Z's Martial Arts Academy
Z's Martial Arts Academy, 11320 Kiley Dr, Huntley, IL 60142
About
Z's Martial Arts Academy offers Kids Karate, Adult Karate, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Kickboxing, Boxing, Taekwondo, and Birthday Parties. The program’s curriculum combines techniques from Karate, Kickboxing, and Boxing as part of a comprehensive self-defense system and values the integration of various martial arts disciplines for individuals of all ages and skill levels.
• Ages: 4–18 years old
• Schedule: Class options Monday–Thursday afternoons and evenings, plus Saturday mornings
Z's Martial Arts Academy states that its curriculum focuses on discipline, respect, personal growth, and holistic development, and that it aims to create a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone can learn, grow, and thrive. The academy is described as a premier martial arts location and is the home office of USA Kickboxing. It is also described as a martial arts family and supportive community that promotes social interaction and supportive relationships among students.
Owner and Head Instructor Rob Zbilski started his martial arts training in 1982 and is a 7th degree black belt and the founder of Z's Martial Arts Academy in Huntley, IL. He is the President of USA Kickboxing under the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee and has been the president of WAKO USA Kickboxing since 2013. His recognitions include induction into the Illinois Hall of Fame in 2018, The Masters Hall of Fame in 2008, and the International Kickboxing Federation Hall of Fame as a Kickboxing Promoter and Trainer. His martial arts ranks were awarded between 1984 and 2010 by Shihan Dave Young of the American Byu Kyoku Ryu Karate Association, and he is certified in Reylson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, BCIP Certified, and a UFC Judge who judged UFC 26. He has had seminar training with Dan Inosanto, Jeff Speakman, Bill “Superfoot” Wallace, Larry Hartsell, and Kathy Long, and has trained numerous amateur and professional champions in kickboxing and boxing, including IKF World Champion Tommy Bach and Jerry Rhome, Intercontinental Champion Mike Nagy, and United States Champions Jim Zbilski, Rick Stellwagon, and Dan Seiwerth. He is a Licensed Professional Boxing Trainer, Manager and Coach, and a USA Boxing Certified Coach, and previously promoted Supercop, one of the largest boxing events in Illinois.
General Manager and Kickboxing Instructor Carrie Riedel has dedicated herself to kickboxing for the past 30 years. She has trained and mentored individuals in kickboxing for over three decades, developed training methods for various skill levels, and has consistently received positive feedback from students about her teaching style, encouragement, and attention to detail. She was featured in Oscar Mike magazine for her work in kickboxing.
Families describe Z's Martial Arts Academy as having a family atmosphere with knowledgeable instructors and a flexible kids program for changing schedules. One parent notes that belts are not handed out like participation trophies and must be earned. Other students and parents report that instructors are patient with beginners, that classes are high intensity and teach correct form, and that the instructors work with individuals interested in both general fitness and competition training.
Last updated May 25, 2026.
• Ages: 4–18 years old
• Schedule: Class options Monday–Thursday afternoons and evenings, plus Saturday mornings
Z's Martial Arts Academy states that its curriculum focuses on discipline, respect, personal growth, and holistic development, and that it aims to create a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone can learn, grow, and thrive. The academy is described as a premier martial arts location and is the home office of USA Kickboxing. It is also described as a martial arts family and supportive community that promotes social interaction and supportive relationships among students.
Owner and Head Instructor Rob Zbilski started his martial arts training in 1982 and is a 7th degree black belt and the founder of Z's Martial Arts Academy in Huntley, IL. He is the President of USA Kickboxing under the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee and has been the president of WAKO USA Kickboxing since 2013. His recognitions include induction into the Illinois Hall of Fame in 2018, The Masters Hall of Fame in 2008, and the International Kickboxing Federation Hall of Fame as a Kickboxing Promoter and Trainer. His martial arts ranks were awarded between 1984 and 2010 by Shihan Dave Young of the American Byu Kyoku Ryu Karate Association, and he is certified in Reylson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, BCIP Certified, and a UFC Judge who judged UFC 26. He has had seminar training with Dan Inosanto, Jeff Speakman, Bill “Superfoot” Wallace, Larry Hartsell, and Kathy Long, and has trained numerous amateur and professional champions in kickboxing and boxing, including IKF World Champion Tommy Bach and Jerry Rhome, Intercontinental Champion Mike Nagy, and United States Champions Jim Zbilski, Rick Stellwagon, and Dan Seiwerth. He is a Licensed Professional Boxing Trainer, Manager and Coach, and a USA Boxing Certified Coach, and previously promoted Supercop, one of the largest boxing events in Illinois.
General Manager and Kickboxing Instructor Carrie Riedel has dedicated herself to kickboxing for the past 30 years. She has trained and mentored individuals in kickboxing for over three decades, developed training methods for various skill levels, and has consistently received positive feedback from students about her teaching style, encouragement, and attention to detail. She was featured in Oscar Mike magazine for her work in kickboxing.
Families describe Z's Martial Arts Academy as having a family atmosphere with knowledgeable instructors and a flexible kids program for changing schedules. One parent notes that belts are not handed out like participation trophies and must be earned. Other students and parents report that instructors are patient with beginners, that classes are high intensity and teach correct form, and that the instructors work with individuals interested in both general fitness and competition training.
Last updated May 25, 2026.
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