We’re thrilled to bring you a special Q&A session with the incredible Sarah Bennett, owner of Kong Martial Arts. Sarah is not only a highly skilled Martial Artist with a 4th Dan black belt and numerous accolades to her name but, she’s also a dedicated mentor, inspiring countless students with her passion and expertise.
In addition to her impressive credentials, Sarah stands out as a trailblazer in the world of Martial Arts as a female Martial Artist and club owner. In a field that has traditionally been male-dominated, Sarah has shattered barriers and paved the way for future generations of women in Martial Arts. Her dedication, resilience and leadership are a testament to what can be achieved with hard work and perseverance. Sarah’s journey is not just about mastering the art of self-defence but, also about empowering women to embrace their strength and potential. Her story is a powerful reminder that with passion and determination, anyone can break through stereotypes and make a lasting impact.
We’ve had the pleasure of supporting Kong Martial Arts for many years, and it’s an honour to team up once again for this exciting interview. Sarah’s journey is nothing short of remarkable, and her insights are sure to inspire and motivate Martial Arts enthusiasts of all levels. Get ready for an engaging, fun and friendly conversation with one of the best in the business. Let’s dive in!
Background in Martial Arts
Let’s start with you! Share a brief summary about yourself and your journey.
I am a 32 year old female, living in Warfield, Bracknell. I own Kong Martial Arts and have been teaching as my profession since the age of 18. I currently study Kickboxing, MMA and BJJ 4 times a week.
The Beginning: How did you first get involved in the wonderful world of Martial Arts?
I started Martial Arts when I was 12, studying Kickboxing five times a week. I soon realised I loved it and joined the coaching team, since then it has been my passion to share my knowledge to others.
Inspiration: What inspired you to take the leap and become a Martial Arts instructor?
The way in which you can change other peoples lives and the impact you see almost instantly from sharing knowledge with others.
Your Journey: Can you share a bit about your training journey and any certifications you’ve proudly obtained?
I’m currently a 4th Dan Black Belt in Kickboxing and partook in many tournaments as a child, almost every weekend. I went on to fight and win, several full contact ring fights and MMA fights around the age of 18 but, soon turned my focus more to teaching than fighting.
Teaching Experience
Teaching Timeline: How long have you been sharing your passion for Kickboxing and teaching as an instructor?
I have been coaching since around 14 years old and professionally running a school since the age of 18. Although I’d love to teach BJJ and MMA, I am still learning these skills.
Rewards of Teaching: What do you find most rewarding about teaching Kickboxing to your students?
I probably hear the sentence ‘you’ve changed my childs life’ once a month. It’s without a doubt the best sentence one can hear!
Philosophy and Approach
Teaching Philosophy: How would you describe your approach to teaching Kickboxing?
I like to share every bit of knowledge I know to my students to better them. When it comes to teaching kids, I feel all children are different, they learn differently and perform differently. I enjoy teaching all kids and learning how to better them!
Kickboxing’s Uniqueness: In your opinion, what sets Kickboxing apart from other Martial Arts?
MMA is the Mecca of Martial Arts – it tests all aspects. So for me, it’s so important to learn and appreciate. I enjoy BJJ because it is about skill rather than strength. So if well trained, someone my size stands a good chance in a fight against a larger opponent. I enjoy the fitness and stress relief elements to kickboxing. It is my passion!
Balanced Classes: How do you keep your classes fun and accessible for beginners while challenging more advanced students?
We split our sessions for adults into beginner and advanced groups. This helps keep the standard across the board while allowing the beginners to learn at a pace that suits them.
Martial Arts Techniques and Training
Kickboxing Fundamentals: What are the key principles of Kickboxing that every beginner should embrace?
How to stand in a stance and how to keep your guard up. Defence comes above attack and practice makes permanent. So don’t practice wrong!
Training Evolution: How does Kickboxing training evolve as one progresses from a novice to an advanced level?
The training becomes more intense as you get more advanced, and you begin sparring, which I personally love
Preparation Practices: Are there any specific conditioning or mental preparation practices you recommend to your students for peak performance?
Ab conditioning and leg conditioning (for those low kicks) is always recommended.
Club and Community
Your Club: Tell us about the Martial Arts club you run. How long has it been a hub for Kickboxing enthusiasts?
I own Kong Martial Arts and it’s been established since 2018. We have over 500 students and run classes six days a week from one location.
Community Building: How do you foster a sense of community and camaraderie within your club?
I personally shake the hand of every parent, every evening I teach, and try to personally greet all adult members who train with a fist bump or hand shake each night. We arrange fun days for the kids and nights out for the adults. We also spend a month a year fundraising as a team. We’ve recently raised over £12,000 for Dementia UK in the month of June this year.
Safety First: What safety measures do you implement to ensure a secure and positive training environment?
We have full RAMS in place for all session and the lesson plans are written a month in advance. All our instructors and coaches are DBS checked, first aid trained and insured.
Advice and Perspectives
Starting Kickboxing: What advice would you give to someone who is considering starting Kickboxing and might need a little encouragement?
It’s one day, or day one…! Start today! You won’t regret it. It’s the most amazing experience for your body and soul.
Future of Kickboxing: How do you see the future of Kickboxing evolving within the Martial Arts community?
Clubs seem friendlier and friendlier nowadays. It’s not Cobra Kai! And we don’t hate each other. I’d like to see this continuing to develop so we can work as a team and grow the foundation level of the sport so, the elite level gets bigger too. I’d love to see it in the Olympics at some point.
Equipment and Supplier
Essential Gear: What type of equipment is essential for someone just starting their Kickboxing journey?
We recommend the following as a bag basic start up:
Kids – Skipping rope, gloves, water bottle, shinnies (shin pads) and focus pads.
Adults – Skipping rope, gloves, hand wraps, water bottle, shinnies (shin guards), gum shield, groin guard and focus pads.
Choosing Blitz: Why did you choose Blitz as your equipment supplier for the club? Are there any particular products from Blitz that you highly recommend for Kickboxing training?
We chose Blitz for a number of reasons. Their customer service is amazing, they’re always on hand to answer questions and get back to you, and their pricing is very competitive. We use them for every belt at the club and our kid’s gloves. Their kit is well made and built to last!
Stay Connected and Get Involved with Kong Martial Arts
We hope you enjoyed this insightful and inspiring Q&A with Sarah Bennett. Her journey and achievements as a Martial Artist and club owner truly demonstrate the power of passion, perseverance and breaking down barriers. We’re grateful to have such an exceptional role model within our community and look forward to continuing our support for Kong Martial Arts.
If you’re eager to learn more or get involved, don’t hesitate to reach out! Visit the Kong Martial Arts website, follow them on social media, or drop by the club to experience the vibrant and welcoming atmosphere firsthand. Whether you’re a seasoned Martial Artist or just starting out, there’s a place for you at Kong Martial Arts. Stay connected and join us in celebrating the incredible work Sarah and her team are doing!
Kong Martial Arts
Official Website: www.kong-martialarts.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/kongmartialarts
Instagram: @kongmartialarts
