FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I need experience to start MMA?
Not at all. Our classes are for anyone and everyone. If you’re new to the sport, our Basic class will teach you the fundamentals of boxing, kickboxing, wrestling and jiu-jitsu. Start today! Basic classes are available anywhere it says MMA Skill Training on our schedule.
Do I need to be in shape before starting?
We have had everyone from marathon runners to professional bodybuilders come to our classes and still feel out of shape by the end of it. MMA is a unique sport that will tax the body from an aerobic standpoint and also an anaerobic standpoint; a unique conditioning that really only comes by doing it. But don’t worry, it gets easier with consistency. Not because the classes get easier, but because you get stronger!
What happens during my 1st class?
After checking in with one of our instructors, the class starts with the warmup. Once the warmup is done, the class is split between the basic class and the advance class. Those in the basic class start by learning how to get into a good fighting stance. From there we go into the basics of boxing, kickboxing, wrestling and jiu-jitsu. The 1st half of the class is dedicated to striking. The 2nd half is for grappling. Over the course of the month, striking and grappling get blended together. After the classes are over, we gather everyone for announcements and bow out of the class together. Then after one last check in with the instructor, you have officially completed your 1st day of training!
Where are you located?
We are located in the South Loop of Chicago, also near Pilsen, Chinatown and UIC. Our address is 329 W. 18th St., Chicago, IL 60616 Suite 414. We are in the big gray building on the 18th St. bridge.
Is there parking available?
Yes! Free parking is available near our building. You can park in our lot across the street at 1739 S Stewart St or by our loading docks at 1801 S Lumber. Once you approach our building, find a dial pad, dial 300 and we will buzz you in.
What should I wear to class?
We do not have a required uniform. Most of our students wear a shirt or rashguard and shorts. Be sure to bring an extra shirt to switch into after the 1st half of class.
What equipment do I need?
If you are coming in for your trial, you will need comfortable clothes to workout in, a bottle of water, and if you have boxing gloves, bring those too. If you do not have boxing gloves yet, not a problem. We have some that you can use for your trial. Once you make it to the advance class, you’ll need boxing gloves, MMA gloves, shin guards, a mouth guard, and gentleman, a cup.
Can I train MMA without competing?
Absolutely! While we are proud of the successes of our competition team, we are also proud of the Warriors that choose the path of the martial artist as a way for self-development and self-defense. It is always better to be a warrior in a garden than a gardener in a war.
Is sparring required?
Not at all. While sparring can help you improve your skillset and challenge your conditioning, it is there when you are ready for it.
How do you keep sparring safe?
Simple, we require that people leave their egos at the door. We also try to make sure the only people who are sparring, are those that are ready for it and have been putting in the work in the Skills Training classes. We value team and camaraderie over people beating each other up any day!
Can I train MMA without getting injured?
While safety is our highest priority, accidents can and do happen. Coaches are always present to watch and supervise the sparring rounds, but it takes efforts from the entire group to keep everyone safe.
How long will it take for me to get good?
Great question! I will let you answer that one. Because everyone is different and learns at different paces. How long everyone takes to get good depends on the individual’s discipline and consistency.
How much does a membership cost?
Your 1st week of training is always free. From there, we have a couple of different pricing options available. Our prices range from $175-$230 per month, depending on how long you sign up for. All our memberships include unlimited training that includes MMA, strength & conditioning, and sparring classes.
What makes Warrior Evolution different from other Chicago MMA gyms?
We believe martial arts should change more than the way you fight- it should change the way you handle life.
We’re not just focused on producing fighters. We’re focused on developing people who can perform under pressure, think through adversity, and keep evolving when things get difficult.
Our training combines MMA, striking, wrestling, grappling, strength & conditioning, and live sparring with a strong emphasis on fundamentals. We don’t believe in skipping steps or chasing shortcuts. We train to think, not panic. We master the basics. We build discipline before confidence.
For those who want to compete, we provide a serious path toward competition and fight preparation. For everyone else, you can train for fitness, self-defense, confidence, stress relief, or simply because you want to challenge yourself.
Most importantly, we’re building a community where beginners, experienced martial artists, and competitors can all continue to grow.
Remember, you are already a warrior. We are just here to help you evolve.
How do I get started?
Just go ahead and click that button up top to start your free trial. We are excited to start training with you!
If you didn’t see your question here, please feel free to reach out to us.