Elite Training – Best Martial Arts
Elite Program Director Sean Derhammer trains clients in Kray Maga and kickboxing. Photo
“We are not just a gym but a school,” Elite program director Sean Derhammer said. “When it comes to martial arts studios, the South Bay is very competitive so being here for 13 years is really unusual.”
Instructors teach techniques such as LOTAR (Close Quarter Battle techniques) and Krav Maga (intuitive self-defense independent of strength or size), Muay Thai kickboxing, Adult Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) as sport, Youth MMA and Kali/Silat/Eskrima (Filipino open hand and stick fighting).
“We want to make sure our students are well rounded,” Derhammer said. “You never want to isolate yourself when it comes to anything in life, including martial arts.”
Women now make up 40 percent of the clientele and the kid’s programs attract a wide range, from superstar athletes to kids who don’t always fit in. Self discipline and confidence are focused upon more than skill sets.
“Martial arts isn’t a hobby but a lifestyle,” Derhammer said. “If you want a hobby go put model planes together. You don’t save a life with a hobby.”
Best of the Beach 2015
Elite Training Center, 1628 South Pacific Coast Hwy., Redondo Beach; 1601 Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste. 170, Hermosa Beach. 310-543-1600. 310-912-3088. elitetrainingcenter.net
Runner-up: Manhattan Beach Karate and Yoga, 350 N. Sepulveda Blvd. #3, Manhattan Beach; 3207 Manhattan Ave. @ Longfellow, Hermosa Beach. 310-467-4723. mbkarateandyoga.com. — RA