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!

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!