CKO Kickboxing South Bay — Local services in Lawndale

Updated Review-August 2024- just had my membership canceled and was kicked out supposedly due to being “in the way”! Seriously? Yes, I’m absolutely upset, especially since the accusations are from one coach only and mostly untrue. A member since Spring of 2019 (at almost 1000classes), in 2022, I made the “mistake” of suggesting a change in the music since at that point there were songs I absolutely couldn’t stand to hear anymore. This was rudely denied as according to Asha/owner “there are over 40 different playlists”. Mind you, those have probably been used since the opening in 2016/2017! (As of 08/08/24 still no changes!) So I chose to use my earbuds in class and after a knee injury also created my own combos as I had to modify or substitute some exercises anyway. (Always making sure to stay within my space around my chosen bag!) This was more or less accepted until April 2024 when CKO moved to a much, much smaller space and coaches still insist on jogging for warmup and during class. There is no space available if you cannot run! It’s either warmup on the sidewalk or take a break! Awesome strategy! So I arrived early for my warmup and started my bag work in between the hanging bags to stay out of the way of the joggers as much as possible and still get in my 60 minute workout. Coach Jennifer/owner Asha did not find this acceptable. Go at your own pace-yes, but definitely not “Your Class/Your Time”! To recap-exercise/concept is awesome! IF- you can do the exercises per the coaches instructions or are ok with taking breaks. And IF you don’t mind the endless repetitive music (mostly R&B/Hip Hop).

Originally I joined CKO South Bay to release stress and get rid of negative energy. I was reluctant at first since I've always been more of a team sports player. Didn't take long though to realize what an awesome workout it is and never thought I would like it as much as I do. Every class is challenging, I work out harder than I ever thought I would and leave sweaty and achy. There are still plenty of days where I have to convince myself to put on my workout clothes and go, but eventually I guess, my feel good hormones kick in and I start to enjoy it. I definitely can see a difference in my fitness and endurance levels and some of my favorite parts (and that's the truth) are actually the abs/core exercises. Everyone works out at their own pace and I modify any exercise that may be beyond me at that moment. This past year, with the Covid restrictions and the added emotional stress, I honestly don't know how I would have gotten through it without the training. While I didn't do much of the online classes that were offered, I liked the rooftop classes and would like to thank Asha and the team for the care they took- and still take now that we're indoors- in keeping us motivated and safe. It is much appreciated! CKO South Bay has a great atmosphere and amazing trainers, each with their own set of favorite exercises .They create fun, high energy classes every time and motivate you to...

It has been over 10 years since I did any type of boxing class. I walked in to CKO Kickboxing for a trial class with my son who offered me moral support and we were immediately greeted by a smiling, energetic, very fit (I later found out that she is expecting), positive, caring, encouraging, and accepting amazing instructor (Alyssa). She personally showed me the various techniques and encouraged me to have fun and go at my own pace. She kept a watchful eye on me during class and then congratulated me once the class was over.

Since then (the past two weeks) I have been back an additional 5 times and have had classes with two other instructors (Asha, the owner and Mel). Each instructor has offered me the same wonderful personal assistance and encouragement. I must make a point of how wonderful EVERYONE is here. It has a "team" feeling and everyone is so encouraging.

The classes are challenging (but in a good way) and at the end you feel like you have really accomplished something. YOU CAN GO AT YOUR OWN PACE WITHOUT FEELING EMBARRASSED (instead of doing burpies, I do push-ups or planks). So, I returned to work following a two-week vacation and several people said that I looked like I lost weight and got more muscular. I already feel stronger. CKO also works on abdominals, core strength, and flexibility. CKO is "one-stop shopping."

WHAT SETS THIS PLACE APART: It is fun, the music is great, the instructors are inspiring (and gave me tips both pre and post class). The class has a nice mix of people, young and not as young, fit and not yet fit, all sizes, shapes, colors, but we all smile, grimace, sweat, and cheer. The positive attitude of the instructors shines through in every class. The price of membership is less than the other boxing places that I looked into. Finally, and personally, the smile I see on my son's face (who is now a member) and on Asha's face when she greets him is priceless.

FOR THE BEGINNER OR PERSON TRYING TO GET BACK IN SHAPE OR LOSE WEIGHT, THIS IS THE PLACE, I GUARANTEE...

Edit #2: Still waiting for a response from the owner (it's been a week since I addressed the owner and no response yet).

Edit #1: Response to the owner’s answer to my earlier review (which you can see under this new update):

Asha, What's the best email to contact you directly? I hope what you're saying is true. Because when I contacted CKO SouthBay about this issue, the person I was talking to opted to stop responding and providing any solutions, despite the fact that I had submitted multiple pieces of documentation. I would need a reimbursement for the months I was unable to use your facilities since I was out of the country due to an injury and had to remain there for treatment. Once I informed CKO SouthBay of my accident, CKO SouthBay continued to charge me for months. When I was in better health, I emailed CKO SouthBay again with medical proof and the dates of the accident, and instead of refunding me for the months I couldn't use the facilities due to the accident, CKO SouthBay simply cancelled my membership and never issued a single refund for the months of payments CKO SouthBay continued to charge me despite the fact that I informed the company that I had been in an accident and provided documentation with the dates. I sincerely hope that as the owner, you can assist and resolve this issue, Asha. Because it is unacceptable to treat consumers in this manner, and I am sure you would never want to be mistreated yourself.

Earlier review: Worst company ever. Scammers. They tricked me into getting in a 12 month contract with them without telling me all the ins and outs of it. I had to move and their contract said that in case of moving they would had to cancel the contract and also that they would stop charging. Did they stop charging? No. I am going to sue this scammers. Never believe a...