Every great Martial Arts journey begins with a single brave step and for Nicola, that step was fuelled by courage, resilience and a little encouragement from her Dad. What started as a way to build confidence against school bullies has blossomed into a lifelong passion spanning two black belts, a thriving Martial Arts Academy and a mission to create a community where everyone feels welcome and empowered.
In this inspiring Q&A, Nicola shares her incredible story from her first Taekwondo class at just eight years old to the bustling, vibrant classes she leads today across Devon and Cornwall. Along the way, you’ll discover what fuels her love for teaching, the philosophy that makes Miss B’s Martial Arts Academy so special and the heartwarming moments that make it all worthwhile (spoiler: one involves awarding a black belt to a true warrior in her 70s!).
Ready to meet the woman who proves that Martial Arts is not just about kicks and punches but, about kindness, perseverance and building a family one belt at a time? Let’s dive in!
Background in Martial Arts
Let’s start with you! Share a brief summary about yourself and your journey.
I’m Nicola and I’ve been doing Martial Arts since the age of 8 years old. I have two black belts, one in Karate and one in Taekwondo.
I now run my own business at Miss B’s Martial Arts Academy. We have eight different class locations across five days a week. As well as this, I also teach Martial Arts in local primary schools for their PE lessons, after school clubs and intervention sessions.
The Beginning: How did you first get involved in the wonderful world of Martial Arts?
I was getting bullied by some kids that were a couple of years older than me, in Primary School. My Dad took me along to a local Taekwondo club in Nottingham to gain some confidence, make new friends and learn self defence. We’re 25 years forward now, it’s clear that I caught the Martial Arts bug!
Inspiration: What inspired you to take the leap and become a Martial Arts instructor?
Funnily enough, it was actually my PE teachers at the time, Miss Prifti and Miss McNamara. I had just completed my GCSEs and had taken on A level PE & Sport; they were an inspiration to me. The way that they both had a love of physical activity but, also in supporting and teaching children. They taught with such kindness, patience, understanding and energy. I hope that I’ve taken some of those qualities on, into my own teaching.
Your Journey: Can you share a bit about your training journey and any certifications you’ve proudly obtained?
I’ve been training since the age of eight and have achieved a 3rd Dan Black Belt which I’m incredibly proud of.
As a club, we were recently within the first 40 schools nationally to obtain the SENCO in Martial Arts settings qualification with BMABA. We understand the importance of equality and we try our best to be as inclusive as possible.
Teaching Experience
Teaching Timeline: How long have you been sharing your passion for Martial Arts and teaching as an instructor?
I taught for a few years from the age of 16 to 18 but, it really started for me in 2015. So a decade now!
Rewards of Teaching: What do you find most rewarding about teaching Martial Arts to your students?
Oh, so many things! Grading and presentation weeks are my absolute favourite. It’s a joy to see hard work paying off. Though, I think the most rewarding thing is when you see a student have that ‘light bulb moment’. When they’ve been working so hard on a particular technique but, are struggling with something. It’s when they nail it for the first time, the expression on their face and entire body language is just so elated!
Memorable Moments: Can you describe a memorable experience you’ve had as an instructor that still makes you smile?
I think one of my most memorable moments was when I got to hand a 1st Dan Black belt to a lady in her 70’s, who is a complete warrior and inspiration to us all.
Philosophy and Approach
Teaching Philosophy: How would you describe your approach to teaching Martial Arts?
I think as a club we like to promote community. We’re very much one large family at Miss B’s. My teaching style may be slightly more relaxed to some of the more traditional Martial Arts settings. In my opinion, I think fostering positive relationships, creating a safe place and building a solid team are important. If the students are smiling, sweating and learning, I’m happy!
Karate’s Uniqueness: In your opinion, what sets Karate apart from other Martial Arts?
We are a freestyle club so, although our curriculum is largely Karate/Taekwondo based, we actually teach a variety of Martial Arts and offer frequent seminars for our students too, in things like Krav Maga, take downs and throws etc. I think all Martial Arts have similar values and a role to play in creating a well rounded Martial Artist.
Balanced Classes: How do you keep your classes fun and accessible for beginners while challenging more advanced students?
That’s a really good question and something that I’m often very mindful of. During our junior sessions we like to keep warm ups fresh and have a game at the end of the session. But for the core of the lesson, we tend to stick to the curriculum and have specific weeks scheduled for nunchucks, board breaking, sparring etc.
Our more advanced students are usually part of our Elite team which means that, during our mini/junior sessions they may take on more of a Junior Assistant role. They then get to come along to a session of their own afterwards which tends to focus more on fitness challenges, team building and advanced techniques.
As well as this, we also provide free training sessions for our black belts, 4 times a year. We’ve found that this really helps them as a team to focus on the more challenging things but, also to make sure that we’re filling in any gaps in their learning.
Martial Arts Techniques and Training
Karate Fundamentals: What are the key principles of Karate that every beginner should embrace?
I think that if a beginner embraces the principles below, they will go far. Not just as a Martial Artist but, as a human being too.
- Integrity: Being honest, demonstrating strong moral principles and upholding ethical standards.
- Perseverance: Resilience and determination to overcome challenges and achieve long-term goals.
- Discipline: Following rules, codes and rigorous training routines, promoting self-control and commitment.
- Self-Control: Learning to manage actions and emotions, crucial for both on and off the mat.
- Courtesy: Being respectful and well-mannered, a fundamental aspect of Martial Arts practice.
- Indomitable Spirit: An unyielding determination and unwavering resolve to face challenges.
Training Evolution: How does Karate training evolve as one progresses from a novice to an advanced level?
It definitely gets more challenging, it’s not for the lighthearted! For example, as the kicks become more technical (spins, jumps etc), it takes a great amount of strength and fitness to attempt them, let alone perfect them. So, we have to make sure that we have lots of core exercises and strength and conditioning as students move into those higher grades, as well as attending sessions more frequently.
Preparation Practices: Are there any specific conditioning or mental preparation practices you recommend to your students for peak performance?
Before a panel grading (a longer grading in front of a panel, for those at advanced level), I always have a sit down with those that are eligible to take the grading and just strip it back to basics.
I remind them that they need to eat before they come along. A nice, big breakfast (or two) that’s going to keep them going for the day. To make sure that they have plenty to drink with them on the day and probably, most importantly, to make sure that they rest the day before and get a good nights sleep. I remind them that they’ve done all of the hard work to get to this stage. They know what they need to do to pass so, it’s about getting their head (and their body) in the game.
Club and Community
Your Club: Tell us about the Martial Arts club you run. How long has it been a hub for Martial Arts enthusiasts?
Miss B’s Martial Arts Academy has now been running for over six years. We have eight different locations for students to train across a 20 mile radius in Devon and Cornwall.
Community Building: How do you foster a sense of community and camaraderie within your club?
I think by incorporating the things that I enjoyed as child and keeping up to date with the latest trends. Lately, hilariously, it’s been Tiktok! Between our junior and Elite session, I’ve given students the choice of having a kick around with a football or making a TikTok. It’s been great for team building as a group. A bit of lighthearted fun sets them straight for the class ahead.
Safety First: What safety measures do you implement to ensure a secure and positive training environment?
We have a zero tolerance approach to bullying. All of our instructors and assistant instructors are DBS checked, there’s always a first aider in the room and we risk assess our hall hires and hold the correct insurances etc.
Advice and Perspectives
Starting Martial Arts: What advice would you give to someone who is considering starting Martial Arts and might need a little encouragement?
To take the leap! I’ve seen time and time again how rewarding Martial Arts training is for all types of people, from ages 4 to 74 years old.
A black belt is just a white belt that never gave up!
Future of Karate: How do you see the future of Karate evolving within the Martial Arts community?
I would love to see it become more and more inclusive, this is something that I am championing personally.
At Miss B’s, our students are always told that they are only in competition with themselves and that everyone has their own personal strengths and weaknesses.
We don’t all have to be the next Bruce Lee, some people chose to come along for fitness, some for developing their motor skills, others for social interaction and sense of belonging. Everyone has their own journey.
Equipment and Supplier
Essential Gear: What type of equipment is essential for someone just starting their Karate journey?
For us, a uniform and a belt and a positive mindset is all that’s needed to begin their journey. But if like me, a student becomes super keen, super quickly then probably sparring kit, nunchucks, a kit bag… the list goes on!
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 Martial Arts training?
As a kid, I trained in a few different Martial Arts settings and they used a variety of different suppliers for their belts/equipment etc. But, every time I was handed a Blitz belt after my grading, I was so happy! Blitz was always my favourite. I loved the style and quality, and I went on to always purchase my own uniform and sparring kit from Blitz too. So, when I started Miss B’s, it was a no brainier! It had to be my favourite for my students.
We use Blitz belts, uniforms, shoes, weapons, breaking boards and fitness equipment! I’d recommend them all.
Beyond the Belt
Where’s the most unusual, unexpected or surreal place you’ve ever practiced Martial Arts?
Before my injury, I enjoyed finding cool places to perform a flying side kick. It was usually at the beach or on a cliff but, the most surreal place was at the Roman baths, in Bath.
Stay Connected and Get Involved with Miss B’s Martial Arts Academy
We hope you’ve enjoyed this inspiring Q&A with Nicola, the driving force behind Miss B’s Martial Arts Academy! Her journey from a determined young student to a passionate instructor and community leader showcases the life-changing impact Martial Arts can have. Nicola’s commitment to inclusivity, her focus on building a family atmosphere and her infectious enthusiasm for teaching make her a true role model in the Martial Arts community.
Feeling inspired to start your own Martial Arts journey? Whether you’re curious about taking your first class or looking for a club that feels like home, Miss B’s Martial Arts Academy is the perfect place to begin. Follow them on social media or better yet, join a session and experience the welcoming, uplifting environment Nicola has created. No matter your age or ability, Miss B’s is a place where everyone can grow, thrive and discover their inner warrior. Let’s support Nicola and her amazing team as they continue to inspire, empower and make a difference – one belt at a time!
Miss B’s Martial Arts Academy
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