We’re excited to share a huge milestone in our journey – Excel Martial Arts is now officially a Community Interest Company (CIC)! 🎉 This change reflects our deep commitment to giving back, supporting our community, and making martial arts accessible to everyone.
A Community Interest Company (CIC) is a special type of not-for-profit that exists to benefit the community. This means that everything we do at Excel is fully dedicated to making a positive impact – whether that’s building confidence in children, improving mental health through martial arts, or creating a welcoming space where people from all walks of life can grow and thrive.
As a CIC, we can expand our reach, launch more community-driven initiatives, and ensure that finances are reinvested into programmes that benefit the people who need them most. This step strengthens our mission: helping people excel in life through martial arts, life skills, and personal development.
At Excel Martial Arts, we’ve always been more than just a martial arts academy. We are a community – a place where people support, encourage, and uplift one another. From children taking their first steps in confidence-building classes to adults rediscovering their strength, we’ve helped thousands of students develop self-belief, discipline, and resilience.
Some of the ways we make a difference include:
✔️ Confidence-Building Programmes – Teaching children and adults to believe in themselves through structured martial arts training.
✔️Mental Health & Wellbeing – Encouraging physical activity as a way to reduce stress, anxiety, and boost overall mental health.
✔️ Anti-Bullying Initiatives – Equipping young people with the skills to stand up for themselves and others.
✔️ A Welcoming, Inclusive Environment– Everyone is valued, supported, and encouraged to grow, regardless of background, ability, or experience.
To mark this incredible new chapter, we are launching the Excel Scholarship Programme, which will fund tuition for children and adults who need financial support. We believe that everyone deserves the chance to experience the confidence, fitness, and personal growth that martial arts offers – and this programme will help make that possible.
Through the scholarship, we aim to:
✅ Remove financial barriers to martial arts training.
✅ Support children and adults from underprivileged backgrounds.
✅ Ensure that more people can benefit from the life-changing impact of martial arts.
We’re calling on our Excel Family and wider community to help us spread the word and support this mission. Whether it’s sponsoring a student, partnering with us, or simply sharing our vision, every effort makes a difference.
Our journey has always been about empowering people. Now, as a CIC, we’re taking that mission to the next level, ensuring that martial arts is more than just a sport – it’s a tool for personal transformation and community impact.
If you believe in our mission and want to support the Excel Scholarship Programme, get in touch today! Together, we can make a real difference.
💙 Together, we Excel in Life!💙
In a world bustling with constant demands and pressures, maintaining mental well-being is paramount. While physical fitness often takes the spotlight in discussions about martial arts, its profound impact on mental health is equally noteworthy. Let’s explore how engaging in martial arts can serve as a powerful ally in nurturing your mental well-being.
At its core, martial arts is a practice that demands a deep sense of mindfulness. From the precise execution of techniques to the focus required during sparring sessions, every aspect of training encourages participants to be fully present in the moment. This heightened state of mindfulness not only enhances physical performance but also promotes mental clarity and emotional resilience.
The rigorous physical exertion involved in martial arts serves as a natural stress reliever. As you engage in training, the release of endorphins floods your body, creating a sense of euphoria and relaxation. Moreover, the discipline instilled through martial arts empowers individuals to better manage their emotions, fostering a greater sense of emotional regulation and control. Many of our students talk about how when they step on the mats, they can de-stress and leave behind all the worries of a stressful day at work or school.
Martial arts is a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. As you progress in your training, overcoming challenges and mastering new techniques, your confidence soars. This newfound sense of self-assurance extends beyond the training mat, positively influencing various aspects of your life, from relationships to professional endeavors. Students that once were victims of bullying, are now empowered to stand up to bullies and handle peer pressure.
The path to proficiency in martial arts is rarely linear; it’s marked by setbacks, failures, and moments of self-doubt. Yet, it’s precisely these challenges that provide opportunities for growth and resilience. Through perseverance and determination, martial artists learn to navigate adversity with grace and emerge stronger and more resilient than before.
Martial arts is not just an individual pursuit; it’s a communal experience. Training alongside like-minded individuals fosters a sense of camaraderie and support. The bonds forged on the training mat create a network of encouragement and understanding, providing a vital source of emotional support during difficult times.
In essence, martial arts offers a holistic approach to well-being, addressing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. By nurturing mental health alongside physical fitness, martial artists cultivate a sense of balance and harmony that enriches every aspect of their lives.
In conclusion, the benefits of martial arts for mental health are undeniable. From mindfulness and stress relief to confidence-building and resilience, engaging in martial arts offers a transformative journey towards greater well-being. So, whether you’re seeking inner peace or a boost in self-confidence, consider stepping onto the martial arts mat and embarking on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
In recent years, there has been growing recognition of the profound benefits that martial arts can offer to individuals who are neurodivergent. From enhanced focus and self-discipline to improved social skills and self-confidence, the practice of martial arts provides a supportive environment for growth and empowerment. Let’s delve into the myriad ways in which martial arts can positively impact the lives of neurodivergent individuals.
For many neurodivergent individuals, maintaining focus and concentration can be challenging. However, the structured nature of martial arts training, with its emphasis on technique and discipline, can help sharpen attention and improve concentration levels. Through regular practice, individuals learn to channel their focus, leading to increased mental clarity and cognitive function. And we’ve seen just that happen at Excel! Check out Anna’s testimonial about her son Joseph.
Martial arts instills a strong sense of self-discipline and emotional regulation, qualities that are particularly beneficial for neurodivergent individuals. The structured routines and rituals of martial arts training provide a framework for developing self-control and managing emotions effectively. By learning to regulate their responses to stress and adversity, individuals gain greater resilience and inner strength.
Participating in martial arts offers a unique opportunity for neurodivergent individuals to build self-confidence and self-esteem. As they progress through their training, mastering new skills and overcoming challenges, they experience a tangible sense of achievement and empowerment. This newfound confidence extends beyond the training mat, positively impacting all areas of their lives.
Martial arts classes provide a supportive and inclusive environment for social skill development and peer interaction. Through collaborative exercises, sparring sessions, and group activities, neurodivergent individuals have the opportunity to engage with their peers & coaches in a structured and controlled setting. This promotes social integration, teamwork, and communication skills, fostering meaningful connections and friendships. Our team of expert coaches will tailor interactions especially to your child’s needs, this could mean starting them with 1 to 1 training in private sessions, 1 to 1 training alongside a larger class or taking part in a class independently.
The physical activity and mindfulness practices inherent in martial arts training offer valuable tools for stress relief and emotional well-being. Neurodivergent individuals often experience heightened levels of stress and anxiety, and martial arts provides a healthy outlet for releasing pent-up energy and tension. Additionally, the meditative aspects of martial arts promote relaxation and inner peace, contributing to overall emotional balance and well-being.
In conclusion, the benefits of martial arts for neurodivergent individuals are far-reaching and profound. From improved focus and self-discipline to enhanced self-confidence and social skills, martial arts offers a holistic approach to personal development and empowerment. By embracing neurodiversity and creating inclusive spaces for all individuals to thrive, the martial arts community exemplifies the transformative power of acceptance, understanding, and resilience. So, whether you’re neurodivergent or neurotypical, consider stepping onto the martial arts mat and embarking on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and empowerment.
Martial arts is often associated with self-defence and discipline, but its benefits go far beyond that. It can help people develop confidence, focus, and resilience, making it a valuable activity for both children and adults. If you’re unsure whether martial arts is the right fit, here are five signs that suggest it might be time to give it a try.
Confidence isn’t something we’re born with—it’s a skill that can be developed over time. Martial arts provides a structured way to build self-belief by encouraging students to:
👊 Step outside their comfort zone
👊 Set and achieve personal goals
👊 Learn how to carry themselves with confidence
For children, this can translate to better social skills and self-assurance in school. For adults, it can help with self-esteem and assertiveness in everyday life.
Many people (especially children) struggle with attention and self-discipline. Martial arts teaches:
✅ The importance of listening and following instructions
✅ How to stay engaged and committed to a goal
✅ Strategies for improving patience and perseverance
These skills can carry over into school, work, and other daily responsibilities.
If regular gym workouts feel repetitive, martial arts offers a dynamic, engaging alternative. Training includes:
🏋️ Strength and endurance exercises
🔥 Cardiovascular conditioning
💪 Flexibility and coordination drills
Because martial arts involves movement, technique, and skill-building, it keeps workouts exciting and motivating.
While martial arts is about control and discipline, it also provides practical self-defence skills. These include:
🥋 Situational awareness and avoidance strategies
🥋 Techniques for protecting yourself in unsafe situations
🥋 Building the confidence to handle real-world scenarios
Learning these skills can be beneficial for people of all ages.
Martial arts is more than just an individual practice—it’s a community. Training alongside others fosters:
🤝 Teamwork and encouragement
🤝 A sense of belonging and accountability
🤝 Opportunities to build long-lasting friendships
For children, this can help develop social skills and teamwork. For adults, it provides a supportive environment for personal growth.
Martial arts isn’t just about learning to fight—it’s about building skills for life. Whether you’re looking for confidence, focus, fitness, or self-defence, it’s an activity that offers benefits for people of all ages.
Kickboxing is more than just a high-energy sport—it’s a full-body workout that builds strength, endurance, flexibility, and confidence. Whether you’re looking for a new way to get fit, relieve stress, or learn self-defence, kickboxing offers benefits for people of all ages and fitness levels.
Kickboxing engages the entire body, incorporating:
✅ Cardio exercises to improve stamina and heart health.
✅ Strength training to build muscle and improve endurance.
✅ Flexibility drills to enhance mobility and reduce the risk of injury.
Unlike gym workouts that focus on isolated muscle groups, kickboxing challenges the whole body in a functional, dynamic way.
Kickboxing is known for its high calorie burn. A single session can burn between 500-800 calories, making it an effective way to:
🔹 Lose weight and tone up
🔹 Boost metabolism for continued fat-burning after training
🔹 Improve cardiovascular health
For those looking for a workout that is both fun and effective, kickboxing is a great alternative to traditional cardio workouts.
One of the best things about kickboxing is its adaptability. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced athlete, training can be adjusted to suit your fitness level.
👦 For children – Kickboxing helps with coordination, discipline, and confidence.
👩 For adults – It provides a structured workout with a mix of strength, cardio, and self-defence.
👴 For older adults – Modified training can focus on mobility, balance, and endurance.
No prior fitness experience is needed—anyone can start and improve over time.
Kickboxing isn’t just about physical fitness; it also has mental health benefits. Training regularly can:
💪 Boost confidence by helping people overcome challenges.
🧘 Reduce stress and anxiety through high-energy movements.
🛠 Improve focus and discipline, which can be applied to other areas of life.
Many people find kickboxing to be a great way to clear their mind, release built-up tension, and feel more in control.
Beyond fitness, kickboxing also teaches valuable self-defence techniques, such as:
🥋 Blocking, dodging, and countering attacks
🥋 Improving reaction time and awareness
🥋 Developing confidence in personal safety
While the primary focus is fitness and technique, these skills can be useful in real-life situations.
Kickboxing is a versatile, engaging workout that offers both physical and mental benefits. Whether you’re looking for a new fitness challenge, a way to relieve stress, or a supportive community, kickboxing is worth considering. Here at Excel, our training focuses largely on standing striking arts like kickboxing, we do however teach self-defence skills influenced by Krav Maga and other martial arts.
For many parents, enrolling their child in sports is a no-brainer—it helps keep them active, teaches discipline, and builds social skills. But in recent years, a growing number of parents in Sheffield have been choosing martial arts over traditional sports like football, rugby, or gymnastics.
So, why is martial arts becoming the go-to activity for so many families? At Excel Martial Arts, we’ve seen first-hand how martial arts transforms children’s lives, and in this blog, we’ll explore the top reasons why Sheffield parents are making the switch.
One of the biggest reasons parents choose martial arts is the massive boost in confidence it gives their children.
⚽️ In traditional team sports, children may struggle if they’re not the best player or if they’re not picked for the starting team.
🥋 In martial arts, every child progresses at their own pace, gaining confidence with each belt they earn.
At Excel Martial Arts, we teach children the three secrets to confidence:
✅ Voice – Learning to speak up, answer questions, and lead.
✅ Body – Standing tall, using strong body language, and moving with confidence.
✅ Mind – Developing a strong, positive mindset to tackle challenges.
This confidence doesn’t just stay on the mats—it helps children excel in school, social situations, and everyday life!
One of the biggest frustrations parents have with traditional sports is that not every child gets to play.
🚫 Football and rugby – Some kids spend more time on the bench than on the pitch.
🚫 Gymnastics – Competitions often focus on the most advanced students, leaving others behind.
With martial arts, every child gets equal opportunities. There’s no sitting on the sidelines—every student trains, learns, and progresses. Whether they’re a complete beginner or an advanced student, they are fully involved in every class.
At Excel Martial Arts, we believe every child deserves to shine, and we make sure no one gets left behind.
Every parent wants their child to listen, stay focused, and follow instructions—and martial arts does this better than any other activity.
🏉 In team sports, children may rely on teammates, sometimes lacking personal responsibility.
🥋 In martial arts, every student is responsible for their own progress, learning the value of hard work and perseverance.
At Excel, we teach children to focus in three key ways:
✅ Eyes – Looking at their coach and paying attention.
✅ Ears – Listening carefully and following instructions.
✅ Body – Staying still, engaged, and ready to learn.
Parents often tell us that after starting martial arts, their child’s concentration improves at school, at home, and in social settings.
In today’s world, parents worry about bullying, peer pressure, and personal safety. While we hope children never need to use self-defence, martial arts provides essential life skills that traditional sports don’t.
🥋 Martial arts teaches:
✅ How to avoid conflict and stay calm under pressure.
✅ How to use body language and voice to stand up to bullies.
✅ Practical self-defence moves to protect themselves if necessary.
Unlike rugby or football, which are purely competitive, martial arts teaches children how to protect themselves responsibly.
At Excel Martial Arts, we focus on confidence and control, ensuring that students learn self-defence without aggression.
Life is full of challenges, and one of the most valuable skills children can learn is resilience.
🏆 In traditional sports, losing a match can feel discouraging. If a child isn’t naturally talented at football or gymnastics, they may feel like they’ve failed.
🥋 In martial arts, progress is personal—it’s about self-improvement, not just winning or losing.
At Excel, we teach children to:
💪 Keep pushing forward, even when things get tough.
💪 Learn from mistakes rather than fearing failure.
💪 Build a strong mindset that helps in all areas of life.
When children earn their next belt, it’s a direct result of their hard work—a lesson they carry into school, friendships, and future careers.
Many parents struggle with the fact that traditional sports are often seasonal.
⚽️ Football and rugby – Only played during specific months of the year.
Martial arts, however, is a lifelong journey.
🥋 Students can train all year round, with no seasonal breaks.
🥋 It’s a skill they can continue into adulthood, unlike many other sports.
🥋 It promotes long-term fitness, flexibility, and mental strength.
At Excel Martial Arts, we support students from Ministrike (ages 4-6) to adult Black Belts, ensuring that they grow, improve, and excel for years to come.
One of the biggest reasons Sheffield parents choose martial arts is the positive, family-friendly environment.
🤝 Supportive teachers who genuinely care about your child’s progress.
🤝 A team spirit without competition—students encourage and help each other.
🤝 A welcoming environment where every child feels valued and included.
At Excel Martial Arts, we don’t just teach classes—we build a community where children and parents feel at home.
For children who love sports, martial arts can also be a fantastic support for sports like football, rugby, swimming & more by improving flexibility, cardiovascular fitness and self-belief.
artial arts has been practised for centuries, blending physical skill, mental discipline, and personal growth. However, several misconceptions still surround the practice, discouraging many from experiencing its benefits. Let’s debunk three common martial arts myths and shine a light on the truth behind the training.
One of the biggest misconceptions about martial arts is that it promotes violence. In reality, martial arts is centred on discipline, respect, and self-control. At Excel Martial Arts, our training focuses on defence rather than attack. Students learn how to de-escalate situations, avoid physical conflict, and only use their skills responsibly when absolutely necessary.
For children, this training instils the confidence to stand up for themselves while also teaching empathy and respect for others. By understanding the power they possess, students are less likely to feel the need to use it unnecessarily. It’s about building character, not fostering aggression.
Historically, martial arts was often seen as a male-dominated field, but times have changed. At Excel, we’re proud to break stereotypes and encourage equal participation for all genders.
Martial arts offers incredible benefits for girls, from building physical strength to enhancing self-confidence and self-defence skills. Many parents enrol their daughters to help them grow into empowered individuals who can navigate life with resilience and courage.
Our classes are designed to be inclusive, offering a supportive environment where students of all genders can thrive. From Ministrike to adult programmes, every participant is encouraged to set and achieve personal goals, proving that martial arts is a path for everyone.
While physical techniques are a vital component of martial arts, the training goes far beyond kicks and punches. At Excel Martial Arts, we integrate a life skill curriculum that focuses on building confidence, discipline, and a positive mindset.
At Excel, every class is an opportunity to grow physically, mentally, and emotionally. It’s a journey of self-discovery that helps students excel in life—not just in martial arts.
Martial arts is so much more than the myths surrounding it. It’s a practice that teaches respect, encourages inclusivity, and nurtures personal growth. Whether you’re considering martial arts for yourself or your child, Excel Martial Arts is here to guide you on a journey that transforms lives. If you have any other questions, please check out our FAQ page or contact us today to learn more.
Experience the benefits first-hand and discover how martial arts can help you or your child EXCEL in LIFE.
Martial arts is an investment not just in physical fitness but in personal growth, confidence, and invaluable life skills. If you’re considering starting or enrolling your child in martial arts, it’s essential to understand what you’re investing in and the incredible value that comes with it. At Excel Martial Arts, our tuition covers much more than classes—it’s a gateway to a transformative experience.
Our tuition is an investment in a programme designed to help students excel in every area of life. MiniStrike tuition begins at £73.50 per month, while Junior and Adult tuition starts at £137 per month. But what do this include?
For insurance and safety purposes, students will need to invest in boxing gloves from our shop. These gloves are essential for protection during drills and sparring, ensuring that all students train safely with the correct gear. By sourcing gloves directly from us, we guarantee the highest standards of quality and safety.
Unlike some programmes that simply teach martial arts techniques, Excel offers a holistic approach to personal development. Through every kick, punch, and life talk, students are gaining skills that will serve them in school, work, and life.
When you invest in tuition at Excel Martial Arts, you’re not just joining a class—you’re becoming part of a community that values progress, positivity, and belonging. Our focus on holistic development, combined with exceptional facilities and dedicated teachers, ensures that every pound invested translates into lifelong benefits.
At Excel Martial Arts, we understand that every parent wants the absolute best for their child—whether that’s helping them grow in confidence, develop essential life skills, or simply stay active in a supportive environment. We are here to help you and your child every step of the way.
That’s why we offer a 2-week unlimited training trial, the Excel Experience, so you can fully experience the value of our programme before making any commitment. If, at the end of the trial, you don’t see the value in our tuition, we’re more than happy to assist by putting you in touch with a local community martial arts programme that might better suit your needs.
We’re confident in the transformative power of our training and the life-changing benefits it can bring. Together, we can ensure your child has the tools to EXCEL in LIFE. Contact us today to begin your trial and start your family’s martial arts journey! If you have any further questions, please check out our FAQ page or contact us via the chat.
Martial arts is more than just a way to stay active—it’s a lifestyle that builds confidence, discipline, and a sense of belonging. At Excel Martial Arts, our MiniStrike programme isn’t just for kids; it’s an opportunity for families to come together, support one another, and grow as a team. Here’s how parental involvement can make a world of difference in your family’s martial arts journey.
Strengthening Bonds on the Mat
Family martial arts classes offer a unique opportunity to bond with your child. By training alongside them, you’re not just their cheerleader but their teammate, sharing in their victories and growth. Parents often find that these sessions become cherished memories, building stronger relationships and fostering mutual respect.
Lead by Example
Children learn from what they see. By participating in martial arts, parents model commitment, perseverance, and a healthy lifestyle. Whether it’s perfecting a kick or working through a challenging move, your effort encourages your child to do the same.
Holding Pads and Engaging in Class
Parents don’t just watch from the sidelines in our MiniStrike classes—they often become part of the action! By holding pads during drills, you actively contribute to your child’s training, helping them build confidence and refine their techniques. This hands-on involvement strengthens your bond and gives you an insight into their progress.
Watching Classes
Even when you’re not participating directly, your presence is invaluable. Sitting in our comfortable viewing areas, you can cheer on your child, celebrate their progress, and share their excitement. Knowing you’re there makes them feel supported and motivated.
Supporting at Graduations
Graduation ceremonies are a cornerstone of martial arts training, marking significant milestones in your child’s journey. As a parent, being there to cheer them on, celebrate their achievements, and take part in the festivities shows them just how proud you are of their hard work and dedication. Your encouragement reinforces the value of perseverance and success.
Life Skill Development
Martial arts at Excel goes beyond punches and kicks. Your child will develop essential life skills like discipline, focus, and resilience. These skills grow stronger when reinforced at home, with parents playing an active role in their journey.
Creating a Supportive Community
At Excel, we pride ourselves on being a family-focused academy. We believe a supportive community, including family members, teachers, and fellow students, is key to a child’s success.
Fostering Confidence
Children thrive when they feel supported. Whether they’re tackling a new skill or stepping onto the mat for the first time, your encouragement helps build the confidence they need to overcome challenges.
Building Shared Goals
Martial arts is about setting and achieving goals, like earning a new belt. Sharing in these milestones fosters a sense of teamwork and shared accomplishment that strengthens family ties.
Family martial arts classes aren’t just about fitness—they’re about building a stronger family unit. Whether you’re stepping onto the mat together or cheering from the sidelines, your involvement in your child’s martial arts journey helps them excel in every aspect of life.
Discover the joy of training together and experience the life-changing benefits of our MiniStrike programme. Together, we can EXCEL in LIFE!
Choosing the right martial art for your child can feel overwhelming with so many styles and schools available. Each discipline offers unique benefits, and the best choice often depends on your child’s personality, interests, and goals. In this guide, we’ll explore popular martial arts styles, what makes them great for kids, and tips for finding the right academy.
Kickboxing is a fantastic choice for children who love to stay active and have a lot of energy to burn. Combining striking techniques with a strong emphasis on cardio, kickboxing improves endurance, coordination, and self-defence skills. It’s also a great confidence booster as children master powerful kicks and punches.
Karate focuses on striking techniques, including punches, kicks, and blocks, while emphasizing respect, self-control, and perseverance. It’s an ideal option for kids who need structure and thrive in disciplined environments.
Taekwondo is known for its powerful kicks and athletic movements, making it a great choice for kids who love to move. It also includes elements of self-defense and Olympic-style competition.
BJJ is a grappling-based martial art that teaches kids how to defend themselves by controlling their opponent rather than striking. It’s perfect for children who enjoy problem-solving and teamwork.
Judo focuses on throws, joint locks, and groundwork, teaching kids how to use an opponent’s strength against them. It’s a great choice for children who enjoy physical play and hands-on activities.
Kung Fu combines physical fitness with philosophical teachings, making it a holistic martial art. It’s an excellent option for kids interested in learning about culture and tradition alongside martial skills.
Martial arts offer children a lifetime of benefits, from improved fitness to enhanced self-esteem and life skills. Whether your child thrives in the fast-paced energy of kickboxing or prefers the strategic grappling of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, there’s a martial art out there for them. Explore your options, attend trial classes, and find a program where your child can grow, learn, and thrive.
If you’re considering kickboxing for your child, Excel Martial Arts offers a nurturing and exciting environment to help them succeed. Contact us today to schedule a free trial class and see how kickboxing can empower your child!
Secure your spot with a £20 investment & get started today with our EXCLUSIVE online offer!
Excel Academy, Longacre Way, Sothall, Sheffield
S20 3FS