REACHING FOR THE STARS

“Self-belief, hard work, and inspirational teaching can make you reach for the stars.” This simple yet profound statement from Sue Pindar encapsulates what it means to be a part of KB Fitness. Having trained with the school since 2003, Sue’s words and unwavering positivity have inspired countless KB members to strive for and achieve their goals. Recently, we asked KB members to reflect on their own journeys and share the goals they set when they first started training.

For Neil, one of the earliest challenges he faced was flexibility: “I remember one of the first goals I set myself was to kick above belt height because when I started, I was not at all flexible, and that was a struggle. I managed it after dedicating myself to this goal, and today I’m much more flexible and can kick head high! It felt great to achieve it, and I never looked back.”

Similarly, Jess recalls being inspired by others when she joined the school 20 years ago: “When I joined, I think my first goal was to be able to do flashy aerial kicks like Dee. I was amazed at the students who trained for 2–3 hours in a row and wanted to get fit enough to do that, too. My first big goal was sparring, and I still remember putting all my kit on for the first time and thinking, ‘Well, I look like a kickboxer now, even if I’m a total beginner.’”

For many, their goals have evolved over time. Phoebe reflects on the initial motivation that led her to train in the martial arts: “When I first started, one of my main goals was to get healthier and be more physically active. Over the years, that goal has remained but now includes striving to achieve my best and keep moving forward. Being part of a group striving for similar goals is always encouraging.”

Other KB members highlighted the transformative power of consistent effort. Jane, who has shared most of Sue’s 20 years of training, described her journey: “My first goals were to train consistently once a week and not miss a call. Little did I know that would eventually lead to 14 hours a week and a longer-term goal to become a KB Black Belt. Small, incremental goals in fitness have always worked for me.”

Beth, now a KB Black Belt, also found inspiration in the higher grades: “When I started training, I used to watch the higher grades spar and wanted to be like them. Early on, I set a goal to get my sparring kit and start sparring. I also wanted to wear a cool Blue Belt, so I set the goal to grade. Now, my goals are to train at an intensity worthy of Kelly’s Black Belt and to inspire and support everyone at KB to be the best they can be – just like Sue.”

Overcoming challenges is a recurring theme for KB members. Kelly FN shared her early struggles: “One of my goals when I joined was simply to make it to classes regularly. I used to feel anxious about coming to class on my own and would miss a lot because of that. The support from the instructors and members helped me overcome that anxiety. Once I achieved that goal, my new goal became to compete with myself – to be a little better, faster, or sharper every week.”

Of course, enjoyment is a vital part of the journey. Ruth emphasises this aspect: “I don’t remember my first goals, but when my KB anniversary comes round and I’m asked to share my goals, one of the main ones is always to keep enjoying my training. Improving a technique or earning my next KB Kickboxing belt is important, but getting the most out of martial arts training is about so much more than that. Given all our great teachers and fellow students, enjoying training is also one of the easiest goals to attain!”

Kim, reflecting on her own experience, sums up the community spirit: “Sue is a legend, and we’re lucky to have her in the dojo. She’s so positive and encouraging. One of the things we’re asked to do as our KB anniversary approaches is to reflect on the year and let Kelly know how it went and what our goals are. This is something I’ve just been thinking about, and I’m interested in seeing what the higher grades’ thoughts are as we can learn so much from the perspective of those who’ve been training for many years.”

As Sue herself notes: “We are all so lucky to be part of such an amazing martial arts school, with instructors and students who truly care, support, love, and encourage each other every step of the way, regardless of whether that step is towards a Black Belt or just getting a little fitter.”

Her words remind us that every goal – big or small – is worth pursuing, and that the journey itself is enriched by the support of the KB Fitness community. With self-belief, hard work, and inspirational teaching, there’s no limit to what can be achieved.

Want to set fitness goals or martial arts goals and receive all the guidance and support to excel at them? KB Instructors are ready to help you reach for the stars. Take the first step by booking your KB Kickboxing trial class today.