiency of Muay Thai Kickboxing from the best, and luck is infatuated with the efficient.
KATHLEEN BEM United States Super-Lightweight Kickboxing Champion, 03, North American Lightweight Kickboxing Champion 04
I walked into IMAC a tad overconfident in my skills and a little irritated that I had to spend money on an introductory lesson that I didnít feel I needed considering that I've been kickboxing on and off For about a decade. After all, what could a little gym in Indianapolis offer that Fairetex, my current gym in San Francisco, couldn't? It took IMAC instructor par excellence, less than 5 minutes to show me. As he watched me execute basic punches and kicks, he made suggestions for each that immediately increased my accuracy, speed, and power. He presented the practical theory behind each of the suggestions he made and took time to demonstrate them himself. It was one of the most informative and frustrating training sessions I've ever had. There would be many more before my two months in Indy were over. Ray Sarkine's training philosophy, as demonstrated to me by himself and his Assistant James, includes extensive technique work and individual attention (even in group classes) that far surpasses any training Iíve received in both the United States and Australia. After only two months of training with Ray at IMAC, I'm in better shape than I've been in years. Do not pass up an opportunity to work with this Man.
Sarah Swenson