Useful information for your first lesson
Updated 05/02/2023
How to find us
Our venue (Qmotion gym) is a little tricky to find if you haven't been before. The entrance is on the west side of Bancroft Road, off Mile End Road, just between the two skyways. Look out for the passageway with a sign for Qmotion:
At reception, just ask for "kempo" and they will direct you to the Mind & Body Studio.
We recommend aiming to arrive a few minutes early, to allow yourself time to find the place, and so we can explain a couple of things before the class starts.
We recommend aiming to arrive a few minutes early, to allow yourself time to find the place, and so we can explain a couple of things before the class starts.
What to bring and wear
You don't need any special kit for your first lesson. Normal gym clothes, or anything that you can move comfortably in, is fine. We train barefoot, so no need to bring any specific footwear.
Any jewellery should be removed or taped up if it can't be removed, to avoid accidental injuries.
In the event we do some padwork, there will be some pads and gloves available that you can borrow for the duration of your first class (these are sanitised in between sessions). If you decide you'd like to come along regularly, we encourage you to get your own set (available from the club for £40).
It is also recommend that you bring a pre-filled bottle of water.
Any jewellery should be removed or taped up if it can't be removed, to avoid accidental injuries.
In the event we do some padwork, there will be some pads and gloves available that you can borrow for the duration of your first class (these are sanitised in between sessions). If you decide you'd like to come along regularly, we encourage you to get your own set (available from the club for £40).
It is also recommend that you bring a pre-filled bottle of water.
What to expect
All our classes are general level, and beginners are welcome at any time, so your first session will generally follow the format of a regular class.
Things start with a short warm up, including some dynamic stretching and a bit of cardio. We'll then practice basic movements together in lines, and then work these into some exercises with a partner. We try to incorporate some padwork into most sessions too. There's usually a good mix of beginners and experienced members present, and you should find everyone friendly and happy to help you get the hang of things.
Following this we'll break for a short seated meditation, followed by a brief talk about some of our philosophy topics. Finally we'll split by grades (level) and practice syllabus techniques for the remainder of the class.
On Wednesdays we often try to go for a quick drink nearby afterwards, and beginners are always welcome to join this too!
Things start with a short warm up, including some dynamic stretching and a bit of cardio. We'll then practice basic movements together in lines, and then work these into some exercises with a partner. We try to incorporate some padwork into most sessions too. There's usually a good mix of beginners and experienced members present, and you should find everyone friendly and happy to help you get the hang of things.
Following this we'll break for a short seated meditation, followed by a brief talk about some of our philosophy topics. Finally we'll split by grades (level) and practice syllabus techniques for the remainder of the class.
On Wednesdays we often try to go for a quick drink nearby afterwards, and beginners are always welcome to join this too!
About our fees
The membership form you will have signed provides you with one month's trial insurance through our federation (BSKF). After that month is up, if you decide you'd like to continue, then you will need to pay the BSKF's annual membership and insurance fee. This is an annual cost of £55 that will cover your insurance for training at all BSKF clubs and events.
Your first lesson with us is free, and after that it's £11 per class (drop in), £60 a month for both classes a week, or £40 a month one class per week. Student/concession rates are £5.50 drop in, or £30/£20 per month.
You don't need one of the white uniforms aka "dogi" to start with, but at the point you decide you'd like one (required for your first grading) they can be purchased from the club for around £20.
Your first lesson with us is free, and after that it's £11 per class (drop in), £60 a month for both classes a week, or £40 a month one class per week. Student/concession rates are £5.50 drop in, or £30/£20 per month.
You don't need one of the white uniforms aka "dogi" to start with, but at the point you decide you'd like one (required for your first grading) they can be purchased from the club for around £20.