TESTIMONIALS
Joel Przybilla
"You've got to have the core strength to hold a guy down in the paint and I can notice a difference when I'm in pick-up games. I can tell it's helped a lot already.
Where it's really going to help me most is defensively. The stance is almost the same in boxing as it is in basketball and like boxing, you're reacting to what your opponent does in basketball.I'm primarily a defensive player to begin with and I think this is perfect for that purpose.
I don't want to give my secret out, to tell you the truth. Maybe when the season starts I'll tell my teammates about it.
I would recommend training at the Duke RUOFUS Academy highly."
Joel Przybilla
Starting Center
NBA's Portland Trailblazers
Laura Leach
"It sucks that I am leaving!
This gym has served as my sanctuary from the daily grind for the past 2 1/2 years.
There is so much support, encouragement and a common drive to succeed here that it's contagious.
To all the coaches, play kicking partners and my fellow GLOKS: Thanks for the push when I was tired (and I mean push). Thanks for not letting me quit even when my body was ready to. Thanks for the constant praise and correction.
Keep a firm stance, stay on your toes, and if you get hit - hit back!
I'll remember that wherever I go. Thanks to everyone.
I will miss you all!"
Laura "Tomb Raider" Leach
Landscape Technician
Paula Gilson
"As soon as my exams are finished I will see you back in the gym!
Looking forward to more workouts at the best place to get sweaty!"
Paula Gilson
Graduate Student
Shaun Kramer
"Thanks to the guys at Duke RUOFUS Gym for helping out with the most memorable bachelor party any of us have had!
The trainers at Duke RUOFUS Gym provide more than just a basic look at the art of boxing. They made sure that each of us could workout at our own pace, while still learning a great deal about movement and techniques.
We had imagined somewhat of a "cookie cutter" seminar where we all might stand in our rows, do some basic jabs, etc. What we received was an in-depth look into the world of boxing and mixed martial arts that was perfect for everyone there, both enthusiasts of the sport, and otherwise.
We were fortunate to have been able to take part in this unique experience! Thank you."
Shaun Kramer
Sales Specialist - Hartland, WI
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Brett Fox
"Duke,
Just wanted to tell you that, 'Pound for Pound, Duke RUOFUS Gym is the best in town!'
I have always been involved in athletics, joined many a gym, but nothing compares to the great workouts and results I have achieved while taking private boxing lessons with Coach Scott Cushman.Scott is great at netting results - whether it is strengthening your core, working on your form and quickness, or just learning the basic skills of boxing. Scott takes the time to get you there (results), and you can always tell he has put thought into your workout prior to you showing up.
I look forward to every training session as you never know what Coach has in store, and get bummed when I can't (rarely) make a session. It is addicting!!!
There is good reason why the competitors from your gym excel! Duke, I would be more than happy to talk with anyone looking to join the gym for group classes or is considering taking private lessons with Coach Cushman and the benefits of working out at the Duke RUOFUS Gym.
Know that I take every opportunity to spread the good word of being a member of your Gym/Family. Thanks."
Brett Fox
Project Manager
Manuel Rocha
"Duke and Scott,
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to work with you as your sales rep and to workout at the Duke RUOFUS Kickboxing & Boxing Academy.
The results I’ve gotten from my workouts at the gym have been awesome, but the business relationship I’ve built with you has made everything that much better.
I’ve gotta say, I’ve met some of the coolest people I know at your gym. It almost feels like we’re all familia. We’re all growing, learning and moving forward to better ourselves both mentally and physically.
Duke, congratulations on your victory in the ring on Friday night (June 3, 2022). I had a great time at the fights."
Manuel Rocha
Sales Representative
102.1 FM - Milwaukee's Alternative Station
Jason "Big Cat" Williams
"I’ve been involved in competitive sports since I was a kid and what I’ve enjoyed most was the camaraderie, competitiveness, and excitement of winning, especially in football.
I played high school football and afterwards continued to play at UW-La Crosse. A serious injury my senior year caused me to give up any hopes of playing pro ball. After finishing college I soon discovered that not being able to play football left a big hole in my life.
I quickly began searching for something to fill this void. After I crossed-off golf, racquetball, flag football, and softball from my list of sports to try, I realized there’s not much out there in the form of sports that can replace football, unless you include kickboxing or MMA. So, I decided to try something in competitive martial arts.
Around this time I was finishing graduate school in Madison and had accepted a job in Milwaukee. A week after I moved to Milwaukee I went to Duke’s gym and signed-up for classes. That was over a year ago and I can say without a doubt that kickboxing and my experience at Duke’s gym has changed my life.
It has filled that void left behind by football. There’s a level of camaraderie, competitiveness, and training that can’t be found anywhere else. The workouts are intense and challenging. But above all else, I get to continue being active and competitive in a sport that is a lot fun and much like many other students I’ve also lost weight and improved my health.
One other thing I want to point out is that Duke is a great teacher. There are a lot of coaches and trainers out there in many different sports, but not all of them are good teachers. And that’s exactly what a coach needs to be if he or she wants success in their chosen sport.
I would compare his teaching style to that of Coach Roger Harring at La Crosse and Coach Bobby Bowden at Florida State – two of the winningest coaches in college football.
If you look at the number of kickboxing titles won by Duke’s students, it’s no surprise. His life-long experience in martial arts, combined with his personality and intuition about his students creates a unique learning and training experience at the gym."
Jason Williams
Real Estate Development Coordinator
Kyle Weickhardt
"Three years ago I was a troubled teenager with too much time on my hands and heading down the wrong path. After my freshman year of high school, I was sent to an alternative school due to nearly failing all of my classes, ending the year with a 1.4 GPA.
My sophomore year was not much better, as I was getting into fights at school, causing trouble at home and performing poor academically.
After my sophomore year I decided to join the Duke RUOFUS Gym because the sport of Muaythai Kickboxing had always interested me. I can honestly say that it changed my life in so many ways.
Almost immediately after joining the gym my parents began too see a change in me for the better. Not only did I begin to perform much better academically, but I was not getting into any trouble, showing much more respect, and I began taking much better care of my body and getting into terrific physical shape.
The sport of Muaythai teaches and promotes discipline, respect and hard work, all of which I acquired after joining the Duke RUOFUS Gym.
I graduated my senior year in high school with a 3.6 GPA. I am now 18 years old and attending college. I have fought in 4 amateur Kickboxing bouts. I feel much better about myself mentally and physically than I ever have and I have the Duke RUOFUS Gym to thank."
Kyle Weickhardt
College Student/Amateur Kickboxer
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Carissa Carrasquillo
"I'm a 15 year old freshman student at Greenfield High School. I would excitedly have to say this has been the best school year of my life!
When I was younger I trained with Duke, but unfortunately had to stop training for a few years. When I started training with Duke again at the beginning of last summer I weighed a staggering 220 pounds. I was depressed with my image and my health.
It's been almost a year now and I weigh 160 pounds and feel fabulous. I'm doing much better in school thanks to the discipline Duke taught me. I now love to shop more (of course my parents aren't to thrilled about that, it's their wallets!).
I'm happier as a whole I suppose and Duke really helped save my life. I saved my life. I eat better and just worked hard to achieve my goal. I thank my family at the Duke RUOFUS Gym for doing that for me. It took a lot of work, but it paid off in the end."
Carissa Carrasquillo
High School Student
Liz Masik
"I have Duke to thank for a lot of different things: getting in great shape, increasing my confidence, gaining a better work ethic . . . but I never thought I'd have to thank him for possibly saving my life.
I was coming home from work one day when a "street guy" approached me. He muttered something to me, but I didn't think anything of it so I just kept on walking.
Before I knew it, he immediately grabbed me from the front and wouldn't let go. We were grappling for what seemed like hours, but was really only for a few seconds, when suddenly I gave him a swift "Muaythai" knee to his ribs. He immediately stepped off completely hunched over, and walked away with a drunken stumble.
Duke's training is very intense in the gym, so when I was put into this type of situation, there was absolutely no hesitation, just quick reaction.
Thank you Duke, for everything. I look forward to training with you every time I walk into the gym."
Liz Masik
College Student/Personal Trainer*Added Fall 2004 (received after Liz moved from the state): "Duke n' Scott - Words can't express how grateful I am for the things you have taught to me. Things you probably don't even realize!
I'm a better, tougher person for it. Good luck in the future for you both.
I will miss you!
Liz"
Janet Mayer
"Scott, I can not even begin to tell you and Duke (and Tony) just how much this Kickboxing class has done for me. I may not be losing weight right now, but I have dropped two sizes.
I have a much higher level of patience. My stress has been reduced by half. My self esteem is up. I have better coordination. Better balance. And a much better outlook on everything. (Heck, I can even do 50 crunches without whining too badly).
I am learning how to learn, something that is new to me. I never really had to work at being good at something. This is all a huge challenge to me. The gym means so much to me.
My instructors are exceptional and patient. The team of members and staff is outstanding. I felt like family from day one. I can't thank you all enough. I have nothing but positive things to say about the Duke RUOFUS Gym. You rock!!"
Janet Mayer
REO Asset Manager/Volunteer Firefighter & EMT
Julie Henson
"Hey guys, or whoever is reading this e-mail. I’m not sure if you remember me; it’s Julie Henson, the girl who moved to Tucson several months ago. Anyway, I was checking out your site for the first time in months. Scott, the website looks awesome! I am thoroughly impressed; you seem to have learned a new technology every time I look at it!
I miss the program there! I am doing several different things here. I train with a guy named Chris Valdez in boxing and I do kickboxing at a gym called The Ultima, but it doesn't compare to the Duke RUOFUS Gym.
I also am training to teach Krav Maga and just finished a weekend in Phoenix doing a Weapons Defense seminar…that was great. In January, I will go to LA and train 10 hours a day for 7 days in order to be able to teach level one Krav Maga. And, believe it or not, I am beginning Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, as well.
Anyway, even though I am doing a lot of great stuff, I wanted to let you know that if I had to decide between all this stuff or the Duke RUOFUS Gym, there would be no doubt that I would choose you guys!!! I miss not only the classes, but also feeling a part of something - welcomed, so to speak.
I hope that this e-mail finds everyone well. Oh, and by the way, if you ever know of an event going on in this side of the country, I would love it if you could try and inform me! The next time I come to visit Milwaukee, I definitely will come by and take a couple of classes."
Julie Henson
Graduate Student
Glenn Ramski
"For me, making the commitment to exercise regularly has always been difficult. I would make an occasional effort to exercise early mornings. However, not being an "early person" by choice, my routine never took root. I later tried setting some time aside in the evening, prior to going to bed. But this didn't work either as I was typically too tired to exercise when it came time. Nothing was working well, but I had to do something.
One day last June, I noticed the Duke RUOFUS Gym while driving home from work. Not having any experience in boxing or kickboxing, I was a little apprehensive about going inside and finding out more. I'm glad I did.Now exercising fits neatly into my schedule. I'm able to devote the time I need to staying physically fit and still be able to make it home in time for dinner. The classes are great and work every muscle area of my body without the wear and tear that I usually experienced after running.
My strength and cardiovascular endurance has increased noticeably, so much so that I was able to pass the Milwaukee Fire Department's recruit physical fitness test AND the Army Physical Fitness Test within hours of each other - and still have enough drive to attend a boxing class later at the gym the same day.
The staff at gym are helpful, friendly and take a sincere interest in working with each student. Since joining, I've gotten to know a wide range of folks who've helped to make my exercise routine more challenging and very enjoyable."
Glenn Ramski
Marketing RepresentativeRETURN TO TOP
Marija M. Mack
"I do not have a weight problem, unless it is possible to be too thin. Exercise was never more than a self-conscience social hour, I never learned a thing. I was thin, I had energy, and I could turn heads when I walked through a room. But when I tried walking down my own staircase at my house, I fell, more times than I could count. I had no muscle, no grace, no coordination and no athletic ability.
When my husband bought me time with a personal trainer, he suggested a cardio workout, so I tried them all: I ran outdoors; I used treadmills and stair masters; I did Tae bo, Aerobics and even step aerobics, until I fell off the step. All of these machines and ideas bored me quickly and I still was uncoordinated.
One day the people from the Duke RUOFUS Gym came to the health club and taught a class on what they called "Cardio Kickboxing." When one of the female teachers, who was smaller than I was, taught the guys how to do sit ups, I got hooked - whatever power she had, I wanted it. I called the gym, talked to Duke and he patiently explained it all.
That was over two years ago. I have learned, and am still learning, more than I ever expected. I have learned how to face fear and the benefit of working hard to get what I want. I also learned endurance, perseverance, nutrition, teamwork, respect, got a little counseling and a lot of acceptance.
This summer, while I was golfing with another couple, the woman (whom I had never played with before) took a look at me and commented on how much competition she was going to have because she said I looked quite "athletic." Athletic? Me? Defined muscle, coordination, a stronger heart and overall excellent health kind of snuck up on me when I didn't even notice it. All I was doing was having fun.
I always thought athletes were kind of arrogant, but boy was I wrong. Duke’s patience with me that day was only the beginning. All of the instructors at the gym are like this: intelligent, patient, kind, encouraging, never pushy and eager to teach you what you want to know.Since I have officially entered my forties, doctors have been requesting me to take a lot of tests because of my “family health history." After the last round, the doctor gave me his diagnosis, 'let’s talk in five years, whatever you’re doing about your health - keep it up.' I assured him his request was no problem."
Marija M. Mack
Associate Engineer/Technologist
Cheryl Clancy
"I am 53, getting fit and fighting fat. I got in the ring at the Duke RUOFUS Gym and found a way to fight fat, stress and aging.
Two years ago, I found the gym, great trainers and a method of exercise that I believe saved my life. I've lost 135 pounds, my blood pressure and cholesterol are now normal and I've found a great way to get in shape, relieve stress and have fun.
Years of high stress, junk food and excess weight had taken the fun out of life. Then I found the fountain of youth at the Duke RUOFUS Gym. You can too!"
Ms. Cheryl Clancy
Middle School Principal
Jan Scott Pierce"I stumbled across 'the gym' on the Internet over two years ago when I was looking to get back into the martial arts. Full-time school and an office career had really taken it's toll on my body.
The hybrid curriculum of Western boxing and Thai Kickboxing exceeded all of my expectations. It proved to be both elegantly practical and even intellectually engaging. A discipline such as this has no value, however, if you are not driven to train regularly over an extended period of time.
Many of us have been at the gym for years and associate the start of our training with an important turning point in our lives. Now we're hooked. Aside from the world-class equipment and facilities, I believe it is the people, both instructors and students, which keep us coming back.
An interesting thing happens when people gather with a commitment to sharpen their mind, body and spirit in a challenging martial environment. The common goal cuts across cultural, gender and occupational boundaries, resulting in an unparalleled forum to train and relate with people outside of your daily routine.
Further, the environment is rich with motivation because varying levels of athletes, including serious amateur and professional ones, train side-by-side. In the end though, what keeps us coming back and training hard is that it's just plain fun."
Jan Scott Pierce
AttorneyRETURN TO TOPRay W. Stubbe
"The Duke RUOFUS Gym has definitely made a very big difference in my life.
Last May, I was overweight at 200 lbs., almost 64 years old, a retired minister, inactive, and full of stress and depression over the loss of family and possibility of cancer.
Cholesterol and triglycerides required medication. Something had to be done! I knew that exercise was one of the best ways to deal with stress, depression and being overweight. Boxing was something I used to enjoy when much younger, so I started working out at the Duke RUOFUS Gym.
Now I am 156 lbs., full of energy, feel good and active. My triglycerides have dropped from over 200 to 64, and blood pressure is 106/66. The class workouts are supervised by trainers who are first class - getting the best out of everyone and yet encouraging and quick to suggest improvements in technique.
Some of those who attend are champions - a Wisconsin State Champion, A North American Champion, a World Champion, and others that are consistent winners in boxing events. About half to a third of those working out are female. All are those you'd want as a neighbor or a good friend.
Workouts include the usual rope jumping, working on combinations on the heavy bag, working with a partner with hand pads, and numerous individual exercises. The gym is also kept very clean.
I'm now up to five one-hour workout a week and am more active than I have been in years. The only negative has been the cost of new trousers: my waist went from 40 to 34, and now that is even loose!
The Duke RUOFUS Gym is conveniently located near the freeway on 1st & Virginia Streets. It's made a very real change in my life. It can make a change in yours, too!"
Ray W. Stubbe
Chaplain
Richard Winter
"Duke, I just wanted to send you a thank-you note!
Since you started training me three weeks ago, I have lost 12 pounds and I feel fantastic!
As a busy dentist, I often find that I don't have time to work, spend time with my two kids and get to the gym on a regular basis. Your private lessons have been amazing!
I feel energized and alive after your one-on-one lessons. I have been in martial arts on and off for many years, but I have never found an instructor who can read my fitness level and take me to the next level of cardiovascular fitness the way you can.
I hope to remain your client for many years to come, as well as a friend. I will continue to 'bring it, not sing it,' and after your done sculpting me, I look forward to maintaining and growing in the ring, as well.
You are the greatest - if anybody has ever got a question about your training, your private lessons or your teaching style, feel free to have them call me."
Richard Winter D.D.S.
Traci Curtis
"I am a lazy person! I have wanted to be in shape for the past few years, but was never motivated. Then I met the staff of Duke RUOFUS gym.
My workouts are some of the hardest moments of my life, but I love them. When I think I can't make it and want to give up, Tony pushes me and encourages me to go on.
After my session I feel so invigorated and want to show off what I learned. For some reason, most people I work with aren't thrilled about being the target of my training!
In my job, I am in the public a lot. I have to look my best at all times. The Duke RUOFUS Gym is helping me look and feel better about myself, not just physically, but mentally.
The personal attention of the staff, especially Duke, Scott and Tony, makes me feel special and helps me continue on when I am feeling weak.
I fully intend to be member of the Duke RUOFUS Gym for good!"
Traci Curtis
Radio PersonalityRETURN TO TOP
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