Frequently Asked Questions
Getting Started
What age can my child start?
Children can start with our Little Ninjas programme from 4 years old. We also offer classes for ages 5–8, 9+ and adults, so there's something for the whole family.
Can I book a free trial?
Yes! We offer a free trial class so you or your child can experience our teaching, meet the instructors and see if Inspirit Martial Arts is the right fit before joining.
What should we wear for our first class?
Comfortable sports clothing such as a T-shirt and jogging bottoms or shorts is perfect. If you decide to join, we'll explain our uniform options.
Do we need any previous experience?
Not at all. Most of our members start as complete beginners. Our classes are structured so everyone can learn and progress at their own pace.
Classes
Which class is right for my child?
We recommend classes primarily based on age, while also considering confidence, experience and individual needs to ensure every student starts in the most suitable class.
Can siblings train together?
Yes. Our Family Kickboxing classes allow children aged 9+ and adults to train together, making them ideal for families and siblings of different ages.
Can parents train too?
Absolutely! One of the things that makes Inspirit Martial Arts unique is our Family Kickboxing programme, where parents and children can train side by side.
How long are the classes?
- Little Ninjas: 30 minutes
- All other classes: 1 hour
Parents
Can parents stay and watch children's classes?
Parents are welcome to watch their child's first trial class so they can see how we teach, meet the instructors and experience the atmosphere at Inspirit.
Once children become members, we ask parents to drop off and collect for most children's classes. We've found this helps children develop confidence, independence and focus, while also reducing distractions during the lesson.
If there is ever a specific reason you'd like to watch a class, simply speak to one of our instructors and we'll always do our best to help.
Safety
Is martial arts safe?
Yes. Safety is our highest priority. Classes are carefully structured, techniques are taught progressively and all training is supervised by qualified instructors.
Will my child have to spar?
No. Sparring is introduced gradually and appropriately as students develop. Beginners are never expected to spar before they are ready.
Confidence & Additional Needs
My child is shy. Will they fit in?
Absolutely. Many of our most confident students started out shy. Our instructors are experienced in helping nervous children settle at their own pace. We never force participation and always work to build confidence gradually.
My child has ADHD, autism or additional needs. Can they still attend?
Every child is unique. We welcome children of all abilities and always aim to understand their individual needs before recommending the most suitable class. Please let us know before your first visit so we can ensure they have the best possible experience.
Will martial arts make my child aggressive?
No. Good martial arts teaches the opposite. At Inspirit Martial Arts we place as much emphasis on respect, self-control, kindness and discipline as we do on physical skills.
Our goal is to help children become more confident and responsible, not more aggressive.
What if my child isn't sporty?
That's absolutely fine. Many of our students started with no sporting experience at all. We believe everyone can improve, regardless of their starting point.
Our focus is on effort, enjoyment and personal progress rather than comparing children with each other.
Membership
How much does membership cost?
We offer a range of membership options to suit different goals and levels of commitment. We'll happily explain the options and help you choose the one that's right for you.
Can I upgrade my membership later?
Yes. Many members start on one programme and upgrade as their confidence, commitment and training goals develop.
Can missed classes be made up?
To provide every member with a consistent training experience, each student has a reserved space in their allocated class each week. For this reason, missed classes cannot normally be transferred or made up in other sessions.
This helps us maintain appropriate class sizes, ensure every member has their guaranteed place and allows our instructors to deliver the best possible coaching experience.
Gradings
How do belt gradings work?
Students progress through our grading system by demonstrating improvements in technique, attitude, knowledge and effort. Gradings take place throughout the year when students are ready.
How long does it take to earn a black belt?
Everyone progresses at their own pace. We encourage students to focus on continuous improvement rather than rushing through the belts.
About Inspirit Martial Arts
What makes Inspirit Martial Arts different?
We're more than just a martial arts club. We're a family-focused community where children, parents and adults can learn together in a welcoming, supportive environment.
Our mission is to enable people of all ages and abilities to experience the life-changing benefits of martial arts, bringing families together through a shared passion while developing confidence, respect, resilience and character.
Every class is designed so students leave feeling they have worked hard, had fun and improved.
Do you only teach children?
No. We have programmes for children, teenagers and adults, including our unique Family Kickboxing classes where parents and children train together.
Where are you based?
Our full-time dojo is based in Hockliffe, providing a professional, fully equipped martial arts training facility.
Classes for All Ages
Our Programmes
Family Kickboxing
Karate and kickboxing for adults and children aged 8+.
Find Out More