For nearly 38 years, Millennium Martial Arts has been serving Peoria families with advanced martial arts and fitness training.

The school is an official training center of the Chuck Norris System and, out of 70 training facilities around the world, received the prestigious ranking as the 2021 Chuck Norris School of the Year.

Millennium Martial Arts, 9800 N. 91st Ave., is also an official Israeli Contact Combat System and Krav Maga Training Center, offering in-person and virtual classes for children, teens and adults. The Dragons Class provides instruction for ages six and under, and the beginner, intermediate, and advanced classes offer specialized training for all fitness and belt levels.

While the programs are designed to develop coordination and physical fitness, owner Howard Munding shares that all classes strengthen character and leadership.

“A world champion fighter is cool, but I want successful, productive adults that have integrity, honesty, perseverance, and discipline,” Munding said. “That’s what we’re trying to instill in our community. We use karate and martial arts as a vehicle to teach values and character traits.”

Chief Instructor Munding holds several certifications including a 7th Degree Black Belt in the Chuck Norris System and a 3rd Degree Black Belt in Krav Maga Force.

Munding began as a student at the school in 1989, when he joined with his children. He was impressed by the life skills and teachings, and after 17 years learning the system, he purchased the business in 2006.

Munding is a U.S. Air Force veteran and served more than 36 years in fire departments in the West Valley, including more than 20 years in the Peoria Fire-Medical Department. During his time in Peoria, he taught fire safety, personal safety and drug awareness to students. Munding incorporated his skills as a professional magician into his lessons to keep students engaged, reaching more than 360,000 students in 10 years.

For additional information, call 623-486-0970 or visit millenniummartialarts.net.