Real Fighters Gym

Business Details

30 Years

experience

Real Fighters Gym | Premier Kickboxing Training in Louisville

Real Fighters Gym was founded in 1996 with a mission to share authentic kickboxing and Muay Thai training rooted in decades of competitive experience. Our programs cater to all fitness levels, from beginners seeking a full-body workout to advanced fighters competing internationally. Head Coach Eric Haycraft, with 26 years of teaching experience, and Coach Lindsay Haycraft, a former world-champion fighter, lead a team dedicated to fostering personal growth through martial arts.

We prioritize technical mastery, physical conditioning, and community building, creating a supportive environment where members develop confidence and resilience. With a proven curriculum that has produced regional and national champions, we emphasize accessibility for newcomers while maintaining rigorous standards for competitive athletes.

Services

Fitness Kickboxing Dutch Kickboxing Muay Thai Training Introductory Program Competitive Development Heavy Bag Workouts Fight Conditioning Technique Coaching

Details

Year established: 1996

Highlights and features

We offer 26+ years of combined coaching experience from former professional fighters
Our proven curriculum develops technical precision and physical conditioning simultaneously
We provide safe, structured progression from beginner to competitive levels
Our gym culture fosters inclusive community and personal growth
We train members in authentic fighting techniques used by world champions

What people say

Experienced coaches Welcoming atmosphere Real progress Clean facilities Family environment

Website

Update Listing

Services

Fitness Kickboxing

High-intensity interval training combining authentic kickboxing techniques with bodyweight exercises. This 60-minute class builds cardiovascular endurance while teaching practical self-defense skills. No prior experience needed with adaptable intensity levels for all participants.

Dutch Kickboxing

Progressive program developing striking techniques from traditional Dutch kickboxing. Structured levels guide students from fundamentals to advanced combinations. Includes sparring preparation and tactical strategy for competitive fighters at all experience levels.

Muay Thai Training

Comprehensive Muay Thai instruction covering stand-up striking techniques and clinch work. Curriculum builds from basic moves to competitive fight strategies. Equipment included in scheduled sessions for proper technique development and safety.

Introductory Program

Seven-week foundation course teaching essential martial arts basics. Covers hand wrapping, rope jumping, and fundamental strikes. Designed for absolute beginners with no prior experience in a supportive learning environment.

Competitive Development

Specialized program preparing athletes for regional and international competition. Includes sparring sessions, conditioning drills, and tactical instruction. Has produced multiple national champions with pathways to professional fighting careers.

People

Eric Haycraft

Head Coach

Professional martial arts coach with 26 years of instruction experience in Louisville. Former professional fighter who has trained multiple national champions. Brings competitive expertise from international tournament participation and coaching roles.

Lindsay Haycraft

Coach

Former world champion fighter with extensive international competition experience across Europe and Asia. Transitioned from professional athlete to coach after 40-fight career. Specializes in technique refinement and female athlete development.

Questions

Do I need prior experience to join?

No prior experience is required for any of our programs. We welcome complete beginners and provide structured progression from fundamentals.

What equipment do I need to start?

For initial classes you'll need 14-16 ounce gloves and hand wraps. Additional equipment requirements progress with program levels.

Are drop-in workouts available?

We offer scheduled classes with structured curriculum rather than drop-in sessions. All classes accommodate different experience levels.

Can I try a class before joining?

Is this suitable for women?

Our programs specifically support female athletes at all levels. Lindsay Haycraft, former world champion, specializes in women's martial arts development.

Do you offer private coaching?

While our focus is on structured group classes, we can arrange specialized coaching for athletes pursuing competitive careers.

Reviews (7)

Write a Review

John Kennedy

Dec 29, 2021 Report

The best Muay Thai gym I have ever been to and one of the few who teach Dutch Style in the United States. This place was like a second home to me. The structure, ranking system by skill level, and the focus on technique are some of the few aspects of this gym that set it apart from others. I have had to move around a bit the past couple years, and I have trained in Nashville, Denver, and San Diego along the way. In all of these places, there were only a few classes a week and the classes they had were unstructured for the most part and did not elaborate on the techniques used or even how to throw

Erin Savastio

Nov 13, 2021 Report

This is one of my favorite places. The workouts are always fun and challenging. The people are supportive and the coaches are great at what they do.

Brandon

Jun 01, 2021 Report

Eric and Lindsay are the greatest people ever. Throughout the pandemic they both did all they could to accommodate the gym members while following the CDC and state guidelines. I've been a member of the gym for years and can't wait to join the family again. If you're new to martial arts or have decades of experience this is a great place to train. Show up ready to learn and work hard and you will leave the gym a better person than when you started!

Ryan Dugan

Jan 28, 2021 Report

Great experience tonight in my first class. Very high Level technique taught in a very welcoming, clean environment.

Michael Evans

Dec 08, 2020 Report

Great gym. The instructors and member treat you like family. The instructors are very knowledgeable. This is a great place to learn to fight or just to get into shape while having fun. The gym is always super clean. I cant recommend this place enough.

Donald Holbrook

Sep 05, 2020 Report

Best coaches in town. Youre taught by actual trained fighters with years of experience. Gym is very fun and welcoming. Prices are the best in the city. As soon as you walk in the door you will feel like family. Everyone is supportive and will help you toward your goals. You can train as a fighter with contact or without with the same results.

Amy Turner

Jun 27, 2020 Report

This is by far the best fitness kickboxing workout I've ever experienced, and I've been to the other chain gyms. Everyone who walks in the door is treated the same and trained the same. You'll learn kickboxing from people with ring experience, who value and respect the sport. If you want a great workout and a great gym family, go to Real Fighters.