Paladin Combatives

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Alex Strauts a year ago

I came to Paladin Combatives at the suggestion of a friend. While I had zero experience, I’d always been a fan of the sport, and we had loosely talked about trying a class. From day one, my experience was awesome. My first class was grappling. I figured growing up roughhousing with my brothers and working a physical job might help me hold my own. Nope. I was immediately humbled—in the best way. It was the hardest workout of my life. I was gasping for air and laughing at myself the whole time. The instructors seamlessly balanced their attention between seasoned fighters and beginners like me. I ask way too many questions when I start something new, and not once did they seem annoyed or impatient. Doc, in particular, spent a ton of time breaking down the basics. He wasn’t afraid to get hands-on, demonstrating techniques in a way that was both safe and effective. Later in the session, I rolled with another new guy while the instructors coached us through it. Even though the terminology was mostly foreign to me, I could tell that, with time and guidance from this team, it would all start to click. Then came the moment I rolled with one of the instructors. Hilarious—and humbling. We were about the same size, but he tapped me five times in five minutes. And the craziest part? He *called his shots*, explaining to me (and everyone watching) what he was about to do and why. I gave it everything I had, and he still folded me like laundry. But I never felt unsafe. He stopped when I tapped—once when I tapped a little late I could tell he let off early, likely realizing my mistake before even I did. It was clear his goal wasn’t to dominate but to teach, which is huge for someone just starting out. Even the more experienced fighters were welcoming and helpful. There was no ego, no judgment—just genuine excitement that new people were coming in to learn the craft they clearly love. One fighter, Jackson, stood out. After finishing back-to-back rolls like it was nothing, he walked me through the gear I’d need if I decided to stick with it. Overall, I had a blast. The instructors were knowledgeable, supportive, and focused on safety. I left exhausted but uninjured—best case scenario in my book. Right now, my night shift work schedule is keeping me from attending regularly, but the second that changes, I’ll be back. If you’re thinking about trying MMA or just want a solid gym to train at, I can’t recommend Paladin Combatives enough.

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john derosa 3 years ago

My entire family attends classes here and cannot say enough good things about them. Nick and Evan work hard to design classes that not only get you a good work out in but also learn about mixed martial arts. My son Jackson loves his mma classes and looks forward to them every week. Highly recommend checking them out.

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P Byrnes 3 years ago

I'm an old guy who, over a 50 + years period, has trained in many styles of martial arts ranging from Shotokan Karate to Muay Thai and American kickboxing. In that half-century of training, I have had the privilege of studying with some excellent instructors to include Nick Renfro of Paladin Combatives' in Springfield IL. Nick has a deep background in traditional martial arts and has also trained and competed on a high level in MMA and BJJ. What makes Nick unique is that he is also very knowledgeable in "true" self-defense including a number of simple - but highly effective - methods for escaping and/or countering the types of attacks one may encounter out on the street. Because of his wide base of knowledge, his understanding and experience in real-life "situations" and the passion and patience he brings "to the mat," I highly recommend him as a coach and/or instructor

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Alysha Bongard 3 years ago

I began my workout journey by starting the cardio kickboxing class. I was super nervous I wouldn’t be able to do the moves or it was going to be too hard. But the first day there I felt so comfortable with the coaches and atmosphere. They never once made me feel like I couldn’t do something, they are always so encouraging. The patience and encouragement from these coaches has really helped transform myself to the point I enjoy working out. They notice when we can handle more and consistently push us every class, making us feel better about ourselves. I’ve been taking this class for 8 months now and I couldn’t imagine not doing it, it has become a part of my routine I truly look forward to every week.

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Tina Molohon 3 years ago

I take their cardio kickboxing class. The trainers are amazing and you are guaranteed to sweat and burn some calories. I needed a new workout and someone to push me past my own limits. This is my go-to for a great workout!! 🥊