Member Stories

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WHAT MAKES CANUCKLES SPECIAL IS THAT EVERYONE IS THERE TO HELP EACH OTHER!

It quickly became obvious to me that Max has developed something special in Canuckles. There are people from all walks of life that are members, from regular blue-collar workers, to high school/college kids, to white-collar professionals, fathers, and girlfriends, to those who strive to become professional fighters. The thought of training with a bunch of brawlers was intimidating, but what makes Canuckles special is that everyone is there to help each other learn and become students of MMA.

When you talk to the professional fighters and instructors, they are very encouraging and offer advice. Some members are skilled in a specific discipline such as Muay Thai, boxing, jiu-jitsu, wrestling – each one of them is helpful to anyone that asks. The people I’ve met at Canuckles, who now I could easily consider my friends, share these common goals: to improve their MMA skills, to become good training partners for one another and to learn more about the sport.

The biggest benefit I got from joining Canuckles was not just getting into shape, but finding a new passion to challenge myself physically and mentally while training because you want to learn as many techniques as possible and be proficient with them. I’ve told this to Max many times and now after  being a long-time Canuckles member my attitude hasn’t changed: I wish I joined years ago.

Walter Chang
Accountant, age 38, married and father of 2.
Member since April 2008

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IT’S A GREAT GROUP OF PEOPLE & A GREAT STRESS RELIEVER!!

I’ve been doing martial arts all my life and after moving to Calgary I needed a new one, so I picked Canuckles MMA. I’ve done many martial arts Tae-Kwon-Do, Karate, but I recently became a huge fan of UFC so I chose Canuckles to learn Mixed Martial Arts. I’ve been having major stress with school and private reasons; Mixed Martial Arts fighting helps me relieve that stress.
The best thing about my membership at Canuckles is it relived my stress which let me perform better in school. I also got in amazing shape and learned Mixed Martial Arts, and I’ve made many friends here. The people are very nice!

I have not found one thing to complain about Canuckles. The trainers are helpful and very experienced, and facility is great. The most amazing thing about Canuckles are the people, they are the nicest bunch of people I’ve met!

Tony B.
16 years old, Student
Member since July 2009

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I’VE MET MANY GOOD PEOPLE WHILE TRAINING AT CANUCKLES

When I was finally told that I was being transferred to Calgary, the first thing I did was look for an MMA gym. I quickly found the Canuckles website and I liked what I saw. I then e-mailed them with some of my questions and concerns and was promptly replied with answers and directions to the gym, so that I could watch a class before joining.

When I went to Canuckles for the first time, I was a little intimidated as I wasn’t sure what to expect from the instructors or other students. I had been out of the martial arts scene for some time and wasn’t sure if it would be like the Cobra Kai Dojo from the Karate Kid or an 80′s Kung Fu movie where I had to fight my way in to become a student.

Actually, it was the opposite. I was politely greeted when I walked through the door and when Max arrived he walked straight over to me and introduced himself and explained how the memberships worked and patiently answered all the questions I had.

Once had been training a little more than a year I had learned more than I thought I could in that time. I feel like I am in pretty good shape, both physically and mentally and I have met many good people while training at Canuckles, both instructors and students.

I continue to train and enjoy it and I haven’t been hit with a single bamboo cane…only lots of push-ups and sit-ups, but that’s OK.

Darren McInnes
39 years old
Fish and Wildlife Officer
Member since May 2008

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THERE IS NEVER A CLASS AT CANUCKLES WHERE YOU FEEL IT’S A WASTE OF TIME

Since I was eleven years old I have wanted to join a martial art.  I did a lot of Google searches on all of the different martial arts, and decided to try Muay Thai for a few months.  It was good, but I soon realized that I wanted to do something that was useful in all aspects of fighting.  Canuckles was the key!
They teach you everything, so that you’re prepared for anything, no matter where the fight goes.
I decided to join Canuckles because I was very interested in learning mixed martial arts, and hope that if I started training at 16, I would be able to compete at 18.

I benefit from Canuckles MMA because it has greatly improved my fight game and has put me in the best shape of my life.  I played soccer for ten years and lacrosse for two, and I have never worked out harder than I have at Canuckles.
There is never a class at Canuckles where you feel like it was a waste of time; you’re always learning something new or improving your skills, and getting a great work-out at the same time.

I am very glad that I joined Canuckles, and wish I would’ve joined it sooner!  Like some other people who are now members, I had decided to wait a bit before joining, and once I did, I realized I wasted my time by not taking action sooner.

Hayden H
17 years old, Student
Member since December 2008

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I’VE ENJOYED EVERY CLASS I HAVE BEEN TO!

I was working out of town a lot and needed some ways to relieve stress plus I always wanted to learn MMA.
I’ve been going to the gym for the last 7 years and wanted a new alternative to change things up and learn something new.

Since I joined Canuckles MMA, I’ve lost weight, added new muscle but most of all I’ve improved my flexibility a lot.
Attending classes at Canuckles MMA is way better for stress than bitching about work to friends and whining about your boss. (Ha! Ha!!) I’ve enjoyed every class I’ve been to!

Kyle Titus
23 years old, Land Surveyor
Member since February 2009

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ATTENDING CANUCKLES REGULARLY KEEPS ME HAPPY.

I had made it my goal to lose weight at the beginning of the year and had made good strides towards that goal prior to joining Canuckles, but the workouts were getting repetitive. Canuckles has provided with not only a better workout, but it is a way more fun and also more mentally stimulating than a normal cardio workout.

I had considered joining a regular gym, but I chose Canuckles because I needed the stress relief you get from punching and kicking. Right now I am probably going through the toughest point in my life and after a solid workout at Canuckles I am a lot calmer and happier.
MMA workouts at Canuckles focus a lot on physical strength and cardio endurance and at the end of the workouts I am worn out. But in a great way!!!

I have started to make some friends at Canuckles. Everyone is very friendly and helpful and very supportive of you.
I am really glad I joined Canuckles. Attending regularly keeps me happy on a regular basis and helps me deal with things in my day to day life.

Oliver Williams
22 years old, Optician Consultant
Member since July 2009

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I’VE GAINED MUSCLE AND STRENGTH SINCE I JOINED CANUKLES MMA

I was really out of shape and overweight. I had been experiencing it for a year or so. I also had anger issues, and ever since I joined Canuckles MMA they have gotten better.

I was thinking of playing Basketball but instead I chose Canuckles MMA because I love being physical and I really enjoyed watching the UFC on TV.
I have lost weight and I have also learned a great deal of techniques, since I joined. I also never expected to gain as much muscle and strength in such a short amount of time. I’d just like to thank all the coaches and staff who have helped me.

Drew S
16 years old, Student
Member since June 2009

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THE TEACHING AT CANUCKLES IS UNORTHODOXED AND VERY EFFECTIVE

I chose Canuckles because it’s a gym like no other! They offer an amazing service that I could not find anywhere else. It keeps me active, I’ve lost weight and I’ve learned techniques that I can apply for self-defense if needed. Training at Canuckles has given me the chance to participate in a tournament that I really enjoyed! My training gives me stress relief and has gotten me in shape faster than any other sport I’ve tried. The way they teach at Canuckles is unorthodox and very effective. It’s a great gym to be a part of! The instructors are great and very helpful.

JAR T.
ATB Financial, age 33

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YOU FEEL SO GOOD WHEN YOU’RE DONE YOUR WORKOUT!

I had been interested in doing Private Training Sessions at Canuckles for a while having heard how unique the training is and how much of a kick-butt workout it is!  I work out regularly on my own, but had started to become bored and the results just weren’t coming anymore, I was in the dreaded training plateau.
Previously to attending Canuckles I had gone to some spin classes, and other various classes to try and provide some variety to my routines.  They helped a bit, but I found I was still bored.
Since starting at Canuckles, I have seen a major improvement in my conditioning; I have never been able to run 10km so fast…..As well my core strength has increased a lot.  Overall, I have gained muscle mass and I can see that I have leaned out in certain “trouble spots”.  Best of all, I have learned how to do things that absolutely looked impossible to me before, and that is such a gratifying feeling!
Though I am not ultra coordinated with my punching and kicking, I do feel more confident walking to my car alone. I never thought I would love the “fighting” aspect as much as I do.  It is such an incredible workout and SO much fun!
I have never loved going to the gym as much as I love going to Canuckles.
When you are done your workout and you are dripping with sweat you feel so good!  You have also used muscles that you just can’t use doing regular weights at a gym. I always leave there feeling like a million bucks and so proud that I was able to do it!

Karoline Coleman
29 years old, Nutritionist
Member since August 2009

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THE SEMINARS GIVE ME THE ABILITY TO LEARN NEW TECHNIQUES

I attended the Denis Kang Seminar that took place at Canuckles because I wanted the opportunity to train with a well known veteran of the sport and further my knowledge in MMA.
I am an intermediate MMA practitioner and the seminar gave me the ability to learn great new techniques and it was great to meet Denis in person.
My favourite part from the seminar was just getting the opportunity to learn new things in a different aspect by someone who has famous for MMA fighting.

Brian R.
18 years old
Member since March 2009

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IT’S A GREAT CHALLENGE & GREAT WAY OF BEING PUSHED PHYSICALLY!

I wasn’t being challenged and pushed to my full athletic potential in any sports that I had been involved in prior to coming to Canuckles.
I was considering other sports such as Cowboys youth Football, and playing all school sports. I chose MMA because of the amount of fitness that you need to have in order to perform at a top level. Also the techniques you learn that you can use in your everyday life and in other sports.

Since I have been training at Canuckles MMA I have gained full body strength, flexibility and I have learned TONS of great new techniques. I’ve gotten in better shape physically by doing MMA in comparison with any other sports that I was doing before. Also it has helped me deal with anger and frustration.
The trainers at Canuckles are awesome, they all mix hard work with fun and joking around with students. They make it a great environment to learn in.

Chayce M
16 years old, Student
Member since March 2009

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IT WAS NICE TRAINING WITH ALL THE INSTRUCTORS

I decided to come to the Kang seminar because I am a fan of Denis Kang, I like the bonus gift Canuckles offered to those who attended and I also wanted to have the chance to train with a UFC fighter. But most importantly though, would be that I am a Kang fan and it’s great to have the chance to train with a fighter of his calibre.

The gift offers are a great bonus, but I would still sign up even if there weren’t any.

I enjoyed it all, but especially liked the striking portion and footwork techniques. Also, it was also nice to train with Max and the other instructors in a different setting where we were all together.

I never thought that everyone (instructors and students) would be as friendly and helpful as they are which makes training even better and something I look forward to each week.
The gym has such a social quality! I really enjoy the new facility, its lay out, equipment and size of the training area. Good work!!

Darren McInnes
39 years old, Fish and Wildlife Officer
Member since 2008

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MMA IS A GREAT WAY TO INCRESE YOUR ENERGY LEVELS & MENTAL FOCUS

Attending classes at Canuckles has helped raise my self-confidence tremendously.  With an improved physical condition, I have seen an increase in my energy levels and mental focus. All of these things have helped me succeed in my professional career.

Jason Gard
37 years old

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CANUCKLES TEACHES ME LIKE SKILLS AND SELF-DEFENSE

I wanted to be ready if anyone tried to bully me physically, and I also wanted to gain more self-confidence. I was considering soccer as my main sports activity, but I chose Canuckles because soccer wasn’t leading me anywhere and Canuckles teaches me life skills and self-defense.
My goal was to learn good techniques; and I did to the point were I entered grappling and kickboxing competitions! My training at Canuckles has allowed me to gain self-confidence, become quite an experienced MMA fighter, and has taught me to protect myself. Canuckles teaches excellent techniques, has no “attitude”, it’s a great environment, with excellent trainers.

JP. A.R.
Student, age 13
Member since September 2007

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THE TRAINING IS GREAT & THE WORKOUTS ARE AWESOME!

I had been sprinting for twelve years and had to battle back from a broken ankle. I completed the goals I wanted to accomplish after the injury and then wanted to search for some new challenges in life. That’s when I found Canuckles. Every class is a challenge and I now have hopes of competing one day.
I was considering boxing or kickboxing, but then I checked out Canuckles and Max seemed like a really good coach and that made up my mind! He has a no nonsense approach to training and knows what he’s talking about.
I have learned a lot since joining canuckles, I’ve never had any previous experience in any martial arts and continue to get better and learn more. The workouts are AWESOME, and I feel like I worked hard when I leave.
My abs are getting really strong and my cardio is way better than before, even though I was a trained sprinter! I recommend Canuckles to all my friends, the training is great and I now have a great appreciation for this sport and what the athletes go through.

Matt Arsenault
Machinist, age 26
Member since May 2007

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I LOST 60 POUNDS AND FEEL GREAT!

When I first signed on at Canuckles I just wanted to learn about sport and being fit. I had a regular gym membership but found that too repetitive and boring. After a few months I lost 60 pounds and I feel great! I’ve learned lots of techniques and my cardio has greatly improved. I see my “before Canuckles” pictures and can’t believe how fat I was!

Jose Herrera
Management Consultant, age38

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IT’S A GREAT STRESS RELIVER, A PLACE WHERE I CAN REFOCUS & DEVELOP CLARITY

I am someone who benefits greatly both physically and mentally from Mixed Martial Arts. I enjoy the fact that Canuckles MMA allows me to build both muscle as well as cardiovascular stamina.
I choose Canuckles after watching a couple classes. I couldn’t believe the superior instructional skills being provided! Canuckles has allowed me to lose weight AND gain muscle. My skills have given me the knowledge and confidence to be able to defend my self should the need arise.
It’s also been a stress reliever, a place where I can refocus and develop clarity. I’ve grown very fond of all my instructors and others I attend class with! Everyone is very encouraging and supportive regardless of your skill level. Canuckles is a truly unique environment with a “family-like” atmosphere. Everyone truly cares about one another.
We strive both to better ourselves individually and as a group.

Tanya C.
Office Coordinator/mother of 3, age 34

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I HAD AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE AT CANUCKLES

I was at Canuckles on Sunday checking out the 1 hour intro class with Max and Keto and I just wanted to let you know that it’s part of a fitness column I do for CBC Radio Calgary.  I typically don’t like to tell the instructors up front that I am doing a review, I want to get an accurate feel for the real class, not the class they put on because they know I’ll be there (or in case the class was awful and I only have a bad things to say!).
I just wanted to let you guys know that I had an amazing experience at Canuckles and I will be doing a 5 minute review  on CBC Radio 1010am.
Hope you guys have a chance to check out the review, I have nothing but great things to say about my experience on Sunday!

Melissa R
Radio Fitness Reviewer

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CANUCKLES IS A GYM WITHOUT LIMITS!

I have been involved in martial arts since I’ve been able to walk. I was looking for a place that would challenge me physically and mentally. I wanted instructors who were no “BS” & and had great MMA and teaching skills.
I was looking to get in better shape & for a class with high intensity; Canuckles delivers all of this! Canuckles is a martial arts gym that teaches an all around MMA fighting system for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced. Canuckles is a gym without limits! I have lost some weight & slimmed down, I have improved my coordination & learned many skills in a variety of positions.
Mostly, I have benefitted mentally; I always feel great when I go home after training! Punching, kicking and grappling for an hour is an unrivaled form of stress relief!! I was going to sign up for a regular gym membership, but when I found Canuckles I knew would give me exactly what I was looking for.

Matt Teevens
Engineer, age 25
Member since July 2007

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MY FITNESS HAS IMPROVED DRAMATICALLY

I was boxing but I wasn’t being challenged or learning anymore so I began looking for something new to train in. I was experiencing those needs for a couple months, then I found Canuckles. The main reason I chose Canuckles MMA was because it had more aspects than punching, and this meant there was more to learn. I’ve learned great techniques and made lots of new friends in a team environment.
And I’ve seen a DRAMATIC increase in my fitness level and MMA abilities. I was amazed and I’m very impressed at the quality of all the instructors. I like MMA so much I quit my other sports!

Jack M.
Student, age15
Member since April 2008

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THE SPORT RELATES A LOT TO LIFE ITSELF IN MANY WAYS

I was only in high school, but causing trouble and fights. I needed to join so I turn my energy into something positive. When I first joined, I wanted to learn the sport and experience what athletes go through.
But learning MMA also got my life straight; I learned that the sport relates a lot to life itself, in ways I never expected. I also learned about how to keep a healthy, dedicated lifestyle.
I was told that I was progressing well in the sport and, unexpectedly, I entered tournaments and did very well!
I now fight successfully in the pro circuit.

Billy H.
age19

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MMA TRAINING IS HELPING MY SON WITH HIS SELF-CONFIDENCE

My son was having bullying issues in school and we wanted him to have the ability to protect himself. MMA has a great variety of instruction that not only conditions but utilizes techniques that can benefit my son in any possible confrontations that may arise. My son is very docile and this training is helping him with his self-confidence and assertiveness.
I am looking forward to seeing my son learn how to control himself in situations that may happen. With the direction that society is going, violence is becoming more prominent and being able to control a situation with or without violence is beneficial.

Herb Wagner.
Artist, age35 Son is 8 years old
Member since September 2008

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EVERY ASPECT OF MY LIFE HAS IMPROVED SINCE JOINING CANUCKLES

Before joining Canuckles, I was extremely overweight, working out once every 2 weeks, and had a major problem with alcohol. Becoming a member of the Canuckles Team has made a significant and positive impact in my life.
In the past 8 months of training 3X / week at Canuckles, I have lost a total of 50 lbs and haven’t touched a drop of alcohol. I have more energy & vitality now at 40 than I did at 25 or 30 years of age. Every aspect of my life has improved since joining Canuckles. Canuckles has truly been the spark for my transformation.
Anyone who joins Canuckles will surely realize an increase in their self-esteem, self-confidence and focus in life. In addition to this, my son has joined the Canuckles junior program and we have noticed a significant improvement in his focus and determination at school.
Max’s leadership, solid character, and pragmatic approach to teaching are a testament to the gym’s success.

Matt S.
Director of Sales & Marketing, age 40

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IT’S EASY TO STAY MOTIVATED TO COME TO CANUCKLES REGULARILY!

There a number of differences between a membership at Canuckles and just going to a regular gym:  At Canuckles, not only are you getting a great workout, you’re also continually learning and improving your Mixed Martial Arts skills, a great thing to have no matter WHO you are!
And I have NEVER experienced a more intense cardio than when doing drills and techniques with instructors or people in the class. Also, Canuckles has a sense of community that you would just not find at a commercial gym; a secret added benefit I didn’t even knew I was looking for!
It’s easy to stay motivated to come to Canuckles regularly because the instructors are excellent and so easy to get along with; your skill will constantly improve, your general fitness improves and you get Fitness Analyses to track your progress. And, there are always new things to learn!
During my workouts and classes I feel energized and alert.  My brain is engaged because I’m learning, not just mindlessly going through the motions (which is what I found myself doing at a regular gym). There’s never a dull moment!
When I’m done my workout or class I feel totally relaxed and spent.  My mind feels very alert from the cardio and the lesson. One of my favourite things about being a member at Canuckles is that it provides a safe and friendly environment that fully encompasses Mixed Martial Arts fitness, and the active lifestyle experience.
Having never done a martial art before joining Canuckles and recovering from a serious knee surgery, I had a good deal of concern on joining this type of training.  But over the last 4 years of being a Canuckles member, I have never been injured, yet been able to push my technique and cardio to the limits. The instructors do an unbelievable job providing the complete Mixed Martial Arts fitness experience to all the members in such a safe an interesting way!

Cory King.
36 years old, Software Consultant,
Canuckles Member since 2005

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THE WORKOUTS ARE ALWAYS DIFFERENT, YOU KNOW THE INSTRUCTORS PUSH YOU TO DO YOUR BEST…AND LEARN YOUR POTENTIAL ON THE MATS.

Every summer I would add Canuckles Private Training to my exercise routine to get ready for my races. The results are immediate and the workouts are fun and new, I ended up getting addicted to the results and feeling I got from consistently being pushed. The most obvious benefit I noticed are the immediate results I got!!.
I feel stronger and more motivated in my every day activities. In the summer time I do runs and half marathons and relay races, I feel that my performance is   pushed to another level. It’s easy to stay motivated to come to Canuckles regularly because the workouts are always different and you know the instructors push you to do your best.
I take a lot of what I learn in Canuckles and apply it to my off days on my own I feel like I know how to get the most out of my workouts.     During my Private Training Session I feel challenged, I am always surprised at how easy some of the workouts look but then how much it involves. When I’m done my Private Training Session I feel amazing, stronger and fit. I love it!
My favorite thing about the Private Training at Canuckles is the different types of workout from cave man training to plyometrics to ground and pound. Even though I don’t train to fight, it’s purely fitness, it’s fun to learn your potential on the mats.
I had done privates at “regular” gyms before and felt like I’ve “been there done that”. I assumed the training would be more of the same. Boy was I wrong! And the results were so much better in how strong I felt in such a short period of time. I said this before and I’ll say it again, since I started working out regularly at Canuckles I feel healthier in my thirties than I did in my twenties. Now I train regularly at Canuckles and can’t get enough!

Thanks!

Andria M
30 years old, Registered Nurse/Manager
Canuckles Member since 2007