Thinking about starting martial arts but not sure where to begin? Discover how Kempo Ju Jitsu, kickboxing and self-defence training can improve your fitness, confidence and everyday resilience.
Updated 17 September 2026
Training perspective from Shihan Ben Ledwick, Head of Kempo Ju Jitsu, and Rebecca Kane, World Champion and Head of Weapons Training for the UK and Europe.
Choosing a martial art can feel like a big decision. You may be looking for a practical way to improve your fitness, build confidence, learn self-defence or find a positive activity for your child. You may even have searched for “karate Huddersfield” and found yourself comparing several different styles.
The good news is that there is no single right choice for everyone. The best martial art for you is the one that matches your goals, interests and preferred way of training.
At the British Kempo Society, our community brings together traditional martial arts values with practical training for modern life. Here is how Kempo Ju Jitsu and kickboxing compare, and how to decide where you might fit.
Kempo Ju Jitsu: A Practical, Well-Rounded Martial Art
Kempo Ju Jitsu combines striking, movement, escapes, throws, joint control and grappling. Training can cover standing situations, close-range control and ground positions, giving students a broad introduction to martial arts and self defense.
Rather than relying only on strength or speed, Kempo Ju Jitsu teaches you to use timing, balance, leverage and positioning. This can make it a rewarding choice if you want to develop practical skills while also learning the deeper values of discipline, respect and self-control.
Kempo Ju Jitsu may suit you if you want to:
- Learn a broad range of martial arts skills.
- Improve coordination, balance and mobility.
- Understand how to respond to grabs and close-range situations.
- Build confidence through structured practice.
- Develop patience, focus and problem-solving skills.
- Train as part of a supportive martial arts community.
Our About the British Kempo Society page explains more about our history, values and commitment to making training welcoming for different ages and experience levels.
Meet Shihan Ben Ledwick
Shihan Ben Ledwick is the Head of Kempo Ju Jitsu at the British Kempo Society. As one of the Society’s key founders, he has helped promote Kempo and its values to students and instructors internationally.
His role reflects the balance at the heart of Kempo Ju Jitsu: respect for traditional teaching combined with practical, evolving training. Whether you are completely new or preparing for your next grading, you can develop step by step within the wider Society network.
Kickboxing: Fitness, Striking and Focus
Kickboxing training focuses mainly on punches, kicks, footwork, combinations, defensive movement and conditioning. It is an energetic way to improve your cardiovascular fitness while learning how to move with purpose and control.
Many people enjoy kickboxing because progress can feel immediate. You may begin with simple punches, kicks and pad combinations before gradually developing better timing, technique and stamina.
Kickboxing could be a good fit if you want to:
- Enjoy a high-energy workout.
- Improve cardiovascular fitness and coordination.
- Learn striking skills in a structured environment.
- Build confidence through pad work and movement drills.
- Challenge yourself without needing previous experience.
- Train towards fitness goals, personal development or competition.
If you are searching for beginners kickboxing, look for a class that teaches technique carefully rather than expecting you to arrive already fit or experienced. A good kickboxing class for beginners should include clear instruction, manageable drills and a welcoming atmosphere.
The British Kempo Society also supports adult kickboxing classes for people who want to train at their own pace. You do not need to be a professional athlete to start. Your first class is about learning the basics, meeting the community and discovering what you can achieve.
Which Style Is Best for Self-Defence?
Self-defence is not about looking for conflict. It begins with awareness, good judgement, communication and the ability to leave an unsafe situation. Martial arts training can help you become more confident, composed and physically capable, but no training can guarantee safety in every situation.
Kempo Ju Jitsu offers practice in areas such as escapes, control, movement and close-range situations. Kickboxing develops striking, footwork, distance management and fitness. Both can support your confidence and awareness in different ways.
For many students, a combination of skills is valuable. You may enjoy the striking and fitness benefits of kickboxing while also developing control and escape skills through Kempo Ju Jitsu.
This is why trying a session can be more useful than choosing based on a style name alone. The instructor, training partners and culture of the club matter just as much as the techniques.
Martial Arts for Adults, Children and Families
Martial arts are not only for young competitors or people who are already strong and fit. Our training can support a wide range of goals, including:
Martial arts for adults
For adults, training can be a practical way to improve fitness, reduce stress and make time for yourself. You can work towards personal goals, prepare for gradings or simply enjoy a regular activity with a positive community.
Many adults begin because they want to learn self-defence. Others start after a long break from exercise or because they want a new challenge. You can begin at your own level and build confidence over time.
Martial arts for kids
For children, martial arts can support focus, coordination, discipline and confidence. Classes should be positive, structured and age-appropriate, with an emphasis on respect, safety and personal development.
Your child does not need to be naturally confident or sporty to take part. The training environment should help them develop gradually, celebrate progress and feel part of the club community.
Parents often appreciate the wider benefits too: regular activity, clear routines, encouragement from instructors and the opportunity to make new friends.
Learn from Experienced Instructors
The British Kempo Society is supported by experienced instructors across Kempo Ju Jitsu, kickboxing, Thai boxing, weapons training and related martial arts.
Rebecca Kane is a World Champion and Head of Weapons Training for the UK and Europe. Her experience includes world titles in stick fighting, K1 kickboxing and Thai boxing, alongside years of teaching and empowering students.
You can learn more about the Society’s leadership and instructors on our Instructors page.
Rebecca also offers online and in-person training through The Dancing Fighter, focusing on confidence, self-defence and empowerment. Her work supports women, children and communities who want to build resilience and feel more capable in everyday life.
How to Choose Your First Class
If you are still unsure, ask yourself these questions:
-
What is your main goal?
Do you want fitness, self-defence, confidence, competition or a new community? -
What type of training sounds enjoyable?
Would you prefer pad work and striking, or the variety of locks, throws, escapes and grappling? -
Who are you training for?
Are you looking for martial arts for yourself, martial arts for kids or a family-friendly club? -
Can you visit or contact the club?
A conversation with an instructor can help you understand the class structure, age groups, training requirements and what to expect. -
Does the club feel welcoming?
A supportive community can make the difference between trying one session and enjoying martial arts for years.
If you have been looking for self defence classes, ju jitsu classes or kickboxing near you, start by asking questions. You do not need to know every technique or understand every martial arts term before you begin.
Find Your Place in the British Kempo Society Community
Whether you choose Kempo Ju Jitsu, kickboxing or a combination of training, the most important step is getting started.
You can contact the British Kempo Society to ask about classes, local training opportunities and the best starting point for your goals. Our community includes beginners, families, experienced martial artists, instructors and competitors, all connected by a shared respect for learning and personal progress.
Contact the Society today, learn more about your options and join a class that helps you become fitter, more confident and better prepared.
For more practical guidance, training news, events and community stories, subscribe to the British Kempo Society newsletter. Subscribe for updates and keep learning with our martial arts community.