The training techniques were adapted to teach a person of any skill level as well one well advanced. The instructors were extremely detailed, professional, and personable as well.. I look forward to my next session and highly recommend this facility for anyone looking to obtain or further develop their defensive skill techniques.
My Son recently started training here and has loved every minute of it. As a parent watching from the sideline I will say that the life skills being taught, from eye contact, speaking up when you are talking, saying yes sir/maam, showing respect and courtesy to not only instructors but also fellow students is so appreciated. This kind of training for young people is so important and necessary in todays world. Keep up the great work guys!
My boys started Lightning kicks this year and we couldn’t be happier to have found a more welcoming, accepting place to start our martial arts journey. Master Amir does an amazing job balancing discipline and respect all while having fun. My boys are 4 and 5, and the extra care they take to help them through when they just aren’t quite getting it is so heart warming. The older/more advanced kids that get grouped with them even walk them through step by step. It’s such a loving environment that really makes our family feel welcome. Mr. Scott has become a favorite for our boys, as well as Ms. Paige. We look forward to our daughter becoming of age to participate, and are even looking into adult classes!
The Level 1 Women’s Self Defense class is very beneficial for learning the basic skills of self defense. I took both Level 1 and Level 2 and highly recommend them both. Level 2 is a bit more physical, while adjusting to each person’s comfort level. The “real life” scenario at the end is optional but really gave me a sense of how I would react in a similar situation.Amir and the instructors create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere while demonstrating effective, useful moves for survival.
The womens self defense class is practical and very doable without any previous martial arts experience. I learned a lot and got back a little bit of confidence that I never thought Id have again. Would recommend it to everyone, its well worth your time.
I did the Womens Self Defense workshop this morning. It was great and the instructors were awesome! I would highly recommend it to anyone!!
Such an incredible experience for my pre-k son! When he came out of the class he was beaming, Mama I love my class! Such a wonderful studio and very supportive and highly skilled staff. Looking forward to investing in the Lightning Kicks opportunity thats available right here in Portage.
This is an all around great value. I am able to train as many classes as I want in BJJ and MMA. Each class has dedicated and extremely knowledgeable teachers that care about your individual progression. The owner is a former UFC/Bellator guy with a Black belt in BJJ. the amount of knowledge you get for the value is basically a STEAL. This is also a very welcoming environment to someone with 0 martial arts training.
My daughter is thriving from taking classes here, she more confident and willing to try new things that might have scared her before.
Everybody’s so friendly and welcoming. The women’s self defense class is very good and so are all the other classes.
Dear curious googler,I have been a lifelong martial arts practitioner in taekwondo, hapkido, and Brazilian jiujitsu and I have been a member at many different martial arts schools. Even though I do not live in the area anymore, Lightning Kicks is my home when I come back for visits and I am always welcomed.To prospective new members. I know the thoughts and feelings that come with joining a martial arts gym. Let me address each one of these individually.Im out of shape.I have stopped and started my training many times, and each time this thought came into my head as an excuse to not, or delay joining a new gym. I always think Ill get in shape first, then join. The fear of embarrassment is real, but fear not, no one at this gym cares if you are out of shape. Being out of shape always precedes being in shape, we have all been there. Trust me we all get excited for the potential in new people and the more out of shape the more potential! If you want to get in shape one way or the other, surround yourself with people that can support you and will be happy to do it. I let myself grow overweight during my years off from training, but I was able to lose 45lbs and everyone of those pounds was fun to lose.Im going to suckOf course you will! Wouldnt reality be strange if anyone off the street could beat those training for years? This is a trick of the mind and only makes sense to those protecting their ego, especially in a skill that many think they naturally have (the ability to fight). Does this stop people from taking up painting, guitar, or gymnastics? Of course not. In all probability you will be terrible, youve never done it! But no one thinks they can already do those other things so why would you think otherwise for fighting or self defense? Ego is very much part of this skill more than others. The ego is an attribute that must be trained, and as it does, it becomes calloused and eventually does not require so much protecting. Everyone knows what ego looks like when trying to convince others of its confidence. Its gross right? But there is no replacement for true confidence. This confidence grows naturally as a side effect of training. Suck now and enjoy the learning process, you will only get one chance after you start.Is it going to be full of meatheads?Maybe, depends on the gym. However, Lightning Kicks is not full of meatheads. I think youll find the definition of a meathead narrows as you get to know people anyways. I have found generally that gyms are full of kind people. In a way, it is self selecting where bullies and their fragile egos do not bother exposing themselves by joining in the first place. If they do, they typically and quickly leave, or, change their behavior. Many reviews on here will describe it as a family, and it is. These people are a special circle of friends for me and can be for you too.Can I afford it?I dont know, but I do know people spend money on silly things (me included). However, the best investment is improving yourself, both your mind and meat vehicle, you only get one of each!Is this a good gym?Yes it is, but gyms come in all different flavors. The only way to find out is to visit and meet the students and instructor. You hold all the power to accept the services being offered here. Its up to you to shop around and know what best fits you and your needs/wants. The knowledge and instruction is top notch and whatever your goals, in a cage, on a mat, or in the Chinese buffet this gym will accomodate! That being said, make sure Lightning kicks is on your short list for a visit.If you made it this far then you are deep in research mode. Progress from research to development of yourself and enjoy the journey.Give it trySincerely,Huni
I recently took a Womens Self Defense seminar at Lightning Kicks after seeing my son thrive in his class. I cannot say enough good things about LK, the owner Amir and the incredible staff! Everyone is extremely helpful and kind. At every point, I felt that my familys health and safety were a top priority. The instruction is easy to understand for both kids and adults. With every effort made to help students feel comfortable and encourage progress. My son absolutely loves to go to class and I would definitely love to go back as well! Every person considering a class should absolutely give it a try!
Loved this experience for our family! We chose to have a private self defense class and it was worth every penny. The owner and his assistant were professional, so friendly and witty. We had temp checks upon entering and hand sanitizer throughout our 30 minute session. We plan to go back! Beautiful and clean facility!
Women’s self defense training was amazing no matter what shape you are in. I learned enough in. One class to feel more confident and skills to help me in a violent situation. Cant recommend highly enough!!
I went there for a women’s self defense class and the staff there are helpful and friendly. I would recommend it that ever women should take the class. It was extremely helpful.
I did a women’s self defense class. The overall experience was stellar. Great coaches! So friendly, fun and supportive! The practice was applicable and helpful. Looking forward to the following levels.
Lightning Kicks is amazing. Everything from the ambience to the people. Amir is a stellar guy and an excellent instructor, and I definitely wouldnt want to train anywhere else. I look forward to the coming months / years training here.
Just recently took the level 1 self defense class. It was a group of 11 ladies or so plus instructors. It was my first time ever taking a self defense class and I already learned a lot while having fun. Im excited to take some of the higher level self defense classes to learn other techniques. Teacher and instructors are very professional and respectful. They wont force you to do anything youre not comfortable with.
The most physical thing I had truly done before joining Lightning Kicks was boxing someone out in basketball. I was very nervous about learning Jiu Jitsu and joining a gym. From the moment I walked in, I felt extremely welcomed. The instructors have been awesome and so has everyone in the class. Everyone has been very helpful and patient with me and the other beginners. I would recommend Lightning Kicks to anyone looking for a new experience regardless of skill level.
I have been going to Lightning Kicks since 2006 and it has made a tremendous impact in my life. They taught me more than just martial arts. I learned to be courteous, always persevere, have integrity, have indomitable spirit, and practice self control. The instructors are kind and always willing to work to make you better. I would 100% recommend this school to anyone and everyone. I am so blessed to be a member of the Lightning Kicks family.
Lightning kicks is the perfect place for anyone who is looking to either compete in a martial art (we offer multiple classes) learn to defend themselves, meet new people who share similar interests, or even just stay in shape. Lightning Kicks is my favorite place, and if you ask anyone else who trains there, they could tell you the same thing. The instructors are humble, talented, and kind, the students are helpful, loving, and caring, and the staff are some of the most hard working people I’ve ever met. Trial classes are available if you still aren’t sure, so make sure to check us out!
I have attended women’s self defense classes as well as Tae Kwon Do classes at Lightning Kicks throughout the years and have been impressed by their professionalism, kindness and respectful attitude/demeanor. The staff are knowledgeable and top notch! The owner, Mr. Khillah is awesome and encompasses all of the above traits as a person and coach. Excellent school!
My 6 year old son has been attending Lightning Kicks for 2 years. We are truly blessed to be a part of the Lightning Kicks family. The teachers are the amazing. In addition to training, my son has gained self confidence and has learned self control. Also, it’s so much fun!!! We look forward to going there as a family twice a week. I would absolutely recommend checking it out! You won’t be disappointed!
Took an amazing and very thorough self defense class!! Highly recommend taking even just one.
Lightning Kicks is absolutely wonderful and I’m so thankful they’re in Portage. My daughter, who has ADHD, has been wanting to do martial arts for quite sometime and when we found LK and met with Amir, we knew this was the perfect fit. They are so welcoming, true professionals and exactly the training I want my family to participate in.
My daughter (8 y/o) came here for her first class and I have nothing but good things to say. From the beginning of class they made her feel welcomed but still held her to a high standard. Amir partnered her with a more season girl so my daughter wouldn’t feel left out. My biggest praise is the discipline they instill in the kids. They teach them to respect one another, the coaches and others. My daughter loved it, was challenged and can not wait for the next class. I highly recommend Lightning Kicks to anyone! We look forward to a future in the family.
Lk is an amazing place for both kids and adults. Great teachers- they are very focused on helping everyone be the best they can be. Encouraging family-like environment. My time at lightning kicks was extremely beneficial in my growth as a person.
Lightning Kicks is a great place to train! Everyone is super friendly and it’s easier to get the hang of things with how helpful the coaches are. They have multiple classes throughout the week so there’s a good chance you’ll find something you like!
Great instruction. Quality facility. Even better people.
Best martial arts in town. Kids get both Tae Kwon Do and Jiu Jitsu for one price. Training is professional and detailed. Also there is practice of techniques and not simply repeat kata style training. I highly recommend this business.
I have been training in various martial arts for over 30 years. I have been to countless martial arts schools. This place is amazing! The instructors are the best in their field. Whether youre looking for Taekwondo, MMA, Hapkido, or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for yourself or your child, there is no place better! They are able to provide the highest quality instruction in a family friendly atmosphere. This is the place. You will be glad you chose Lightning Kicks.
Highest Recommendation!At LIghtning Kicks I’m welcomed like family and taught in a way that helps me learn and have fun. The instructors are very skilled and work with people at the level they need, whether kids or folks in their upper 50s like me. What I like best is the atmosphere on the mat: no egos and always encouraging...and that’s true of everyone—classmates and training partners too.
Been training here for almost 2 years. Not only have I had a great gym to work out at but Ive also met some awesome people and made great friends. Whether youre looking for a workout, training for a career in martial arts, or just looking to immerse yourself in the culture with like-minded people you can find it at lightning kicks.
Lightning kicks is a place where you can go to create a a better you. The family environment allowed me to get in shape and help me feel more confident about myself. I trained with some wonderful people and made some amazing friends that I now consider family. Amir and staff made me want to train often and their encouragement allowed me to compete for the school in tournaments, I never thought I could get in shape enough to be able to do so. I truly love who they help me become as a person and as a athlete and competitor. If your looking for a great place to train, a great place to have your kids feel great, I recommend lightning kicks more then any school around..
During my short time so far at this gym, I have already grown to love the facility. Not only are the instructors well knowledged in their art, but also the atmosphere is wonderful. Never before have I entered a gym and everyone been so generous and happy to see me. This facility is truly for all walks of life.
I have been going to this academy for about three years now. I have not encountered a school that is more friendly, encouraging, and full of experienced coaches, instructors and mentors. I highly recommend Lightning Kicks to ask of my friends and family. Great workouts, great instruction, great people, and you learn some skills that may save your life. Come on in and check us out! The first class is always free!
This school has changed my life forever. They are so helpful and extremely friendly here at Lightning Kicks. All of the staff are super caring, and very eager to help you out with anything. Whether it be being a friend when you need one the most, or helping you with your technique to be the best you can be. I love LK my family! I highly recommend joining and becoming a part of us. Were waiting for you!
Love this gym! Wouldnt go anyplace else
If you want to go to a gym and learn how to defend yourself, compete, or just meet new people, this is the place for you. If you are afraid of walking into an ego based facility or have before, you will not feel that here. Everyone will welcome you inside and help you achieve your goals whatever they may be. I have gone here on and off for 12 years and love the feeling of family inside.
A place for the whole family where all are welcome.***********In full honesty, my first day at lightning kicks was to humor a good friend/client who kept insisting I join. But it really only took that one day for me to feel welcomed and at home with like minded people - kind, hard working people who like to push people to be their best and enjoy some humor where they can.Since LK has become more than just a place for me, my husband (who I met at LK), and our kids to train, but a whole community we can count on and have in our corner.
I would like to take time out for a moment and give a shout out to lightning kicks, especially Amir for doing all he does for the Academy. He is one of the greatest guys I know. Amir is not only a great teacher at lightning kicks but a guy that cares for everyone he comes in contact with and a great edition to the Kalamazoo and portage area. Your Crazy and you don’t know what your missing if you go anywhere else for your Martial Arts Experience!!!
I have been training here a little over a year and there is no other place Id rather train. The instructors create a safe and engaging learning environment for both beginners and more experienced students.
Over 50 and have been training for years. Love the practical instruction and personal interest to help me reach my goals. This place is amazing! Come out and join us, hope to see you on the mats :)
An awesome place to train! There private training is excellent! Would definitely recommend to everyone! Best place for Martial Arts by far!!
Back again after 2 years (covid madness) All I can say is lightning kicks and its instructors are top notch. Everyone is so welcoming and the instructions are detailed. Rolling was a blast and even after two years people remembered you walking in. Professor Amir was very receptive of pop-in students and the atmosphere is super friendly. All the students are learning fast and the instructors are there to deliver. I highly recommend this school and Portage/Kalamazoo is lucky to have you.Thanks again and hope to see you next year.
I have been a competitive fighter for 10 years now. I have visited teams all around the state. When I made my way to lightning kicks in 2014, I didn’t step into a new gym, I became part of a family. This place is amazing and the people make it so. Join our family today
Amir and his team embody the philosophy of the Peaceful Warrior and have empowered me to not just be an experienced fighter but the strongest version of myself. Whatever your goals are the team at Lightning Kicks will welcome you in like family and help you create a stronger version of yourself. I give this gym the highest recommendation.
In my travels, Lightning Kicks Martial Arts is a must in my list. Professor Amir is the most kind and knowledgeable around. If you look for a program they will assist you reach your goals in all aspects. Family and Friend environment. They have a curriculum for the classes and you will know how important it is when you see your progress as your training increase showing up to classes. The facility is suitable for all and you feel the good energy and atmosphere for this dojo right away!!!.
Just joined this group a month ago (Jan 2015) and Im very happy I did. I am by all accounts a beginner, so its a scary thing wanting to learn how to defend yourself while standing alongside real trained fighters. Members from small to large, male to female, beginner to advanced have been extremely welcoming to me though. Its very obvious that the atmosphere is about empowering people, and making this feel like a safe space to enhance your personal level, whatever it may be, in martial arts. Thanks everyone for welcoming me in! :)
The instructors are world class and it is not only a gym, but a family. Open very often which is great in my opinion. Anyone looking to have a good time or even be a good mma fighter should definitely look into Lightning Kicks.
Amir is a great teacher, committed to bettering his students/community. There are classes for everyone. From someone looking for basic knowledge of self defensive, to experienced BJJ.
I have been attending for more than a year. It really is a fantastic school with experienced instructors. Very friendly, supportive, and welcoming to newcomers. They really want you to succeed in the school and in life, it shows. I highly recommend this school.
An excellent martial arts training center that focuses not only on physical development, but also personal development. Knowledgeable coaches and staff that work well with children and adults in multiple disciplines, MMA, jiu jitsu, taekwondo, hapkido and general self defense. Also a great training center for law enforcement and other public safety.
A hidden gem in Kalamazoo! My family of 4 attends classes on a weekly basis and I couldn’t be happier with the results. Our 12 year old son feels more confident after leaving each practice and our 15 year old daughter is stronger (mentally and physically) every week. Although there may be cosmetic updates needed, the instructors and owners have created a real family with the students. I personally wouldn’t want to train anywhere else. The staff is kind and they want to make everyone’s experience with martial arts positive and healthy. I am constantly impressed by Lightning Kicks and recommend them without hesitation!!!
Great place, awesome instructors, and everyones eager to learn and help. Easy to find, great location, and plenty of parking. Something for every age, from taekwondo to Jiu-Jitsu to Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), if looking for a martial arts school, Lightning Kicks is your place. Family friendly.
Lightning Kicks is the place to be if you want to learn and master the “gentle art” of jiu jitsu and/or dominate in an MMA cage.Here’s what you can expect:- elite training from coaches who’ve competed at the highest levels- a passionate group of students who will treat you like family- a killer workout that’ll blast you into shape- a new sense of confidence and certainty that’ll carryover into everything that you doThe first session is always free so that you can decide whether or not it’s a fit for you before making any commitment.You have nothing to lose but everything to gain!P.S. They also offer kids and family classes so the whole family can get into the action.
My two boys attend the young kids Taekwondo classes. It is a great way to instill discipline, self control, and confidence. The instructors here know what they are doing and how to handle all ages.
Amir and his team are absolutely Outstanding! I have trained at many Do-Jos around the country and this is one of the best atmospheres, you are treated like family. My family was immediately accepted and welcomed, techniques and tactics are spot on, lessons are challenging, the coaches will work with you and help you get where you want to go--highly recommend.
My daughter and I took the self defense class. The instructors are very knowledgable. I had a bit of sweat going on. My daughter and I learned a lot. My mind will be at ease knowing my daughter knows the basics of self defense when she leaves the nest to go off to college.
My kids (4 and 6) love their class. It has noticeably increased their confidence.
My daughters, their friends, and I took a self-defense course at Lightning Kicks and it was a great experience. Amir was an excellent teacher and made the girls feel comfortable while effectively communicating the seriousness of the skills we were learning. Several other instructors watched and helped us to learn the techniques as we were practicing with partners. I feel that the training was invaluable, especially for young women, and would give the background to not panic if an unfortunate situation were to happen.
This Is by far, The BEST mma gym in Michigan Ive had the pleasure of attending! Great membership packages, stellar and professional training content, and a knowledgeable and experienced coach who leads through humbleness! Lightning Kicks is where its at!
Trained here for 3 years and wish I could to this day. After leaving Lightning Kicks due to work and having to try other gyms around my area, I definitely would say Lightning Kicks gives new and veteran martial artist an unmatched experience. If you stay there long enough and put in the work, there is no way that you will not have success in the sport. LK has a strong family atmosphere, very welcoming to new people, skilled staff, affordable rates and a clean facility. If decide to join be prepared to train hard; this is not a gym for slackers and those who arent committed to better themselves and others.
I have known Professor/Master Amir for 20+ years. I was there shortly after he opened his school. He Is as legit as it gets. If you want to learn martial arts and you live in the Kalamazoo area or portage, It is worth the time to go visit Amir, and if you are fortunate enought to train under this amazing man, you will never be disappointed. He is professional, courteous, dedicated, and committed to teaching people REAL martial arts, building confidence, discipline, and self defense.
I really appreciate how everyone here accepted my son right from the beginning. He enjoys going to practice and interacting with everyone.
Very welcoming for new people like me - this is a great place with great people!
I took a self defense class here and everyone was really friendly and super professional. I would recommend this place to anyone who wants to learn how to defend themselves.
My 4yo son is in the “Little Dragon’s” Taekwondo course at Lightning Kicks. He absolutely loves it... TKD is not only fun, but it also teaches valuable lessons that will carry on outside the gym. He’s so proud of his hard work in class and momma is so proud too!I also took a women’s self-defense class; I learned a few things and had a lot of fun!Absolutely love Lightning Kicks!
Lightning Kicks volunteered to train my Girl Scout troop on Self Defense. Amir, Joe, Emily and Taylor were wonderful with the Junior Girls. The girls learned a lot and had a great time. It was a wonderful experience for them all. Thank you for volunteering and giving back to your community. Your team is FANTASTIC!
Lightning Kicks is amazing and has really helped my son grow confidence! He has formed some deep friendships with his buddies in his TKD class and Ive noticed that he is a more respectful little boy at home and at school since hes been learning there.
Its not just a gym, it really is a family. The coaches are great and even the other students go out of their way to help you out.
Ive been part of the Lightning Kicks family for over five years. Ive been in other schools before Lightning Kicks, I find that this is the most top-notch school in the state, not only because of the instructors but the facility and equipment.
I haven’t been to many classes just yet, but I thought it might help to have a perspective of someone newer who was on the fence about trying things out here. I am absolutely loving the brazilian jiu-jitsu classes. Coming from someone who has paralyzing anxiety and has a really difficult time starting something new with new faces, words can’t summarize how welcoming everyone is. Early on, I noticed that this is more than just a martial arts studio. I have learned so much already and have gained a lot of confidence, which is something I’ve really struggled immensely with. This is like a “family” where everyone supports and respects each other. Amir and everyone else has been so accommodating to my unique needs and goals. I am so thankful and blessed that I have found my new “family” at Lightning Kicks and am looking forward to growing with them.My only regret is that I didn’t do this sooner! So get off that fence, and make a positive change to your life. It’s so worth it!
Great atmosphere, friendly and knowledgable trainers. I was in the jiu jitsu class, which I always felt welcomed as part if a family.
This is a great school, Amir Khillah has created a school with a real family atmostphere and a great level of training. The coaches do a great job teaching. They teach a variety of martial arts here but I’m mostly doing MMA and Jiu Jitsu and I’ve learned a lot here and made many friends in the past six months since i started. There is frequent kickboxing sparring as well as learning moves and an intense workout before class. It’s a great school and I would reccomend it to anyone in the Kalamazoo area or just visiting.
High quality training and great people!
Great school and very knowledgeable, humble, and accomplished instructor.
We have been a party of the Lightning Kicks family for 4 years. My son began taking Tae Kwon Do when he was 4-1/2 years old. He has gained so much from this experience. Not only physical strength, balance, and flexibility, but mental toughness, perseverance, respect, leadership, decipline, dedication, self-control, and teamwork.Lightning Kicks has been a true blessing in our lives. I wouldnt think of taking my son anywhere else.
Lightning Kicks is a great gym that not only challenges your physical fitness but also has many students and instructors knowledgeable in other martial arts (like jiu jitsu), and they are happy to share that knowledge with you. With all the different classes they offer, you will find something that challenges and interests you. I have been attending for a month and Lightning Kicks has opened my eyes to many different fighting techniques and styles. I look forward to coming to the Fight Fit and MMA class all week. It has upped my fitness level exponentially and I have already lost ten pounds and gained muscle in just the month Ive been attending. If you are thinking about joining a gym, choose Lightning Kicks. You will become part of a little family that challenges you to become the best you can be.
Awesome! Great place to train with friendly, knowledgeable instructors and amazing teammates!
I am part of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity and one of our members, Conor, thought it would be a good idea to have Amir come teach us a few self defense moves that we can use if we ever find ourselves in a bad situation. Amir, in the short time he had, showed us several moves that are easy to do. Amir made sure to stress the danger involved with any of these moves and to only us them as a last resort. Amir was a funny and approachable guy making it super easy to learn. Definitely interested in doing this again.
I went to this school with the hopes of continuing my training after moving the here from the east side of the state. Unfortunately this school was the very worst possible experience for me. At no point was there any discussion about what the enrollment process was, nor was there any discussion about how much the membership would be. I eventually realized that these guys are completely unprofessional and ended up asking for information I needed. They werent using It wasnt a soft sell approach, they used a no sale approach! The instructors, with the exception of someone called coach, made it abundantly clear that new students were not welcomed because of their unfriendly, aloof and self-important attitudes. I was not expecting the Red Carpet treatment by anyone but I would have at least liked to have been treated like a potential paying customer. Nearly 95% of all martial arts schools go out of business and this one will soon join those ranks. If you are looking for a martial arts school as an adult DO NOT waste your time with this school, it will only leave you feeling let down and disappointed.
You wont find a friendly or more knowledgeable place to train in or around Kalamazoo. The LK track record is well established and documented.
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