A lot goes into creating a good class environment. Having a clean facility, friendly and knowledgeable instructors and a digestible curriculum are some of the most important staples of a good learning environment. This could be applied to anything; history, music theory, dance, or in our case, mixed martial arts. Proudly offering the largest training space in the Hudson Valley, Precision Boxing and MMA has come a long way from its humble roots in the attic of a physical therapy center. A lifelong Hudson Valley resident, head coach Brian McLaughlin cuts no corners to ensure that he brings the best martial arts instruction to his hometown of Poughkeepsie, NY. Leading a community that feels like a family, Coach Brian will usually be the first to greet you as you enter the mats. Beneath the appearance of cauliflower ears and a face that has clearly seen combat, there is a mind that is constantly working on new techniques and how to best convey these techniques to his student body. Usually greeting everyone with some jokes and a warm smile, Brian clearly relishes his responsibility of making anyone and everyone feel welcome on his mats. Brian works with his professional fight team in New Jersey, but always makes it back on time for his kids jiu-jitsu classes in Poughkeepsie. He also teaches all the adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes throughout the week. Although Brian teaches class six days a week, there are too many classes for him to keep up with alone. Always giving opportunities to those close to him, Coach Brian has built a strong coaching staff consisting of his most dedicated students and training partners.
Coach Karl Nemeth, our head Muay Thai instructor began training with Brian in 2005 without any prior martial arts experience. Karl loved it and went on to become an undefeated kickboxing champion, undefeated mixed martial arts champion as well as a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt under Brians tutelage. Coach Karl shares his knowledge and experience with our boxing, Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes throughout the week. A truly well-rounded martial artist, Coach Karl helps students of all levels understand the intricacies of each discipline and how to seamlessly blend our striking and grappling.
In addition to our cutting-edge MMA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai classes, Precision offers boxing classes of all levels. Whether you’re looking to become a world champion or simply learn more about the sweet science, Precision is the place to get your hands sharp. Head coach “Crazy” Jon Russo leads the class with his larger-than-life persona and slick footwork tips. Somewhere between a modern bohemian and an old-world buccaneer, Jons’ authentic charm lights up the room and creates an irreplaceable energy. Offering boxing six days a week, our classes span from basic to advanced and we have multiple assistant coaches on staff to ensure that each student gets the attention that they need.
Although we are proud of our staff and well-kept facility, our community of students is truly what makes Precision stand out. Our coaches and experienced students lead by example to spread a culture of helping newcomers and stepping on the mats every day with a good attitude. Our homegrown black belts Dave Karchmer and Jon Garcia as well as brown belts Erik Bengston and Mark Mikalojeski are always in class to help guide the new wave of students or to handle things if Coach Brian happens to be away. Our senior boxing students are eager to partner up with beginners in class to ensure that they have a positive experience and gain all of the benefits that boxing has to offer.
We’re honored to be recognized for providing the best mixed martial arts classes in the Hudson Valley. If you’re interested in beginning your martial arts journey, come train with the best! Don’t just take our word for it, call us at (845)392-8495 or click HERE to schedule your free one on one lesson!
About the Author
Oliver Swanson is a mixed martial arts blogger living in the Hudson Valley. He trains and teaches boxing classes throughout the week at Precision Boxing and MMA in Poughkeepsie. In his spare time, he loves to spend time with his family and friends and explore the beautiful hiking trails that the Hudson Valley has to offer.
