Business Details
21 Years
experience
Premier Muay Thai & Martial Arts Training in Madison
At The Blast Martial Arts & Fitness, we offer a transformative martial arts experience that combines Master Toddy's Muay Thai techniques with Jeet Kune Do principles to foster physical, mental, and spiritual growth. Founded in 2005 by Michael D. Vaughn, our program emphasizes a structured curriculum designed to build confidence, discipline, and self-defense skills for students of all ages and skill levels. Our certified instructors, including Head Instructor Herma Hoda and Owner Mark 'Shah' Evans, create a high-energy, family-like environment where members develop strength, endurance, and camaraderie.We provide specialized training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Mixed Martial Arts, and women's empowerment self-defense, alongside personalized private lessons to accommodate individual goals. With classes seven days a week and open gym times, our Madison facility serves as a community hub for those seeking comprehensive fitness and personal development through martial arts.
Services
Muay Thai Classes
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Self Defense Training
MMA Classes
Kids Martial Arts
Private Lessons
Women's Empowerment
Jump Start Program
Details
- Year established: 2005
Highlights and features
- Certified instructors with expertise in Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
- Proven curriculum for all skill levels from beginner to advanced
- Supportive, family-like training environment with community focus
- Combines physical fitness with mental discipline and self-defense
- Offers free introductory sessions for new members to start training
Services
Muay Thai Classes
Our Muay Thai program teaches traditional Thai boxing techniques with modern applications. Students develop cardiovascular endurance, striking precision, and defensive skills through pad work, bag drills, and sparring. The curriculum emphasizes practical self-defense while providing a full-body workout that builds strength, flexibility, and mental focus for all experience levels.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Enduro BJJ offers comprehensive Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training for competition and self-defense. Black Belt instructors teach positional control, submission techniques, and ground strategy. Classes focus on technical proficiency, physical conditioning, and practical application through live rolling sessions that develop real-world grappling effectiveness for martial artists at every skill level.
Self Defense Training
Our R.A.T. Self Defense system teaches practical techniques against common attacks. Women's empowerment classes focus on situational awareness, boundary setting, and physical defense through repetitive drills. The program builds confidence and instinctive response capabilities while emphasizing de-escalation strategies and safety awareness in real-world scenarios.
Kids Martial Arts
Blast Kids classes develop discipline, focus, and physical coordination in children aged 7-17. The curriculum combines fundamental martial arts techniques with character development principles. Students learn respect, perseverance, and teamwork through structured training that builds confidence while making fitness fun and engaging for young practitioners.
Private Lessons
One-on-one instruction allows customized training tailored to individual goals. Private sessions focus on technical refinement, competition preparation, or accelerated learning for new students. Our certified instructors provide personalized attention to address specific needs, whether improving competition skills, mastering self-defense techniques, or progressing through belt rankings at an individual pace.
People
Michael D. Vaughn
Founder
Established The Blast Martial Arts & Fitness in 2005 after earning multiple martial arts certifications. Trained under Master Toddy and developed the school's unique curriculum combining Muay Thai with JKD principles before passing leadership to senior instructors.
Herma Hoda
Head Instructor
Master Toddy certified instructor with extensive Muay Thai expertise. Leads curriculum development and trains students in traditional techniques while maintaining the school's commitment to personal growth through martial arts education.
Mark 'Shah' Evans
Owner
Certified Muay Thai instructor and current owner who continues the school's mission. Brings professional fighting experience and championship coaching background to develop students' technical skills and competitive readiness.
Kiarra Evans
BLAST Kids Instructor
Specializes in youth martial arts instruction, creating engaging programs that build discipline and confidence in children aged 7-17. Focuses on making martial arts accessible and enjoyable while teaching fundamental techniques and values.
Brett Ritz
Grappling Instructor
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu specialist with black belt certification. Teaches ground fighting techniques and submission strategies, combining traditional BJJ with practical applications for self-defense and mixed martial arts competition.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We specialize in Muay Thai kickboxing, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and self-defense systems. Our curriculum also incorporates elements of Jeet Kune Do principles and Mixed Martial Arts training.
Are classes available for beginners?
Yes! Our Adult Phase I classes introduce fundamental techniques with no prior experience required. We also offer free introductory sessions and a Jump Start program for new students.
Do you have programs for children?
Blast Kids classes provide martial arts training for ages 7-17, focusing on discipline, confidence building, and basic self-defense techniques in a fun, engaging environment.
Can I try a class before committing?
We offer free 30-minute introductory lessons and allow visitors to sample group classes before joining. No contracts are required for membership.
What should I wear for my first class?
For Muay Thai, wear athletic shorts and a t-shirt. For BJJ, bring a gi if available. We provide loaner equipment and can help with gear recommendations after your first session.
Are private lessons available?
Yes, we offer one-on-one private instruction tailored to individual goals. Sessions can focus on technical improvement, competition preparation, or accelerated learning for specific martial arts disciplines.