The ‘Real’ style martial arts at Kairos – self defence
For students who want more of a modern approach to martial arts training, we are about as real as it gets whilst keeping your safety a priority.
It is impossible to go 100 percent in class, as some techniques are designed to cause damage that will stop an attacker in his tracks. Believe me, it works! So our sole priority is looking out for one another in class.
Not looking to go too hard? No worries, we partner you up with someone who has a similar training ethos, and we use bags and pads as well as partner training. You take from class what you need.
If you think it’s a little daunting, have no fear! We really pride ourselves on being decent humans, and our students are very patient and encouraging. No one needs to do anything they are not comfortable with. Have a chat with us beforehand, and ask how we can help.
Urban Krav Maga
With its origins in the Israeli military self defence system, the founder of UKM Stewart McGill has adapted this simple-yet highly effective system for the street. Urban Krav Maga is suitable for everybody- men, women and children; from beginner to the more advanced martial artist. It uses concepts like leverage and limb manipulation, instead of relying on the application of strength. More information can be found on the Urban Krav Maga website or Facebook page.
KFM (Keysi-Fighting-Method)
The KFM founders split and went their own ways back in 2012, and proceeded to each evolve KFM into the well known systems we know today. KFM is a close-quarter system, known for its unique mechanics and movement. KFM is ideal for close combat, especially with multiple attackers. Techniques include the instantly recognisable pensador shape, elbow destructions, and is predominantly striking based.
The ‘Sport’ in Kairos
We do not yet offer opportunities to enter competition, as Kairos is predominantly self defence based. However, please register your interest with us for the future.
We find sport is a different mindset to self defence, because in sport you are looking for that submission or ‘win’ instead of focussing on your number one priority which is getting the hell out of there. But nevertheless, a good understanding of what you are doing, and having a solid fundamental base is paramount.
Kickboxing/MuayThai – Combative elements like timing, angles footwork et al, along with elbows, knees, and kicks. We make sure you have a top notch striking game with a great understanding of your application and always reading your opponent. Try out our sparring classes if you want to put yourself to the test.
BJJ concepts and ground fighting – A lot of fights go to the floor. We teach you that the floor in a street fight is not a great place to be. However, if you should find yourself there, you need to know what to do.
The ‘Traditional’ in Kairos
We are not a typical traditional style martial arts club, but that is not to say we do not respect the traditional arts. Many kata and old style techniques have a great purpose if the understanding how to apply them is there.
JKD concepts – Think you know how to throw a jab?
Silat concepts – starting from the ground up, this beautiful yet deadly art is not for the weak.
Urban Weaponry
Carrying a self defence weapon is illegal in the UK. Where weapons are concerned, we make sure you are aware of your legal and moral responsibility. Our studies are based on what to do if you are faced with such a threat. We do look at knife play, sticks, bats, pens, fones, even chairs and if anything you will leave class with a mind to not engage with such a threat, and a realistic outlook on what you may (or most likely, may not) be able to do. Using anything that may cause harm to another human has huge consequences, and may result in arrest, even if you were in the right and had no choice.
We always teach:
Avoidance and Awareness first,
Escape if you can,
and Engage only if you have no choice.
Taking on weapons is a very risky business, and is NOT a skill you can pick up over night. Even martial artists with years of skill cannot guarantee they can pull off a technique as so many factors come into play in reality that you will not experience in any dojo. A false sense of confidence will get you seriously injured, or worse.
For that reason, our weapons training tends to be a little more ‘live’ so you can really appreciate how difficult it can be. This is where I don’t care if I am patronising- student safety is my priority and weapons need to be studied intelligently and realistically.
Above all, we have fun, we explore, we study. What works for one might not work for another. Ask me questions!