Chinese Kickboxing

Our Kickboxing classes are for kids and teenagers and cover general Kickboxing skills, Chinese Kickboxing (Sanda), and, as students progress, grappling and ground fighting.

There is also the option to take part in sparring for those who would like to test and develop their skills in a controlled environment.

The classes are suitable for complete beginners as well as those with previous martial arts experience. Everyone progresses at their own pace and nobody is expected to spar, grapple or practise takedowns until they are ready and would like to do so.

The starting age for children is 7, unless they already train with Mark in Kung Fu classes and he has specifically told them that they are ready to try Kickboxing.

The emphasis throughout the classes is on developing good technique, fitness, confidence and practical martial arts skills, while learning to train safely and with respect for your training partners.

Kickboxing

Everyone starts by learning general Kickboxing skills:

• Punching and kicking with good technique
• Combinations and movement
• Intelligent defence
• Kickboxing-specific strength and fitness
• Distance, timing and footwork
• How to train safely and with control

Chinese Kickboxing – Sanda

Chinese Kickboxing (Sanda) adds takedowns and throws to the striking skills taught in the class.

These are not mandatory, as we appreciate that not everyone wants to be thrown to the ground!

However, as students develop the necessary skills and confidence, they will be invited to include takedowns and throws in their training. Before doing so, they will learn how to fall safely and how to practise the techniques in a controlled way.

Grappling & Ground Fighting

Students who would like to progress further can also learn grappling and ground fighting.

Usually, they will have been training in the classes for a while before progressing to this part of their training.

They can then learn a range of positional skills, escapes, holds, locks and chokes – all introduced progressively and practised in a safe and controlled environment.

Sparring

Sparring is completely optional.

Before taking part, students need to continually demonstrate that they can protect themselves, maintain their guard and perform techniques with an appropriate level of control.

Safety is paramount.

All sparring is light and semi-contact. Students are expected to look after their training partners and demonstrate good control at all times.

For those who would like to learn, we use several different types of sparring:

Sparring Drills

Only certain techniques are allowed. This helps students develop control and practise new skills without having to think about every aspect of sparring at once.

Shoulder-Tap Sparring

A great introduction to sparring for developing speed, movement, reactions and control. This allows students to practise facing an opponent without immediately progressing to striking.

Points Sparring

After one successful and clear strike, participants are separated and begin again. This develops timing, distance, accuracy and controlled technique.

Continuous Sparring

Light, semi-contact sparring over one- or two-minute rounds.

For students who have been sufficiently trained and reached a high enough level of skill and control, this can eventually include takedowns and ground fighting.

What Do I Need?

For your first class, just wear comfortable sports clothing and bring some water.

There is no need to go out and buy lots of specialist equipment before you start. If you decide that you would like to progress into sparring, speak to Mark and he will advise you on the appropriate gloves and protective equipment.

Do I Have to Spar?

No!

There is absolutely no requirement to spar. Some students really enjoy sparring and want to develop that side of their martial arts; others simply want to learn Kickboxing, get fitter and enjoy their training.

Both are absolutely fine.

Likewise, takedowns, throws and ground fighting are introduced progressively. Students will only move onto these areas when they have developed the necessary skills and are comfortable doing so.

About Your Instructor

Classes are taught by Mark Stevenson, founder and instructor at White Crane Academy. Karina Borglum assists in the classes.

Mark has been training in martial arts for many years, with experience in Kickboxing, Kung Fu, Tai Chi and Chinese martial arts. His approach to teaching is to help students develop genuine martial arts skills while keeping classes friendly, enjoyable and safe.

Good technique and control are always more important than simply trying to hit harder or prove how tough you are!

Times & Location

Saturdays
12–1pm

St Richard’s Church Hall
Sydney Road
Haywards Heath

Classes need to be booked in advance.