Hi Des Plaines! For our next installment of Doing it up in Des Plaines, I headed over to MBD Martial Arts, 1673 Oakton St., to try my hands, er legs, at kick-boxing in their Muay-Thai class.

MBD offers instruction in martial arts for children and adults. Their classes include Mixed-Martial Arts (techniques used in Ultimate Fighting), Muay-Thai, Grappling, Karate, Self-Defense, Pankration and Weapons Training.

At MBD I spoke with Michelle De La Rosa, co-owner with her husband Ben, about fighting styles and students Jacqueline Rusch, 10, and her dad Kurt about the fun and benefits of martial arts.

I also spoke with students Tess McDonald, 13, and the Pfluger brothers, Truman, 10, and Grayson, 6, who plan to continue their instruction and share a love of Jackie Chan.

Paul Kusibab, 16, was gracious enough to let me interrupt his instruction time (thanks Paul) to speak about the benefits of martial arts as well. Kusibab recently competed in the North American Grappling Association (NAGA) Tournament on Sept 5th.  He took First Place in Gi & Third Place in the No-Gi division. Grappling is a form of ground fighting. In Gi, fighters wear traditional uniforms, whereas in No-Gi, fighters wear limited clothing and protection in the non-traditional style of cage fighting. You can view a photo of Kusibab with his first place trophy here.

As students warmed up and really began sparring, I was both impressed and a little intimidated, the MBD members in this session are no beginners, but it was really cool to watch up close and inspired me to get myself moving.

Besides training at the studio, MBD also hosts seminars and outside instruction that are open to members and non-members. You can view the schedule here or call MBD Martial Arts at (847) 297-2788 or email: mbdmartialarts@comcast.net for more information.