Published: July 16, 2026
Author: Sensei Rebecca Kane
Welcome to the British Kempo Society (BKS), where we believe that martial arts is much more than just a way to stay fit. It is a journey toward self-discovery, safety, and a stronger, more confident version of yourself. Whether you are a parent looking for a structured activity for your child, or an adult wanting to learn practical self-defence while getting into the best shape of your life, you have come to the right place.
At the British Kempo Society, we specialise in a unique blend of Kempo Ju Jitsu and Kickboxing. Our classes are designed to be accessible to everyone: from complete beginners who have never stepped onto a mat, to experienced martial artists looking to refine their skills. We pride ourselves on our community-focused atmosphere, where every member is encouraged to grow at their own pace.
Why Choose British Kempo Society?
The world of martial arts can sometimes feel intimidating. You might see high-flying kicks in movies and think, "I could never do that." But at BKS, we strip away the Hollywood fluff and focus on what really matters: practicality, fitness, and personal growth.
Our curriculum is built on the foundations of traditional Kempo and Ju Jitsu, adapted for the modern world. We don’t just teach you how to punch and kick; we teach you how to move with purpose, how to stay calm under pressure, and how to protect yourself and your loved ones.
If you want to learn more about our history and what we stand for, feel free to visit our About Page.
Mastering the Art of Kempo Ju Jitsu
Kempo Ju Jitsu is often described as the "complete" martial art. It combines the powerful striking and blocking of Karate with the fluid throws, joint locks, and ground control of Ju Jitsu. This makes it one of the most effective systems for real-world self-defence.
For a beginner, Kempo Ju Jitsu offers a structured path of progression. You start with the basics: learning how to stand, how to fall safely (which is a vital life skill!), and how to generate power in your strikes. As you advance through the grades, you begin to see how the different elements of the art fit together. You’ll learn how to transition from a standing exchange into a clinch or a take-down, giving you a versatile "toolbox" of skills for any situation.
One of the greatest benefits of Kempo is its adaptability. It doesn't rely on raw strength alone. Instead, it uses leverage, timing, and anatomical knowledge to overcome an opponent. This makes it an ideal martial art for women and smaller individuals who may need to defend themselves against a larger attacker.
Empowering Adults and Kids through Self-Defence
Self-Defence for Adults: Peace of Mind
In today’s world, personal safety is a top priority for many. Our adult self-defence classes aren't just about physical techniques; they are about awareness. We teach you how to recognise potential threats before they escalate and how to use verbal de-escalation whenever possible.
However, if physical intervention becomes necessary, our training ensures you have the muscle memory to react instinctively. We cover common scenarios, such as grab releases, defending against strikes, and situational awareness. The goal isn't to make you a fighter, but to give you the confidence to know you can handle yourself if you have to. This sense of empowerment often translates into other areas of life: making you more assertive at work and more relaxed in your daily routines.
Self-Defence for Kids: Building Resilience
For children, self-defence is about much more than "fighting back." It’s about building a "bully-proof" mindset. We teach our junior members how to set boundaries and how to use their voices to stop a conflict before it starts.
Through our structured grading system, children learn the value of hard work and perseverance. Every new belt they earn is a tangible reminder of what they can achieve when they stay focused. We focus heavily on respect: respect for their instructors, their peers, and themselves. Parents often tell us that since joining BKS, their children are more disciplined at home and more focused in school.
Kickboxing: Fitness with a Purpose
If you’re looking for a high-energy workout that burns calories while teaching you a skill, our Kickboxing sessions are the perfect fit. Unlike a traditional gym workout where you might spend an hour staring at a wall on a treadmill, Kickboxing keeps your mind engaged.
The Fitness Factor
Kickboxing is a phenomenal full-body workout. It targets your core, improves your cardiovascular health, and tones your muscles. A single session can involve:
- Cardio Drills: Boosting your heart rate and stamina.
- Pad Work: Improving your accuracy, timing, and explosive power.
- Bag Work: Building strength and endurance.
- Flexibility Training: Helping you move more freely and reducing the risk of injury.
Mental Clarity and Stress Relief
There is nothing quite like hitting a heavy bag or a set of focus pads to release the stresses of a long work day. Kickboxing requires intense focus; when you are concentrating on a complex combination of strikes, there is no room in your head for worries about emails or deadlines. It is a form of "moving meditation" that leaves you feeling refreshed and accomplished.
Building Confidence in a Family Environment
At British Kempo Society, we often say that "families that kick together, stick together." We encourage parents to train alongside their children, creating a shared language and a mutual respect that is hard to find in other hobbies.
Martial arts is a unique "leveler." On the mat, everyone is a student. Seeing a parent struggle with a new technique and then eventually master it is a powerful lesson for a child. It shows them that learning is a lifelong process and that it’s okay to be a beginner.
Our community is what sets us apart. We aren't just a fitness center; we are a society. We host regular events, seminars, and gradings that bring our members together, fostering friendships that often last a lifetime. Whether you are training for your black belt or just coming in once a week to stay active, you are part of the BKS family.
Meet Your Mentors
Our teaching staff is led by some of the most dedicated martial artists in the UK. We believe that a good instructor doesn't just show you what to do: they inspire you to do it.
Sensei Rebecca Kane
As a World Champion and the Head of Weapons Training for the UK and Europe, Sensei Rebecca Kane brings a level of expertise that is truly world-class. Rebecca is passionate about empowering women through self-defence and is a leading figure in the martial arts community. Outside of BKS, she also runs her own site, The Dancing Fighter, where she explores the intersection of movement, art, and combat.
Sensei Ben Ledwick
Working alongside Rebecca is Ben Ledwick, another highly experienced instructor dedicated to the growth of our members. Together, they ensure that the technical standards at BKS remain high while keeping the classes fun, engaging, and safe for everyone.
You can learn more about our entire coaching team by visiting our Instructors Page.
Start Your Journey Today
Are you ready to take the first step toward a fitter, safer, and more confident you? We would love to welcome you to a class at one of our locations.
No special equipment is needed to start: just some comfortable gym clothes and a positive attitude. We offer trial sessions for all newcomers so you can experience our teaching style and community first-hand before committing.
Your development is our priority. Whether you are interested in the technical depth of Kempo Ju Jitsu, the practical skills of self-defence, or the high-energy fitness of Kickboxing, we have a place for you.
Take Action Now:
- Subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on upcoming gradings and community events.
- Read More on our Blog for tips on training and safety.
- Contact Us directly to book your first session: Get in Touch.
We look forward to seeing you on the mats soon!