Tired of sustaining a workout routine more predictable than a McDonald's meal? Ditch your exercise doldrums at this renowned dojo.

The Degerberg Academy has been teaching Chicagoans a comprehensive array of martial arts skills for over 25 years, with classes that blend the finer points of every fighting system imaginable. The school's well-worn Lincoln Square location is four stories, loaded from top to bottom with wall-to-wall mats, a weight room, a boxing ring, heavy bags, speed bags, kicking and punching targets and pretty much everything else you need for a sweat-inducing workout. Countless photographs line the narrow hallways, commemorating Grandmaster Fred Degerberg's storied history as an accomplished martial arts practitioner and instructor.

The place is often swarming with students of all ages clamoring for knowledge of effective karate, kickboxing, muay thai, capoeira, and judo techniques. No two class sessions are alike, and participants are always encouraged to push themselves, with respect to their varying experience and skill levels. Specialized courses are also offered in certain disciplines, and esteemed guests often visit to present seminars in their area of expertise. Despite the crowded conditions, environment is consistently supportive and friendly. This caliber of training does not come without a price, but if you can manage the $150 monthly fee for the adult curriculum, you'll find yourself enjoying rigorous training that improves your fitness as well as your capacity for self-defense.

Centerstage Reviewer: Jenny Seay