Muay Thai Chicago Aiki Training Hall
About
Aiki Training Hall in Chicago, Illinois is widely regarded as one of the best authentic Muay Thai gyms in the city, offering technical training from Thailand-trained and certified instructors. The gym emphasizes proper technique and traditional Muay Thai methods while fostering a supportive community where students of all skill levels train together. Led by head instructor Rick Sollo, who has been training since the early 1990s, Aiki provides a balance of technical instruction and challenging workouts that have transformed many students' lives both physically and mentally.
Jiu Jitsu VerifiedOur weighted 10-point scoring system for martial arts academies prioritizes instruction quality, training environment, and overall student experience.
We consider factors like instructor expertise, class structure, and facility quality. Our assessment combines student feedback, expert reviews, and website information.
Scores above 9.00 denote world-class quality, signifying premier martial arts training experiences.
InstructorsClass StructureSafety and HygieneFacility QualityValue for MoneyLocation & AccessibilityPublic Review Sentiment
Instructors
The instructors at Aiki Training Hall are highly experienced, with many having trained or fought in Thailand, bringing authentic Muay Thai knowledge directly to their students. Led by Rick Sollo, who has been training since the early 1990s and was inducted into the Illinois Martial Arts Hall of Fame, the coaching team is consistently praised for their technical expertise, patience with beginners, and dedication to their students' development.
Facility
The Aiki Training Hall facility is located in Chicago's Ravenswood Industrial Corridor and is described as spacious, modern, and well-maintained. The gym features clean mats, well-hung bags in good condition, and a functional layout that provides adequate space for training.
Pricing
While specific pricing details aren't available on the website, multiple reviews mention that Aiki Training Hall offers excellent value compared to other martial arts gyms in Chicago. Members describe the pricing as fair and competitive, especially considering the quality of instruction and unlimited class access.
Facility
Gym
Instructors
Classes
Pricing
Aiki Training Hall offers a free trial class that allows prospective students to experience the training environment before committing to membership, with many reviewers mentioning this trial class as their entry point to becoming long-term members.
Location
Opening Hours
| Monday | 6 - 9PM |
| Tuesday | 6 - 9PM |
| Wednesday | 6 - 9PM |
| Thursday (Today) | 6 - 9PM |
| Friday | 6 - 9PM |
| Saturday | 9 - 11:30AM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Location
The gym is conveniently located in Chicago's Ravenswood Industrial Corridor at 4043 N. Ravenswood, Suite 120, with several reviews mentioning ample parking availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need previous martial arts experience to join Aiki Training Hall?
No, Aiki Training Hall welcomes complete beginners. Many members mention starting with no prior martial arts experience and receiving patient, detailed instruction that helped them develop their skills from the ground up.
How authentic is the Muay Thai training at Aiki?
The Muay Thai training at Aiki is highly authentic. Head instructor Rick Sollo and several other coaches have trained extensively in Thailand with renowned Thai fighters. The gym is one of only two in Cook County certified with the U.S. Muay Thai Federation.
What should I expect in my first class?
Your first class will likely include a mix of warm-ups, basic technique instruction, partner drills, and conditioning. The instructors are known for being attentive to newcomers and will ensure you understand the fundamentals while getting a good workout.
Does Aiki Training Hall support competitive fighters?
Yes, Aiki actively supports competitive fighters with specialized training plans, fight camps, and coaching. Several reviews mention the gym's success in preparing fighters for competition, including fights in Thailand.