By Sensei Rebecca Kane
Tuesday, 23 of June 2026
Ever found yourself watching an old martial arts movie and thinking, "I wish I could do that," only to talk yourself out of it five minutes later? Maybe you think you're too old, too out of shape, or just wouldn't know where to start.
Here’s the secret: most of the people in our classes at the British Kempo Society felt the exact same way before they walked through our doors. Whether you're looking to get fit, learn how to protect yourself, or just find a hobby that isn't the treadmill, there is a martial art out there for you. But with so many styles: Kempo, Ju Jitsu, Kickboxing, BJJ: how do you choose?
In this guide, we’re breaking down the most popular martial arts for adults to help you find your perfect fit.
1. Finding Your "Why": What’s Your Goal?
Before looking at styles, you need to look at yourself. Different martial arts offer different benefits. Are you looking to walk home feeling safer? Are you trying to drop a few pounds? Or do you want a community that feels like family?
For Real-World Self-Defence
If your main goal is personal safety, you want a style that focuses on practical application. You don't just want to look good; you want to know what to do if someone grabs your wrist or tries to push you. This is where systems like Kempo and Ju Jitsu shine because they combine striking with locks and escapes.
For Peak Physical Fitness
If you want to sweat, Kickboxing or Muay Thai are your best bets. These are high-intensity workouts that build incredible cardio and core strength. You’ll burn more calories in an hour of kickboxing than you would in three hours on a stationary bike: and it’s much more fun.
For Mental Clarity and Stress Relief
Martial arts is "moving meditation." When you’re focusing on a complex Ju Jitsu move or a Kempo combination, you can’t think about your work emails. Many adults find that the discipline and focus required in traditional arts like Karate or Kempo provide a much-needed mental break from a busy life.
2. Comparing the Styles: Which One Is for You?
Kempo: The Versatile All-Rounder
Kempo (or Kenpo) is often called the "original mixed martial art." It’s a fantastic choice for adults because it’s incredibly logical. It uses a mix of rapid-fire hand strikes, kicks, and self-defence "techniques" that are designed for the street, not the ring.
- Best for: Adults who want a bit of everything: striking, self-defence, and tradition.
- Vibe: Professional, structured, and very practical.
Ju Jitsu: The Art of Control
Japanese Ju Jitsu is all about using an opponent's energy against them. Instead of meeting force with force, you learn to redirect it using throws, joint locks, and pins. It’s a "thinking person's" martial art, making it a huge favourite for adults who enjoy the technical side of training.
- Best for: Someone interested in the mechanics of how the body moves and how to neutralize a larger attacker.
- Learn more: Check out our About page to see how we teach Ju Jitsu.
Kickboxing: The Powerhouse
If you’re looking for a workout that leaves you feeling empowered and exhausted (in a good way!), kickboxing is it. It focuses on the "four weapons": your hands and your feet. At the British Kempo Society, we focus on the fitness and technical aspects, ensuring you get a great workout without necessarily needing to step into a competitive ring.
- Best for: Weight loss, cardiovascular health, and building confidence.
- Expert tip: You can also find more lifestyle and training tips over at The Dancing Fighter, where I share more about the intersection of movement and martial arts.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ): The Ground Game
BJJ has exploded in popularity recently. It focuses almost entirely on ground fighting and submissions. It’s a great workout, but it does involve a lot of very close physical contact, which some beginners might find intimidating at first.
- Best for: People who love "rolling" (sparring) and don't mind spending a lot of time on the mats.
Karate: The Traditional Path
Karate is what most people think of when they hear "martial arts." It’s heavy on "Katas" (patterns) and basic strikes. While it’s great for discipline, some traditional schools can feel a bit rigid for adults looking for modern self-defence.
3. Why the British Kempo Society?
Choosing a style is only half the battle; choosing the right school is what actually keeps you coming back. We pride ourselves on creating an environment that is welcoming, regardless of your starting point.
Our Instructors aren't just "tough guys": they are professional educators who understand how to adapt training for adult bodies. We know you have a job to go to the next day, so we prioritize safety and gradual progression over "no pain, no gain" mentalities.
The Community Aspect
One of the biggest benefits of joining us isn't just the moves you learn: it's the people you meet. Our classes are filled with people from all walks of life: doctors, teachers, parents, and students: all working toward the same goals.
4. Practical Tips for Choosing the Right Club
Ready to take the plunge? Here are three things you should do before signing up:
- Watch a Class: Most good schools will let you sit in and watch a session. Look at the atmosphere. Are people smiling? Is the instructor helpful? Is the dojo clean?
- Ask About the Curriculum: If you want self-defence, ask how they teach it. If you want fitness, ask how intense the classes are. A good club will have a clear answer.
- Check the "Ego" at the Door: The best clubs for adults are those where the high belts are helping the beginners, not trying to beat them. Look for a culture of mutual respect.
Summary Comparison Table
| Martial Art | Focus | Fitness Level | Self-Defence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kempo | Striking & Technique | High | Excellent |
| Ju Jitsu | Locks & Throws | Moderate | High |
| Kickboxing | Striking & Cardio | Very High | Moderate |
| BJJ | Ground Grappling | High | Very High (One-on-One) |
| Karate | Tradition & Striking | Moderate | Variable |
Take the First Step Today
Choosing the "best" martial art is ultimately about which one you’ll actually show up for. Whether it’s the technical depth of Ju Jitsu or the high-energy blast of Kickboxing, the best time to start was ten years ago: the second best time is today.
If you’re in the Yorkshire area and want to see what we’re all about, we’d love to meet you. You can reach out to us directly through our Contact page to book a trial session or just ask a few more questions.
Want more tips on staying active and empowered?
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