The Nike Field Reporter

Imagine a place where you can feel its energy as soon as you walk in. It’s peaceful, but at the same time, the vibe can be raw, and uncensored. Close your eyes and try and think of somewhere you can getaway, forget all your worries, issues and/or current challenges for an hour and just come to sweat.

For me, this place is called Integrated Martial Arts Concepts (“IMC”). Located in Willow Glen, California, IMC is a studio where people of all ages (and fitness levels) can come to take a variety of group classes such as street self-defense, street kickboxing, yoga, Pilates, and special bootcamps. I’ve been taking the Pilates and kickboxing classes since last August, and it’s definitely unlike any other group class I’ve ever experienced. Not only do we perform all the movements barefoot, we use real boxing gloves. And the regular attendees in the class (like me) have become almost like one big family. We all have nicknames, and if I were to miss a class, they ask about you the next time you come in.

The biggest difference about IMC though is that it’s not about just getting in shape physically, but also mentally. IMC’s owner Arash Dibazar (pictured above) believes “You can change your body all you want, but if your mindset doesn’t adjust too, you will just fall back into your old ways. And that’s what’s wrong with gyms. They only work you out physically, and not mentally.” And I couldn’t agree with him more. Since coming to IMC and adding the group classes to my regular fitness routine, I feel I’m in the best shape of my life. But you don’t have to take my word for it. If you live in the Bay Area you should definitely come check out a couple classes; the results will speak for themselves.

-Ashley Ceaser