Member Article

Just for Kicks: Martial Arts for professionals

I am the Commercial Manager for the National railway Museum where I am responsible for new revenue streams, business development and project management. We are part of a family of museums including the Science Museum London, the National Film and Media Museum Bradford and the Museum of Science and Industry Manchester. My work is diverse, fast paced and high pressured.

I am always looking for news ways to combat stress relief and recently took up Yoga which I try to practice daily. I find that taking part in a physical activity between work and home allows me to leave the stresses of the day behind and go home more relaxed with a clear head.

I find the moment I walk through the door into a class environment I switch my focus completely, especially with exercise such as Kick boxing, Yoga or any physical activity that takes 100% concentration.

About 7 years ago I founded Just for Kicks Martial Arts, I felt there was a gap in the market place for a women’s only martial arts class. I have been training myself for 10 years and last year I became a 2nd dan black belt - one of my biggest achievements to date. My passion for the discipline & love for teaching inspired me to start my own school, one of my long standing classes is a women’s only kickboxing class up in Newcastle.

The majority of my students are professional women who find the sport a brilliant way of keeping fit and an opportunity to mix with like minded people. It is also a great stress relief and perfect for those who love a challenge.

Kickboxing can burn up to 800 calories and hour, gives a full body workout, increases flexibility and balance and releases an enormous amount of endorphins (happy hormones) into the body making you feel uplifted, happier and energised.

My approach to life has definitely changed as I’ve got older, turning 30 this year really made me look at my life style and what makes me feel good. I hold a qualification in diet and nutrition and am constantly researching new trends and techniques in healthy eating and exercise.

There is a massive miss-conception that Kickboxing is for men and an aggressive sport to be involved in, this is not the case. Over the years I have ladies of all shapes, sizes and ages attend my classes and they take something from it.

My friend and student Sarah Armstrong is a director of a software development company, she started training with me about 4 years ago.

Sarah said, “It’s never to late to start a new sport, I have done many different things over the years but fell in love with Kickboxing from the word go - it is the best all over work out you can have and I love the challenge of being able to work through my grades. I am currently training for my black belt and hope to go through my grading at the end of this year”.

In my world exercise is key to a healthy, productive and focused and a big part of the work life balance.

If you fancy having a go please feel free to drop me a line for further information on 07917616029 or julie@justforkicks.org.uk

Or check out the website www.justforkicks.org.uk

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Julie Spowart .