About Total Impact

Arlington Heights Martial Arts Dojo

Are you a parent seeking a positive outlet for your child? Or an adult looking for a dynamic way to stay in shape?

Step into a world of empowerment and growth at...

Total Impact Martial Arts!

Our mission is to empower people like YOU to discover the strength, discipline, and power within! Our dedicated team is committed to nurturing the confidence and physical fitness of every student, regardless of age or ability.

A 5-Star Martial Arts School Providing Exceptional Experiences

read real google reviews from our community!

Patrycja Bednarz
Patrycja Bednarz
If you are thinking about signing up for a class, definitely do it! Everyone there is awesome and Brian really makes you feel welcome.
Jennifer Sinclair Jones
Jennifer Sinclair Jones
My son has been attending TIMA for 4 months now and he LOVES it every day just as much as the first! Shihan Brian was super welcoming and understanding of my questions. He recommended Mixed Martial Arts for my son who is easily distracted. What an excellent choice! The first day, my boy was really nervous about being the 'New Kid'. The reception he received was incredibly welcoming and kind from all the Senseis and the students. He's making friends, learning self-mastery and new skills, and we can see how much he has progressed even in these few short months. Total Impact Martial Arts is a blessing on our family and gives my boy the outlet he needs to help manage the vagaries of his teenage years. Thank you to everyone at TIMA!
Roman Vyhovskyy
Roman Vyhovskyy
Great martial arts school to raise a strong minded and physically developed kids. My son loves teachers and the environment.
C Belen
C Belen
My daughter has been part of Total Impact Martial Arts for almost two years since she was five years old, and I've witnessed improvement in her growth not only in skill but also in character thanks to in part to Shihan Brian and his team. They play a big role in honing many young kids' minds and character through their fun and structured teaching. They are patient and professional, instill confidence and motivation with positivity, and are very knowledgeable and inspirational teachers. I am grateful to have come across and have my daughter enrolled as a student at this dojo. We plan on continuing her training here for as long as possible until black belt status and beyond. If you're looking for a martial arts place, look no further. Thank you, Shihan Brian, for creating a fun and amazing martial arts atmosphere!
Yelena Bunina
Yelena Bunina
My son has been attending classes for the last 6 months and  I couldn't be more pleased with his progress and overall experience. The instructors are highly skilled and incredibly patient, fostering an environment that encourages both discipline and self-confidence. My son has not only improved his physical abilities but also his focus, organization skills, and respect for others. The curriculum strikes a perfect balance between fun and learning, keeping him engaged and excited for each class. I highly recommend Total Impact Martial Arts and Fitness for any parent looking to instill valuable life lessons while keeping their child active and motivated.
Alex Sharain
Alex Sharain
Blown away! Went to 2 other places to compare and Total Impact was by far the best place for my boys. Brian is amazing and his staff are extensions of him. I was really impressed with the one on one they receive every class and the program is very substantial. Most importantly, my boys can't wait to go to every week. A+ all the way.
Hannah Fey
Hannah Fey
Our daughter loves her Little Ninja classes at Total Impact! The team is so supportive and her class always has a great amount of instructors looking out for all the students! They promote respect and focus while having fun as well!
Ruba Ilyayeva
Ruba Ilyayeva
Awesome karate school! My son who is 5 loves going there. All the Sensei including the owner is very involved and are very passionate.
Elman Ilyayev
Elman Ilyayev
Very happy with the whole team at Total Impact! My son has been doing really well.

We are more than just a regular dojo – we’re a tight-knit community that believe in your ability to achieve greatness at any age or skill level.

The Key to Becoming Unstoppable in the Face of Adversity

Located in Arlington Heights, IL, our martial arts school is your gateway to a transformative journey filled with kids karate, teen kickboxing, and adult kickboxing classes that will challenge and inspire you to be your best self!

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned martial artist, we are here to support your family in achieving your individual goals.

Why families love total impact?

1

Unmatched

Personal attention for each student to unlock their unique potential

2

Expert

Instructors dedicated to inspiring physical, mental, and emotional growth

3

Supportive

Positive community that fosters camaraderie, goal setting, and other essential life skills

Total Impact Martial Arts Instructors - Sensei Kirk Herrig

Founder + Head Instructor, 5th Degree Black Belt

Shihan Brian Baim has been studying martial arts for 41 years. Shihan Brian is a 5th degree black belt and a master instructor for Total Impact Martial Arts. Shihan Brian is a certified Krav Maga instructor and is certified through the Martial Arts Teachers Association. Brian is also certified through COBRA Self Defense Systems. Brian started his Martial Arts journey at the age of 9 years old first studying Tae Kwon Do before transitioning in Shotokan Karate, and wrestling a few years later.

It was at Z’s Martial Arts Academy (formerly the premier kickboxing and karate school in Buffalo Grove and Wheeling) where he studied American Bu Kyoku Ryu Karate, a mixed martial art that combines Okinawan and Japanese Karate, Kickboxing, Boxing, Judo and Jiu-Jitsu. Here, Shihan Brian was mentored by Master Rob Zbilski and the late, great Master Jim Zbilski. Shihan Rob Zbilski (WAKO U.S.A president for Kickboxing) is a 7th Degree Black Belt and is ranked Grand Master in Bu Kyoku Ryu.

Shihan Brian became one of the first to achieve the rank of black belt and is currently one of the highest ranked black belts under Shihan Rob Zbilski and Z’s Martial Arts! Shihan Brian managed Buffalo Grove Martial Arts and served as head instructor for 10 years.

With 41 years of martial arts & kickboxing experience and over 31 years of teaching in the community, Brian has coached, trained and cornered many amateur fighters. He is also the Co-founder of Total Impact Self Defense Systems (along with his business partner Jeff Nelson) and co-founder of Total Impact Global & Fitness an online training university. Total Impact is an innovative, exciting, family oriented Martial Arts and Fitness Center in Arlington Heights Illinois.

Total Impact Martial Arts Instructors - Sensei Kirk Herrig

Instructor

Sensei Kirk has over 50 years of martial arts experience, and 40 years of teaching. Kirk has blackbelts in Taekwondo, Northern Shaolin & Cobra Kai Kung Fu, and Bu Kyoku Ryu Karate. Kirk is also a certified Krav Maga instructor. Kirk is a master instructor in the martial arts and is ranked 4th degree under the Total Impact Systems. Kirk has trained with Shihan Brian for over 27 years and is Brian’s father-in-law.

Instructor

Brandon Baim has been training more than seven years at Total Impact. Brandon is ranked a Black Belt and is also a certified Martial Arts instructor. He lives in Buffalo Grove, loves working out, and enjoys running outside. Brandon teaches Adult Fitness Kickboxing, Children’s Martial Arts, and Self-Defense classes.

Instructor

Markas Makogon has been training in Martial Arts for 20 years. Markas has a 3rd degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do, is a certified instructor through Total Impact Martial Arts and has over 10 years of teaching experience. Originally from Palanga, Lithuania. Fluent in Russian and Lithuanian. He moved to America in 2002 and grew up in the local area. Markas graduated from Midwest College of Oriental Medicine in Racine, Wisconsin and has received a Masters Degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine and a Bachelors in Nutrition. Markas lives in Arlington Heights with his beautiful wife Sintija.

Total Impact Martial Arts Instructors - Sensei Kirk Herrig

Assistant Instructor

Peter Dunkle has been training at Total Impact for 6 years. He is currently ranked a Shodan-Ho Junior Black Belt. Peter plays Tennis for the Varsity team at Buffalo Grove Highschool. In college, Peter wants to major in Secondary Education and teach Math. He also helps out in the Junior Martial Arts classes and teaches the Specialty classes.

A Results-Driven Focus for Success!

Respect. Perseverance. Resilience. Take advantage of Total Impact’s offer exciting opportunities for all walks of life. Let us create a lasting, positive impact on your family!

We are confident that we offer the BEST martial arts programs in Arlington Heights and the surrounding suburbs. Find the path to excellence for yourself!