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Lightning Kicks Martial Arts proudly serving Portage since 2001
Lightning Kicks Martial Arts has classes in Portage, perfect for Kids, Teens, and Adult Martial Arts Lessons.
Who We Are And Why You Should Train at Lightning Kicks
Since Lightning Kicks opened, we’ve been dedicated to changing lives through the power of martial arts. Founded by Amir Khillah in 2001, the school has been guided by the principle of the Peaceful Warrior, which empowers each individual to defend and protect themselves when needed while also striving towards a peaceful existence.
We believe in empowering our students and pride ourselves in having an environment where all feel welcome and are supported in their journey to become a Peaceful Warrior. It is more than just a martial arts school, it is a family. We strongly believe that martial arts can be for everyone, regardless of age, gender or experience levels. Throughout all of our programs, students will not only learn the necessary skill sets to protect themselves, we stand behind our realistic and practical approach, confident it will enable every member to achieve greatness and live their best life.
In 2023, long-time student Hector Garcia became the full-time owner of Lightning Kicks. Hector came to Lightning Kicks as an 18 year old who was able to explore his potential in martial arts and as a leader. He hopes to continue the foundational values of Lightning Kicks as well as expanding to accommodate growth.
We are lucky to have black belts who oversee the BJJ, Hapkido, and Kid’s Martial Arts programs, and all programs are welcoming to those who are interested in joining either recreationally or to those who wish to compete. With decades of training and competition experience under their belt, our instructors will put you in the best position to succeed.
Come enjoy our welcoming environment for any and all interested in the martial arts. Our commitment to the Peaceful Warrior philosophy sets us apart from other schools, and our commitment to helping one another become the best we can be on and off the mat. We hope to see you soon.
Lightning Kicks Class Offerings
Check out our world-class martial arts programs: Women’s Self-Defense, Hapkido, Kids Martial Arts, Jiujitsu, and MMA
Get To Know Our World Class Instructors at Lightning Kicks
Hector Garcia
Coming soon!
Todd Bradfield
Todd Bradfield is a local Realtor and one of our morning instructors.
He was introduced to martial arts at a young age by his father, growing up he was a wrestler and later transitioned to Wing Chun. Todd has been training Jiu Jitsu since 2004 and at 56 he still loves training and teaching. He loves helping others and living a healthy lifestyle (spiritually, mentally and physically).
James Carrow
James has been practicing combat sports and martial arts since he was 10, having wrestled through Middle and High school before picking up Brazilian JiuJitsu and Mixed Martial Arts after returning from the Navy. James has a lot of competition experience with over 30 MMA fights at the amateur and professional level and multiple medals in BJJ. A high school teacher, James not only loves passing on knowledge but also has the ability to reach each person where they are at and help make jiujitsu and mixed martial arts digestible and exciting!
Jeff Reed
Jeff has been training BJJ for around two decades. Earning his Black Belt on 10/14/2023, Jeff plans to continue to pursue more knowledge and expand his game in the coming years. He enjoys the community within Lighting Kicks, and has known the team for a long time, becoming close friends with many! We are lucky to have Jeff’s wisdom and guidance on and off of the mat.
Amir Khillah
Amir Khillah is a life-long martial artist who is extremely passionate about empowering people, helping them build confidence, and overcoming their fears. Amir founded Lightning Kicks in 2001 and has been a crucial part of inspiring the Kalamazoo community. Now retired from ownership, Amir spends his time working as an officer while spending his evenings at home with his beautiful family.
Dr. Vincent Hodge
Vincent Hodge has been a part of the Lightning Kicks family for approximately 17 years.He started a mentoring sponsor for 10 elementary students ( as well as his daughter) who participated in Tae Kwon Do. He currently holds the rank of 3rd Dan in Combat Hapkido, and provides instruction on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7:30. He has been a martial arts practitioner for more than 25 years.
Chris Tolmacs
Chris has been enjoying training in martial arts since his early 20’s. He studied Tae Kwon Do for many years and has trained Jiuitsu for the past 12 years. As one of our morning instructors, he is really passionate about helping students achieve their training goals here at LK. He loves seeing our students gain physical and emotional strength and skill through their training at LK. Off the mat, he has a beautiful wife of 28 years and two amazing children.
Ben Fredenburg
Ben is a seasoned mixed martial arts instructor with over 15 years of experience training bothamateur and professional fighters, complemented by a notable record of victories in his own competitive MMA career. Beyond the ring, he leads a balanced life enriched with personal passions. His combination of diverse interests shapes him as not just a skilled MMA instructor but also as a well-rounded individual, bringing a diverse and unique perspective to his teaching and mentorship.
Paige Carrow
Paige has called Lightning Kicks home since 2013. Originally practicing to spend extra time with her husband and kids – Paige found her own love for self defense and has a true passion to empower other women to join the sport. She appreciates the discipline, confidence and mental conditioning that BJJ offers. Building a positive culture and community is a high priority for Paige and is always looking for opportunities to spread the LK love!
Marty Moon
Mr. Moon is our resident guru. He has been a staple at Lightning Kicks for over 10 years and has provided incredible instruction to thousands of students. Mr. Moon promotes the balance of discipline while also having fun. He is known for his knowledge of technique as well as being a kind friend to all.
Master Beryl Brown
Coming soon!
Dominick Wilson
Olivet alumni and state qualifying wrestler, Dominick leads our wrestling program. He has an organic connection with his students and does an excellent job encouraging his students to focus on both the mental and physical strategies. A dedicated athlete, Dominick can be found assisting the Portage Central wrestling teams and conditioning early mornings at the YMCA.