About

MARVELOUS SANCTUARY STUDIO starts with workouts that challenge the body and creates an atmosphere that nurtures the soul.

We do that by promoting inclusion and create programs that embrace positivity, self-confidence, self-worth and inner strength. Kids and adults of all walks of life can rise above feelings of anxiety, stress, social uneasiness and improve self-esteem through group classes and one-on-one sessions that are both challenging and nurturing.  

The studio is a safe haven – a place where people can escape their daily struggles, embrace their spirituality while keeping competition and violence completely out. Everyone is encouraged to learn freely and embrace their personal passions integrating them into the training being offered so everyone reaches their personal fitness and life goals. We’re flexible and nimble and adapt various perspectives and methods into our classes. 

Whatever your fight, we’re here to train you!

At MARVELOUS SANCTUARY STUDIO we empower you for the fight with classes in boxing, cardio kickboxing, strength & conditioning, and yoga. We are here to challenge your mind, body and spirit to empower you to win all the fights in your life.

  • Kids and adult classes are offered.

  • Personal training as well as private boxing, wrestling and kickboxing sessions are also offered.

  • Self-defense workshops as well as 1:1 self-defense training sessions are also provided.

MEET THE TEAM

  • LAURA STRYKOWSKI

    OWNER

    My background is anything but typical as it relates to the fitness industry. I have over 25 years of experience in corporate communications, working in crisis management, reputation management and external communications. And while I continue to enjoy helping companies protect their reputation, I also have a true passion for health and fitness. As a kid I lacked confidence, always picked on for being small and extremely skinny. It wasn’t until I became an adult that I embraced the benefits of working out as a way to build confidence and self-esteem. I’m a former runner – having run numerous half-marathons and completed the Chicago marathon three times, finishing each time in under four hours. While I love running, with age I started to have problems with my back that prevented me from continuing to run long distances which is when I found boxing. I’m a certified USA Boxing coach as well as a personal trainer. I have experience working with kids and adults of all fitness levels as well as working extensively with kids with special needs and adults with Parkinsons all with the goal in mind of helping individuals feel better about themselves and gain physical, mental and spiritual benefits through fitness.

  • STEVEN BECK

    Wrestling, Grappling, and Kickboxing Coach

    Coach Steven has a true passion for martial arts and an extensive martial arts background, bringing over 20 years of Muay Thai, TKD, Karate and kickboxing experience as well as over 15 years of wrestling/grappling experience. He is a 2x IHSA State Qualifier (wrestling) and a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. He even trained overseas at the prestigious Sitsonpeenong Academy in Thailand. Steven has been a wrestling coach at Hawthorn North Middle School since 2018, training over 19 state qualifying athletes, seven hat made it to state and one state champion! Steven shares his passion for wrestling and kickboxing with members at Marvelous, teaching kids and adult classes.

  • FRES OQUENDO, JR.

    Boxing Coach

    Coach Fres has been boxing since a very young age. As the son of three-time heavyweight contender, Fres Oquendo, the sport of boxing is in his DNA! Coach Fres started training as a kid, competed as an amateur boxer and was a National Junior Olympics qualifier. Growing up in a boxing gym surrounded by some of the greatest, Fres has coached and volunteered at numerous boxing events over the years. In addition to coaching Fres’ love for the sport expands to his artistic side – he’s the owner of a photography/videography business where he captures footage at various training and boxing competitive and non-profit events.

  • MARY LICCIARDI

    Yoga Instructor

    Mary’s passion for yoga started long before she became an instructor. In 2018, she decided to to become a certified yoga instructor and nothing makes her happier. Mary respects that your practice is a very personal journey, respecting your time and space on your mat. She teaches without judgment and approaches every student with empathy, knowing that unless you’ve walked in someone’s shoes, you can never fully understand their journey.

    Whether you are new to yoga or experienced, Mary’s goal is to give her students the tools they need to heal their hearts, bodies and minds, encouraging a healthy outcome for all.