When Floyd Shahan heard that a former high school classmate was offering training courses in boxing, he was eager to sign up.Having participated in sparring and Brazilian Jui-jitsu as a hobby while in the armed services, he wanted to get involved again after five years away.“I really enjoyed sparring, because it was a way to stay fit, and I’ve always been competitive,” said Shahan.Matt Matteson, who competes in mixed martial arts on a local level, recently decided to share his gift with others. He is using the new addition to the K-4 Fitness gym located on South Service Road in Warrenton to host his classes as part of Hero’s Forge MMA.“We train for any form of combat sports — boxing, kickboxing, grappling, MMA,” said Matteson, who is currently training eight students in a series of night and morning classes.“The main art that we focus on is Hapkido, which actually originated as a form of self-defense,” said Matteson. “We also supplement with some muay thai, Western boxing, wrestling and Brazilian jujitsu.”But he elaborates that a student doesn’t have to possess intentions of competing in order to sign up for the classes and learn the different techniques.“Whether or not you’re going to compete, you train like you are,” said Matteson. “We have a few people who will never step in the ring, and that’s fine.”“What I like about Hero’s Forge MMA is that I don’t have to compete, but I can still get the benefits,” said student Sara Besancenez. “There’s a lot of physical activity and strength training, which I really enjoy.”On the contrary, it didn’t take Shahan long to decide he wanted to put his skills to the test against live competition. The Warrenton native won his debut boxing match earlier this month during a show at Wentzville.“It was like nothing else I’ve ever experienced,” said Shahan. “The sport is a great stress reliever.”He is actually taking the classes with his wife, Savannah, whose curiosity drew her over from the weight room.“He talked me into it,” said Savannah. “I got bored working out by myself, so I started taking the class. It’s been great exercise and I’ve lost two inches around my waste.”Originally just participating for the sake of staying in shape, witnessing the live shows has gotten her intrigued.“I’d love to get in the ring and try it at least once,” added Savannah.Matteson offers a flexible training schedule for students, who can sign up for three-, six- or 12-month memberships. Long-term commitments include complimentary training gear as well.“We’re going to be expanding soon,” said Matteson, whose is working on acquiring a cage for training purposes.For more information about Hero’s Forge, Matteson can be reached at 636-233-3968.MMA CLASSES OFFERED AT K-4 FITNESSDerrick Forsythe photo.