New season, new skills, new confidence, find out what your first class could look like at British Kempo Society.
Written by Sensei Rebecca Kane, World Champion and Head of Weapons Training for the UK and Europe
1 October 2026
Autumn is a natural time for fresh starts. The children are back at school, routines are settling down and many adults are thinking about making more time for their health. If learning martial arts has been on your list for a while, October could be the right moment to begin.
At British Kempo Society, we welcome complete beginners, families, experienced martial artists and anyone who simply wants to feel fitter and more confident. Our training brings together Kempo Ju Jitsu, practical self-defence and kickboxing in a supportive community.
You do not need to be fit, flexible or experienced before you start. You only need to take the first step.
Why autumn is a good time to start martial arts
Starting something new can feel easier when the season changes. Autumn gives you a clear point to build a routine, whether your goal is to improve your fitness, learn useful skills or find a positive activity to share with your family.
Martial arts training can help you:
- Build strength, stamina, coordination and balance
- Learn practical self-defence skills
- Improve focus and body awareness
- Develop confidence through steady progress
- Manage stress in a positive way
- Meet people in a welcoming local community
- Set goals through grading, training and personal challenges
At British Kempo Society, our approach combines traditional values with practical modern training. Respect, discipline and responsibility are important, but classes should also be enjoyable. You should leave feeling that you have learned something useful and made progress.
Our About page explains more about our history, values and commitment to making Kempo available to students of different ages and abilities.
What happens in your first class?
Many beginners worry that they will not know what to do. That is completely normal. Your instructor will guide you through the session and explain each exercise clearly.
A typical first class may include:
1. A gentle warm-up
You will begin with simple movement, mobility and fitness exercises. This prepares your body for training and helps you get used to moving in a different way.
You will not be expected to perform advanced stretches or high kicks. Your flexibility can improve gradually as you train.
2. Basic stance and movement
You may learn how to stand safely, move with balance and protect yourself. These foundations are important in both Kempo Ju Jitsu and kickboxing training.
Good technique is more important than speed. Beginners are encouraged to take their time and ask questions.
3. Simple striking and pad work
Depending on the class, you may practise basic punches, kicks, blocks or combinations. Pad work is a fun way to improve coordination, timing and fitness without needing to spar.
If you have searched for a kickboxing class for beginners, this type of structured introduction can be a great place to start. You can build confidence before progressing to more challenging drills.
4. Practical self-defence exercises
Kempo Ju Jitsu includes a wide range of skills, including striking, escapes, throws, locks and controlled ground work. Beginners are introduced to these elements step by step.
The aim of self-defence training is not to encourage conflict. It is to help you become more aware, calm and prepared, while understanding that avoiding danger and creating distance should always come first.
5. A cool-down and a chance to ask questions
At the end of the session, you will cool down and have time to speak with your instructor. You can ask about training times, clothing, grading and which class would suit you best.
You do not need to buy a uniform for your first session. Comfortable sports clothing is usually enough to begin.
You do not need to be fit or flexible
One of the biggest myths about martial arts is that you must already be in good shape. In reality, many people begin because they want to improve their fitness.
Your first class may challenge you, but it should not leave you feeling that you cannot keep up. Instructors can adapt exercises, and you can work at a level that feels appropriate for you.
Over time, regular training can improve:
- Cardiovascular fitness
- Core strength
- Mobility and flexibility
- Reaction speed
- Posture and balance
- General energy levels
This makes martial arts useful for people who do not enjoy traditional gym workouts. You are learning a skill while exercising, so your mind stays engaged as well as your body.
Kempo Ju Jitsu for practical self-defence
Kempo Ju Jitsu is a broad martial art. It gives you the opportunity to learn how different techniques work together rather than focusing only on one type of movement.
You may study:
- Striking and blocking
- Grip and grab releases
- Footwork and positioning
- Throws and takedowns
- Joint control
- Ground movement
- Awareness and distance management
Our self defence classes are designed to help you understand practical principles without making training intimidating. You will learn how to move, how to respond and how to stay composed under pressure.
These skills can be valuable for adults, young people and families. They also help develop confidence in everyday situations, from speaking clearly and setting boundaries to feeling more comfortable in unfamiliar environments.
Kickboxing training with a clear purpose
Kickboxing is an energetic way to improve fitness. It develops stamina, strength and coordination through combinations of punches, kicks, footwork, pad work and conditioning drills.
Our beginners kickboxing sessions can suit people who want a lively workout as well as those who are interested in developing striking skills. You do not have to be preparing for competition. Many students attend simply because they enjoy the training and want to feel healthier.
For adults with busy schedules, adult kickboxing classes can provide a focused way to exercise, release tension and learn something new. You can train at your own pace while gradually building confidence.
If you are comparing local options such as karate Huddersfield, kickboxing or traditional Ju Jitsu, it is worth considering the type of training you want. Kempo Ju Jitsu offers a broad approach, combining striking with self-defence and grappling skills.
Martial arts for kids: confidence beyond the training hall
Children can gain much more from martial arts than physical fitness. Training gives them a safe and structured environment where they can practise listening, perseverance and respect.
In a well-run class, your child can learn to:
- Follow instructions and stay focused
- Work respectfully with training partners
- Set goals and keep trying
- Deal with challenges calmly
- Speak confidently and set boundaries
- Celebrate progress without giving up after setbacks
Our martial arts for kids training is not about teaching children to fight. It is about helping them understand responsibility, awareness and personal safety.
Grading can also give children a clear sense of progress. They see that improvement comes from regular effort, not from being perfect on the first day. That lesson can support your child’s development at school, at home and in other activities.
Training as a family
One of the best things about martial arts is that it can become a shared family activity. Parents and children do not have to be at the same level to enjoy training together.
When families train, children see that adults are also learning, making mistakes and working towards goals. Parents get the chance to be active while spending meaningful time with their children.
The British Kempo Society community includes people at different stages, from first-time students to experienced practitioners and competitors. This mixture creates a friendly training environment where everyone can learn from one another.
Meet the instructors behind the training
Our instructors bring experience from across the martial arts world, while keeping the focus on safe, clear and encouraging teaching.
Shihan Ben Ledwick
Shihan Ben Ledwick is the founder of the British Kempo Society and Head of Kempo Ju Jitsu. His work has helped build a society that respects the traditions of the art while welcoming students into a modern, supportive community.
Sensei Rebecca Kane
Sensei Rebecca Kane is a World Champion and Head of Weapons Training for the UK and Europe. Her experience includes Kempo, weapons training, kickboxing and Thai boxing. She is passionate about helping adults and children develop confidence, resilience and practical awareness.
Rebecca also offers online and in-person training through The Dancing Fighter, where she works with women, children, schools, community groups and organisations.
You can meet more of the team on our Instructors page.
A proud Yorkshire and Huddersfield connection
The Society has strong connections with Yorkshire, including instructors and martial artists based in and around Huddersfield. That local community is an important part of our identity, even as British Kempo Society continues to support training across the UK.
Whether you are looking for Ju Jitsu classes close to home, family training or a route into kickboxing, the best way to understand the community is to come along and experience it for yourself.
Ready to start this autumn?
Your first class does not need to be perfect. It only needs to happen.
Bring comfortable clothing, water and an open mind. Tell the instructor that you are new, and they will help you understand what to expect. You can begin gently, learn the basics and build from there.
If you are interested in martial arts and self defense, Kempo Ju Jitsu, kickboxing training or classes for your child, get in touch with British Kempo Society and ask about joining a class this autumn.
Contact us, book your first session and start building fitness, confidence and practical skills with our community.
Want to keep learning with us? Subscribe to the British Kempo Society network for training updates, events, workshops and community news, and stay connected with students and instructors across the Society.