Ok, I just joined, but I like the instructors and the pace of instruction. I am a total beginner, and they dont expect you to know anything. It is a great workout. The first 15 minutes is warm up and is a great cardio workout. The other 45 minutes you go through self defense instruction. They will pair you up with someone to practice. For beginners it is important to remember that there is repetition so you eventually pick it up. I admit to being not so good -- but I am getting it slowly. Usually at the end, I am exhausted, and sore for a day.
I also like that there is no long term contract, they have a system where you just give 30 days notice. I dont like those multiyear blackbelt programs.
If I could change one thing, I wish there were fewer "beginners" with previous martial arts experience-- but I think you run into that at every school.

Upon entering Buffalo Grove Martial Arts, I was hesitant to join because of how demanding it appeared. But once I stepped into my first class, I was hooked. Not only was it the best work out I had ever experienced., but also the only work out I have felt the affects of two days later. I even discovered muscles that I was not aware existed! If you are looking for a work out that is worth your money and time this your best option. The instructors are amazing people who truly care about your best interest and what will benefit you the most. All in all, BGMA is the place where you want to go in order to obtain the best shape of your life, at any age.

What a great place and great instructors. I have been attending Krav Maga for 2 years; after testing moved up to Level 3 after 1.5 years. There is no problem to take a Level 1 or 2 class or even kickboxing if so desired; or several classes back to back. It's a heck of a workout, with 'real-life' self defense which includes several martial arts disciplines & loads of fun. Staff and students are very friendly (everyone gets along with each other and friendships have been made); nobody is out to prove how great they are as a martial artist, even if they have attained a high level in another discipline. If the staff wasn't so friendly and approachable, I wouldn't be attending.
The students range in age from high school to 55+ yrs. When we spar box, nobody is out to hurt anyone, (we wear protective equipment as well); it's a learning experience for all. Beside the instructiors (who have black belts in other disciplines (some more than 1) if a student notices someone else incorrectly performing a technique, advice is given and taken without criticism. We never go at 100% to insure no one gets hurt. The beginning of the class starts with stretching (even that makes me sweat!) and a warm-up; I have become so much more flexible since starting out; I can even reach my toes without bending my knees!
There are 2 classes in separate rooms at the same time, such as Krav Maga class and kickboxing, therefore if a student wants a different workout or has an injury he/she can attend the other class.
Once I finished the hour long class on a Saturday, I was hooked! This was no 'intro' class; it was a regular Level 2 class. I have played many sports, some including aerobic & anaerobic training (such as marathoning, but this is one heck of training; plus during the winter, I don't have to brave the ements, my workout is Krav.
I highly recommend this to all men and women.

I was a 45 year old fat out of shape guy that was bummed because I used to be an athlete, football, basketball, racquetball, but after 25 years of the corporate life I lost my game, not to mention my youthful energy. Like most people, I went to the typical health club and worked out but was totally bored of treadmills and just lifting weights. I wanted something more competitive and intense. I looked into the convential martial arts but I didnt want to learn Japanese or wear a Gi etc. I wanted contact. I wanted to learn how to knock someone out if I had to and protect my family, especially after 9/11. I wanted something competitive where other guys like me trained, where I would be coached and pushed beyond my limits. I found BGMA on the internet, took an introductory class, and Wow! I knew Krav Maga was for me. After the first 15 minutes of that intro class I was off in a corner searching for oxygen! Two years later, I am taking two classes back to back (2hrs), I am keeping up with the young bucks in their 20's. I've lost 30 lbs without dieting...in fact I eat more now, sleep better, and am totally addicted to this place. I love to spar, I love the "live" workouts, the competition, the hitting and contact. I've learned how to defend myself and my family against gun and knife attacks, chokes, head locks, bear hugs everything. I'm 2 years into this and feel great. I get adrenaline rushes during the day thinking about class later that night. The instructors are the best, they push you to your limit but safely. The instruction on technique is first class. The school is clean and always kept up. The members are all great and I expect to continue well into my 60's. If you're tired and bored of the same old routine and want to jump start your fitness and learn self defense in a safe, clean and intense environment, this is the school for you. Take an intro class and see if it's for you.
I'll see you there!

I first sought out BGMA as a place where I could learn self-defense and stay in shape. While it is a little far for me, I appreciate the expert instruction, my fellow students, and the cleanliness of the facility. The price and plans offered are reasonable, too.

I joined in January 2006 by first taking an introductory class. I'm lucky I made it until the end of that hour- I was out of shape! I liked it enough though that I signed up, and kept attending. After a few weeks, I was definitely hooked; the soreness and anxiety had worn off, and I was hooked on something I didn't know if I'd like or not. I'm now in Level 3 and do my best to make it in as often as possible- when something comes up that keeps me from going to class, it's a total downer. I have received nothing but the best support from Bert and the rest of the instructors, and they work with you to make sure you are doing everything right and to the maximum of your potential.

Self defense is important - only you are responsible for your safety (not the police, the government, etc.). If you want to learn, this is definitely the place. The classes are structured so you aren't expected to be an expert right away. Remember: this system is designed for the Israeli military, where EVERYONE serves. It was built on the fact that new recruits would range from physically fit to, well, not-so-fit. You start off with the basics, and move your way up from there. There is no pressure; you work at your own pace. If I had to start over again, I'd still stick with this system.