KB SPOTLIGHT: FREDERIKE

At KB Fitness, the journey to Kickboxing Black Belt is a transformative experience that impacts both body and mind. Frederike’s journey is a testament to how martial arts can reshape lives, instilling resilience, confidence, and a sense of balance. Her story, shared in this chapter of our KB Member Spotlight, highlights the profound impact of dedicated martial arts training and the support of a close-knit KB community.

As seems to be a recurring fact among KB Black Belts, Frederike, on the left in the picture, first joined KB Fitness without any intention of grading, let alone achieving a Black Belt. Like many new students, she was drawn to the school by the welcoming atmosphere and the camaraderie among members. Reflecting on her initial experiences, Frederike shares, “I didn’t aim to get my Black Belt (or even grade at all) when I joined. But the friendliness of the school and the instructors, and the camaraderie with the other graders made me give it a go – and I loved it!”

The journey began with modest goals, but as she progressed, Frederike’s ambitions grew. She recalls a pivotal moment after earning her KB Kickboxing Blue Belt, the second Belt in the KB Grading system, when she felt inspired to aim for the Orange Belt, the fourth belt – a significant step up that tested her limits. “The higher grades were saying how that’s a big step up, and at that point I wanted to see if I could do it. They weren’t wrong! It was tough, but so rewarding, and I learned to push my boundaries at a different level than ever before.”

From Orange Belt onwards, her journey through the ranks became more natural, albeit never easy. Frederike credits much of her perseverance to the support of her grading group and the close guidance of Chief Instructor Kelly KB. “The higher you get, the more important Kelly becomes in the process compared to your peers. She’s involved in every grader’s progress from the start, but when you get to the final grading, it’s really between you and her, working together to get to that level.” This shared journey with Kelly became a major motivation for Frederike, pushing her to fully commit to the process and embrace the challenges ahead.

The benefits of martial ats training at KB Fitness extend far beyond physical fitness. Frederike notes how her training has not only made her fitter, more flexible, and stronger but has also sharpened her reflexes. Yet, the mental transformation has been just as significant. “Mentally, it’s made me more resilient, more confident, and more at ease in stressful situations. It’s taught me that feeling challenged doesn’t mean I’m out of my depth, but that there’s an obstacle that can be overcome with effort and determination.”

A key aspect of Frederike’s training has been the emphasis on self-defence, which has heightened her awareness of her surroundings and her own capabilities. This sense of empowerment is a crucial part of what keeps her passionate about martial arts. “Thanks to training self-defence, kickboxing and kung fu at KB, I’m more aware of my surroundings, and more aware of my own strengths and abilities.”

One of the most profound lessons Frederike has taken from her time at KB Fitness comes from a quote by Kelly: “You need to learn to be comfortable with being temporarily uncomfortable.” This idea of stepping outside one’s comfort zone, both in training and in life, has become a guiding principle for Frederike. “That’s one thing KB has changed for me, seeing challenges as opportunities for growth. It’s often advised, of course, but at KB you get to practise that week after week, and that can really change your mindset over time.”

Training at KB Fitness has also had a significant impact on Frederike’s work-life balance. The discipline of regularly attending classes has provided her with a much-needed break from the stresses of work. “Just having a reason to need to leave the office at a certain time to get to class has been really helpful during more stressful times at work. And of course, once you get to class, the stress just goes out the window with the first ki-ai!”

Frederike’s journey to Kickboxing Black Belt at KB Fitness is a powerful example of how martial arts can enrich every aspect of life. Her story reminds us that each person’s path is unique, filled with moments of challenge, growth, and the strength to embrace them. At KB Fitness, the pursuit of excellence is not just about achieving the next Belt but about the invaluable lessons learned and the personal transformations that occur along the way.

Are you ready to be transformed? Take the first step by booking your KB Kickboxing London trial class today.