MONROE — For some committed to getting in shape for the New Year, the inspiration might already be fading fast. Reality sets in. Inertia. Good intentions reduced to a shrug and grab for the remote. For those folks, it seems, working out must have something more to offer than the distant prospect of developing a healthy habit for life. For a local man and his son, that option has always been mixed martial arts.
“In life sometimes we need people to hold us accountable,” said Travis Bowles, who along with his father, Gregory Bowles, run crowded martial arts classes in New Glarus, and a martial arts group that’s been going on at Turner Hall since the 1960s. The men also have expended recently into mixed martial arts, as interest in that sport has soared in recent years.
Getting involved in Karate, Tae Kwan Do or MMA can be intimidating to newcomers, the men say, but the rewards go far beyond a healthier body, thanks to the sports’ focus on the mind and its emphasis on being a part of team or a Karate class.
“Anyone can do it and we welcome everyone,” said Travis Bowles, himself a black belt and local instructor of students from all ages and skill levels.
According to experts, martial arts is highly effective for weight loss, often burning 500—1,000 plus calories per session through high-intensity, full-body workouts that combine cardio, resistance training, and fat-burning intervals.
“There’s a lot of variety, different things you can do, there’s something in it for everyone,” said Travis Bowles.
For mental wellness, the best training practitioners anchor their attention on the present moment, integrating techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and repetitive, precise movements. And that builds mental fortitude, reduces stress, and improves emotional regulation, enabling practitioners to remain calm and alert under pressure.
There is no shortage of places to go. Another option is Elite Tae Kwon Do on Monroe’s Square. That group recently moved into the new location, on the northwest corner of the square, after using St. Victor’s School for 17 years.
Martial Arts, in all its forms, can be especially helpful, experts say, for kids, including those with learning and neurodivergent issues like ADHD.
“Really anybody can do it,” said Gregory Bowles. “It does not take a superstar to be a black belt. It takes someone who wants it, and is committed to staying with it, showing up and doing the work.”
The elder Bowles said he helped start the martial arts program in New Glarus decades ago with just two students, and now the location has about 100 students enrolled in its various classes, including Tae Kwon Do. There are numerous competitive local teams, entering state and national competitions regularly.
In Monroe, Travis Bowles said MMA is really taking off with locals.
“I think they are seeing more of it on TV and want to come and see what it is all about,” said Travis. “No one expects you to come out and know what you are doing right away. We are here to work with you, and your classmates want you to succeed, too.”
