Member Spot Light
At Smash Hit, we celebrate the outstanding individuals who make up our vibrant community. Each month, we recognize a member who has demonstrated exceptional commitment, brought a unique energy to the gym, or showcased remarkable character in their interactions with fellow students.
Transformations
PHYLLIS BURCH seriously injured her shoulder in 2015 – doctors had to graph the tendon back to her bone – and she was sidelined for six months. As a former ballerina and active cardio kickboxer at another gym, Phyllis knew she had to start building her strength again and get back to working out.
Phyllis and her two sisters decided to try out Smash Hit in March 2016 after a referral from another client. They gave the kickboxing classes a try, and Phyllis was hooked. “I loved it from the start!” she said.
But getting back into a workout routine proved difficult. Phyllis said she couldn’t go five minutes without needing to stop and catch her breath. Now, she said her stamina is much better, and her breathing improved 80%. And while she said it doesn’t look like she’s lost weight, she added so much muscle.
An unexpected kickboxing benefit for Phyllis is better sleep. “I’m a semi-insomniac. That’s another reason why I go to kickboxing. I never thought that would happen,” she said.
Phyllis said she likes attending Ken’s kickboxing classes because they are structured. “I like the physicality with kickboxing. I also like the aggressiveness at times. You can put in as much as you want and make it work for you. I really enjoy it,” she said.
In addition to the regular scheduled classes, Phyllis said she enjoys attending fundraising and health awareness events that Smash Hit hosts throughout the year. She recently attended the Punch Paint for Psoriasis event where she and other participants wore donated Smash Hit boxing gloves, dipped the gloves in paint, and punched a large canvas to create a community art project to promote psoriasis awareness.
She said it is the community of Smash Hit members that make coming to the club so enjoyable. “I have really met some nice people and made friendships that mean a lot to me. The world has really got some interesting people in it. We’re at Smash Hit for ourselves, but we’re willing to help each other,” she said.
Phyllis and her two sisters decided to try out Smash Hit in March 2016 after a referral from another client. They gave the kickboxing classes a try, and Phyllis was hooked. “I loved it from the start!” she said.
But getting back into a workout routine proved difficult. Phyllis said she couldn’t go five minutes without needing to stop and catch her breath. Now, she said her stamina is much better, and her breathing improved 80%. And while she said it doesn’t look like she’s lost weight, she added so much muscle.
An unexpected kickboxing benefit for Phyllis is better sleep. “I’m a semi-insomniac. That’s another reason why I go to kickboxing. I never thought that would happen,” she said.
Phyllis said she likes attending Ken’s kickboxing classes because they are structured. “I like the physicality with kickboxing. I also like the aggressiveness at times. You can put in as much as you want and make it work for you. I really enjoy it,” she said.
In addition to the regular scheduled classes, Phyllis said she enjoys attending fundraising and health awareness events that Smash Hit hosts throughout the year. She recently attended the Punch Paint for Psoriasis event where she and other participants wore donated Smash Hit boxing gloves, dipped the gloves in paint, and punched a large canvas to create a community art project to promote psoriasis awareness.
She said it is the community of Smash Hit members that make coming to the club so enjoyable. “I have really met some nice people and made friendships that mean a lot to me. The world has really got some interesting people in it. We’re at Smash Hit for ourselves, but we’re willing to help each other,” she said.
DAVE O’RYAN had just celebrated his third-year anniversary as a recipient of a kidney transplant. For 18 months following surgery, Dave was limited in his workouts to walking, biking and kayaking. He was ready to take his workouts in a new direction.
Dave joined Smash Hit in July, partly to check boxing off his bucket list (his grandfather boxed) and partly for a new gym routine to keep his interest. Smash Hit was a great fit.
Dave found “fun, helpful, non-judgmental” members and coaches at Smash Hit, explaining they were “really positive and understanding.” But even better, he also experienced tremendous improvement in his health with his new Smash Hit classes:
“My numbers and functions monitoring performance have been improving since surgery, but had peaks and valleys to a point. The six weeks at Smash Hit resulted in very smooth numbers and greatly improved test values — to the point specialists stated I had increased levels by up to 20 percent in some tests, and have the physical capability of some one much younger.”
Congratulations, Dave! We’re proud to highlight you and your accomplishments after only six weeks of Smash Hit classes. We can’t wait to see how much further your training will take you in the weeks ahead.
Dave joined Smash Hit in July, partly to check boxing off his bucket list (his grandfather boxed) and partly for a new gym routine to keep his interest. Smash Hit was a great fit.
Dave found “fun, helpful, non-judgmental” members and coaches at Smash Hit, explaining they were “really positive and understanding.” But even better, he also experienced tremendous improvement in his health with his new Smash Hit classes:
“My numbers and functions monitoring performance have been improving since surgery, but had peaks and valleys to a point. The six weeks at Smash Hit resulted in very smooth numbers and greatly improved test values — to the point specialists stated I had increased levels by up to 20 percent in some tests, and have the physical capability of some one much younger.”
Congratulations, Dave! We’re proud to highlight you and your accomplishments after only six weeks of Smash Hit classes. We can’t wait to see how much further your training will take you in the weeks ahead.
JASON BOLTON's story exemplifies determination. Look how far he's come! Smash Hit is proud to have played a part in Jason reaching his goals.
"The start was 2020. The goal was 175. The current weight is 169. Don't believe the hype that there's a secret formula or diet. This is the product of 0 supplements, 0 scoops of protein powder. This is 100% staying disciplined, running 1 more mile than I originally wanted to at the end of a 90-degree day, getting off my ass when I said 'I need to take a break today,' punching a bag as hard as I can when my shoulders are about to give out ... I'm still eating protein in its purest form - 95% wild game. No salt, no sugar during the week, eating every 3 hours, not using a cheat day as a day to go insane, but a day as 'Let's see how disciplined you can be today' even with self granted permission. Your mind tells your body to give up at 45%. Don't forget you still have 65% still in the gas tank (110%). Don't practice defeat. Get up every morning and tell yourself you're going to win today."
"The start was 2020. The goal was 175. The current weight is 169. Don't believe the hype that there's a secret formula or diet. This is the product of 0 supplements, 0 scoops of protein powder. This is 100% staying disciplined, running 1 more mile than I originally wanted to at the end of a 90-degree day, getting off my ass when I said 'I need to take a break today,' punching a bag as hard as I can when my shoulders are about to give out ... I'm still eating protein in its purest form - 95% wild game. No salt, no sugar during the week, eating every 3 hours, not using a cheat day as a day to go insane, but a day as 'Let's see how disciplined you can be today' even with self granted permission. Your mind tells your body to give up at 45%. Don't forget you still have 65% still in the gas tank (110%). Don't practice defeat. Get up every morning and tell yourself you're going to win today."
Member Stories
DEBBIE MARKHAM From Davisburg and joined Smash in February 2023 when she wanted to get back into boxing and add another layer to her training regimen. Debbie was nominated for Member of the Month because she appreciates the physical and mental benefits that the variety of classes adds to her existing toolbox. Congratulations!
What keeps you coming back to Smash?
I love the different types of classes. Love all of the instructors; Ken and Eric are amazing! Such personal 1:1 attention in every class. I enjoy meeting new people, the energy in the classes is great, all are at different levels of boxing skills and fitness, and we’re all trying our best.
How have you improved since your first class?
I already feel and see differences in my abs and upper body. I have a high level of energy and stamina, so I am eager to have the instructors push me beyond my limits. I can see a difference in my technique already. It is such a great feeling when you know you landed that jab or kick. Such a high!
Is there anything else you would like to add or mention?
I wish I could bottle and sell the feelings I get after a great workout at Smash. No matter how fit you think you are — or think you aren’t — in addition to the external strength you feel when you hit or kick the bag, there is an inner strength you feel, a focus and discipline that you can carry over into other areas in your life.
What keeps you coming back to Smash?
I love the different types of classes. Love all of the instructors; Ken and Eric are amazing! Such personal 1:1 attention in every class. I enjoy meeting new people, the energy in the classes is great, all are at different levels of boxing skills and fitness, and we’re all trying our best.
How have you improved since your first class?
I already feel and see differences in my abs and upper body. I have a high level of energy and stamina, so I am eager to have the instructors push me beyond my limits. I can see a difference in my technique already. It is such a great feeling when you know you landed that jab or kick. Such a high!
Is there anything else you would like to add or mention?
I wish I could bottle and sell the feelings I get after a great workout at Smash. No matter how fit you think you are — or think you aren’t — in addition to the external strength you feel when you hit or kick the bag, there is an inner strength you feel, a focus and discipline that you can carry over into other areas in your life.
TRACY VARJABEDIAN is from Metamora and joined Smash in 2014 because she wanted to get in shape and lose weight. She was nominated for Member of the Month for her fun and magnifying personality she brings to the classes, as well as her long devotion to kickboxing. Congratulations!
What keeps you coming back to Smash?
I love the classes. This is a different kind of gym. I always tell friends who want to kickbox, if you want to learn how to box the right way, and get in shape at the same time, this is the place for you. There is no fluff, no foo-foo, no glamour. It’s straight up bad-ass kickboxing at its finest.
How have you improved since your first class?
I have more energy, I feel better, and I’m working on getting back in shape.
What are your favorite classes and why?
I love the Monday night class at 5:45 with Poppy called Warriors Way. In this class, you do 10 rounds. Each round is three minutes of a specific drill. The three-minute repetition is great for helping you improve your technique and skill. This class is never boring. I also enjoy anything Ken teaches. I started boxing with Ken in 2014. He took the time to teach me how to box, and I trained with him one-on-one and took his classes. He focuses on technique to make sure you are maximizing your power and skill set for boxing.
If you were going to have a “fighting name,” what would it be?
Fun fact: I’m Irish, and the name “Tracy” is taken from the word “treasach,” which means “war like or fighter.” So, I guess my fighting name can be “Tracy.”
What keeps you coming back to Smash?
I love the classes. This is a different kind of gym. I always tell friends who want to kickbox, if you want to learn how to box the right way, and get in shape at the same time, this is the place for you. There is no fluff, no foo-foo, no glamour. It’s straight up bad-ass kickboxing at its finest.
How have you improved since your first class?
I have more energy, I feel better, and I’m working on getting back in shape.
What are your favorite classes and why?
I love the Monday night class at 5:45 with Poppy called Warriors Way. In this class, you do 10 rounds. Each round is three minutes of a specific drill. The three-minute repetition is great for helping you improve your technique and skill. This class is never boring. I also enjoy anything Ken teaches. I started boxing with Ken in 2014. He took the time to teach me how to box, and I trained with him one-on-one and took his classes. He focuses on technique to make sure you are maximizing your power and skill set for boxing.
If you were going to have a “fighting name,” what would it be?
Fun fact: I’m Irish, and the name “Tracy” is taken from the word “treasach,” which means “war like or fighter.” So, I guess my fighting name can be “Tracy.”
ROHIT RANJAN is from Auburn Hills and joined Smash at the end of 2022. He was looking for a kickboxing gym that really taught kickboxing. He bought a pass after his first class and has been coming ever since. Rohit was nominated for Member of the Month because he attends a wide variety of classes, and his enthusiasm is catchy. Congratulations!
What keeps you coming back to Smash?
I like that Smash trainers teach real boxing skills, boxing technique and sparring. All trainers have great attitudes, and their goal is your betterment, which I think is rare. I end up learning a lot after every class. Techniques are explained in a structured, logical way, and I, as a beginner, have been able to learn and implement them very smoothly.
How have you improved since your first class?
On my stamina and workout side, my Apple Watch says I am doing the greatest workouts that I have ever done. I sleep straight for 8 hours now.
What are your favorite classes and why?
Ken’s Sunday class to learn technique, Poppy’s class for endurance, and Eric’s class for real sparring. I really like the atmosphere at Smash. It’s a great feeling practicing here, and I never miss a class. I am very thankful to all members and trainers who take time to teach me the way to box and kick.
Do you have a favorite move or combo?
Jab, cross, hook, uppercut, front kick, round house.
When you aren’t at Smash hitting or kicking bags, what do you do?
Motorcycle, cooking and skiing.
If you were going to have a “fighting name,” what would it be?
Heihachi
What keeps you coming back to Smash?
I like that Smash trainers teach real boxing skills, boxing technique and sparring. All trainers have great attitudes, and their goal is your betterment, which I think is rare. I end up learning a lot after every class. Techniques are explained in a structured, logical way, and I, as a beginner, have been able to learn and implement them very smoothly.
How have you improved since your first class?
On my stamina and workout side, my Apple Watch says I am doing the greatest workouts that I have ever done. I sleep straight for 8 hours now.
What are your favorite classes and why?
Ken’s Sunday class to learn technique, Poppy’s class for endurance, and Eric’s class for real sparring. I really like the atmosphere at Smash. It’s a great feeling practicing here, and I never miss a class. I am very thankful to all members and trainers who take time to teach me the way to box and kick.
Do you have a favorite move or combo?
Jab, cross, hook, uppercut, front kick, round house.
When you aren’t at Smash hitting or kicking bags, what do you do?
Motorcycle, cooking and skiing.
If you were going to have a “fighting name,” what would it be?
Heihachi
WENDY JAENT is from Waterford and joined Smash in May 2021 because she was looking for something fun and different, and Smash delivered! She was nominated for Member of the Month because she has a great attitude, improved her technique and is rocking the choreography. Congratulations!
What keeps you coming back to Smash?
It is a great workout, but what really keeps me coming back are the instructors and the friends that I have made.
How have you improved since your first class?
I really didn't think that I was going to make it through the first class, but since then I have more stamina, and I have lost over 20 pounds. I also like to think that I have improved my technique.
What are your favorite classes and why?
I really like the variety of classes and instructors. Each one teaches you something different and gives you a complete workout.
Do you have a favorite move or combo?
I like the "flying" back kick, although I haven't quite mastered it yet.
When you aren’t at Smash hitting or kicking bags, what do you do?
Reading, watching Chicago sports and going to the theatre whenever possible.
If you were going to have a “fighting name,” what would it be?
Peter Pan's Nightmare (Thanks, Angela!)
What keeps you coming back to Smash?
It is a great workout, but what really keeps me coming back are the instructors and the friends that I have made.
How have you improved since your first class?
I really didn't think that I was going to make it through the first class, but since then I have more stamina, and I have lost over 20 pounds. I also like to think that I have improved my technique.
What are your favorite classes and why?
I really like the variety of classes and instructors. Each one teaches you something different and gives you a complete workout.
Do you have a favorite move or combo?
I like the "flying" back kick, although I haven't quite mastered it yet.
When you aren’t at Smash hitting or kicking bags, what do you do?
Reading, watching Chicago sports and going to the theatre whenever possible.
If you were going to have a “fighting name,” what would it be?
Peter Pan's Nightmare (Thanks, Angela!)
HAP and GABRIELLA HANNA are from Lake Orion and joined Smash in 2020 during Covid because it was something that they would both have fun doing while getting some exercise — and they do! Hap and Gabriella were nominated for Members of the Month because they work hard and other members really enjoy having them to work out with during class. Congratulations!
What keeps you coming back to Smash each week?
It’s a fun workout!
Do you usually attend class together?
Yes, we do. We keep each other motivated.
How have you improved since your first class?
Energy, stamina, skills and technique — We feel better and are getting better at the moves.
What are your favorite classes and why?
Hap: I like in Ken’s classes when we do drills with partners or in small groups. I like interacting with a moving person versus a stationary bag.
Gabriella: I like the weekend classes with Kathryn and Linda because they incorporate a lot of aerobics and abs work.
Do you have favorite moves or combos?
Gabriella: Round house kick. Hap: Round house + spinning back kick, and also combos with a lot of hook punches.
Which of your accomplishments are you especially proud?
I am really glad that I don’t fall over every time I do a roundhouse kick.
When you aren’t at Smash hitting or kicking bags, what do you do?
Together: TRX classes, ballroom dancing lessons. Gabriella: Teaching, gardening, reading. Hap: Engineering, 3D printing, model painting, listening to audio books while driving.
If you were going to have a team “fighting name,” what would it be?
Hurricane Hannas!
What keeps you coming back to Smash each week?
It’s a fun workout!
Do you usually attend class together?
Yes, we do. We keep each other motivated.
How have you improved since your first class?
Energy, stamina, skills and technique — We feel better and are getting better at the moves.
What are your favorite classes and why?
Hap: I like in Ken’s classes when we do drills with partners or in small groups. I like interacting with a moving person versus a stationary bag.
Gabriella: I like the weekend classes with Kathryn and Linda because they incorporate a lot of aerobics and abs work.
Do you have favorite moves or combos?
Gabriella: Round house kick. Hap: Round house + spinning back kick, and also combos with a lot of hook punches.
Which of your accomplishments are you especially proud?
I am really glad that I don’t fall over every time I do a roundhouse kick.
When you aren’t at Smash hitting or kicking bags, what do you do?
Together: TRX classes, ballroom dancing lessons. Gabriella: Teaching, gardening, reading. Hap: Engineering, 3D printing, model painting, listening to audio books while driving.
If you were going to have a team “fighting name,” what would it be?
Hurricane Hannas!
BECCA SMITH is from Waterford and joined Smash in November 2021. She wanted to try boxing and/or martial arts since she was a kid and just never had a chance to. She’s glad she wrangled up some friends and gave it a try. Becca was nominated for Member of the Month because of her dedication to the sport and her encouragement of other students. Congratulations!
What keeps you coming back to Smash each week?
While the classes themselves are a blast, the main draw has been the people. I’ve never felt so comfortable and welcomed at a gym before!
How have you improved since your first class? Not only have I picked up more technical skills — still working on my stamina — but I also feel stronger, more confident and more energized! Overall, even on days where I don’t feel like I did amazing, I still leave feeling proud of myself.
Do you have a favorite move or combo?
Some favorites are back fists and ear slaps. I’ve also been known to appreciate a good roundhouse kick.
Which of your accomplishments are you especially proud?
I’m most proud of myself for the days where I haven’t felt like going to class but did anyway. I try to pat myself on the back for getting over the hurdle of not wanting to go, especially when my fatigue gets bad. I find that those are the classes I leave feeling proudest, even if they’re not always my best.
When you aren’t at Smash hitting or kicking bags, what do you do?
I like to use my free time to nerd out by playing D&D, reading, and watching movies. I’m a big horror fan. I also love generally lazing around the house with my cat Bowie whenever I can.
What keeps you coming back to Smash each week?
While the classes themselves are a blast, the main draw has been the people. I’ve never felt so comfortable and welcomed at a gym before!
How have you improved since your first class? Not only have I picked up more technical skills — still working on my stamina — but I also feel stronger, more confident and more energized! Overall, even on days where I don’t feel like I did amazing, I still leave feeling proud of myself.
Do you have a favorite move or combo?
Some favorites are back fists and ear slaps. I’ve also been known to appreciate a good roundhouse kick.
Which of your accomplishments are you especially proud?
I’m most proud of myself for the days where I haven’t felt like going to class but did anyway. I try to pat myself on the back for getting over the hurdle of not wanting to go, especially when my fatigue gets bad. I find that those are the classes I leave feeling proudest, even if they’re not always my best.
When you aren’t at Smash hitting or kicking bags, what do you do?
I like to use my free time to nerd out by playing D&D, reading, and watching movies. I’m a big horror fan. I also love generally lazing around the house with my cat Bowie whenever I can.
ANGELA LOZIER-KELLEY is from Grand Blanc and joined Smash in January 2020. Angela Googled local kickboxing gyms and found Smash was only a few miles from her work. That same day, she signed up for a free class and bought a pair of yoga pants and a tank and then headed over to Smash. She had so much fun that she signed up for a year membership. Angela was nominated for Member of the Month because of her dedication, positive attitude and technical skills improvement. Congratulations!
What keeps you coming back to Smash each week?
It’s a very humble feeling knowing that you can walk into a gym full of women (and a few men) and not be judged. It’s a gym full of people who make you feel welcome and help one another out — not to mention, we are all here to punch and kick the crap out of a bag since doing that to another person is slightly frowned upon, LOL!
How have you improved since your first class? My first class was full of advanced students. I tried to keep up the best I could, and when I got lost in the moves, I’d just laugh at myself for the goofy thing I did wrong. (I still laugh at myself to this day when I get it wrong!) I walked into a gym not knowing anything about kickboxing other than I get to kick a bag, and now I know the correct stances, positions and techniques so I don’t hurt or injure myself.
What is your favorite class and why?
All the classes are really fun. My favorite though, was during Covid when class was held outside on the sidewalk.
Do you have a favorite move or combo?
My favorite move is the round house spinning hook kick. Round house kicks are my favorite thing to do.
Which of your accomplishments are you especially proud?
I’m proud of myself for finding a sport that keeps me interested and going back for more. Black Rank, here I come!
When you aren’t at Smash hitting or kicking bags, what do you do?
I love to travel — the Caribbean is my favorite spot to island hop. I love camping and riding my ATV, usually in the UP. I go to concerts with my friends and to shop. My absolute favorite thing to do after work and kickboxing is come home to my fur babies and cuddle with them on the couch.
If you were going to have a “fighting name,” what would it be and why?
My fighting name would be Lethal Legs. When I’ve got heals or wedges on, so many people compliment me on how great my legs look. And I’ve been told I could do some damage when I kick.
What keeps you coming back to Smash each week?
It’s a very humble feeling knowing that you can walk into a gym full of women (and a few men) and not be judged. It’s a gym full of people who make you feel welcome and help one another out — not to mention, we are all here to punch and kick the crap out of a bag since doing that to another person is slightly frowned upon, LOL!
How have you improved since your first class? My first class was full of advanced students. I tried to keep up the best I could, and when I got lost in the moves, I’d just laugh at myself for the goofy thing I did wrong. (I still laugh at myself to this day when I get it wrong!) I walked into a gym not knowing anything about kickboxing other than I get to kick a bag, and now I know the correct stances, positions and techniques so I don’t hurt or injure myself.
What is your favorite class and why?
All the classes are really fun. My favorite though, was during Covid when class was held outside on the sidewalk.
Do you have a favorite move or combo?
My favorite move is the round house spinning hook kick. Round house kicks are my favorite thing to do.
Which of your accomplishments are you especially proud?
I’m proud of myself for finding a sport that keeps me interested and going back for more. Black Rank, here I come!
When you aren’t at Smash hitting or kicking bags, what do you do?
I love to travel — the Caribbean is my favorite spot to island hop. I love camping and riding my ATV, usually in the UP. I go to concerts with my friends and to shop. My absolute favorite thing to do after work and kickboxing is come home to my fur babies and cuddle with them on the couch.
If you were going to have a “fighting name,” what would it be and why?
My fighting name would be Lethal Legs. When I’ve got heals or wedges on, so many people compliment me on how great my legs look. And I’ve been told I could do some damage when I kick.
Caryn Robinson from White Lake has been a dedicated member of Smash Hit Kickboxing since its opening in Pontiac. After a brief break to explore other activities, she returned this past spring, bringing a friend seeking a fun, challenging workout. Despite physical setbacks, Caryn remains resilient and dedicated, contributing to both fitness and community. She has developed youth boxing programs for the Pontiac Sheriff PAL Program and stays actively involved in
Caryn Robinson keeps coming back to Smash Hit Kickboxing for the fun classes and challenging instructors. “They push you to hit hard,” she says. With experience in kickboxing, boxing, and martial arts, her favorite classes are Warriors Way with Poppy and Round by Round with Karl, which always surprise her with new challenges. Caryn’s go-to moves? Elbows and knees.
Outside of Smash, Caryn runs a working farm, cares for animals, and leads Hands Helping Paws Rescue, a nonprofit for animal welfare.
She would choose “The Equalizer” as her fighting name, reflecting her commitment to balance in the community and animal welfare.
Grateful for the energy of her classmates and instructors, Caryn says Smash Hit is a place that keeps her motivated and challenged.
Caryn Robinson keeps coming back to Smash Hit Kickboxing for the fun classes and challenging instructors. “They push you to hit hard,” she says. With experience in kickboxing, boxing, and martial arts, her favorite classes are Warriors Way with Poppy and Round by Round with Karl, which always surprise her with new challenges. Caryn’s go-to moves? Elbows and knees.
Outside of Smash, Caryn runs a working farm, cares for animals, and leads Hands Helping Paws Rescue, a nonprofit for animal welfare.
She would choose “The Equalizer” as her fighting name, reflecting her commitment to balance in the community and animal welfare.
Grateful for the energy of her classmates and instructors, Caryn says Smash Hit is a place that keeps her motivated and challenged.
DIANA WISNER is from Waterford. She joined Smash Hit in March 2019 because she has always wanted to learn the tools to defend herself, and she also loves trying new exercise classes. Diana has consistency and a relaxed attitude that is combined with concentration on technical development — all of which has led to high advancements in her power, speed, and coordination, all while keeping a smile. Congratulations, Diana!
What keeps you coming back to Smash each week?
With each class I see myself improving and it gives me such a confidence boost. I feel so amazing after I complete a class.
How have you improved since your first class? I have so much energy when I leave class and feel so much stronger since March.
What is your favorite class and why?
I love all the classes Ken teaches. He is so patient and I truly learn something new every single class. I have tried each class at Smash Hit and they are all fantastic!
Do you have a favorite move or combo?
My favorite move is the spinning back hammer strike.
Which of your accomplishments are you especially proud?
I am so proud that I have stuck with kickboxing and actually look forward to attending a class.
When you aren’t at Smash hitting or kicking bags, what do you do?
I work in the field of Corporate Risk and Compliance in Troy. My husband and I are from Florida, and so we try and visit “home” as much as we can. We have two dogs, Louie and Leo, that keep us very busy.
If you were going to have a “fighting name,” what would it be?
Fireball. (That’s what Leonard calls her.)
Anything else you would like to add or mention?
There are days when you have had so much stress from work/family/life, and when you come to Smash Hit — even if it’s just for an hour — you forget it all. The classes require focus and full attention; it is truly my escape. Thank you, Smash Hit!
What keeps you coming back to Smash each week?
With each class I see myself improving and it gives me such a confidence boost. I feel so amazing after I complete a class.
How have you improved since your first class? I have so much energy when I leave class and feel so much stronger since March.
What is your favorite class and why?
I love all the classes Ken teaches. He is so patient and I truly learn something new every single class. I have tried each class at Smash Hit and they are all fantastic!
Do you have a favorite move or combo?
My favorite move is the spinning back hammer strike.
Which of your accomplishments are you especially proud?
I am so proud that I have stuck with kickboxing and actually look forward to attending a class.
When you aren’t at Smash hitting or kicking bags, what do you do?
I work in the field of Corporate Risk and Compliance in Troy. My husband and I are from Florida, and so we try and visit “home” as much as we can. We have two dogs, Louie and Leo, that keep us very busy.
If you were going to have a “fighting name,” what would it be?
Fireball. (That’s what Leonard calls her.)
Anything else you would like to add or mention?
There are days when you have had so much stress from work/family/life, and when you come to Smash Hit — even if it’s just for an hour — you forget it all. The classes require focus and full attention; it is truly my escape. Thank you, Smash Hit!
KATHY FURTON is from Waterford and joined Smash Hit this past spring. Kathy was nominated for Member of the Month because she is improving with each class and loves to try new skills and techniques to make her a better kickboxer.
What keeps you coming back to Smash each week?
I really enjoy the classes. I’ve tried many gyms in the past, but I always lose interest within 6 to 8 weeks. Smash Hit is a really fun place to work out.
How have you improved since your first class?I’m stronger, and my energy level has really increased. I’m still a work in progress as far as my body, but I see the changes, and I’m very happy.
What is your favorite class and why?
I love all the classes! Each one brings something different!
Do you have a favorite move or combo?
I’m still learning the combos, but I’m excited to become proficient at all of them.
Which of your accomplishments are you especially proud?
I’m getting much better at the air boxing, which has been difficult for me, but I think my stance and technical boxing on the heavy bag are good.
When you aren’t at Smash hitting or kicking bags, what do you do?
When I’m not at Smash Hit, I’m busy with my job and just everyday things. My grandson is the love of my life, and keeping up with him is the best thing!
If you were going to have a “fighting name,” what would it be?
The Finisher.
Anything else you would like to add or mention?
I really do like the idea that with all the self-defense training, I could defend myself if I ever needed to!
What keeps you coming back to Smash each week?
I really enjoy the classes. I’ve tried many gyms in the past, but I always lose interest within 6 to 8 weeks. Smash Hit is a really fun place to work out.
How have you improved since your first class?I’m stronger, and my energy level has really increased. I’m still a work in progress as far as my body, but I see the changes, and I’m very happy.
What is your favorite class and why?
I love all the classes! Each one brings something different!
Do you have a favorite move or combo?
I’m still learning the combos, but I’m excited to become proficient at all of them.
Which of your accomplishments are you especially proud?
I’m getting much better at the air boxing, which has been difficult for me, but I think my stance and technical boxing on the heavy bag are good.
When you aren’t at Smash hitting or kicking bags, what do you do?
When I’m not at Smash Hit, I’m busy with my job and just everyday things. My grandson is the love of my life, and keeping up with him is the best thing!
If you were going to have a “fighting name,” what would it be?
The Finisher.
Anything else you would like to add or mention?
I really do like the idea that with all the self-defense training, I could defend myself if I ever needed to!
Perla Flores Brasdefer from Clarkston joined Smash Hit Kickboxing in 2015, and her dedication has earned her the title of April Member of the Month. Known for her perseverance in classes despite injuries and her welcoming and friendly attitude towards all members, Perla embodies the spirit of Smash Hit. Congratulations, Perla!
When asked why she decided to give Smash Hit a try, Perla credits her daughter, who discovered the gym, leading both of them to join together back in 2015.
What keeps Perla coming back? “The classes are fun and not boring, and the people are really nice. Kickboxing has improved my health in so many ways,” she says. Since starting, Perla has seen incredible changes in her health, including a drop in body fat from 22% to 17%, a normal resting blood pressure of 58 BPM, and lower glucose levels down to 75. As a proud Gen X, Perla jokes, “What else can I ask for?”
Although Perla didn’t have prior experience with kickboxing or boxing, she was no stranger to sports. She played volleyball, enjoyed scuba diving, racquetball, and spent plenty of time on her bike. However, since starting kickboxing, she says she doesn’t miss any of those activities.
The improvements she’s seen through her training include more energy, improved health, and feeling stronger overall. When asked about her favorite class, Perla appreciates the variety of dynamics and levels offered. "I like them all!" she says. Her favorite move? Roundhouse kicks. Perla takes pride in pushing herself to the limit during each class. “You can make the class as hard as you want, and I do push myself,” she says proudly. When she’s not at Smash Hit, Perla enjoys cooking, gardening, photography, and traveling.
If she had a fighting name, Perla would choose Chibigon.Reflecting on her fitness journey, Perla adds, “I’ve attended many different gyms, but this is the one that really keeps me in shape and healthy.”
Perla’s story is an inspiring example of how dedication to kickboxing can lead to remarkable health improvements. We’re thrilled to celebrate her as April Member of the Month!
When asked why she decided to give Smash Hit a try, Perla credits her daughter, who discovered the gym, leading both of them to join together back in 2015.
What keeps Perla coming back? “The classes are fun and not boring, and the people are really nice. Kickboxing has improved my health in so many ways,” she says. Since starting, Perla has seen incredible changes in her health, including a drop in body fat from 22% to 17%, a normal resting blood pressure of 58 BPM, and lower glucose levels down to 75. As a proud Gen X, Perla jokes, “What else can I ask for?”
Although Perla didn’t have prior experience with kickboxing or boxing, she was no stranger to sports. She played volleyball, enjoyed scuba diving, racquetball, and spent plenty of time on her bike. However, since starting kickboxing, she says she doesn’t miss any of those activities.
The improvements she’s seen through her training include more energy, improved health, and feeling stronger overall. When asked about her favorite class, Perla appreciates the variety of dynamics and levels offered. "I like them all!" she says. Her favorite move? Roundhouse kicks. Perla takes pride in pushing herself to the limit during each class. “You can make the class as hard as you want, and I do push myself,” she says proudly. When she’s not at Smash Hit, Perla enjoys cooking, gardening, photography, and traveling.
If she had a fighting name, Perla would choose Chibigon.Reflecting on her fitness journey, Perla adds, “I’ve attended many different gyms, but this is the one that really keeps me in shape and healthy.”
Perla’s story is an inspiring example of how dedication to kickboxing can lead to remarkable health improvements. We’re thrilled to celebrate her as April Member of the Month!