Total Impact Martial Arts & Fitness

Business Details

Empowering Martial Arts Training for All Ages

Total Impact Martial Arts & Fitness has been empowering students of all ages in Arlington Heights, Wheeling, and Mount Prospect for over three decades. Founded on principles of confidence, discipline, and lifelong fitness, we provide dynamic martial arts training that fosters personal growth both on and off the mat. Our expert instructors specialize in martial arts, fitness, and self-defense, creating a supportive community where students of all skill levels thrive.

With programs tailored for kids, teens, and adults, we emphasize personalized attention, practical self-defense skills, and holistic development. Our mission remains unwavering: to help every student unlock their full potential through structured, engaging training that builds physical strength, mental resilience, and character. This commitment to excellence has earned us 200+ positive Google reviews and a reputation as a trusted leader in martial arts education.

Services

Kids Martial Arts Adult Kickboxing Self-Defense Classes Private Lessons Specialty Martial Arts

Highlights and features

Expert instructors with decades of teaching experience in martial arts and self-defense.
Supportive community fostering growth, accountability, and lifelong skills.
Personalized attention ensuring progress tailored to each student's goals.
Comprehensive programs for all ages, from kids' karate to adult kickboxing.
Proven track record with 200+ positive reviews and 30+ years of local service.

What people say

Amazing progress in confidence Knowledgeable and fun instructors Positive, uplifting community Taught real martial arts skills Transformative experience for kids

Website

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Services

Kids Martial Arts

Our Kids Martial Arts program builds confidence, focus, and discipline through structured karate training. Children learn respect, responsibility, and self-defense while engaging in fun, age-appropriate activities. Expert instructors provide personalized guidance to ensure safe, progressive skill development.

Adult Kickboxing

Adult Kickboxing combines high-energy workouts with practical self-defense techniques. This program improves strength, endurance, and stress relief while fostering a supportive community environment. Classes cater to all fitness levels, emphasizing real-world application and personal growth.

Self-Defense Classes

Self-Defense Classes teach practical techniques for real-world scenarios, enhancing awareness and confidence. Students of all ages learn physical skills and mental preparedness to handle threats, with a focus on de-escalation and situational awareness in a safe training environment.

Private Lessons

Private Lessons offer personalized martial arts instruction tailored to individual goals. Flexible scheduling and focused attention allow accelerated progress in specific areas like competition preparation, belt testing, or customized fitness strategies with expert instructor guidance.

Specialty Martial Arts

Specialty Martial Arts programs include weapons training, sparring, and kata for students seeking advanced challenges. These classes develop technical precision, discipline, and deeper martial arts knowledge, with rotating curricula like bo/staff and nunchaku training for experienced practitioners.

People

Brian Baim

Founder + Head Instructor

With over 30 years of martial arts experience, Brian Baim established Total Impact as a community-focused dojo emphasizing character development alongside technical skills. His teaching philosophy prioritizes student-centered growth and practical self-defense applications.

Brandon Baim

Instructor

Brandon Baim brings expertise in mixed martial arts and youth development to his instruction, focusing on creating engaging, skill-building experiences that translate to confidence in daily life. He emphasizes technical precision and mental resilience in his classes.

Kirk Herrig

Instructor

Kirk Herrig specializes in fitness integration within martial arts training, helping students achieve physical conditioning goals while mastering self-defense techniques. His approach combines traditional discipline with modern fitness methodologies for holistic improvement.

Markas Makogon

Instructor

Markas Makogon focuses on youth mentorship and competition preparation, fostering discipline and goal-setting skills through structured martial arts training. He actively participates in refining the school's curriculum for junior and advanced students.

Questions

What age groups do your martial arts classes accommodate?

We offer programs for children as young as 4, teens, and adults of all experience levels, with specialized curricula tailored to each age group.

Do you offer self-defense training for women?

Yes, our self-defense classes include women-specific techniques and scenarios, focusing on awareness, de-escalation, and physical defense strategies in a supportive environment.

Are trial classes available before committing to membership?

We provide free trial classes to experience our programs risk-free, allowing students to explore different martial arts styles before choosing a membership plan.

What equipment is needed for martial arts training?

Beginners typically need comfortable workout attire; specialized gear like uniforms and protective equipment becomes necessary as students progress in specific programs.

Do you host martial arts birthday parties?

Yes, we offer themed martial arts birthday parties with 90 minutes of training games, activities, and party amenities for children aged 4-14 in our dedicated event space.

How do belt promotions work at your dojo?

Belt testing occurs quarterly, with personalized evaluations based on technical proficiency, attendance, and character development. Instructors provide specific feedback for advancement preparation.

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Reviews (5)

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Matthew Hentschel

Jan 23, 2022 Report

Brian and his team do a fantastic job training the kids while keeping things light. The atmosphere is fun but they take the belt progression very seriously. The kids and older students are able to stay engaged the entire time while training. I would highly recommend Total Impact to anyone looking for a martial arts school and training facility!!

Leo Beitz

Jan 16, 2022 Report

This organization is fantastic. I've been going on and off for 2 years due to a busy schedule and Covid but I can say that Sensei Brian is the best coach I've ever had. When you're at the place you feel like you're with family friends while learning and building your martial arts talent. I refuse to go to another martial arts organization. Most places handout black belts for the sake of it even when you're not close to being one. Brian makes sure you learn and earn each belt up. Easy to work with and flexible. 5 star establishment and coaching.

Kristen Stack

Jan 03, 2022 Report

I was excited to learn about the adult fitness kickboxing classes at Total Impact recently. It had been over 10 years since I participated in kickboxing classes, but Brian and Brandon were welcoming and put me at ease immediately. Its a friendly upbeat atmosphere that promotes positivity; and no matter what your fitness level is, you will receive a challenging workout. I always finish my workout feeling strong physically and mentally. I highly recommend Total Impact if you are looking for rewarding workouts!

Becca Burke

Dec 02, 2021 Report

I have a long list of good things to say about Total Impact Martial Arts. I chose this place for my son based on first impressions on speaking to Shihan Brian. I was incredibly impressed at his openness about the training and philosophy he used for his students and further impressed by seeing his plans in action. All of the teachers at this school present Martial Arts in such a creative and fun way.

I enjoy sending my son here as I think they focus on meeting the needs of all students whatever level they may be at in their journey. I highly recommend becoming what feels like part of this martial

Bret Schwalb

Sep 28, 2021 Report

Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
Total Impact is a friendly, professional, family owned place. Our daughter loves the training and found it easy to quickly make new friends. The location looks smaller than it really is. You'll also find they're well equipped and ready to teach self defense to all ages.