IT STARTS WITH A BOW

A recent photo shared in the KB Fitness WhatsApp group captured the martial arts school’s community spirit. The image showed a group of students bowing towards the camera, accompanied by the words, “It starts with a bow. Then you can go beyond.” This simple gesture represents the beginning of each student’s martial arts journey—one that goes far beyond technique, extending to personal growth, empowerment, and commitment.

At KB Fitness, going beyond the bow means learning more than how to punch or kick. It represents a journey of continuous improvement, where students build not just physical strength but also resilience, discipline, and confidence. The school’s instructors are dedicated to helping each student unlock their potential, offering personal attention and encouragement at every stage of their martial arts training.

Along with the photo, KB Administrator and member Kelly FN expressed gratitude for the support that KB instructors provide their students. She wrote, “Our KB Instructors are here to guide us, from our very first class and onward throughout our journey.”

Chief Instructor Kelly, alongside her team, has been at the heart of this journey for over 25 years. This level of dedication is rare in any field but in martial arts, it’s truly inspiring. Kelly’s leadership has weathered many challenges, including the Pandemic, during which classes could only be held online. KB Fitness not only survived those difficult times, but thrived, maintaining a strong sense of community. Sue, a member for over 20 years, pointed out, “Massive thanks to Kelly and her amazing team, especially for keeping it going through the Covid-19 period!”

For many, the longevity of KB Fitness is a testament to the dedication and passion that has been instilled in both students and instructors alike. The fact that people have been training in the martial arts with the school for two decades speaks volumes about the environment Kelly and her team have created—a place where individuals feel supported, challenged, and inspired to keep improving.

Ruth, who’s working towards her KB Kickboxing Purple Belt, commented “I love that this photo has lots of people in it who are now black belts. It demonstrates how they’ve all gone beyond and keep doing so, helping everyone else do it every week!” Ruth’s comments point to an important aspect of KB Fitness: once students achieve their own martial arts goals, they remain part of the community, helping others reach theirs.

Jess, a KB Black Belt and KB Instructor, echoed this sentiment: “It’s amazing to see the progress over time. Thank you, Kelly and Dee, for all your teaching over the years—and for teaching me to teach!” This cycle of learning and giving back is central to the ethos of KB Fitness, where every student is encouraged to go beyond their own expectations and support others on their path.

Chief Instructor Kelly, reflecting on her own journey, responded to the outpouring of gratitude: “It all started with a bow for me, back in 1985 when I bowed to my instructor. Almost four decades on, I’ll be bowing to my class tomorrow night! Thanks to my team for all your help on this journey.” For Kelly, the bow is not just a ritual—it’s a reminder of the long path she has walked, and the new paths her students are carving with every class.

The photo and the messages it inspired serve as a reminder that KB Fitness is more than just a martial arts school. It’s a community built on shared values of respect, determination, and mutual support. Senior Instructor Dee summarised this beautifully, saying, “Thank you, KB, for a school full of kindness, motivation, fun, and friends—for teaching resilience and strength, and for helping people to see their true potential.”

In the end, the bow is just the beginning. At KB Fitness, the journey continues well beyond the first step, with students of all levels and backgrounds growing, pushing their limits, and finding their best selves—together.

Keen to be part of our friendly community that values your progress in your martial arts training? Book your first KB Kickboxing London class today.